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| - Four stars for the Phoenix area, probably only 3-3.5 in New York, for this 'Mediterranean' (whatever that means) upscale dining spot.
One real blow-away item - the Duck Cake appetizer. This is like a Crab Cake,very tasty duck meat and no discernable filler. Would be a winner anywhere. The other appetizer we had was a very ordinary ceviche.
My main course was a special that night, Short Ribs, very well cooked, tender and seasoned just right. But it was served over a clicheed mound of mashed potatoes. Add another star if Razz gets a little more inventive, polenta, or something more southwestern or Mediterranean.
The other main course at the table was Double Roasted Duck. Since I like my duck breast rare, I didn't think double-roasting would do it. I was right. The skin was crisp, as advertised, but the meat was overdone and somewhat tasteless. Why not do a quick high-heat grilling to crisp and seal the skin, then a gentle roasting to medium rare. And why serve it already sliced, allowing whatever juices and flavor were there to escape? Do they think their duck is so tough, or their diners so dense, that it can't be cut by the eater?
The service was friendly and helpful, the drinks were good, but the place wasn't packed for a Friday night. Maybe they all go for the Buy one, Get one free Monday through Thursday special. Check their website before you go.
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