Immediately this place felt like one of the Fox restaurants.(And I haven't been in Phoenix for over a year!) Which isn't necessarily bad - it just ends up making me feel like I have been strategically targeted through focused research groups and lulled into believing this experience is unique.
The downtown area definitely needs a place like that, and Fox has a a knack for creating successful places. I wasn't surprised to read up on it and see that it was one of the clan.
I had already eaten by the time I met up with the group there, so I was happy they decided to do a variety of appetizers. We ordered the Pretzel Fondue, Potato Fritters, Mussels, and Rock Shrimp.
The Pretzel Fondue and the Potato Fritters were definitely worth every minute I would have to spend at the gym the next day. The Mussels were tasteless and the Shrimp was just a little greasy.
Their cocktails are pretty creative and are a modern twist on some oldies: The old fashioned was good, but my favorite was the Rhubarb Collins.
Our waiter was great. He was attentive and fun with our medium sized group. You could tell he enjoyed his job - and loved the food. It was so much fun to ask him about the various dishes, and listen to him describe every texture, taste and ingredient in each. Sadly, his description of the rock shrimp was better than the real thing.
My rating is really a reflection on the "not really a chain" chain restaurant concept. Admittedly, the place is cool, the menu is fun and interesting and a gem in the downtown area.