Recap: Roka Akor Media Tasting

On June 29th, Scottsdale’s Roka Akor hosted a Media Tasting Dinner to feature their most beloved and innovative menu items. Roughly two dozen supporters of the local dining scene were in attendance to sample their renowned sushi and offerings cooked on the signature 25 foot robata charcoal grill. After being greeted by Executive Chef Jason Alford, each guest was presented with a diverse three course menu.

The first course consisted of Crispy Fried Squid with Chile and Lime, Robata Grilled Japanese Shishito Peppers (described by a manager as “roulette peppers”, as one in five is decidedly spicier) with Ponzu and Bonito Flakes (used similarly to the bonito flakes found atop the famed Okonomiyaki at Nobuo at Teeter House), and Butterfish Tataki with Yuzu and White Asparagus, which drew an audible positive reaction from those in attendance.

Crispy Fried Squid with Chile and Lime

Butterfish Tataki with Yuzu and White Asparagus

Course two comprised a Hamachi Serrano Chili Roll, a Spicy Avocado Maki Roll (with a crunchy exterior revealed to be crushed wasabi peas), and the Three Sashimi Chef’s Selection, served on ice in a sizable ceramic trough.

After a cleansing bite of Blood Orange Granite, course three began with heavily-charred Prime Rib Eye Steak with Wafu Dressing, followed by Miso Marinated Black Cod with Pickled Red Onions, which was described by a server as perhaps the Roka Akor dish most responsible for return guests. This was followed by the Robata Grilled Vegetable Platter and an earthy Kinoko Rice Hotpot with Wild Mushrooms and Herbs. The meal came to a close with the Roka Akor Deluxe Dessert Platter, a colorful combination of fresh fruits and various granite.

Prime Rib Eye Steak with Wafu Dressing

Miso Marinated Black Cod with Pickled Red Onions

For more information about Roka Akor, visit rokaakor.com or follow them on Twitter @RokaAkor.

Roka Akor | 7299 North Scottsdale Rd. | Scottsdale, AZ | 85253 | 480-306-8800

Recap by Dennis Eckhoff, Guest Contributor

*This meal was provided to us complimentary as a part of a media invitation. However, this has no effect on our opinions and comments regarding our experience. View our Disclosure Policy for further explanation.