Wow - I loved Roy's but this Asian street food concept is amazing. Reasonably priced for being in the JW! In top 10 meals I have ever had - yes that good. Service was on point even though they are busy. Don't miss the cocktail menu - smoky whiskey drink is amazing. Wide had a clear vodka drink that was amazing. read more

The food was excellent! I would recommend trying the pork dumplings and the crab fried rice. I couldn't stop thinking about it even after we left. They also have a chili sauce (not too spicy), which I ended up putting on almost everything--it really enhanced the meal. Our server was fantastic; he remembered us from a previous visit, which contributed to our positive experience and our decision to return. Thank you for recommending the Chili Crab and Coconut Rice. I was initially a bit hesitant, but they pair together beautifully. We look forward to coming back because of the wonderful service provided and the delicious dumplings. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The interior ambiance is great as well, with dark and vibrant colors creating a lively atmosphere.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Loved the decor. Food delicious. Expect it be pricey considering where it is. Service was not the standard I'd expect for a high end restaurant. Had to ask 3 times for a tea refill and my husband didn't even get his iced tea. They served a nicely presented cocktail but took ages to arrive. Servers didn't seem to know who had ordered which dish, they just seemed confused. read more

Kembara - The sympathizer. - Asian Fusion Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Beautiful atmosphere at night! Great food with shareable bowls but let me warn you, everything I ate except for pot stickers was spicy! We had the noodles with pork belly, steak, and beef that was sooo tender. Everything was great and I will definitely come back. read more

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[[HIGHLIGHT]]Food and Ambiance at the place is great.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Arianna was our server and she unfortunately did not pair the great food with great service. Leaving the table before everyone had ordered(twice), making two mistakes on our order, looking completely uninterested, forgetting part of our kid's order until after we had paid the bill, then proceeded to not give us any utensils for it and leaving the table before asking if we had gotten everything. Hate to be the person to be complaining but when you're automated to pay 20% gratuity on a $500 bill it's kind of absurd... read more

Had dinner here today. 12.11.23. Thought the food was good. They could reduce the salt. My entrees were a bit on the salty side but still very good. I love love the decor of the place and the staff was super friendly and provided premier customer service. They came multiple times to see info was ok. I would eat here again read more

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Overall we enjoyed our food, ordered the veg spring rolls which I thought had too much black pepper, the dumplings were great, the beef dish had wonderful flavors to it, the crab fried rice was a maybe, may not order again. The kimchi pork rise was average or could use some improvement. There was some confusion at the front desk and the wait for seating was longer than expected especially when reservations were made two weeks earlier. The questionnaire that followed the open table reservation asked if we are celebrating anything, I checked birthday, but I guess they don't read the questionnaire so there was no acknowledgment of our reason to be there. So I feel there is a bit of tweaking to improve the experience. read more

Upon arrival, we didn't have reservations, but we were informed that there was room. The service and introductions from the host and waiter were splendid. The Wagu was over $100 but worth every bite as it easily got devoured. The lobster at MP was $52 for 1lb. The lobster was cracked already and the meat easily came out if its shell. The freshness of the lobster with the Asian spices made the lobster more delightful to eat. The boba drinks were given to the kids to taste and it was different but swallowed entirely. The entire meal was approximately $280 but worth is value for the service and delicacy. I would eat here again for the fabulous service and staff. I took pics of the food unfortunately Yelp doesn't show them since it somehow doesn't see them as being taken next to the restaurant. Yelp glitch, sorry Kembara. read more

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Food and service was amazing! I was with a group of about 12 people and we did family style of about half the menu! Overall you can't go wrong with anything! I'd try something you usually wouldn't as well, it may surprise you! read more

Unique is the keyword for this beautiful restaurant and creative dishes. We enjoyed our dining at the bar. Both bartenders were informative and attentive. We got dishes that other yelpers have recommended. Highly recommend!!! read more

Completely unexpected fantastic dinner experience. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The vibe, the service, the tuna jewel! Everything better than the next.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] And it's in on the first floor of the JW hotel! read more

