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| - First of all, I worked at Monti's twelve years ago. I have seen what goes on behind closed doors and I will come here every chance I get.
Michael Monti took over La Casa Vieja from his father, who won it in a poker game as legend has it. Not only is the building historic for being the first estate in Hayden's Ferry (as Tempe was called way back when), not only is it the birthplace of the late Senator Carl Hayden (who was born in the dining room off to the left when you first walk in ... before it was a restaurant, silly), there is much history in the restaurant itself.
I attended a book talk & signing at Monti's by the architect that designed the famous upside-down pyramid that is Tempe City Hall. In attendance were a number of former Tempe mayors and architects of Mill Avenue (before it was overrun by chains). These were the OGs of Tempe; they had a lot of stories about old city politics, backroom deals, and midnight hour resolutions. Those backroom deals were in the backrooms of Monti's.
When you first walk into the lobby, you'll be greeted by a cadre of hosts. Monti's has a seating capacity in excess of 1,000 people, so it takes a lot of people to keep things running. You need a host to show you around or you will get lost.
The lobby has a few walls of photographs with Monti's history, including one of the infamous Senator McCarthy. When he was finally disgraced, he went to "recuperate" in the dry desert air of Arizona (today's version is "spend more time with the family"). Could Monti's have been McCarthy's refuge? Nobody seems to know ... or care, but the photo is there, anyway.
I should probably tell you a little about the food. The steaks are excellent. This is not quite Ruth's Chris Steak house, but for the relatively low price, it's pretty damn close! If they err, they err on the side of overcooking your steak, so keep that in mind.
The baked potatoes are awesome, crisped on the bottoms. Sometimes they're a little charred instead of crisped, but always good.
The Roman Bread is addictive, especially if you dip it in the house-made ranch dressing. They make their own ranch and Roquefort dressings from scratch. Take advantage!
I like the sirloin burger. It's better than just a hamburger.
It drives the bartenders nuts if you order a bunch of Monti's Coffees after dinner because they're tedious to make, but oh-so worth it. Just tip them well. (Galliano drizzed in the glass, frosted with sugar, flashed until it caramelizes, with Grand Marnier, brandy, coffee, whipped cream, and more Galliano ... I think.)
If it's not too busy, see if anyone can give you a little history of the place and maybe a tour. It's huge, with rooms everywhere ... you'll hardly believe it.
One star for being the last local business in Mill Ave
One star for being family owned
One star for good food
One star for an eclectic atmosphere
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