VIRTU HONEST CRAFT Reviewed by Laurie Florence Manucci 3701 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale, AZ | (480) 946-3477 | www.virtuscottsdale.com Virtu Honest Craft has already been awarded one of the Best New Restaurants in America by Esquire magazine in 2013 and a James Beard Foundation award nominee and I can see why. Chef Gio Osso’s spot is tucked away inside the Bespoke Inn Bed and Breakfast. It is a charming and intimate gathering place that has a European feel and ambiance to it both inside and out on its fantastic patio. He has cooked in many kitchens before opening this spot to fulfill a life-long dream. It is a Mediterranean inspired menu that changes often but the attention to detail and freshness remains key. The pastas are handmade and the produce is seasonal and from local AZ farmers. We started with the insalata; a simple salad of lettuce, shaved pecorino cheese and lemon vinaigrette. We also had a creamy burrata with grilled Meyer lemon, extra virgin olive oil with prosciutto di parma. To follow that was Ricciola, a sashimi-style yellowtail amberjack with cracked paper and charred tomato aioli. Our main course was the Maiale; the Pork rib chop served on the bone over spinach topped with poached pear. This dish had been recommended to us and it did not disappoint. We also had the Cappesante seared scallops with crispy olive oil potatoes. On our next visit we would like to try the Bistecca Tagliata, a 40 oz Tomahawk Bone-in-Ribeye for two which also looked delicious. For dessert, we had the sticky toffee cake with salted caramel gelato and toffee drizzle. And for an after-dinner drink, I couldn’t resist the specialty cocktail they make called A Night in Italy. It consists of Limencello, Lemon Sorbet, champagne, and lemon preserves. Truly like drinking a lemon meringue pie! The ambiance, food and service at Virtu was amazing and I highly recommend a visit soon. If you can, request outdoor seating while the weather is still nice. They have limited seating. Reservations 480 946-3477.
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