I walked in with high expectations. I walked out wondering how a place with this much promise could deliver something so utterly one-dimensional. Let's start small: my fork was bent. A minor detail, but one that set the tone for the rest of the meal--careless, unimpressive, and vaguely insulting. The dishes? A masterclass in disappointment. The Tuna Thai Jewel was the only dish we had that was up to par. The crab rice was aggressively salty, as if the chef mistook a salt shaker for inspiration. The noodles were dense, stubbornly al dente in a way that suggested either defiance or negligence. And the dim sum? Let's just say I've had better from a grocery store freezer. The servers weren't happy, and I don't blame them. I wouldn't be happy serving these dishes either. Their demeanor suggested they know exactly what they're peddling--and how little they're probably being paid to do so. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The real draw, I assume, is meant to be the ambience. But even that is just smoke and mirrors--an empty set dressing for food that most people could make better at home.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Final verdict? Don't bother. read more

Enjoyed the AZ week menu, with the Tuna Thai Jewel becoming a favorite! The deserts are also a nice ending to a flavorful meal. Note that some spice level cannot be adjusted but they were just right for the dish. Service was wonderful, with your meal enjoyment and satisfaction top of mind! Enjoyed the ambiance, from the background playlist to the Asian theme felt in the restaurant. Would love to come back and try more dishes! read more

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Loved everything about this place. Food, atmosphere and service all exceeded my expectations.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We had 4 people and got to try many different things. Had no complaints other than the pork dumplings were good but nothing to rave about. The special chicken wings and pork fried rice were delicious. Vegetable lo main and wagyu entree were big hits as well. Dessert was delicious! We got the donuts and the Ube ice cream. Would definitely come back here when I'm back in town. read more

Currently staying at the Marriott for our mini baby moon. We're locals and wanted to do something more elevated than just popping over to desert ridge for dinner. This restaurant was AMAZING. The service, the food and the experience is one we won't forget. From the moment we stepped up to the hostess stand everyone was so helpful and friendly. Our waitress was very knowledgeable about the menu and helped us pick items that would complement each other well. We sat near the kitchen which was a fun experience! (If you watch "the bear" you'd love sitting next to the kitchen!) the chef de cuisine even came to our table and was so nice! This truly is a hidden gem and we can't wait to visit again! read more

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What a great addition!!!! While the JW is notoriously over priced, this new addition was a welcomed surprise for a special dining experience at a reasonable (2024 terms) price. Amazing flavors and presentation. Can't wait to go back! Only feedback would be that they need more staff. Maybe take one of the 4 hostesses and have them flex waiting tables or supporting wait staff. Our waiter was great but spread so thin across numerous outdoor tables. Also recommend sitting outside as it's a beautiful setting. read more

We had an incredible experience at Kembara last night. Do yourself a favor and make a reservation now! Our server, Clayton, was the BEST. (Ask for him!!!!) He was so knowledgeable in each dish and emphasized that everything on the menu is carefully crafted, unique and made in house- from the spices to the handmade noodles and dumpling wrappers. After our first dish was delivered, I noticed Chef Sosa happened to walk through the restaurant. When he saw me glance over at him, he immediately did a U Turn and came over to say hello, encouraging my husband to drink the remaining broth of the Tuna Thai Jewel right from the bowl. It was so good, you had to! This was a unique and fully rounded dish. Each bite was incredible- a MUST order. We also had the dim sum, pork belly noodles, and chicken khao soi (this is my favorite Thai dish, something you don't often find anywhere in Phoenix and the reason we came into the restaurant.) It was flavorful and perfectly spiced. Their specialty high balls are unique and the Joy Luck Club cocktail is my new favorite drink of all time anywhere. I've never had anything like it. Clayton described how it's made and the filtration process. It is obvious how much time and thought they put into everything in this restaurant. Thank you to Chef Sosa and Clayton for a truly awesome experience!!! We'll see you again soon. read more

