The Rokerij

The Rokerij Restaurant Review:

Walking into The Rokerij (which means smokehouse in Dutch) is like walking into a secret portal that leads straight to Europe. Dimly lit and filled with classic artwork, this candlelit place is romantic and unlike anything else in Phoenix. Owner Richardson Browne (who also runs Richardson's and Dick's Hideaway up the street) set out to emulate the smokehouses of the Netherlands, and he's done a wonderful job. The menu, however, features upscale American comfort food. Except for a few smoked meats, there's nothing remotely Dutch about it. But never mind. The generously portioned steak tartare is excellent, as is an appetizer of roasted elephant garlic served with crunchy garlic toast, white beans, bacon and sautéed spinach. Try the entrecôte (a wonderfully flavorful rib-eye), the veal chop or the ahi. Then save room for the B-52, an outrageous layered confection of chocolate infused with various liqueurs.