Cafe Monarch Introduce
For Arizona residents seeking an unparalleled celebration or an evening of sophisticated culinary indulgence, **Cafe Monarch** in Old Town Scottsdale stands as a beacon of world-class **Fine dining restaurant** experiences. Consistently earning illustrious reputations and frequently named among the top fine dining establishments in the nation by prestigious outlets like TripAdvisor and OpenTable, this family-owned operation redefines elegance in the Valley. Specializing in refined **American restaurant** cuisine, the focus is on innovation, quality, and an ever-evolving menu that uses the finest, premium, fresh, local, seasonal, organic, and sustainable ingredients.
The core dining experience is a meticulously designed **four-course prix fixe menu**, where the price is determined by the selection of the main entrée, or Fourth Course. This structure guides diners through a culinary journey, starting with choices like a comforting **Roasted Cauliflower Soup** or the savory **Manila Clam Chowder**. This is followed by a Second Course featuring items such as **Snake River Farms Pork Milanesa** or **Big Eye Tuna Crudo**, and a Third Course with decadent options like **Niman Ranch Prime Short Rib** or **Lobster Raviolo**. The Fourth Course presents the showstoppers, with pricing reflecting the luxury, ranging from the **Maine Diver Scallops** ($100.00) to the extravagant **Surf and Turf Trio** ($155.00) and the highly sought-after add-on, **Japanese A5 Wagyu** ($75.00).
The ambiance is a deliberate masterpiece, described universally as **Upscale**, **Romantic**, and **Trendy**, yet maintaining a **Cozy** and **Quiet** intimacy. Guests often feel transported into an Old World gem, complete with crystal chandeliers, fresh flowers, candlelight, and luxurious décor. This environment, alongside impeccable service, is designed to make any occasion, from birthdays to anniversaries, feel truly amazing and special. The restaurant proudly accepts reservations, emphasizing that **Reservations are required** for this highly sought-after **Dinner** experience.
Cafe Monarch enjoys a prime, accessible location right in the heart of historic Old Town Scottsdale’s Arts District, making it a convenient destination for the Valley's discerning clientele.
- **Address:** 6939 E 1st Ave, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, USA
Accessibility is a priority, upholding the standards expected of a world-class establishment. The restaurant is fully equipped with a **Wheelchair accessible entrance**, designated **Wheelchair accessible parking lot** spaces, a **Wheelchair accessible restroom**, and appropriate **Wheelchair accessible seating**.
Furthermore, to ensure a seamless arrival and departure, multiple convenient parking solutions are provided. Guests can utilize the professional **Valet parking** service, or opt for **Free parking lot** and **Free street parking** options in the surrounding area. This commitment to ease of access enhances the overall luxurious experience.
The service at Cafe Monarch is structured to be comprehensive and highly personalized, ensuring guests receive five-star treatment from the moment they arrive.
- **Table Service and Reservations:** Offers full **Table service** for **Dinner**, with **Reservations required** and **Dinner reservations recommended** well in advance due to the restaurant's popularity. The service staff are highly trained, with every server often trained through the prestigious Court of Master Sommeliers program, ensuring expert wine pairing advice.
- **Private Dining and Events:** Features a dedicated **Private dining room**, perfect for intimate corporate or celebratory **Groups**. The overall atmosphere is ideal for special occasions.
- **Dining Options:** While primarily known for its fine dining **Dinner** service, the restaurant also accommodates requests for **Dessert**, and offers select **Brunch** and **Lunch** options at certain times or for private events.
- **On-site Bar:** A full **Bar onsite** serves an impressive list of **Specialty Cocktails**, **Hard liquor**, **Beer**, and an extensive, award-winning **Wine** list.
- **Dietary Accommodations:** The innovative menu ensures it can cater to various needs, with dedicated **Vegan options**, **Vegetarian options**, and other **Healthy options** available upon request.
- **Amenities:** Guests benefit from clean **Restrooms** and **Wi-Fi** access, although the intimate atmosphere encourages patrons to focus on the dining experience.
- **Payments:** Accepts all major forms of payment, including **Credit cards**, **Debit cards**, and **NFC mobile payments**.
