Sea Saw - Scottsdale

[barry]

We were lucky enough to dine at Sea Saw this weekend, and tried the Omakase at the counter. We actually started across the street at Estate House for a cocktail upstairs on one of the balconies. What a great room! They make a mean martini, and the b-t-g wine list was very interesting. They also have a decent half bottle list. The pianist was great, and we will definitely return. The room was almost entirely empty on a Saturday night, though, so I hope they make it.

We then moved across the street to Sea Saw for dinner. The four of us were seated on one of the bar corners. Nobu was not behind the counter, and I learned he was not feeling well and left. This may have explained the 35 minutes that went by before our first course was served. The staff was apologetic, and refilled our first course wine pairing (chilled saki). Everyone was very friendly and we had a great time talking with the chefs and staff.

I won't go into each course (mostly because I can't remember everything), but the food was incredible. This was our third visit to Sea Saw. The first was mind blowing. The second was good, but didn't compare. This time was excellent. The sashimi course was amazing, and my wife is already talking about going ala carte next time just so we can get more sashimi. (I think you can get the upgraded omakase with way more sashimi, too). The Foss Marai prosecco was a perfect match with the fish. As always, the wine pairings really hit the mark perfectly. Sea Saw's wine pairings, at least to me, really show how the wine can enhance the food and vice versa.

Course 3 was soft shell shrimp w ith an '04 Hofer gruner veltliner. Perfectly cooked and you could taste the amazing shrimp along with the crunch of the light breading.

I always like the white fish carpaccio course, this time with an Italian white. The mushroom melange is also delicious.

Course 7 was lamb, perfectly prepared and so flavorful with an '04 Palmina dolcetto. Tender and amazing. Of course, our favorite is still the foie gras for desert with Royal Tokaji Aszu. One of our favorite foie gras presentations. Our friends (who are much to healthy) had dined at Sea Saw 3 previous times and never tried the foie gras. We guilted them into it this time, and they loved the foie.

Sea Saw was supposed to move across the street into the South Bridge development, but the move has been delayed indefinitely. I actually heard a rumor recently that it may close altogether. No idea if the rumor is credible, but it would be a great loss. Sea Saw does truly creative and unique dishes, and their wine pairings are awesome. It was good to see the room full during our visit.

Barry

[AguasFrescas]

I really hope it's not closing. I can only afford a couple times a year but that's two great meals I truly look forward to!