They say variety is the spice of life, and that is surely the case at Scottsdale’s new The Standard. In addition to a traditional dining room, The Standard also has a quick and casual counter-service market, a streetside patio lounge, an inviting private dining room and a stylish bar. So whatever occasion–a business lunch, an after-workout juice, a night with friends–The Standard is able to accommodate.
The menu focuses on healthier comfort foods and dishes with definite a Asian influence. The tuna crudo is bright and fresh, with the unique addition of guacamole. The starter is a great way to pep up those taste buds for the meal ahead. Riding on the coattails of the Brussels sprouts trend is The Standard’s Brussels sprout salad (pictured). This version features its namesake ingredient, plus Swiss chard, red cabbage, shredded carrot and raw sunflower seeds. The scene stealer of this healthful concoction, though, is the divine carrot-miso vinaigrette. The dressing is creamy and sweet, making the likes of carrots and sunflower seeds seem indulgent. As a side dish or a starter salad, the quinoa tabouli salad kicks up the traditional recipe with the delicious addition of jalapeno jam, black currant and sunflower seeds.
Seeking something heartier? The brick chicken club sandwich is a crowd pleaser as it is smeared with brie, sweet hot mustard and garlic aioli and crowned with turkey bacon and ham. Clearly not for those with a light appetite, the sandwich is filling and flavorful, as each bite offers a bit of sweet and a bit of spice.
Even if you don’t think you can possibly muster one more bite after a filling repast, make room for the chocolate beet cake (pictured). If you are beet-opposed, no worries, there isn’t much beet flavor. However, the cake is mighty moist, rich and one of our new favorite chocolate cakes in the Valley. The icing on this cake–or should we say cream on this cake? A dollop of cinnamon-spiked goodness.
If you’re on the go, we suggest the yummy Envy green juice and a side of the bright, refreshing lemongrass soba noodles. Also, The Standard just introduced weekend brunch. Guests can look forward to live music, Bloody Marys, bottomless mimosas and an omelet bar. livingthestandard.com.
Taste Test: The Standard
