Top of The Rock Restaurant Review - Elevated Dining in the Heart of Phoenix
A resort built right into the mountainside? Sign me up! It doesn’t get more Phoenician than that - and when it comes to dining, nothing compares to the experience at Top of the Rock.
Perched high above the valley at Marriott Phoenix Resort Tempe at The Buttes, Top of the Rock offers guests the ultimate trifecta: sweeping panoramic views of Phoenix, Tempe, and Camelback Mountain, an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere, and an irresistible, locally inspired menu.
From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the desert skyline like artwork. The restaurant's architecture, reminiscent of a sundial, feels perfectly at home against the rugged mountainside backdrop. Prepare for unmatched service and decadent bites from start to finish.
Each meal kicks off with their signature bread service — featuring homemade focaccia, a cornbread bite, and whipped chipotle butter — setting the stage for a meal to remember. The menu offers a creative lineup of starters, fresh salads, and standout entrées. I highly recommend sharing plates from each section to truly savor what Top of the Rock has to offer. While everything I tried impressed, a few dishes absolutely stole the show:
Starters You Can’t Miss:
Chicken & Doughnuts
An absolute must-order on every visit. This playful dish features carnitas-style shredded chicken seasoned with guajillo, muscovado caramel, and cumin, perched atop a house-made brioche donut. Finished with a dollop of jalapeño crema - it’s sweet, savory, and downright addictive. A local favorite for good reason.
Tarte Flambée
Perfect for the table. This decadent, Alsatian-inspired flatbread combines caramelized onions, lardons, crème fraîche, melted Gruyère, and dressed arugula. Each bite strikes the ideal balance between rich and fresh - it's comfort food with finesse.
Calabrian Shrimp
A small yet fiery delight featuring succulent shrimp tossed in Calabrian chili butter, nestled over fregola and parmesan brodo, with crispy crostini for the perfect crunch. Expect bold flavor without overwhelming heat - a definite crowd-pleaser.
Tombo Tuna Cigar:
A showstopper! Served dramatically inside a smokey cigar box, the tuna is lightly seasoned with Japanese 7-spice, macadamia nut, and yuzu kosho, then finished with a touch of caviar. Luxe, photogenic, and absolutely delicious.
Entrée Highlights:
The menu features an enticing variety of steaks, chicken, duck, house-made ravioli, and seasonal nightly specials. For me, the Pork Tenderloin was the star of the show — perfectly cooked, tender slices of pork served over creamy polenta with wild mushrooms and finished with a bright sofrito vinaigrette. A comforting, flavorful dish that feels right at home in the desert.
Steak lovers, you’re covered with an excellent selection of cuts, each served with mashed potatoes, asparagus spears, and au jus. Want to elevate your plate? Add scallops or shrimp for an extra indulgence.
Dessert: Non-Negotiable:
No matter how full you are - dessert is a must. Go for the Pistachio Ice Cream Dessert, featuring a decadent three-layer flourless chocolate cake, pistachio ice cream, crisp meringue, and rich chocolate - the perfect sweet ending to a memorable meal.
Casual Bites & Alfresco Vibes:
If you’re looking for something more laid-back, On The Rocks, the resort’s newly expanded lobby bar patio, offers craft cocktails, scenic views, and an elevated bar menu featuring favorites like fish tacos, fresh salads, and gourmet burgers. Whether you're dining under the stars or enjoying happy hour with a view, there’s something for everyone.
Top of the Rock is more than a restaurant - it’s a true Arizona dining experience that captures the spirit of the desert, from the mountainside views to the locally inspired flavors. Whether you’re a resort guest or a Valley local, this is one destination worth elevating your night for.
To book a reservation at the hotel click HERE, for Top of The Rock, click HERE.
*Photos courtesy of Marriott Phoenix Resort Tempe at The Buttes.
