Elite Event: Five Palms

I am beyond late with this review. Having a baby is my excuse! Nino, the owner of Five Palms really showed us a nice time! His restaurant is stunning… it is over the top decadent. Rich woods mixed with huge stained glass ceilings set the stage nicely. We toured the restaurant with it’s multiple bars, multiple concepts, event room, patio, and wine shop while learning the history of Five Palms. During the tour, I even spied a nice pizza oven. They have great happy hour prices, so don’t think Five Palms will break the bank. We were served some great shrimp, which I
typically do not eat– and to this day I want more. I also loved the pork sandwich. Non pregnant Unilocalers enjoyed wine and cucumber martinis. I really liked the orange chocolate desert, so much that I had two! What really made my night, besides seeing a rare bottle of 95 Dom, was that they sell Vosges chocolate in the wine shop. It is my fav, chocolatier out of Chicago. You must try a Naga bar– milk chocolate, curry and coconut. Nino gifted it to me, which blew me away. I also loved the live music.

A truly spectacular event at a spectacular location. I’ll say up front that I had so much fun I took my husband back the next night to show off this new hot spot.
The restaurant has a great location and a large footprint. Inside it is all Art Deco and fineries. The owner took us on a tour of the two bars, private rooms, main dinning room and patio. Oh the art, the stained glass, the dark wood, the vintage pieces, this place is eye candy all around.
We eagerly went back down stairs for a taste test drive. The first dish was a shrimp tempura with chipotle aioli. Tucson has some good aioli but this ranks towards the top. It wasn’t very spicy but it had a great smoky depth (I tried it on the fries the next night and it cemented my love)! The pork belly sliders were also awesome.
The staff were all extremely professional and attentive and well informed about the menu. Overall, the restaurant truly offers an «experience» not just some honest to goodness awesome food. I believe that this make a it rather unique in Tucson.

I am so glad that I got to attend this Elite Event! I had heard some good things about Five Palms, but I will admit I was hesitant to try it. Now I have so much more to go by and will be back! They provided me with an excellent mint/​cucumber martini that I will soon not forget! My favorite dish was the crab rangoon. I will be back for more that!
The restaurant itself we got to take a tour of and it truly is in a great location and very beautiful. The owner Nino really put his heart into this restaurant and you can tell! I loved that they have a nice outdoor area for some great nights and bottles of wine with friends.
Speaking of wine, they do not mark up their wine stating that nothing goes into it except opening the wine bottle. I think that is a creative and marketable idea! I thought their house red was much better than their white. I am usually a girl who orders wine instead of a mixed drink, but I think this would be my first restaurant where I would take that martini over the wine. SO good!
Music added a special flair to the event. It is a restaurant I want to visit again and get more of a feel for the place.
Thank you Bella for putting on such amazing Elite events. These truly do help me get more acquainted with Tucson and expand a picky palate that truly isn’t picky as I thought. I will try anything at a Unilocal Event! This is my ultimate foodie journey!

the elite event at the five palms restaurant was an excellent one. ordinarily, i probably would have never visited because i didn’t know what five palms had to offer.
i had heard quite a few things about five palms, and i’m glad i got to experience them first hand.
the owner was very gracious and humble. he told us about how he got started in the restaurant business and how his restaurant was his first in the united states. he is very proud of what he has to offer. there is no other place in tucson like the five palms, and i think that gives them a great edge!
when i arrived, we were greeted by the maitre d and escorted to their wine bar. they had a nice layout of seats and a wine store where you could purchase a bottle of wine to go with dinner.
the bartender was serving up some cucumber martinis, house red and a house white. once everyone got there, nino (the owner) took us for a tour of the place. he explained that he doesn’t understand why a bottle of wine would be triple the price you would normally get at a restaurant (especially when it comes as is, and they’re only opening the bottle for you, not adding ingredients or cooking it!) and that was the whole concept of the wine store.
upstairs, there is a banquet room to accomodate 100+ people, a private dining room, and nino’s bar, with one of the most spectacular views of tucson! he mentioned that they do an 8÷8÷8 happy hour. that’s a very reasonable price with very reasonable hours!
we also got a view of the formal dining room. some would say gaudy, but i say elegant! the whole place had a very european feel that we’re not so used to in the united states.
once the tour was over, we got to try small bites of delicious food. the first was a tempura shrimp with chipolte sauce that was sooooooo good. my absolute favorite of the night was what came out next: a creamy, openfaced crab ragoon. holy smokes! the pork belly burger was very tasty as well. i loved the sweet onions hidden in the pork. the pizza had some delicious mushrooms and lastly, we had a tasty tart.
the band that was playing while we sampled everything played beautifully!
my applause to bella, for a job well done in putting together such a fine event! nino, thank you so much for your generosity and giving us the opportunity to see what the five palms is all about!

