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| - The "petite" lobster corn dogs didn't live up to the hype, but I wasn't disappointed with Vino Lounge at Tapino. They were just as described and while I can't whole-heartedly recommend them, they were quite the novelty and I'm happy I tried them. Petite was an accurate description as well, and this might as well go for the other tapas on the 5-5-5 menu. Presentation is paramount here, with the corndogs displayed upright on a fancy wooden tray and the chocolate debauchery dessert laid out across a large plate with precision.
Let's face it, their happy hour menu is a highlight here for sure and its availability on weekends is a major plus. The cabana style patio beckons you with a South Beach Miami flavor, that is, if a King Kong IKEA showroom swallowed Ocean Drive. Yep. Those same white slipcover couches decorate the patio, which isn't a bad move considering the wine accidents to be had here.
Our server handled our large party very well, but early on the hostess/servers wouldn't let us move tables or seats together when there was clearly room and the ability to do so.
Like others have said, it's not a place to go if you're really hungry, but it's great if you're fine noshing on ambitious and creative appetizers such as duck confit tostadas or beef carpaccio with garlic aioli and fried capers. The pomme frites were soggier than they should have been but the seasoning was right on.
The wine here was terrific. I quaffed on a French syrah and sipped my friend's sauvignon blanc, and both were delicious selections for the measly $5. The chocolate debauchery dessert is a must if you have the room to do it. Overall, Tapino is really a great wine bar and worth the drive to Scottsdale. I am looking forward to the next visit.
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