We came here for a dinner using a gift Groupon and we had a interesting time.
Meritage is a steakhouse located inside the Desert Ridge Marriott and has a captured clientele. It has a bar area nearby and can get very busy with everyone coming and going through the restaurant from playing golf. I do not know the hotel well enough to know if this is the unofficial 19th hole, or if there is another reason for the confusion. But it clearly detracts from the relaxed feel of an upscale steakhouse.
As for the food, one of us had Chicken Breast and the other a Filet Mignon. It was priced close to what you would expect to pay at Morton's, Ruth's Chris or the Capital Grille, but without the extras that those steakhouses normally provide.
The wait staff was excellent and made up for our nonplussed meal. If it wasn't for the gift card, we probably would never have came here. Sadly, given our experience we will stay closer to Kierland if we want steak. There at least, we can hear our conversation and not be distracted by folks walking by our table every few minutes.
If you do not mind a short ten minute ride, I would highly recommend you explore the Scottsdale Road/Kierland area as a alternative. Sorry!