INTIMATE EATERY

Sunset Wine Bistro brings European approach to service in the heart of Scottsdale

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

“Adding to the ambiance, a maximum of just 20 guests inside and another 20 outside are seated at any given time so our team may thoughtfully guide diners through the relaxed yet upscale experience,” Lauro says.

Sunset Wine Bistro may be the newest culinary offering at the Shops at Gainey Village, but its leadership has decades of experience both here and abroad.

The concept is the brainchild of restaurateur and wine connoisseur Romain Lauro. Locally, he owned and operated Salute Wine Bar in Tempe for many years, and prior to that he owned a high-end eatery in the heart of his native France called Comme En Provence – translated to“Like in Provence” in English – for nearly 20 years. When the opportunity arose to open what he calls a love letter to the scratch-made recipes of his home country (with a few classic American favorites as well) in the heart of Scottsdale, he could not resist.

“The name is an homage to the view from our floor-to-ceiling windows and on our patio,” Lauro says. “We face due west so every night our guests have a front row seat to the best sunsets in the world.”

The 1,500-square-foot space is chic and minimalist with an enormous white chandelier serving as both an art installation and centerpiece of the space. The light walls are dotted with French photography and Parisian landscapes on canvas to set the mood.

Every item on the food menu, which boasts ample starters, small plates and entrees as well as authentic French desserts, is made from scratch. Menu highlights include the creamy Tomato Bisque ($14), which is topped with chiffonade basil and paired with a full-size melty grilled cheese; Hummus Nachos ($12), using crispy pita wedges topped with house hummus, onions, goat cheese and drizzled balsamic; a selection of Bruschettas ($6 each); the Sunset Burger ($22), which is made using Wagyu beef; and Pan Seared Salmon ($29), complemented by smashed potatoes and steamed broccoli topped with white wine lemon beurre blanc sauce. The dessert menu is small but mighty with two or three French-inspired options, including an authentic Poire Belle Helene ($8), a classic French dessert with pears, whipped cream, sliced almond, and vanilla ice cream encased in a dome of hardened chocolate. There is a beautiful combination of Old and New World wines from which to choose, with most coming from California and France. The pinot noir and cabernet sauvignon offerings are of particular note. In addition to wine, there are two or three sparkling wine-infused cocktails, each very light and easy to drink, and select domestic and imported beers as well.

Sunset is open Monday through Saturday from 2 to 9 p.m. and is closed Sunday. Happy hour is offered weekdays from 2 to 5:30 p.m., where diners will receive $2 off beers, $3 off wines by the glass, $8 off bottles of wine, and $2 off all appetizers.

Sunset Wine Bistro, 8787

N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.443.2575; www.sunsetwinebistro.com.