Cafe Monarch’s features are curated to deliver an exceptional, multi-sensory dining experience that regularly places it among the nation's elite restaurants.
- **Acclaimed Status:** Consistently named a Top Fine Dining Restaurant in the U.S. by third-party review sites, reflecting its commitment to an all-encompassing five-star experience.
- **Four-Course Prix Fixe Focus:** The dedication to the prix fixe structure ensures a perfectly paced and curated meal, allowing the chefs to focus on the quality and presentation of seasonal ingredients.
- **Luxurious Ambiance:** Features a **Romantic** and elegant atmosphere with crystal chandeliers, beautiful lighting, and a charming **Outdoor seating** area that includes a **Fireplace** and is often described as feeling like a secret garden.
- **Sommelier-Trained Staff:** Every server’s extensive training in the Court of Master Sommeliers program provides an unmatched level of knowledge for selecting the ideal vintage from the **Great wine list** to pair with each course.
- **Premium Menu Add-Ons:** The availability of exclusive, high-end ingredients like **Japanese A5 Wagyu** ($75.00), **Hudson Valley Foie Gras** ($35.00), and **Charred Spanish Octopus** ($35.00) allows for ultimate customization and indulgence.
- **Exceptional Beverage Program:** Features an extensive list of wines, and creative signature cocktails like the **Monarch Pre-Prohibition Style Old Fashioned** and **The Sonoran**, alongside a **Great tea selection** and **Great coffee** options.
- **Dessert Quality:** Known for **Great dessert**, with unique creations like **Bananas Foster Beignets** ($12.00) and **Chocolate Flourless Cake** ($12.00) providing a satisfying conclusion to the meal.
Reservations are essential for securing a table at this highly-rated Scottsdale fine dining destination. Please use the following contact details to make your arrangements:
- **Address:** 6939 E 1st Ave, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, USA
- **Phone:** (480) 970-7682
Choosing Cafe Monarch is choosing a world-class celebratory experience that is rare to find in Arizona. What makes it truly worth selecting is the unwavering commitment to creating an experience where every detail is elevated—from the exquisite setting to the highly specialized service. It is a destination where your special day is acknowledged, with gestures like your name being printed on the menu, making the occasion feel personalized and amazing.
The unique selling point is the combination of the four-course prix fixe menu structure and the sommelier-level service. Guests appreciate the guidance of the highly trained staff in navigating the food and the extensive, award-winning wine list. The culinary team's focus on innovative, seasonal dishes and the use of premium ingredients like **Niman Ranch Prime Short Rib** and **Citrus Crusted Chilean Sea Bass** solidifies its position as a top fine dining location.
However, potential diners should note that this is a venue that places a high premium on overall presentation and ambiance, and the taste profile of individual dishes can sometimes be subjective, as some reviews indicate issues with acidity, and specific seafood items falling below expectations. There have also been instances of service inconsistencies when addressing food quality concerns, such as a reported careless replacement of an inedible lobster dish. For the majority of visitors, however, the consensus remains overwhelmingly positive: the atmosphere is "sexy," the service is "impeccable," and the food is "phenomenal." For Arizonans seeking a profoundly **Romantic** and luxurious atmosphere with a globally recognized culinary program, Cafe Monarch remains a premier choice. The experience, designed for lavish celebrations, is often considered the "GOAT for anniversary dinner" and is seen by many as worth the significant investment.
