Sunday, July 31, 2011

Cucina Rustica (Dahl & Di Luca)- Sedona

Out of our two days in Sedona so far, nothing seemed to make my taste buds go "WOW." I was getting frustrated and discouraged. It was fried food after another and lots of BBQ/Southwestern flavors. I'm not a fan. Not to mention the portion sizes were gigantic! Definitely not a fan of unhealthiness!

To my rescue, we decided on Cucina Rustica tonight. What a fabulous place! Not only was the ambiance perfect, but the food was equally as special. We sat outside on the patio and took in the beautiful red rock views, with a cool breeze blowing through our hair. It was perfection.

Only thing- it's monsoon season here. We got caught in a big rain storm on the way back. No biggie though- we were so content from our delicious meal!

If you are ever in the Sedona, Arizona area, this is a MUST. 

Live music!

Outside Patio

Inside- dark and dreary.
Nice for a romantic date.





Spicy Olive Oil for bread

Gorgeous Red Rock views in the distance





Sun Mountain 2009 Riesling

Affinato- Looks really unappetizing, but this dish was one of the best I've ever had.
Radicchio with Fig Marmalade and Mozzarella wrapped in Prosciutto.
Sweet Balsamic sauce.

Aragosta alla Vodka-
Linguine tossed with Canadian Lobster, tomatoes
finished with spiced sublime Vodka sauce.
Very flavorful and subtle vodka taste. Creamy!
I couldn't stop eating Mom's dish.


Gamberi Nettuno-
Prosciutto and Radicchio-wrapped Shrimp.
Shrimp was so plump and juicy!!!
Green beans were also super good- very buttery and soft.


Dessert Menu- we were way too full!

UPDATE! We went for a second dinner, since it was delicious and decadent the first time. Here's a look at some appetizers.






More yummyness!


Affinato with freshly grilled peaches this time! Amazing!
 Calamari!
 Key Lime Pie
 Creme Brulee

Sedona, Arizona so far...


Red Carpet Room in HNL

First Class with Mom!
First thing: MIMOSA!


First Class Meal:
Chicken with Tortellini and Mozzarella, Olives and Sundried Tomatoes

THE BEST PIE ON THE WAY TO SEDONA
Take Exit 242!


Peach Crumble

Mixed Berry Crumble Ala Mode!


Fried Pickles-
Super salty!


Driving from Phoenix to Sedona

Breakfast at Red Rock Cafe.
Cinnamon Roll bigger than my hand!
$4.99- not too good...


Bell Rock to the Left and Courthouse to the Right

Winery #1-
Oak Creek Vineyards
very small



Wine Bottle Slippers!

Winery #2-
@ Page Springs Winery


We were even able to take the wine glasses home!

Chupacabra- 13 mystery grapes in this one!




Sedona's Best!


Prickly Pear Ice Cream!
Tastes reminiscent of Strawberry ice cream.
Very light and perfect for the midday heat.

New hat from Oak Creek GC!

























We had a laid-back couple of days so far in Sedona, Arizona. From wine-tasting to Bell Rock sightseeing to checking out the Pro Shop at Oak Creek Golf Course, it has been a delightful day! The climate hasn't been bad either, especially at night. It has been so wonderful to lounge for dinner on restaurants' patios sipping a cool Riesling. Such a nice change from 100-degree Phoenix!