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As a local on a staycation our experience at Kembara was amazing! Our server Cole was one of the best in the industry with his attention to detail, engagement with conversations about each dish will bring us back as regularly. The food was epic, full of flavor in each dish we ordered. Complements to the chef and the menu he has created, you can tell he has taken pride in what he is doing and having fun while serving it. Highly recommend to put this place on your hot spot list for Scottsdale locals and visitors alike. read more

Food was well done and flavorful. Dedication to the craft noted. Will be back. We had the tuna, pork belly noodles, wagyu rendang. All amazing. read more

I really wanted to love this place. The vibe was classy and upscale, very pretty table setup. Service was great and our server was very welcoming. However, the food was so-so for the price, especially the dimsum. I also tried the wagyu beef rendang -- a little on the salty side. The best of it was the tuna thai jewel. The broth was palate cleansing and the tuna was very fresh (pictured). Great rec by our server and partly redeemed this experience. read more

Kembara - Tuna Thai Jewel - Asian Fusion Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Came here for my birthday and had a wonderful experience. Service was on point, and the food was incredible. Started with the steamed dumplings and shu mai. Both were very well done and tasty. But the star of the show was the chili crab. It was so flavorful, rich and filling. Reminiscent of what we had at the hawker stalls.in Singapore ( but with king crab!). If I had to find any opportunities it would be that the wine list is very limited, and the steamed dumplings while tasty were very small. And you only got 3 of each (dumplings and shu mai). So for items meant to be shared serving just 3 (or any odd number for that matter) means someone only gets 1 to try. That being said I would definitely go again as the flavors outshine any minor shortcomings. read more

I tried this place because the reviews of the influencers on IG promoted the Chicken Khao Soi. That is one of my favorite Thai dishes. The ambiance and esthetic are nice. The service and the food were lacking considering the price. The libations are delicious and were priced on par with a high-end restaurant in LA. Considering the pricing, I expected the quality of the food to be better. We ordered the Chicken Khao Soi, the steak, and vegetable fried rice and lamb egg rolls. The food was made fresh, and that was my only positive. For dessert, we had the Vietnamese Donuts, and they were good. read more

Kembara - Vietnamese donuts - Asian Fusion Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

The Dim Sum happy hour menu was delicious. We ordered one of every food item to try and all of them were delicious. The shrimp shu mai was top notch. read more

Exceptional service, mind-blowing flavors! The Tuna Thai Jewel had the most amazing presentation and taste -- our favorite. Also had two amazing cocktails, the pork dumplings (yes!!!) and the chicken satay and pork belly entrees. Can't go wrong here, even the ambiance on the patois with lanterns and fires was so on point. read more

Kembara - Asian Fusion Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I felt that I was shortchanged on a couple of dishes, and when I pointed this out to the waitress she offered no empathy or attempt to address my concerns. The shrimp shu mai ($14) order contained only 3 (I'm accustomed to receiving more at most restaurants), and more importantly they were mushy and fell apart upon pick up. The pork belly noodle dish ( $31) contained only two slivers of pork. Disappointing! read more

This was an excellent meal and experience. We tried the Tuna Thai Jewel, pork dumplings, smashed cucumbers, lamb spring rolls, crab fried rice, and the taiyaki for dessert. Everything was so delicious, perfectly seasoned, and had appealing texture and temperature. Our favorite dish was the Thai Jewel because it was so unique and each bite was interesting and we kept saying, "What is that? It's delicious!" The taiyaki dessert was also amazing. I was very curious about the miso caramel and it was delightful. They should put more of that on the plate. I also got a scoop of ube gelato with the dessert and it was a wonderful creamy texture with flavor that complimented the other flavors in the taiyaki. The service was great! We were seated immediately and our server was helpful, gave suggestions, and was funny and personable. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The ambiance was cool but calm and it was well decorated.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Also, the chairs were really comfortable.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Kembara - Tuna Thai Jewel - Asian Fusion Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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I came with a large group and we ordered multiple items. It was served family style and they took a lot of care to bring the dishes out at the right time so we weren't overwhelmed with food all at once. There was a specific menu for our vegetarian colleague and he was able to order from a wide selection without having to compromise creativity or flavor. All the dishes were carefully planned and considered in a variety of palettes that still had a common thread of Asian-inspired and well-executed. The waitress was wonderful as well. Would come again! read more

