SeanCee

Review of Sanctuary on Camelback Mountai...

Elements restaurant is nestled inside the Sanctuar...

Elements restaurant is nestled inside the Sanctuary resort on Camelback mountain in Paradise Valley. It is known for its spectacular city views and hosted by Celebrity Chef and Food Network star Beau MacMillan. Upon arriving, we discovered that our reservations were not for that evening, but the next day. Happily the friendly and efficient hosts were able to seat us outside on the lower patio. Next time we ll make sure to show up on the correct night to enjoy the more panoramic view of the city from inside; however, the view from the patio is also beautiful. Our add-ons to the Restaurant Week $44 prix-fixe menu at Elements were the Shishito Peppers and a half dozen of Island Creek Oysters. The shishio s were nice and hot in temperature. Normally I prefer them with more char, but they were so delicious with the soy caramel, crispy garlic, and sea salt that I barely noticed. The oysters were fresh and delicious with the vinegary mignonette sauce and touch of horseradish. My first selection from the restaurant week menu was the Elemental Corn Chowder with smoked potato, sweet corn, pepper relish, and bacon. The chowder was creamy without being too heavy and the smoked potato and relish added a nice contrast in texture and taste. The only way I could have been happier, was if there had been just a smidge more bacon. For an entree I choose the Grilled Flat Iron Steak with sweet potato rosti, charred napa cabbage, shallot confit, and hijiki peppercorn sauce. I asked for my steak rare with char and it was grilled to perfection. The sweet potato rosti was delicious and the steak paired with the shallot and peppercorn sauce was divine. Finally for dessert I choose the the Passion Fruit Cheesecake. Normally I m not a huge fan of cheesecake, but I had the feeling this one would be special. Passion fruit cheesecake with toasted macadamia nut crust, vanilla bean meringues, and a black and white sesame lavosh. The tartness of the passion fruit was perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the cheesecake and the combination of textures was phenomenal! All of the staff at Elements were professional and friendly, the views of the city were spectacular, and the food was visually beautiful and excellent. I can t wait for a return visit to Elements at Sanctuary!