My prediction: this restaurant will receive a Michelin star (or rising star), and soon.
Compared to the two (one-starred) restaurants I have eaten at (in NYC and Napa Valley) I would say the cuisine is par and the service/experience is even better.
I particularly appreciate the expanded take on indigenous cuisine in each course- from the amusee to the sorbet palate cleanser to the dessert. And the primary dishes off the menu do not disappoint. Table-side flambe' of fresh marshmallow and a drizzle of liquor before pouring the soup into the bowl? Gorgeous. A few "threads" of squid ink pasta under the shellfish? Well yes, thankyoumoreplease!
I don't typically spend this much on a meal unless it is a very special occasion date with my husband. But I was determined to try Kai while traveling to Scottsdale. I (insert effort of bravery) made reservations to dine solo. Every aspect of the process- phone call, confirmation, free valet, escort, table-side service (friendly and attentive without one iota of snobbery!), and departure (chocolate truffles to go and a handwritten thank-you note from the lead waiter and a bottle of VOX waiting in my car!)- was the definition of "above and beyond."
The prices are steep. And OH SO worth it.