Phoenix Restaurant Tips by AVSENT

Cheesecake Factory Peoria, AZ: Good Cheesecake Cheesecake factory Review

The restaurant itself was a large place-just like a factory. Very high ceiling but, designed perhaps, like a house or mansion. It was late afternoon or early evening on a labor day weekend and it wasn't to busy yet. The menu was endless, especially the choices of cheesecake.
I ordered a steak diane with shrimp scampi; it came with garlic mashed potatoes-nothing else. So, I got a side of green beans (it was a large portion-so were the potatoes). Everything was prepared fine-but, it just didn't hit the spot. Things seemed a little bland or under seasoned. Things started out ok, with the fried artichokes. This appetizer was great with the sauces they had. There was bread and that went well dipped in the artichoke sauce (really good sauces). That might have been the problem- after that my tasted buds couldn't get enough out of the meal. There was shrimp in sauce and steak grilled with sauce but, it still seemed somewhat bland. I was surprised to see iced green tea (I really crave this stuff) but, it was mixed with mint and really killed the taste of the tea.
Anyway, I ordered raspberry and chocolate cheesecake and it was the best part of the whole meal.
They really know how to make this stuff. I really don't care much for cheesecake (it's usually made too, rich) but, this stuff was great. Just the right richness and mix of flavors.
I really expected a better experience for the money but, the cheesecake was worth it. The other downside- had to keep waiting for the waiter to return and it took almost 20 mins just to get the cheesecake to the table.

Favorite Dish: Cheescake made just right.

Address: 16134 North 83rd Avenue

Comparison: more expensive than average

Directions: Arrowhead Mall Area

Phone: (623) 773-2233

Price: US$31-40

Rating: 3

Theme: Eclectic/International

Website: http://www.thecheesecakefactory.com

Little Ceasars: Take Out Special Italian Review

Great deal on a Pepperoni take out. They have ready made large Pepperoni pizzas for about 5.00 USD w/o tax.

Favorite Dish: Pepperoni pizza take out.

Address: Any metro location

Comparison: less expensive than average

Directions: Pizza chain-

Phone: 623-474-2338

Price: less than US$10

Rating: 4

Theme: Pizza

Website: http://littlecaesars.com/

La Grande Orange Grocery: Great Pizza Italian Review

I went to this place to try the pizza since, I've heard alot, about how delicious it can be. I looked at the prices and began searching for a snack or appetizer as I didn't want to pay that much for a pizza (wasn't sure about getting a whole pizza pie for myself, either). But, I reminded myself why I was there, and ordered the sausage and pepperoni. I was totally SHOCKED! I could not believe how good it tasted. I stopped myself from eating the whole thing so, I could take a couple of slices home (mmm, cold pizza-it was delicious the next day, too). It had a thin hard crust and was bursting with flavor from the garlic in the sauce and from the seasoned meat. Yes, parking is limited. They have a bakery and grocery store with an ice cream shop (gelato). Somewhat pricey but, the atmosphere in the restaurant is a nice perk. Can't find a better tasting pizza anywhere.

Favorite Dish: Pizza that is bursting with flavor.

Address: 4410 N 40th St, Phoenix, AZ 85018-4145

Comparison: more expensive than average

Directions: Arcadia-Camelback East.

Phone: 602-840-7777

Price: US$11-20

Rating: 4

Theme: Eclectic/International

Website: http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com

Knock Kneed Lobster: World's Best Fish and Chips

This is a Ma and Pa place with local ownership. It is not a spectacular looking place nor does it have great ambience. It, however, does have the best Fish and Chips that you can find. The menu is not dramatic just, like the seafood restaurant itself; but, nowhere else will you find fish this fresh deep fried. It doesn't even taste like fish (it is so fresh) probably closer to the taste of chicken. The french fries are just everyday fries but, the fillets are dipped in their home made batter. And, if you don't care for fries you can get their Jumbo onion rings. They used to have really big onion rings but, now they are smaller (but-still big).
The place is located close to the airport and open every day. The food is basic seafood- you will not find giant crab legs, or exotic cuts of fish. They offer cole slaw, and rice as simple sides that match the simple decor. The service is usually fast without a waitress, and they have an open, help yourself condiment bar. They also, have a TV room/event room.
I like to call my order in for take out. This will allow you to go to your house or hotel room and enjoy your own ambience and A/C (it can get warm in their dining room). Don't miss the chance to sample atleast, a one piece meal and as the food will come piping hot-let it cool down. This will allow the food to stop cooking-because eating it right away will cause the fillets to be opaque and gooshy (if you like it that way-oh, well). But, it is better to let the fillets firm up and cool for awhile-they will be firm and chunky. Where else can you get nearly one inch thick steaks of fish?

Favorite Dish: 2 piece Fish ans Chips with Onion rings. So, filling and good. It might not be a culinary master piece but, try to find better.

Address: 3202 E. Washington St., Phoneix, AZ 85034

Comparison: about average

Directions: By the airport on Washington Street and 32nd St.

Phone: 602-273-1068

Price: less than US$10

Rating: 4

Theme: Seafood