First and foremost, I have to frame the context of our visit: our first experience to Little Cleo's was on the day of our second anniversary. We wanted to the event to not only be special in ambiance, but also paired with exquisite food. We were a little hesitant because of it's location within the 'Yard' complex, and were worird we about the noise, but this restaurant culminated a little niche of it's own. Little did we know, we got much more than we had ever expected! \n\nWe made reservations, even though it was a Monday, just to be sure. And we are glad that we did! For a Monday, the restaurant was quite busy! We decided to sit at the oyster bar, which was awesome because we had the pleasure of watching the chefs prepare the meals! These guys are meticulous technicians, and it showed during their preparation and presentation of the dishes. \n\nMoving on to our server. I wish I could name drop him right now, because he was simply put: excellent. He walked us through the myriad of menu options, from the prefixed menu to the seasonal dishes, and provided some great insight as to the menus key dishes. We were so thankful that we considered his suggestions!! Not only that, but he also gave some worthwhile advice on the appropriate parings with the dishes: from cocktails paired with appetizers, wine with the entrees and cordials with dessert. This man was dialed in, attesting to his self-descriptive title of being a 'foodie', that my wife and I easily identify with! \n\nThe food, was bar none, the best seafood we have ever had on this side of the country (and arguably some of the best we have ever had in general). Mind you- we have been spoiled with the freshest oysters from the New England coast and same-day catches from the South Atlantic off the coast of Florida, so there was a pretty high bar to surpass. \n\nFrom the assortment of raw oysters, seared scallops, grilled octopus, flayed sea bass and apexing with soft beignets dipped in bourbon-caramel reduction. Simply amazing. Presentation was gorgeous, portion size was generous and taste is nearly indescribable. Granted, the price point is up there, but the quality really justifies this. Not just any restaurant can provide excellent quality seafood in the middle of the Sonoran desert. \n\nNearing the end of our visit, we were given a sample of their house made limoncello. A perfectly sweet nightcap to solidify an amazing experience. It is a sure bet that we will be back. My only regret is not getting the name of our server, this man needs to be applauded for making our experience what it was.
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