The Americano
17797 N Scottsdale Rd
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
480-573-0001
Outside of Our Bubble
Recently we ventured to a new to us restaurant called The Americano. It is what we lovingly refer to as “outside of our bubble”. To us that means it is not in close proximity of our home, not some where we can just pop into, not somewhere we pass by and think we should try. This place is about 45 minutes from our house with no traffic delays.
The Reason for the Trip
We have ventured so far from home so to speak, because it is our middle son, Cody’s birthday celebration dinner. We let the kids choose a restaurant to have a family dinner when it is their birthday. Cody has picked the place and who are we to say no! Come to find out Cody picked this place based on a recommendation of a coworker, who stated the vibe was awesome.
The Vibe
We are probably a little old to understand many of the vibes the younger generation talk about, however we will say we thoroughly enjoyed everything about our evening out. The restaurant is dark, calm, and quiet. We were impressed we could hold conversations and not feel like we had to yell or miss out because we couldn’t hear. And this wasn’t because it was slow, the place was full. It was not dark like we couldn’t see the menus, but dark enough to promote a serene feeling. I loved that we could see the kitchen but it wasn’t distracting or loud. There is a really nice bar area when you first enter. We arrived just before our reservation time so did not have time to check it out, but looked inviting.
The Service
Service was 5 star! Our server, Gilbert, made our evening fun, made Cody feel special, was very knowledgeable and was around just the right amount. He was there when we needed him and floated in and out almost unnoticed while making sure everything was just right. His recommendations were spot on and even brought out a treat on the house for the birthday boy. The manager, Michael, dropped by our table I think 3 times, to check on things. He impressed me most when he didn’t just ask if everything was okay, he asked “what can we do better”. I had never heard that before but feel it is a great way to gain customer perspective. I almost forgot to mention, shortly after being seated at our table, a server was filling our water glasses when I asked him where the restroom was located. To my surprise his response was “If you will come with me, I will escort you”. And he did! There was no pointing, no description as to the location. He simply walked with me, guiding our path until we reached the hallway when he said, “They are right around the corner here”. Now that is service.
The Food
The table started with drinks. Tracey had the Vecchio Fashioned, and said it was delicious. He said you could actually taste the honey nut cheerios LOL. Cody opted for the Mayday and Rudy had the both said they were very good. Rudy and Cody each started their meal with the Little Gem Casear salad, while Tracey and I shared the Americano Wedge. Tracey also chose a starter of raw oysters. (they came with the tiniest little bottle of tabasco LOL) He described them as briny, soft, and the perfect size. We will have to take his word for it as no one else at the table likes oysters! For our dinners Rudy chose the Steak Frites, Cody had the 10oz Prime Center Cut Filet and Tracey and I each opted for the 6oz Prime Center Cut Filet. Per Gilbert’s suggestion, we went with the 1000 Layer Loaded Potato (this was good but not something I would say falls under the “gotta try” heading. Rudy said it tasted like lays potato chips) and the Asparagus for the table to share. Rudy’s Steak Frites were served with garlic fries that were absolutely delicious. The steaks were all cooked to perfection, even mine that every chef hates to prepare, well done no pink. We ended the meal with a Basque Cheesecake to share and the special treat they brought out for Cody was the Coconut Cream Layer Cake. I would go just for the cheesecake! The blackberry sauce and brown sugar struesel made the cheesecake outstanding. Tracey and Cody finished with an espresso that was divine.
Recommendation
If you are in Scottsdale, go! It was an experience worth repeating. We will keep it on our list to go back to for sure. And when you pop in ask to sit in Gilbert’s section, you will be glad you did.