Cafe Monarch In Arizona Has Been Named Among The Best Restaurants In The U.S.
By Katie Lawrence|Published September 25, 2020
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
We all know Arizona is home to some truly incredible restaurants, but according to TripAdvisor, one, in particular, is among the best in the U.S. Cafe Monarch, located in Scottsdale, ranked #8 on their 2020 list of the top 25 fine dining restaurants across America. With its historic, elegant ambiance, impeccable service, and simply exquisite food and drinks, this iconic eatery is definitely deserving of the accolade.
Nestled in the heart of historic Old Town Scottsdale, Cafe Monarch has received countless accolades from a variety of notable sources. It was recently ranked eighth on TripAdvisor's list of the top 25 fine dining restaurants in the U.S.
The stately exterior alone is enough to draw in passersby from the streets.
Inside, the atmosphere is upscale, yet homey. Dim lighting imparts a relaxing vibe that fosters easygoing conversation, while swanky decor ensures there's no mistaking the caliber of restaurant you're dining in.
Grab a seat, enjoy the sights, and get ready to dig in!
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You'll pay a fixed price for a four-course meal, the first of which is a soup. Choose between roasted cauliflower, chilled corn, and celery-apple-fennel.
The second course is your choice of a grilled peach salad or peppercorn-crusted tuna, and the third is either pork belly or petit tenderloin.
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The fourth course is the heartiest of them all, and the price is determined by what dish you choose. Among your choices is a succulent filet mignon that cuts like butter and practically melts in your mouth -- as do the Wagyu Ribeye and Prime New York Strip, which are also on the menu.
The herb-crusted New Zealand lamb is always a solid choice. Served on a bed of dijon lentils, fig tapenade, and mint jus, this dish simply exudes elegance.
Cafe Monarch prides itself on unique, sophisticated flavor combinations, so don't be nervous about trying fig and mint together. It works -- we promise!
An array of seafood options like Chilean sea bass and fresh Maine scallops are ideal for those who prefer lighter fare. Opt for the frutti di mare to sample a bit of everything, as it comes with scallops, lobster, clams, and shrimp, plus tomato cappellini and a scrumptious pepper sauce.
There's also a surf and turf option that includes filet mignon, sea bass, and frutti di mare.
Pair your meal with a handcrafted cocktail using only the finest liquor. From martinis to the signature Monarch pre-Prohibition style old fashioned and everything in between, there's a perfect sip for everyone.
Cleanse your palate (and satisfy your sweet tooth) with a decadent dessert. White chocolate passion fruit mousse, flourless chocolate cake, and several other indulgent options are the perfect ending to an already unforgettable dining experience.
Ample outdoor seating is available, allowing for effortless compliance with social distancing guidelines. The courtyard is absolutely magical, reminiscent of a lush butterfly garden.
This enchanting ambiance is *almost* as incredible as the food.
Dine-in hours are 5:30 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. on Monday-Thursday, 5 p.m. until 12 a.m. on Friday-Saturday, and 5:30 p.m. until 12 a.m. on Sunday. Reservations are currently required. Visit the restaurant’s website or Facebook page to learn more.
Have you ever dined at Cafe Monarch? If so, what’s the best thing you’ve eaten thus far? Let us know in the comments, and check out our previous article for more Arizona restaurants that received high marks this year.
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