L'Academie

The Route 66 Supper club dined here for our March fine dining experience. The food was outstanding. As with all the staff at this Culinary school run establishment, our server was a student. His care of us was very personable and there were no problems at all. The wine list is a little limitedl, but not a big deal when you are aware that it is a school that you are working with. The apps were all delicious...we had the crab cakes, carpaccio and the trio of soup taster. All were beautifully presented and very good. The special app of the evening--a spinach gnocci--was also very tasty, tho not really a gnocci in consistency. Dumpling might have been a better term, but it was very good. We also sampled the braised short ribs, trout, a special pork paillard and the scallops. All were upon par with some of the better restaurants we have dined at--beautifully presented as well. The short rib was a particular favorite, and I am sorry to hear that it will not be on the new season's menu. But I understand that the students must have new challenges. The meal price, indluding a bottle of wine, 2 cosmos, desert for 5 and coffee came to about $40 per person. A very reasonable price for such exellent food. I believe that I will take my family there again soon. And will also put it on my list for out of town company. I've lived in Scottsdale for 12 years and didnt realize what a gem we had in our own neighborhood. Pros: Great food and service Cons: Park in the garage or valet. A bit noisy inside and plain decor more

I went to LAcademie last week: wow! How cool! You walk into the building and can see all of the students in the kitchen. I figured it'll be cheap so what the heck. Wow! The service was amazing and the food was outstanding. I would definitely come here again and wouldn't hesitate to bring clients, family, friends, anyone. Scottsdale Culinary's school is great; wish I'd known about it when I went through school..... Pros: Food and service were absolutely outstanding! Cons: Parking is hard to find unless you know where to go--park on the street. more

I dined here with my family for lunch and it was very cool! We watched as the student chefs prepared our meals in the open kitchen. The meals were wonderfully prepared and service was good...also provided by students. We took a walk after lunch and peaked in the classroom kitchens watching future chefs at their stoves...It was great food and great fun! Pros: Great food well prepared at half the price of most Cons: Limited menu. Some Items run out so get there earl more