Fate

Okay so here's the thing about Fate, it's the kind of place I really want to like. And I do, but not because the food is exceptional. Not to say the food was bad, but as Lauren adeptly observed, it's not something that you're going to crave. We started out the meal with the Vegetarian Thai Spring Rolls ($4) which, however well presented and accompanied with a tasty sauce, were bland. My entree was called Ying Yang Noodles ($12): Wonton noodles and Broccoli, onion, bamboo shoots, mushroom, carrots, bok choy, sweet peas, baby corn w/ a light garlic sauce. It was light and pleasant, but also bordering on bland and certainly not worth the price. I will say this: Fate knows how to prepare tofu, it was absolutely perfect. I split my entree with Lauren (again) under the assumption that there would be dessert. But, to my dismay, and I'm talkin serious dismay, Fate had no desserts to offer. Complimentary rice crackers are cute, but let's face it, they are not dessert.

The draw of Fate is really it's decor, location, and overall "cool" factor. The restaurant is located in an adorable little house-like building, right smack in the middle of the art district, with a lovely view (well, as lovely as Phoenix can be) of our downtown high rises. Why, we were positively smitten. The place has one of those "nice without being too snotty" feels, with exposed brick walls, wood floors, and small pieces of original art. Both the light and music were dim, creating an ideal atmosphere for young lovers exchanging sweet nothings. It worked out well for our conversation too. And we had a blast with the restrooms, which offered unique, extreme lighting, making even the call of nature kinda hip. Overall, a positive experience, it's definitely a place for the 20 something crowd. (I'm trying to picture a granny in the bathroom pulling down her stockings under the black light.)

So anyway, we forgive you Fate, for your mundane cuisine, because you understand that which so many restaurants do not: that dining is so much more than good food. You have to feel good while you're eating, too.

Fate
905 N. 4th St.
Phoenix, AZ 85004
reservations: (602) 254-6424

p.s.
The dessert disappointment led us to Mary Coyle's (7th ave and Bethany Home) where we cuddled up, warm and fuzzy, around a banana split. This place is a real family treat. And it's all dressed up for the holidays, looking silly (read: 4ft dancing santa) and wonderful.