– Where to Eat in Scottsdale: Rusconi’s American Kitchen-
I dined at Rusconi’s American Kitchen last night for the second time in two weeks. After my first visit, I could not wait to go back for yet another amazing dinner.
Michael Rusconi is best known from his tenure as the chef at Lon’s at the Hermosa Inn. His ardent followers are ecstatic that he’s branched out and opened his own Rusconi’s American Kitchen on the northeast corner of Tatum Boulevard and Shea Boulevard. The restaurant is sandwiched between two convenience food restaurants, but his sign is large, impressive and easy to spot.
Chef Michael has brought with him his classic white truffle-scented mac and cheese – always a favorite and such an American comfort food. In addition, he’s enhanced the menu with dishes that are filled with farm-fresh produce, and amazing herbs and seasoningsthat make each dish remarkable and memorable.
We started off with a wonderful boneless short rib appetizer on a bed of vanilla scented potato puree and ancho chili chocolate sauce.
Our dining companion chose to order the special of the evening which was a pasta with clams, mussels and calamari, all of which were enhanced by a wonderful tomato sauce prepared by the Chef. I chose the salmon entrée which was prepared absolutely perfectly. It had a blackberry glaze that gave it a hint of a sweet flavor, and was served with small potatoes and carrots, tiny brussels sprouts and surrounded by tomatillo sauce.
They have a daily dessert menu and I would highly recommend you don’t miss trying one of their unique items. They are all large enough to share at the table, giving you the opportunity to try several different items.
The ambience of the restaurant is trendy, open and airy and it has wonderful touches of wood and whimsy. It’s a perfect spot for lunch or dinner, and I’m told the brunch on the weekends is not to be missed. They also have an outdoor dining area as well as casual seating in the bar area.
I would suggest a reservation in the future as the tables filled quickly at a relatively early dining hour. Check out their website for menus, hours and reservations.
More Information:
Rusconi’s American Kitchen
10637 N Tatum Blvd
Phoenix, AZ 85028
480 483 0009
Website: www.rusconiskitchen.com