Tash 4.5/5
*A Hidden Gem at Talking Stick Resort*
Whenever we attend a concert or comedy show at Talking Stick Resort, we're always looking for a great dinner beforehand. This time, my mom and I went to Tash, and after our visit, I can confidently say it's now my favorite restaurant inside Talking Stick Resort.
The restaurant itself has a sleek, upscale, contemporary vibe with warm lighting, stylish décor, and an inviting atmosphere that feels refined without being pretentious. It strikes a perfect balance between modern resort dining and comfortable elegance--making it an ideal spot whether you're celebrating a special occasion or grabbing dinner before a show.
One thing worth mentioning is that Tash wasn't accepting reservations the evening we were attending a comedy show, so I was initially a little concerned. When we arrived around 6:00 PM, it looked like most of the dining room was already full. Fortunately, we asked about bar seating, and the hostess immediately checked for availability and had us seated within just a few minutes.
That turned out to be a blessing.
As soon as our bartender came over with menus, we explained that we had tickets to the 7:00 PM comedy show and asked if it would be possible to get our order into the kitchen as quickly as possible.
He couldn't have handled it better.
Our food came out remarkably fast, every course was timed perfectly, and thanks to his attentiveness, we finished dinner comfortably and made it to the show with time to spare.
Service: 5/5
Starters: 4/5
Fired Up Cauliflower - 3/5
We started with the Fired Up Cauliflower.
When you managed to get a bite with all of the toppings and sauce together, it was very enjoyable. Unfortunately, there simply wasn't enough sauce to coat all of the cauliflower, leaving quite a bit of it tasting rather plain and under-seasoned.
Because of that, we actually left quite a bit behind.
Good concept, but execution could be improved: 3/5. I probably wouldn't order it again.
Calamari Fritti - 5/5
Now let's talk about the real appetizer star.
The Calamari Fritti was absolutely phenomenal.
Light, crispy, perfectly seasoned, and incredibly tender--not rubbery in the slightest. The accompanying sauce complemented the calamari beautifully without overpowering it.
Honestly, this may be some of the best fried calamari I've ever had. Easy 5/5
Main Course:
Chilean Sea Bass - 5/5
For our entrées, we both ordered the Chilean Sea Bass.
This dish completely exceeded expectations.
The fish was cooked perfectly--moist, buttery, flaky, and beautifully presented. A squeeze of fresh lemon brightened every bite and elevated an already excellent dish.
What impressed me even more was the value. Considering the generous portion size, presentation, and quality, I actually thought the pricing was very fair compared to similar upscale restaurants throughout Scottsdale.
I've eaten Chilean sea bass at quite a few fine dining restaurants over the years...
This may honestly be the best Chilean Sea Bass I've had when considering the combination of portion size, flavor, presentation, and price: 5/5
Desserts: 4/5
We finished with the Lime After Time dessert.
It was essentially a deconstructed key lime pie.
It wasn't bad by any means, but it also wasn't particularly memorable: 3/5 -- probably not something I'd order again.
However...
Since we were celebrating a birthday, the restaurant surprised us with a complimentary birthday wafer dessert, and it completely stole the show: 5/5.
It was creative, beautifully plated, delicious, and honestly so good that I'd happily pay for it on a future visit even if it weren't my birthday. It was a thoughtful touch that left a lasting impression.
Overall: 4.5 rounded up to 5/5
Tash was a fantastic surprise. Excellent service.
Beautiful modern atmosphere. Outstanding calamari. Exceptional Chilean sea bass.
Fair pricing--especially when compared to some of the other upscale dining options at in Scottsdale.
In fact, I actually think Tash offers a much better value than Orange Sky. You still get an upscale dining experience, but the prices feel far more reasonable for what arrives on your plate.
I'll definitely be back. On my next visit, my order is already decided:
Calamari Fritti to start.
Chilean Sea Bass for the entrée.
Birthday Wafer Dessert (if they'll let me order it!) to finish.
Sometimes the best meals are the ones you discover unexpectedly. Tash turned what could have been a rushed pre-show dinner into one of the highlights of our evening, and it's now my go-to restaurant whenever I'm visiting Talking Stick Resort. read more