– Scottsdale Dining Picks – Sumo Maya –
I had been following the progress of Sumo Maya over the last couple of months, so when it opened in June, I was looking forward to trying it as soon as possible. After having dinner there, Sumo Maya was well worth the wait.
Sumo Maya describes itself as Mexican Asian food. There are lots of creatively designed items that combine both influences, like Mexican Style Pho, for instance. However, for people looking for familiar things like sushi or tacos, they are covered as well.
Since there were so many things we wanted to try, we ordered several items to share among us from various sections of the menu. Up first was the Tuna Ceviche which is presented beautifully in a coconut with plantain chips. Besides looking so artfully composed, the ceviche itself was delicious. We also tried the Rock Shrimp Tempura with peas, spicy sauce and truffle aioli. The shrimp were so crispy and tasty and the sauces were great compliments.
For sushi, we ordered the Suzuki Roll which was a spicy tuna and avocado roll with a chipotle sauce. It was excellent.
We ordered the Chinese Style Chili Crab Garlic Noodles from the wok section. Another excellent dish and the spice and heat of the chili really came through.
We also ordered two items from the wood burning grill section. The first was a Head On Giant Shrimp with garlic, tomato and chile. Our server noted that it was prepared spicy, but that they were able to make it less spicy based on diner preferences, which was perfect. The other item was a Half Lobster and Crab Dynamite with bacon panko bread crumbs. Unfortunately, I did not get to try this dish as it disappeared before I got a chance to. I was told it was delicious.
On the drink side of things, they do have some specialty drinks as well as a full bar. We chose some of the specialty drinks and were impressed. The Sake Sangria was refreshing with cucumber and ginger as well as sake and cucumber vodka. The other standout came from the frozen cocktails section. The Sumo Rita incorporates tequila with fresh blood orange puree and lemonade. The consistency is very blended and smooth and it was unique and delicious.
Sumo Maya’s design and decor certainly are eye-catching. The signage, menus and table decor feature hot pink and orange. The center of the restaurant is anchored by a huge tree and its many branches. There is a traditional sushi bar to the left and to the right is the bar area. There is also a large, attractive outdoor patio area that flows off of the dining room via retractable walls. Overall, the design gives off a fun, playful and modern feel.
We are excited to return again and again to try many more of the offerings we did not get to this time around.
More Information:
Sumo Maya
6560 North Scottsdale Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
– Between Indian School and Lincoln
(480) 397-9520
Website: https://sumomaya.com/
– Lunch and dinner daily
