One of the greatest treasures in dining is coming across a small restaurant inconspicuously tucked away in a local neighborhood. Such was the case with my recent experience at The Rokerij in Phoenix, Arizona. One would hardly know it was there except for the valet stand on the restaurant�s corner.

Rokerij (pronounced "RO ker ee") means �smokehouse� in Dutch, a name that already may incite reservation when considering its roots in Amsterdam. However, rest assured that this is not the same place as the coffee houses from which it takes its name. I began the evening meeting co-workers at the bar, at which point we were offered the private room in the back. We eagerly accepted, as there is normally a $500 minimum to reserve this area, a room with space enough for 15 people, plasma TV on the wall, and full surround sound. Access is behind the bar, so we made our way through the wine cellar to our private accommodations.

One of my colleagues and I started off with an Australian Riesling as we contemplated the menu. Everyone in our party decided on the Rokerij steak, a tenderloin beef steak topped with Dungeness crab, lobster and shrimp, then smothered with a jalapeno cr�me sauce. We prepared for our meal by indulging in a blue cheese house salad.

Like most quality cuts, this steak is best served cooked no more than medium rare, and rare may provide an even more savory dish. The steak was truly one of the top entrees I�ve ever tasted, combining the seafood taste with the red meat essence I love. It was coupled with a side of double butter mashed potatoes, backed in a small crock and served along side the main entr�e. The potatoes melted in our mouths and complimented the cr�me sauce on the steak very well.

We followed up the main course with Cr�me Brule, matched by our waiter with a glass of Cuarenta y Tres, a Spanish liquor with a scent of Vanilla. Truly a champion combination I look forward to trying again.

Our evening at the Rokerij was one of amazing food and intimate atmosphere. Whether dining with colleagues in the main restaurant or meeting friends in the intimate setting of the basement bar, the Rokerij is a top choice for a delightful dining experience when visiting Phoenix.

The Rokerij
6335 N 16th Street
Phoenix, 85016
(602) 287-8900

Dress: Business Casual
Price range: $25-55 a plate
Reservations: Accepted only for parties of 4 or more. Private room reservation requires a minimum $500 dining guarantee.