Seftel: Ocean Prime at CityNorth

CityNorth, the massive new Desert Ridge development near the Loop 101 and 56th Street, is set to launch an upscale surf-and-turf restaurant this Thursday, Nov. 13.

It’s called Ocean Prime, one of six branches in a growing mini-chain with outlets in Florida, Ohio and Michigan.

According to general manager Tony McMahon, the target demographic is north Phoenix and Scottsdale, and the vibe is “Rat-Pack-meets-Sex-in-the-City.” Look for live piano entertainment and ritzy cocktails, such as the black and blue mojito with blackberries and blueberries ($13) and the Clermont Smash ($14), a combination of Woodford Reserve bourbon, homemade sour and fresh mint.

The extensive menu ranges through appetizers like prime beef carpaccio ($14), scallops and short ribs ($16) and oysters Rockefeller ($15).

The main-dish surf items feature seven chef’s specialties, which include pecan-crusted trout ($23), Chilean sea bass with Champagne truffle sauce ($36) and salt-and-pepper tuna with wild mushrooms ($32).

Turf dishes showcase prime-graded steaks, including a 16-oz. Kansas City strip ($39), an 18-oz. rib eye ($39) and 12-oz. bone-in filet ($43).

Among the a la carte sides are twice-baked potato ($9), potato latkes ($9) and brown sugar-glazed carrots ($9).

The signature dessert looks to be the baked Alaska ($9), a retro-favorite made from liqueur-soaked sponge cake, ice cream and flamed meringue. Chocolate peanut butter pie ($8) and blueberry lemon cheesecake ($8) are alternatives.

You may want to factor another $7 into your tab. That’s how much valet parking costs, although there is nearby garage space. Details: Ocean Prime, 5455 E. High St. (CityCenter of CityNorth), Phoenix, 480-347-1313, ocean-prime.com.

Waiters get ready for customers at Ocean Prime at CityNorth in Phoenix.