Recently, I had the pleasure of dining with a co-worker at Scottsdale Fashion Square’s latest American brasserie: Society Swan. A night full of clever twists on classic cocktails, fresh bites and quality service, don’t skip over this if you’re looking to book your next date night or happy hour.
Upon entering the restaurant, I was met with a cozy dining room complete with velvet-upholstered booths and ambient table lighting. The large windows covered by rich drapery draw inspiration from Parisian brasseries, almost deceiving one into believing that pulling back the curtains will expose a bustling street in Paris, and not a shopping mall.
The cocktail menu offers a standard array of wines, a few notable cocktails, but their “World Famous” martini menu is what truly shines. Our server recommended the International Affair, a vodka martini with junmai sake, lychee and Japanese yuzu. My co-worker took the recommendation and attested to its flavor: not overly sweet, and slightly sour from the Japanese yuzu. This martini was our first indication that our server’s recommendations were necessary in navigating this standout menu.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: SCOTTSDALE’S SHIV SUPPER CLUB REDEFINES FINE DINING WITH A TWIST
For hors d’oeuvres, we indulged in two: the chicken potstickers and the rock shrimp tempura sushi roll. The sushi was a refreshingly light bite, and the house-made soy sauce stole the show. The chicken potstickers were my personal favorite. They were cooked to perfection, flavorful on the inside with a satisfyingly crunchy exterior and were served with a sweet and sour marmalade that complemented the chicken nicely, without being overpowering.
Deciding on an entree posed more difficulty than I suspected. Once again, calling on our server’s recommendations was a must. I decided on the chicken francese and added the optional buttered Parmesan spaghetti (is it really optional though?), and my co-worker selected the Wagyu skirt steak frites.
The chicken francese was crispy on the outside but juicy on the inside, and the noodles were a delicious pairing, rich in Parmesan flavor. The broccolini, although outshone by the chicken and noodles, was seasoned well. I tried the Wagyu skirt steak, and I can attest to the quality of the cut. It was cooked to specification and topped with maître d’butter.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: HAPPY HOUR HEAVEN: WHERE TO DRINK AND DINE IN THE VALLEY THIS SUMMER
When it came time for dessert, although I felt that I couldn’t eat anymore, the black forest sticky toffee pudding looked undeniably decadent. Topped with chocolate toffee sauce and served with a side of whipped mascarpone and Luxardo cherries, this fresh take on a UK classic did not disappoint.
After wrapping up our meal, we explored the lounge located upstairs in the establishment. Swanky and low-lit, the lounge offers a more limited dining menu, perfect for grabbing a drink and a light bite for happy hour. Regardless of how you choose to experience Society Swan, the hearty fare, creative cocktails and curated ambiance will have you enthralled and booking your next reservation. I know I am.
This visit was hosted, but all opinions expressed are the writer’s own.