By far my favorite restaurant in the Phoenix area after just one visit. My wife and I went out about a month ago (I know, I've procrastinated in writing this review) and we spent about two hours at the restaurant which was a very pleasant experience and a very much needed change from the all too common 45 minutes in and out rush. The service was extraordinary with our waiter spacing out the courses perfectly.
The evening started with the Barolo Rye Cider for me which was well mixed and refreshing (I know, most won't think of rye whiskey as refreshing but give it a chance next time you go). The Bread Cart was the first item ordered and we absolutely loved it; the meats were of great quality and eggplant caponata added a little "kick" to the sampling experience without going the tex-mex route (Hallelujah).
For a second treat we ordered the Seasonal Mushroom "Boscaiola" and it was HEAVEN! The flavors of truffle and bacon were present but delicate so that they were not to cast a shadow over the creamy polenta.
We then ordered two pasta dishes; she had the Cavatelli and I had the Fettuccine. The duck ragu was absolutely incredible and it made the dish, in my opinion. I almost liked her dish better than mine... but I said "almost". The escarole gave the dish that extra texture that sometimes pasta needs, the fettuccini itself was fresh and light and the mushroom and garlic sauce was just thick enough to stay on the pasta without adding the unnecessary weight that is often associated with fat cousin Alfredo.
We also shared the Grilled Pork Chop; it too was nicely seasoned and cooked well, while remaining juicy.
For dessert we shared the Mora Sundae which put an extra touch of elegance on the evening. It was sweet, rich, decadent and yet it did not overpower the flavors of the berries and the sorbet.
The entire dinning experience was great and Chef Scott even stopped by to say hello! Next time maybe I'll sneak in taking a picture with him!? See you soon, Mora!