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| - Voted one of the top 25 restaurants by Phoenix Magazine, this urban chic eatery lives up to its accolades.
"La Bocca" literally means "the mouth." What I love about this name is that in Buenos Aires, Argentina there is a district called "La Boca," where the Italian immigrants settled at the turn of the century. The name is perfect for a restaurant that serves an amalgam of Latin inspired fares.
The vivid photographs on the wall display an enchanting and colorful Italy, the large mural behind the bar is reminiscent of a Spanish royal portrait. The colors of the dining and bar area are earthy, warm, and inviting - with dramatic splashes of red to infuse the senses.
Seated at the bar, I was impressed by the bartender's attentiveness, and his unmatched skill in making the best mojito this side of Miami. This was a drink that I would expect to pay $14 for in North Scottsdale. At La Bocca, the cocktails are $7 and worth the drive. Their signature drink is the "Clean Slate Martini," which was recommended by the amiable owner, Mr. Julian Wright. He explained that the combination of Tanqueray, cucumber, and lime made this a smooth concoction, but I am so thrilled that I opted for the incredible blackberry mojito.
This being a pizzeria, the wine list is varied and interesting. Many of the wines are Californian, but Spain is also well represented here. For those who enjoy whites with their pizzas, I recommend their Senorio de Cruces Albarino (Spain) - perfect with salads, pizzas, or pastas. For a real taste of Italy, get a bottle of their Zenato Rippassa del Valpolicello (Italy) - this is a well-rouned red that is served in every Italian restaurant in Europe.
There is only one place in Phoenix Metro where I believed I could find good bruschetta, (Postino) but a new contender has just entered the ring. La Bocca offers the same - an assortment of bruschettas which can be ordered in combinations of four. The selections range from prosciutto, mascarpone, fig, and truffle oil, to salami and house-made pesto. And just like Postino, the rich flavors make your culinary heart melt with joy.
Pizza lovers can build their own pies here, with topping choices such as heirloom tomatoes, pulled pork, chili oil, and garlic. There are seven signature pizzas on the menu, which can easily by devoured by one guest, and range from $9-$14. There are also sandwhiches and salads available for those who do not like the pie.
If you are coming here strictly for wine, cozy up in one of the comfortable seats in the lounge. Order a bottle of Spanish wine, and get the "anti-asti" plate. This comes with a delectable assortment of salami, prosciutto wrapped goat cheese, manchego cheese, pesto, queen creek olives, roasted garlic, dijon, and artisan toast. A spanish picnic, with the best pesto in town.
So, if that wasn't enough to pique your curiosity - here are some extra incentives.
Sundays and Mondays the bottles of wine are 1/2 off after 6:30 PM.
Tuesdays enjoy your pizzas at 2-for-1 after 6:30 PM
Thursdays, impress your date with live music
Fridays and Saturdays has reverse Happy Hour from 10 PM to close
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