Colorful Presentations by The Herb Box

Written by Alana Golob - Phoenix TasteCaster

The Herb Box, lead by culinary masters, Susan Wilcox and Chef Becky Windles, may be hands down, one of the best restaurants in the Valley. Using only the freshest ingredients, the menu is filled with a spectrum of delicious entrees and appetizers—all with colorful and thoughtful presentations.

We were thrilled to have had the opportunity to host our TasteCasting event at The Herb Box in September. We arrived at the DC Ranch location, to find our table on the stunning patio decorated with fresh flowers and an assortment of wine. The first appetizer severed was Cilantro Lime Crab Dip with crispy and sweet plantain chips. The server shared with us that the secret ingredient behind the delicious dip is coconut oil. Yum!

The Courses
It was then time for our first course, which was the Thai Marinated Baby Back Ribs. These tender ribs are packed with flavor and the perfect blend of spice and sweetness. The ribs were accompanied with an apple and frisee slaw with dried cranberries, swiss cheese and toasted cashew—out of this world.

The next course was both colorful and delicious, the Butternut Squash and Corn Enchilada’s. These exceptional enchiladas were recently voted “Best Vegetarian Dish” according to Phoenix Magazine’s “Best of” issue. The crowd pleaser definitely deserves all the recognition it receives.

Last but not least, our next course was the Crisp Wild Caught Salmon Cakes served with roasted balsamic beets, mache salad, grilled lemon and a drizzle of tzatziki. The Salmon Cakes were both fresh and light and were perfectly accented by the sweet flavors of the roasted beets.

Just when we thought we’d died and gone to heaven, we were presented with the grand finale…. desert! The server brought out a sampling of Honey Pistachio Ice Cream Sandwiches, Warm Apple Bread Pudding and Guinness Chocolate Cake—which by the way, is a combination of life’s two greatest ingredients! Our favorite dessert was a tie between the Guinness Chocolate Cake and the Ice Cream Sandwiches.

The Ambiance
The décor of The Herb Box only further accents the inventive and colorful menu. The eccentric design elements include exposed brick walls, colorful wall coverings, spacious patio, indoor/outdoor bar, oversized chandeliers and European market setting which offers freshly prepared meals and an assortment of pastries, for those on the go.

I assure you, our team walked away from dinner as, “Herb Box Junkies,” and will be back for more! We highly recommend visiting The Herb Box, whether it’s brunch, lunch or dinner and don’t forget what they are famous for, catering! They also have an amazing happy hour, that’s worth checking out. For more information about The Herb Box or follow them on Twitter: @TheHerbBox.


The Herb Box locations:
Agua Caliente Plaza: 6990 E. Shea, Suites 116-117, Scottsdale. 480.998.8355
Monday through Saturday 11 am – 4 pm

DC Ranch on Market Street: 20707 N. Pima Rd., Suites 140-145, Scottsdale. 480.289.6180
Monday through Saturday 11 am – 9ish. Saturday breakfast 8 – 11 am. Sunday brunch 8 am – 3ish