Market Cafe   

Driving to the restaurant, you're hardly aware of the climb. But once inside, look out the floor-to-ceiling windows and you'll be overwhelmed by panoramic views of the Valley below. Perched atop a craggy peak of the Buttes in Tempe, Top of the Rock is perfect for a birthday, anniversary or a romantic rendezvous. Time it right and you'll be rewarded with one of the spectacular sunsets the Valley is noted for. Complementing the classic Southwest view, the restaurant's interior includes a wood-beam ceiling, a stone fireplace, cactus and pottery. The contemporary Southwestern menu features appetizers that almost overwhelm the main courses. The signature entree is really an appetizer, lobster Napoleon -- Maine lobster layered with wonton and triple-cream Boursin cheese. Also, there's Dungeness crab with avocados and Serrano cream in a tortilla broth. A noteworthy entree is the cast-iron seared pork porterhouse. Other highlights are blue-corn-crusted halibut and Black Angus New York steak with Boursin whipped potatoes. Top of the Rock's Sunday brunch has been voted the Valley's best. -- Cecil Tuck