Cafe Monarch Menu
First Course (Choice of)
- Roasted Cauliflower Soup
Roasted Pine Nuts, Chives, Crème Fraîche, Herb Butter Crostini
- Manila Clam Chowder
Chili Oil, Brown Butter Croutons, Smoked Pancetta
Second Course (Choice of)
- Snake River Farms Pork Milanesa
Quail Egg, Baby Wild Arugula, Port Wine Poached Pear, Tête de Moine, Champagne Vinaigrette
- Big Eye Tuna Crudo
Calabrian Chili Aioli, Crispy Rice Cake, English Cucumbers, Mountain Rose Apples, Smoked Trout Roe, Tare Sauce
Third Course (Choice Of)
- Niman Ranch Prime Short Rib
New Mexico Chile Adobo, Parsnip Purée, Glazed Baby Carrots, Gooseberry Jam, Micro Pea Tendrils
- Lobster Raviolo
Maine Lobster, Snow Peas, Crispy Salsify, Heirloom Cherry Tomatoes, Shaved Parmesan, Meyer Lemon Emulsion
Fourth Course (Choice Of)
Pricing includes all four courses
- Surf and Turf Trio $155.00
Filet Mignon, Chilean Sea Bass, Seafood Risotto
- Citrus Crusted Chilean Sea Bass $110.00
Ricotta Gnocchi, Artichoke Hearts, Frescatrano Olives, Tomato, Lemon-Caper Beurre Blanc
- Monarch Signature Cuts
Sunchoke Purée, Whole Grain Mustard-Applewood Bacon Pavé, Charred Cipollini Onion, Sautéed Asparagus, Seasonal Mushrooms, Beef Jus
- Maple Leaf Farms Duck Breast $105.00
Caramelized Leek Purée, Delicata Squash Tart, Blackberry Mignonette, Sugar Snap Peas, Duck Skin Tuile
- Lamb Rack $115.00
Organic New Zealand Lamb, Smoked Butternut Squash, Tarragon Glazed Carrots, Beluga Lentil Cassoulet, Roasted Pistachio Pesto, Lamb Jus
- Maine Diver Scallops $100.00
Smoked Butternut Squash Purée, Patty Pan Squash, Candied Bacon Lardons, Blood Orange Vinaigrette, Petite Micro Salad
- Linguine ai Frutti di Mare $125.00
Lobster Fumet, Calabrian Chile, Seared Diver Scallops, King Crab, Tiger Prawn, Poached Maine Lobster, Cured Cherry Tomato, Purple Pomme Frites, Shaved Parmesan Reggiano, Scallions
Add-Ons
- Hudson Valley Foie Gras $35.00
Spiced Date Crema, Housemade Scone, Red Wine Braised Shallots, Au Jus
- Charred Spanish Octopus $35.00
Puttanesca, Confit Fingerling Potatoes, Iberico Chorizo, Calabrian Chile Aioli, Micro Arugula
- Japanese A5 Wagyu $75.00
3oz Striploin, Roman Gnocchi, Whole Mustard Vinaigrette, Sunchokes, Petite Greens
Desserts
- Bananas Foster Beignets $12.00
Cinnamon, Sea Salt Caramel Gelato, Candied Pecans
- Chocolate Flourless Cake $12.00
Seasonal Berries, Raspberry Coulis, Vanilla Bean Gelato, Chantilly Cream, Caramel Pearls
- Assorted Gelatos & Sorbet $8.00
2 Scoops Gelato: Vanilla Bean | Dark Chocolate | Strawberry Swirl | Coconut Sea Salt Caramel w/Chocolate Truffle | UBE Purple Yam Maple Butter-Roasted Pecan | Torta al Limone Sorbet: Lemon | Strawberry | Mango
- Creme Brulee $11.00
Seasonal Berries, Chantilly Cream
First Course (Choice of)
- Roasted Cauliflower Soup
Roasted Pine Nuts, Chives, Crème Fraîche, Herb Butter Crostini
- Spanakopita
Parsnip Purée, Spinach, Parmesan Cheese, Roasted Garlic, Tomato Relish
Second Course (Choice of)
- Oyster Mushroom Tower
Crispy Rice Cake, Rose Apple-Tare Sauce, Calabrian Aioli, Sesame Seeds, Chives
- Poached Pear Salad
Port Wine Braised Pears, Baby Wild Arugula, Pistachio, Tête de Moine, Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Quinoa, Marcona Almonds, Lavash
Third Course (Choice of)
- Butternut Squash Cappellacci
Sunchoke Purée, Baby Carrots, Sugar Snap Peas
- Zucchini Lasagna
Portabella Mushroom, Sautéed Spinach, Mozzarella, Polenta Crouton, Bechamel, Romesco, Pinot Noir Reduction
Fourth Course (Choice of)
- Porcini Mushroom Ravioli $80.00
White Wine Cream Sauce, Roasted Asparagus, Chives, Crispy Oyster Mushrooms, Pinot Noir Reduction
- Risotto alla Zucca $75.00
Delicata Squash, Butternut Squash, English Peas, Tomato Confiture, Pepitas, Shaved Pecorino, Pinot Noir Reduction
- Ricotta Gnocchi $75.00
Poblano Mornay, Sautéed Spinach, Patty Pan Squash, Baby Heirloom Carrots, Pine Nuts, Shaved Parmesan Reggiano
Specialty Cocktails
- Stetson Square
