More than a restaurant, Cafe Monarch is a Phoenix must-do-before-you-die. As every review proclaims, Chris is a culinary maven who makes every experience unique and custom to the preferences and tastes of his clientele.\n\nThis is by no means a large restaurant; the dining room fits maybe 5-7 small tables with views of the chef at work constructing off the cuff dishes. And while the idea is that you sit close together with other people--this is a neighborhood restaurant after all, you don't feel crammed among strangers.\n\nDefinitely make reservations for dinner and be sure to tell Chris about any dietary restrictions. We stopped in for brunch yesterday at 11:30 but were easily enticed by the lunch menu displayed on the daily chalk board. Gruyere and cheddar grilled cheese with spicy chipotle tomato soup was the perfect meal for a wintery afternoon. Still hungry? Sure! Chris whipped up a chicken dish, lightly seasoned with chopped eggplant and sweet black rice which was enough for 2 but technically was for us to \"split\" only charging us for 3 plates total. A choice of iced tea or Cafe du Monde coffee was offered and we chose the iced tea infused with hibiscus and other fruity flavors, perfectly flavored yet unsweetened. \n\nDinner runs about $50 a plate and bunch/lunch $20. Cash ONLY and BYOB ($10 corkage fee). \n\nPerfect for out of town guests, special occasions or if just you're craving delectable food. Even though it's becoming well-known, it feels like a secret place you discover every time you go.