We were saving NOCA for a special occasion... but our birthdays were nowhere in sight and sadly, we had nothing to celebrate. So we went anyway. It is weird to see a restaurant of this caliber nestled between a bank and grocery store but I guess we are in Phoenix after all.
I recommend making a reservation as this is a very small and very popular restaurant. They told us it was going to be 45 min wait but with a little sweet talking, we were sitting within seconds. Hats off to them for accommodating us.
We ordered the split pea soup, the veal (I know, I know), the pesto pasta and the duck, all of them amazing. Keep in mind these are small portions. There is an option for a tasting menu for $50 but I really don't think it's a very good value if you break it down.
NOCA made not a single mistake during our dining experience. The service was superb, my water glass constantly filled, our food came out promptly and when finished, our plates were immediately cleared. The cotton candy to finish, is a really sweet touch.