T.
Cook's.... At the Royal Palms
5200 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ.
Ph. 602-808-0766
T.Cook's is an elegant restaurant which specializes in Mediterranean food preparation. It is the type of restaurant where one feels more at ease dressed formally than not. Jeans and causal cloths don't seem to fit, and that is nice for a change. We have eaten at T.Cook's twice and on both occasions the food was quite good. The first rime we chose not to review it as we were on vacation and frankly just did not feel on the mood to work --- if eating, then writing about that experience, can be considered work.
On our second stay at the Royal Palms we decided that it was time to share this restaurants with visitors to The Artisan who may visit Scottsdale and not know that this restaurant is works at least one, and perhaps two visits.
We decided upon the Mediterranean Antipasti Platter to Share, along with a bottle of mineral water and an Italian Chianti to begin our meal. [Note: We have inadvertently misplaced the name of the wine. Once found we shall add it to the review.] This was served on an 18" platter with quite edible bread and a good basil pesto. It contained olives, roasted peppers, asparagus spears, prosciutto, mozzarella and tomatoes. Although simple, and not containing any ingredient not found in other fine restaurants, This preparation seemed the best way to start our meal. We were not disappointed.
One entree was T.Cook's Mediterranean Paella. While not as pungent as some paellas, this one was filled shrimp, a variety of fish and a generous amount of sausage. the seasonings were saffron and a bit of tomatoes. No one flavor overpowered.
The second entree was Roasted Duck Breast with Foie Gras, Apricot Glaze and Aged Balsamic. The Foie Gras was wonderful in the true meaning of that word. It was cooked perfectly, and literally melted in the mouth. The breast of duck was also excellent. Our only complaint was that the portion of duck was painfully small, given the price of the dish ($28).
We chose to slowly finish our wine rather than have dessert or coffee. This was primarily due to the quantity of bread consumed during our meal rather than to a poor dessert selection.
The service was good. Our waiter was an experienced server, In addition to being a senior wait staff he had a culinary degree, and was very knowledgeable in food preparation. His commentary as he served us was appreciated.
Dinner for two including wine, tax and tip was $132.84. We recommend T.Cook's to anyone who enjoys fine dining. Although expensive, this restaurant lives up to its reputation as one of the best restaurants in the Phoenix area.
Last updated on: 06/03/99 12:51:04 AM