Good environment and good food. Service was great. The food is reasonable priced. But I can't believe valet is not complementary at the hotel. The crab leg is huge and very good. All the food is a bit salty for Asian food in my opinion but great alcohol options. Dessert menu is meh. The papaya salad was the best dish out of the five we ordered. Chicken noodle, chicken larb, crab legs and NY steak. Steak was a little dry and the chicken larb was too salty and too mushy compared to to the Thai version. read more

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Food was amazing as well as the service. We will be back to try other items on the menu

Ambiance 4 stars cool tables but we were sat at a back corner table with poor temperature control issues. Cool chopsticks. Service 3 stars, friendly but perhaps slow at times, probably because we were in the back corner. Food 2.5 stars. Some too salty or too sweet or too many mix of flavors that didn't work. The vegetarian curry was awesome but we had to kiss quite a few frogs to find that prince. My husbands lobster was not well cooked. Drinks. 3.5 stars. Joy luck club was near but too sweat overtime. Interesting beer assortment. read more

Very urban vibe & decor; spicy menu items (be sure to note the chili markers on each item; limited menu with authentic Thai & Vietnamese items. We had green papaya salad (overly spiced in an unpleasant way), shrimp dim sum, good but pricy even by Scottsdale standards. Entrees pork belly with noodles, my husband like it a lot. I had market fish in banana leaves & it was fine. Nothing else came with the fish. Cocktail menu also overpriced for the amount of liquid Probably will not return to this restaurant. read more

Totally off the charts for a restaurant in a hotel. Great, consistent, and friendly service. We tried a bit of everything and there was no miss. Everything from the incredibly tasty kids meal (steak bento box) to the simple items like the chicken satay skewers were perfection. Especially loved the forbidden rice bowl. Our table was quiet, private and even though we were out of the way we were taken care of graciously. Top of my list to go back to next time we are in the area. read more

Incredible food and great flavors! We loved everything from the Tuna salad to the Wagyu Randang. Service was great and the courses came out in a timely fashion. We will absolutely be coming back. read more

During a week in Phoenix we sampled a lot of restaurants and this was very much one our favs. The cuisine is Asian, with a lot of shareable items. The staff was friendly, helpful and very knowledgeable about the menu items. We enjoyed all of the dishes! The ambiance is super chill high end, but the prices are fairly reasonable given the setting and the service. The restaurant is on the lower level of the hotel atrium and is definitely worth a visit even if you're not staying at the JW. read more

Everything was amazing I would go everyday if I could... the food will make you want to save every bite and the ambience is great as well

Overpriced and definitely not worth it. We shared about 4 dishes. Had noodles that were very undercooked- far beyond al dente. The chicken skewer and dumplings were okay. Ordered a meat dish that was too florally - not sure what the flavor profile was exactly, but strong and too much of it. Not a fan of the drinks either which were not cheap. Wish we had skipped trying this. Was trying to choose something where we were staying. read more

Ambiance at night was very nice with a dim lit setting. And the food was excellent and the wait staff was friendly

The prices on the food here are not worth it. Trust me your food is not great, it definitely doesn't warrant the crazy prices at this restaurant. read more

I just don't understand the restaurant playing rap music. I guess this is for the younger generation and not someone educated in their 50's. I just came for dessert. read more

Service was great! Thank you Megan. You made our anniversary date memorable. All the food that she recommended were all so delicious. From appetizer to the main entree all the way through our desserts! WOW! This place is a MUST try. Definitely recommended. I wanted to give this place five stars but there is one I'm not happy about. Let's keep it that way. Seriously recommended. read more