Meritage - Scarsdale

What a great find! The décor is very appealing with white tablecloths, dark ceilings and deep teal walls adorned by black and white photos of Italian scenery. The result is a classy, modern and comfortable space that feels very welcoming. Speaking of welcoming, our waitress was fantastic. She was personable, attentive and knowledgeable. Really good service. Another welcome surprise was that the ambient noise level was so low, I was able to enjoy a great conversation with my date without straining and screaming across the table. Drinks: All were great. There have been plenty of times I’ve had to send a drink back, but not here. If you’re a martini drinker, they do the Vesper martini quite well (James Bond would be pleased), and the Dead Sea Martini with blue cheese stuffed olives and a few drops of olive oil was a winner as well. However, the ultimate summer drink was the Tequila water. Delightfully refreshing! Appetizers: The grilled shrimp on a bed of bright vegetables and nardello chile peppers was fantastic. Our waitress also recommended the fried eggplant with melted mozzarella, and I’ve very glad she did. It had the same satisfying, addictive combo of crunch and cheese of a fried mozzarella stick, but more elevated with the eggplant. Entrees: At first glance, I was a bit concerned regarding the brevity of the menu. But, when enjoying locally sourced, seasonal driven, farm to table cuisine, this tends to imply that the chef has been very intentional in their selections. Thankfully, they also have a number of off-menu specials, so that between the cyclical menu and rotating specials there is plenty of variety. I enjoyed expertly prepared black sea bass of the perfect consistency, with gratifying crispy skin and impeccable seasoning, served atop a bed of tomatoes and broccolini. As delectable as the dish was, the duck was even better! Bold, mouthwatering, savory flavor appropriately cooked to medium rare, preserving the tenderness and juiciness of the meat. I’m starting to drool a little just thinking about it. This little treasure is definitely worth another visit to see what new masterpieces the chef has conjured from the local purveyors. We will be back.

Terrific food and service. Service: Dine in Meal type: Dinner Price per person: $30–50 Recommended dishes: Bread Pudding, Tagliatelle Bolognese

Wonderful experience for a private surprise party. The staff is just outstanding. The manager made everything easy, accommodated choices and change and went beyond expectations to make the day memorable. 50+ people served kindly and efficiently, with quality menu choices. We've enjoyed the restaurant for dinners in the past as well. Highly recommend. Food: 5

When I was unable to cut the chicken parm I was given another knife. When I still couldn’t cut it the waiter agreed something was wrong and he took it away. I went to to ladies room and when I got back there was a plate with chicken parm cut up into little pieces. Totally inappropriate, and rather insulting to be given my food all cut up as if for a baby. The gazpacho and dessert were really good but it does not make up for a horrible dining experience.

Way overpriced for the quality of food and service. Dirty plates all over the bar. Served cold pita bread with baked clams. Unprofessional needs a lot of work. Food sub par. Would not go back