Grayhawk Golf Club: Quill Creek and Phil’s Grill Experience

He Said

Savoring what probably would be the last cool day of the season before the sweltering heat keeps me inside, we ventured outside to the patio. Upon walking outside, it was impossible not to have the feeling that confirms why we live in this desert city. The grill patio sits right on the edge of the golf course with amazing views of Pinnacle Peak and the bright green golf course. What’s missing? A lake? Oh yes there was one of those too. I had to ask multiple times to be sure that this wasn’t a resort but just a golf course. With the views and cool breeze I was worried I wouldn’t want to leave and go back to work.

You sometimes worry with such aesthetics the food would suffer. I was very surprised when our very creamy and fresh guacamole arrived with crisp chips. I love guacamole but few actually make me comment how good it was, and this one did. I ordered the grilled fish tacos. Fish tacos are one of my favorites so you probably will see a trend on my experiences when they are on the menu. These tacos were filled with a very flakey, fresh, grilled white fish. I forgot to ask what fish it actually was when I ordered, but really from a taco perspective as long as it’s grilled and white it usually is good for me. It came with cabbage, tomatoes and jalapeno crema. The tortilla was amazing, strong enough to hold everything together but with a great crispy crunch around the edges. I would order those all over again.
I left the last part for the side item. Macaroni and cheese blend with poblano. It actually ranked right up there at the top of my mac and cheese dishes. It had a slightly smoky flavor and slight heat factor due to the poblano. But it never got too hot, even for my more sensitive heat palette. Some may say it was too thick and cheesy but I don’t think there is ever such a thing.

The service was casual yet efficient and friendly. In true Phoenix fashion our waitress was from Vancouver and we ended up in a conversation of our favorite Portland restaurants. You just never know who you are going to meet and where they are from in this city. I never knew this place existed but now that I know I will be going back.

She Said

Walking up to Grayhawk Golf Club you have no idea the stunning views Quill Creek and Phil’s Grill hide. The two restaurants share the same menu  but Phil’s grill is just a bit more relaxed with a bar atmosphere.

Quill Creek Café’s charming inside has simple southwestern décor and is a welcoming place to sit on a sweltering Arizona day. But, if the weather permits you must sit outside. This IS Arizona! The pristine golf course and stunning landscaping is easily trumped by the beautiful McDowell Mountains and Pinnacle Peak in the distance. The menu has a delicious variety that will satisfy any craving. Fresh guacamole (and I mean fresh) is a great starter. Any of the Southwest Signatures are a hit. The Sandwiches/Burgers are always top notch. One of my lunch favorites is the Chop Salad: corn, black beans, roasted red peppers, green chilies, crispy onions and topped with a chipotle ranch dressing.  A friend of mine craves the Kale Salad: grapes, red peppers, corn and honey roasted sunflower seeds in a honey mustard champagne vinaigrette.

The fish dishes are always tasty and cooked perfectly. Steak?  Ribs?  Pork Chops? Yup, they have them too and always mouthwatering.

Golfers and snow birds flock to this place in the winter months so it can get a bit busy…but since that’s Arizona prime weather it’s worth it! Just go early or make a reservation!