I've been waiting to write my review of Café Monarch until the time was right. I cannot believe it has taken me this long to come here but this was one of the best dining experiences I have had in a long time. If you don't know, Café Monarch is a family owned and operated upscale dining establishment nestled in an unassuming Scottsdale neighborhood. The restaurant itself has a very homey, intimate feel. We were lucky enough to get a table for two outside and the weather was incredible. The décor was simple and beautiful; you really did feel like you were in a secret garden.
The prix fixe menu changes constantly so you never know what you're going to get. For my first course I had the roasted cauliflower soup with truffle oil and pine nuts adding a delicate balance of flavor. Second course was a spring salad with compressed watermelon. Simple and beautifully presented. The third course was the lollipop lamb chop that was cooked perfectly medium rare and melted in your mouth. I opted for the cast iron filet mignon served with caramelized shallot butternut squash pave, crispy Brussel sprouts, with a beef jus emulsion. This was definitely one of the most memorable steaks I have ever had. Not only was the presentation on point but it was perfectly seared and tender.
As far as I know, Café Monarch is the only restaurant in Arizona whose servers are all trained sommeliers as well. This adds an excellent element of service to the entire dining experience as the wine paring is perfect. Our servers and their assistants were all so attentive without being overbearing. I cannot wait to be back and see what incredible food they have to offer!