Five Palms is a sight to see. You would not believe the ornate décor in this restaurant. First off, the building is huge, with a downstairs dining room, two bars, patio, balcony and a banquet hall for events. All of the rooms have elaborate stained class ceilings, lush carpets, dark wood, tapestries and mirrors. When you’re eating at Five Palms you feel like you’ve left Tucson and teleported to a luxurious european hotel.
Of the dishes we tried, I have two favorites. The tempura shrimp in chipotle sauce was incredible. If I come back, i might just ask for a side dish of this chipotle sauce to put on everything. It is awesome. My other favorite dish of the night was the pork belly slider, it was full of flavor on a mini brioche bun. I will be back to order this again during happy hour, so I can take in the beautiful views from the upstairs balcony.
I had a great time, and I’m happy for Unilocal to show me a new restaurant! Thank you Bella for arranging another fabulous event!

I had never been to Five Palms before, and was extremely impressed with this visit. The hostess kindly held the door open for me, and once inside, I was directed to the Elite event. We were offered the choice of a cucumber martini or a glass of red or white wine. I enjoyed the cucumber martini, which was light and refreshing with the perfect essence of cucumber. The bar generously kept the libations flowing all evening.
Plush carpet, an abundance of candles, beautiful artwork, chandeliers, and high ceilings gave me the feeling that I was a guest aboard the infamous Titantic, or magically transported into the movie «The Rocketeer.» The soothing old-​fashioned live music also added to this wondrous feeling. I forgot I was still in Tucson!
We were led to the banquet room where Nino, the owner, began the private tour of his fine establishment. He mentioned how they go for an attractive ambiance at an affordable price. We were led to the dining room and the outside patio. We were awed by the breathtaking views of the mountains from the patio.
Back downstairs, we were served tempura shrimp on top of a smokey chipotle sauce, which was scrumptious. Next was the chef’s twist of a crab rangoon, where the filling sat on top instead of inside the wonton. My favorite sample was the pork belly slider which was delicious. I also loved the wild mushroom pizza with truffle oil. The dessert tart at the end was the grand finale and it was nice and sweet.
Nino treated us to a coupon of $ 20 off our next visit. I definitely plan on coming back soon to try out the happy hour.
Thank you to Five Palms, Nino, and Bella for taking care of us and for a marvelous evening!

Over the TOP, whew! In a completely good way, with the name like Five Palms one would expect some beachy or oasis themed motif. What instead is complete opulence with stained glass ceilings, dark wood paneling and the stunning view from the top balcony. The food was toothsome as well, I am going to spending time looking at that view much more in the future.

What a wonderful evening. I met 3 new wonderful people. Got a tour of an amazing restaurant and the food! I will tell you that nothing has swayed me from my diet for the past 5 weeks until last night. And will worth it. The food and drinks are fabulous, unique, and oh so tasty. Five Palms is the perfect venue for adult good times in a group and a lovely romantic evening as well. The band was also excellent.
Brava Bella. Well done and Thank you.

I was really looking forward to this event, and then incredibly blown away at how perfectly planned, and executed it all played out. The building, and grounds are beautiful. It feels as though you’re suddenly no longer in Tucson, but a five star New York restaurant. Surprising, and yet oh so delightful.
The décor was very posh with gorgeous woodwork, and stained glass throughout. The breathtaking chandelier hanging above the entry inside was a work of art all by itself-​along with so much of the furnishings. Private rooms that are available upstairs are not only lovely, but perfect for a small or large gathering which is such a plus for Tucson.
We were fortunate to have Nino Aidi, the owner himself, give us the Grand Tour. Along with some background on who he is; his journey and plans that brought him here. He was most gracious, and incredibly generous throughout the entire event.
I didn’t think it could get any better, but then we were led to the upstairs outdoor lounge. The views are just remarkable. Mr. Aidi has not only brought this property back, but with style and splendor! What’s not to love?
After the incredibly memorable tour, we were taken downstairs to the lounge. Which, as with everything this far, was flawless. We’d started in this room, yet being full of us Unilocalers, it was hard to get a real «feel» until we were seated; really able to really take in the scenery and ambiance. Impeccable. I loved the interior throughout– reminded me of old school Hollywood; back when everything was over the top and oh so sexy.
As we sat enjoying our drinks, getting to know each other, we were served course after course of tantalizing morsels… starting with a tempura shrimp in a delicious chipotle sauce. Everyone at my table agreed the sauce was absolutely delectable.
This was followed by the Chef’s own version of Crab Rangoon; a fried wanton, the crab atop plentiful, and succulent. Very delightful and fun to eat.
Then came a Wild Mushroom, White truffle Oil Pizza. The aroma alone had my mouth watering, and it was well received on the palate.
Once the Pork Belly Slider’s were being brought to our tables, I knew there would be be happiness on my tongue. So tender and juicy; starting out mildly sweet and ending with just a hint of heat. I’ve never been excited over a slider before, but there’s a first time for everything. It melted in my mouth. Very well executed Chef!
For dessert, a simply exquisite Grand Marnier & Chocolate Tartlet was offered. What a Finale! It was the perfect combination of light, airy, sweet, orange, and chocolate with that crisp crust. The candied orange pieces on top were unimaginably decadent. I genuinely savored every bite.
It was an astounding event. Thank you Bella for setting this up. It will not be be forgotten. Special thanks to Mr. Aidi for an unbelievably extravagant evening!

