City Hall a Must Eat
Amazing is the word that comes to my mind, when thinking about City Hall. City Hall is part of the Mastro’s restaurant chain; it is perfectly located right next to Fashion Square on the southwest corner of Camelback Road and Goldwater Boulevard. Be sure to make a reservation, because you can always expect a crowd at this fine dining establishment. The food is delicious, and the atmosphere is elegant.


The second you open the huge glass door you can expect to be greeted by a friendly hostess, but the hospitality does not stop there! You will be assigned an outstanding waiter who is experienced with the menu and specials they offer. The waiter will be willing to answer any question the guest may have about the menu. The toughest choice you have to make is deciding what to order, and that starts with the appetizers. This place has everything ranging from the famous seafood tower to classic shrimp cocktail. My personal favorite appetizer is the Alaskan snow crab, and I highly recommend it. An assorted bread basket is brought to the table along with pads of butter. My favorite type of bread out of the assortment is the pretzel bread, and there is nothing else like it. I usually do not order a salad, but my mom says they are delicious.
Every time I eat at City Hall, I order the exact same thing; a bone in filet cooked to medium temperature, it never disappoints. I receive the steak from the waiter with open arms, and it is always cooked perfectly to my liking. It has some char and grill marks on the outside, but it is still pink as you cut into the center. The steak arrives on a five hundred degree plate, and you can hear it sizzle as it continues to cook right in front of you. If you are not a beef eater you may choose from fresh seafood, pork, lamb or chicken. Along with your entrée, there is a large assortment of side dishes that you may select from. My favorite side dish is the garlic mashed potatoes, but I would also recommend the shoestring fries, which are my brother’s favorite. The servers make it easy to mix and match so the entire table is satisfied and can try a variety of sides, all served family style.
If you happen to have room after your fabulous meal, there are several desserts to choose from. My personal favorite, and the most popular dessert on the menu, is the butter cake. It is served warm with vanilla ice cream and fresh berries. The chocolate sin cake and creme brulee are also divine. City Hall has an extensive wine and cocktail list for diners over the age of twenty-one and a bar with live music. The bar draws a large crowd on Friday and Saturday evenings, and has a very upbeat but classy vibe.
There are very few drawbacks to note about City Hall. While dining there is memorable, it can also be very costly. I would recommend it only for special occasions. Reading the menu can prove to be challenging, as the restaurant is dimly lit. Waiters are more than happy to provide mini flashlights to those who are having trouble. Patrons are finely dressed, and business casual attire is required. You may have to go shopping, if this kind of clothing is not part of your wardrobe.
Over all dining at Mastro’s City Hall is an unforgettable experience. From the impeccable service, exquisite ambiance, and delectable menu you would be hard pressed to find a better dining establishment. Make sure to visit the restroom where the service continues and you will be handed a towel to dry your hands, as well as be able to brush your teeth, floss, and purchase mints, deodorants and colognes. You are of course expected to tip the attendant. In my opinion, City Hall is among the best in the greater Phoenix area.