Whistlepig Boss Hog Black Prince Rye Whiskey, Domaine Tariquet Armagnac XO, Carpano Antica Formula Vermouth, Dom Benedictine, Peychaud's Bitters, Angostura Bitters "Earthy, moody fall flavors inspired by a classic Manhattan style cocktail with a decadent array of the highest quality spirits over an artisan ice cube"
- Monarch Pre-Prohibition Style Old Fashioned
Whistle Pig 12 Year Rye Whiskey, Sugar Cube, Angostura Bitters, Artisanal Ice Block, Lemon Zest, Orange Zest "A classic pre-prohibition style Old Fashioned cocktail with a three dessert wine finished rye whiskey"
- Aristocrat
E.H. Taylor Small Batch Bourbon, Branca Menta, Blueberry Purée, Fresh Lemon Juice, Angostura Bitters "A twist on a classic Bourbon Smash with blueberry, mint and citrus"
- The Sebastian
Wheatley Vodka, Licor 43, Passion Fruit Purée, Fresh Lime Juice "A tropical Martini with flavors of passion fruit and vanilla"
- Mona Rosato
Monkey 47 Gin, Ramazzotti Aperitivo Rosato, Jané Ventura Brut Rose, Aromatic Tonic "Our floral Gin Spritz with notes of hibiscus & orange blossom"
- The Sonoran
El Jolgorio Mezcal, Passion Fruit Reduction, Peppadew Shrub, Fresh Lime Juice, Arizona Bitters Lab Orange Bitters "Tropical fruit notes with a hint of smoke and vegatle flavors"
- Lokahito
Kula Toasted Coconut Rum, Toki Blended Japanese Whisky, Liquid Alchemist Coconut, Domaine De Canton Ginger Liqueur, Fresh Lime Juice "Inspired by a Hawaiian term for harmony "lōkahi," notes of ginger & mint pair with toasted coconut & bright citrus in this Mojito"
- Like A Stone
Ketel One Vodka, Dolin Dry Vermouth, Giffard Peach Liqueur, Giffard Apricot Liqueur, Plum Bitters "Notes of pear, plum, & thyme with a citrusy zest of lemon take your palate on a journey with this stone fruit Martini"
- Aztec Fire
Tanteo Jalapeño Tequila, Mango Purée, Lustau Fino Sherry, Fresh Lime Juice, Orange Zest "A Margarita like cocktail with a lovely balance of sweet, spice, tart and vegetal flavors"
- Wharf House
St. George Spiced Pear Liqueur, Plantation OFTD Dark Rum, English Breakfast Tea Reduction, Cointreau, Fresh Lemon Juice "Our spin on a classic Punch cocktail with notes of fall spices, ripe pear, molasses & orange zest"
- Espresso Martini
Illy Espresso, Stoli Vanil, Frangelico, St. George "NOLA" Coffee Liqueur, Cream
- Pumpkin Spice Lattini
Grey Goose Vanilla Vodka, Illy Espresso, Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream, Pumpkin Purée, Cinnamon
Beers
- Stella Artois Lager
- Dechutes Black Butte Porter
- Odell Brewing Co IPA
- Oak Creek Amber Ale
- Duvel Belgian Golden Ale
- Sonoma Pear Cider The Pitchfork
- Left Hand Brewing Milk Stout Nitro
- Ace Space Blood Orange Craft Cider
- Timmermans Kriek Lambicus
- Ommegang Pale Sour Ale
- Ommegang Rosetta
Cafe Monarch Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Delivery
- Takeout
Highlights
- Fireplace
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
- Great wine list
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Assistive hearing loop
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Private dining room
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Quiet
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Reservations required
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Parking
- Valet parking
Cafe Monarch Photos










Cafe Monarch Location
Cafe Monarch
6939 E 1st Ave, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, USA
Cafe Monarch Reviews
romanticanniversarypatiocourse mealdress codecandlesphenomenalshirtfilet mignoncauliflower soup
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1We visited this restaurant to celebrate our child’s birthday. While the atmosphere was lovely and the staff provided excellent service, the food was far below our expectations, and I honestly don’t understand why this place is so highly rated.Nearly every dish had an overwhelming sourness to it, to the point that it made us question whether the acidity was meant to cover up ingredients that weren’t fresh. The seafood, in particular, was disappointing. We were expecting fresh oysters but were instead served deep fried ones that lacked both flavor and freshness. The lobster had a strong, unpleasant odor almost like stagnant water and was completely inedible.When we asked for it to be replaced, they simply removed the lobster and brought back the same dish with just shrimp on the plate. It felt careless and unprofessional. Overall, the presentation of the food was visually appealing, but the taste and quality were far below average. The chef seriously needs to refine their craft.There are many other restaurants that offer far better food without relying solely on looks.
