Review | Rott n’ Grapes RoRo Arrives on Roosevelt Row

After the success of their bustling wine bar, the owners of Rott n’ Grapes has announced that their second, larger location, Rott n’ Grapes RoRo is now open and you’re definitely going to want to check them out.

The new location boasts a unique three-level bar and restaurant. The bright space is full of natural light right in the heart of the vibrant and eclectic Roosevelt Row.

“We are so excited that Rott n’ Grapes RoRo is officially open,” says Patty Gii, the alpha grape at Rott n’ Grapes. “The Roosevelt Row is becoming the go-to place downtown, and we are eager to be a part of it.”

One of the most exciting aspects of RoRo is that Chef Chris Newstrom has so much more space to create in the full-sized kitchen. While he was able to make magic happen in the smaller quarters of the first Rott n’ Grapes location, we were incredibly excited to see what he was able to accomplish in the new space and we were not disappointed.

At a media preview dinner we had the opportunity to sample an array of dishes and signature cocktails that I‘ve been dying to share with you. 

The RoRo menu features a variety of shared items like charcuterie boards, roasted cauliflower (not to be missed), pizzas and bruschetta. You’ll also find paninis, grass-fed Bolognese, market-fresh fish, New York strip entrees and more.

I‘ve always been a fan of the Chef Newstrom‘s bruschettas; his understanding of complementary flavors like avocado, ricotta and garlic chili sauce is only trumped by the texture contrast thanks to the addition of pepitas. The proscuitto, mascarpone and pomegranate molasses bruchetta offers that perfect sweet and salty combination.

The roasted cauliflower starter is great for all diners due to it being vegetarian as well as gluten and dairy free. This flavorful shared dish is appointed with a variety of sauces: Romesco, eggplant puree, a pesto rosso as well as herbs and extra virgin olive oil. 

If you‘re a fan of Italian fare, you likely pine over perfectly golden arancini. RoRo‘s version comes with creamy burrata, a sweet onion agrodolce, basil and extra virgin olive oil to make the perfect bite. 

If pizza is your passion, you have a few versions to choose from. RoRo is serving up the standard margherita and pepperoni pizzas but you’ll also want to check out the Prosciutto pizza  topped with goat cheese, arugula, figs, grana padano and evoo. I’m not the biggest fan of traditional pizzas but this one definitely stood out to me. I love the sweet, silky cheese paired with thinly sliced salty prosciutto and you can‘t go wrong with figs! If you‘re looking for a vegetarian version, the Garden Party is the perfect choice. Topped with cheese, red sauce, corn, red bell peppers, roasted tomatoes, Brussels sprouts, sweet onions, mushrooms and olives truly make this a party on a plate.

One of the most remarkable dishes of the evening was the Sweet Corn Risotto. At first glance, it’s a beautifully crafted dish The colors are fresh and bright thanks to the chive oil that dances around the dish along with the tomatoes, peas and chervil. The flavors are deep while still providing a light bite. 

And then there was the mac n’ cheese. Crafted with 4 different cheeses, your side will arrive at your table bubbling and searing hot. There are some lovely crispy bits on the top which add another level of flavor. 

The desserts that we sampled were out of this world to the point that it was hard to pick a favorite. Chocolate lovers will fall head over heels for the Chocolate Hazelnut Budino. This potted sweet treat has flavor and texture galore. Creamy, smooth chocolate is layered with a crunchy hazelnut crumb and the topped with marshmallow cream that has been kissed by fire giving you all the campfire feels. That panna cota, though! I’m not sure if I was more enamored by the actual panna cota or the anise-hinted pizzelle. Light, rich, creamy…it was the perfect way to end a meal. 

We all got a sneak peek of Onyx, RoRo‘s unique basement speakeasy that will soon be open. The plush seating and built-in bar will offer an alternate setting for guests with an alternative atmosphere. 

Next time you‘re in the area, be sure to stop by RoRo for a bite and a beverage. (We recommend the Giggle Water.)

RoRo | 1001 N. 3rd Avenue | Phoenix | 85003 | 602.346.0068

(*I was invited to attend a media preview at RoRo and as such my meal was complimentary. As always, my opinions, remarks and recommdations are my own and not influenced in any way. It takes more than a free meal to make me compromise my morals and my dedication to you!*)