One of my favorite places to eat in Arizona is at deseo at Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in Scottsdale. I’ve only eaten there a couple of times, but both have been extraordinary dining experiences.

I started my deseo dinner with one of their famous Muddled Drinks. The concoctions are perfect starters to the light, fresh flavors of the meal, and I love the sugar cane sticks in each drink. I’m partial to the Very Berry Muddle (blueberry, raspberry, citrus syrup, with either Cruzan Raspberry or Stoli Raspberry). I’ve had the Very Berry Muddle on several occasions and I can’t decide if I like it better with the Cruzan or the Stoli. Tough decisions.

Both times I’ve dined at deseo I’ve sat at The Rail. The Ceviche Rail surrounds the kitchen, letting diners watch the chefs at work. They are fun to watch, it’s impressive at how they handle the ingredients with such care, and everyone seems to enjoy the banter between the kitchen and the customers.

What is ceviche? Ceviche is fresh seafood cured in citrus, high in protein, low in fat.

Melon Muddler from deseo. Photo courtesy Westin Kierland Resort & Spa

Even those who aren’t ceviche fans will find plenty of great options at deseo, but I really encourage everyone to give something unique a try. I think you’ll find something different that you’ll really enjoy. The restaurant launched a new menu on September 1, 2010. I can’t wait to sample it. I am thrilled, though, that they kept some of the all-time favorites, such as the Millionaire Tacos. Those are delectable. Yuca tacos, lobster, Ahi tuna, Japanese hamachi. Absolutely melt-in-your-mouth flavors combined with the crunch of the yuca.

deseo definitely serves up a meal that’s worthy of a “wow” experience.

deseo at Westin Kierland
6902 E. Greenway Parkway
Scottsdale, AZ 85054
480.624.1202
http://www.kierlandresort.com/#/dining/deseo/