Coyote Grill, Scottsdale - Report

I've made mention in some posts about my dinner at Coyote Grill, but never 'formalized' it. Upscale but not formal decor - sort of modern southwest. Entrees are between $16-$24, and worth every penny.

We had a group of eight, and we all pre-ordered something called "The Adventurous Dinner". We also ordered about four appetizers to share, and the standout was the creamcheese filled eggrolls. The calamari was also excellent. Surprisingly, the crabcakes fell short. Nearly tasteless.

Eight different entree's appeared, generally with eight different sides as well. Quite an accomplishment. We each had a bit from the plate in front of us, then passed it to the next person. This way, every person in the group sampled every entree!

What was surprising is that out of eight people, six DIFFERENT entrees were chosen as favorites. Generally, I'd expect two items to be standout faves. But this place managed to really impress. The filet was lovely, barely requiring a knife, but terrific flavor and texture. the cornish game hen (whole) was moist, with crispy skin, stuffed with a sausage mixture with spicing that we couldn't recognize or replicate, and I'd order it again in a second. (which is unusual - I can get chicken at home!) Both fish entrees had different sauces and cooked differently, both equally delicous. Grilled shrimp were huge, with interesting spicing and a dipping sauce, and for once not overcooked and tough. The pasta entree was weak, but this is probably by comparison to the others, rather than objectively tasted. (It was also overpowered by the capers.) All the sides were outstanding, vegies still crisp but fully cooked, potatoes spiced and cooked in a variety of delicious preparations.

The wine list, unfortunately, is weak and extremely overpriced. It needs work -- badly. (The new group sales manager told me that he is going to work on it. He did the wine list at Ruth Cris and Roy's, so there will most assuredly be changes at Coyote Grill). Service was quite good, but most impressive was getting the entrees all at the same time. Kudo's to the cooking staff. Easily and highly recommend this place.