Visited Sens last evening and what a great experience. If you're the sweet and sour pork or warm sake type, look elsewhere. But if you enjoy real asian/thai flavors handled by a really talented chef - this is the best in Phoenix by far.
Alas, many of the Phoenix transplants won't get it at first. They'll be looking for sake-bombers and will undoubtedly complain about the heat (in the food, not the weather).
The balance of flavors - sweet, salt, hot and sour - is amazing and perfect. Presentation is cool and our server knew the dishes well, and more importantly showed enthusiasm for the menu and wine list - not bad for a student from MN.
We'd never met the chef, Johnny Chu before last night, but had read years of great reviews from his work at Fate and now Sens. He visited our table throughout the evening and took time to explain each dish we had questions about. He really knows his stuff and was happy to share his passion for the flavors and technique.
The Tapas portions were ample - nearly meal sized. With so much flavor the "beverages" seem to go quick. Careful - the Japanese vodkas pack a punch - even though they taste more sake-like. If Sens has fresh Salmon for the fryer - it's amazing. Order the hot and sour soup and you'll want more soba noodles for the broth. We did and it was incredible. A special was 5-spice Tofu with wasabi - probably my favorite of the evening (but admittedly I'm partial to the Chinese 5-spice flavors).
If you love real Thai flavors and balance, a bit of urban cool, and know that good sake doesn't get dropped in a beer - you should check out Sens. We went on a Thursday and it was full but no wait. Weekends are probably crazier.
We'll be back with friends for sure.
SP