September 29 · omgThis restaurant goes above and beyond. The food is phenomenal, the service is impeccable, and the ambiance is sexy. They printed my name on the menu for my birthday and made my special day feel amazing. Highly recommend!
September 02 · Ashlyn PhillipsA darling choice for celebrating my mother’s birthday. The atmosphere is refined yet warm, with soft, whimsical touches that elevate the experience without ever feeling forced. I was especially pleased that the flowers I had delivered were thoughtfully displayed at our table - it added such a personal, celebratory note to the evening. The food was lovely throughout, and as an oyster enthusiast, I was delighted by their freshness and presentation. Service was attentive and polished, enhancing the overall charm of the evening. My only note is that the dress code appears more flexible in practice than their website suggests, which slightly detracted from the otherwise curated ambiance. Still, Café Monarch remains a standout in Scottsdale. Elegant, inviting, and worth the visit!
May 10 · AJCafe Monarch is an upscale restaurant offering a set-course menu, and it’s clear that many guests come here for special occasions—I was no exception. We visited for my birthday, and they printed my name on the menu, which was such a thoughtful and personal touch.The menu is definitely on the expensive side, but the food was absolutely lovely, and the portions were generous—unlike some fine dining experiences where you leave still feeling hungry.For the first course, we both chose the tuna. If I’m being picky, the tuna itself wasn’t seasoned much, so without the accompanying condiments, it was a bit plain. That said, it might have been intentional to keep it light and not overwhelm the palate right from the start.For the second course, I opted for the pork belly while my partner chose the shrimp. The pork belly was deliciously tender, though the portion was quite small and left me wanting more. Meanwhile, the shrimp was impressively large and tasted fresh, though slightly too salty for my taste.For the third course, we both went with the veal, which was cooked perfectly with a beautiful pink center. Surprisingly, the standout for me was the carrot served alongside it—it was incredibly flavorful, possibly the best carrot I’ve tasted in a long time.For the final course, I had the fritti di mare, a seafood pasta dish that I absolutely loved and still think about today. It was packed with seafood and had a creamy, slightly tangy tomato-based sauce. My partner ordered the lamb, which was also lovely, although like the shrimp, it leaned a bit too salty.The restaurant also offered a complimentary bubbly drink to start and a dessert with a small fireworks display to celebrate my birthday, which made the evening even more special.All in all, the service was excellent and the experience was memorable, though the bill—including a $90 tip—was definitely a reminder that special occasions come with a price!
April 26 · T YCafe Monarch was absolutely impeccable. The service was top notch, the food was absolutely delectable, and the atmosphere was extremely quaint and romantic. Our server Jospeh was very knowledgeable and very attentive to what we were looking for in our dinner experience. We did the four course option with the monarch wine pairing and were both blown away at the execution and taste of the wines and food. Very nice touches for my girlfriends birthday and we will be back for sure!
May 25 · Michael Platon
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