Wow what a FUN FUN night! This would have to be one of the few Elite events that left me in total amazement! I have always seen this place when driving down skyline and was finally excited to attend an event here.
I’ll start off by saying the building, the attraction of it was already luring. Walking up to the nice fancy doors was a but intimidating not going to lie! However after having a hostess open the door for you and welcome you to this beautiful building made me feel welcome. The first thing I noticed was the decorated candles and flowers that were set in the middle as you first walked in. I immediately took a picture! I really felt like I was walking onto the titanic! The fancy dining room just brought back all those childhood titanic scenes. I was even beginning to talk like some of the actors that were from the film ha! The best part is you’re still on land and don’t have to worry about hitting an iceberg!
I really enjoyed the live band that was playing and especially after knowing some resided from Paris itself, made me realize why it sounded so amazing. Especially to enjoy some amazing dishes and have that music playing, put me in a whole new world. After looking at the menu, the price isn’t as bad as you would think!
I really loved loved the tempura shrimp with chipotle sauce! It was so thick, rich and creamy with an explosion of mouth watery taste! The sauce was so good, I even asked one of the waitress if they sold a bottle of the sauce alone! hehe! Along with the dish, the Five palms martini was also delicious! There was a very good quality Gin in there from what a fellow Elite member and I decided and just a good amount of sweetness added to it as well.
What really set this event and this place off was the balcony that over looked Tucson city night lights! I would have to say this is probably the best spot in town where you can dine and enjoy that lights. Which is really hard to find but this place has it. I will be coming back here for that!
The wine cellar and cigar room was also an outstanding place to look around. I probably spent 45 mins just looking around and contemplating if I should buy any! Also just when you think it can’t get any better, you are even allowed to have your own lockers to hold your wine for your next visit! Now that is just spectacular, what other place will allow you to do that!
Overall the event, which Bella you did another outstanding job was a great success and Nino giving us a eye opening tour and history of the place just made this whole event one unforgettable night. That is why this even deserves more than 5 stars if possible!!!

Five Palms is truly a hidden gem — located on the corner of campo Abierto and Sunrise drive. This Steak and Seafood Restaurant is immaculate inside and out!
To start the evening we had a choice of a cucumber martini, house red or white wine. I must to say — I was never a martini sort of guy until tonight, one of the best cucumber martini ever! Soon after we got our drink Mr. Nino (owner) gave us a tour and history lesson of his restaurant. After the tour we headed back downstairs for a little food tasting and mingling. Out of the 5 dishes that were brought out — hands down the Chipotle shrimp was my favorite (yummie in my tummy).
Couldn’t get enough — after the event a few of us stayed behind and had a few drinks and a bite to eat up stairs at Nino’s Bar and Grill. Overlooking the Tucson skyline we enjoyed each other’s company. Let’s just say we leave until all the candles were blown out.
To sum everything up — This place is great to bring a date if you want to impress her/​him or meet up for happy hour from 3 pm to 7 pm and reverse happy hour starts at 9. Upstairs is the Nino’s Bar and Grill, home of the 8 for $ 8.00 combos– Pick any 1 of 8 dishes and 1 of 8 drinks. Nino and his staff were beyond awesome!
Like always thank you Bella for another awesome event! Without Unilocal guiding me to hidden gems, I would be lost and eating at Burger king. Love my Unilocal friends!
^_​^ KCYE

Another great Unilocal event hosted by Bella.
This is my second time visiting Five Palms. It was nice of the owner to personally give us a tour. The restaurant has an upscale feel. My favorite spot here is the upstairs balcony. Amazing view.
The food was yummy and I was able to try new happy hours items different from my first visit. Originally on my first visit I wanted to try the fine dining area. However they did not have any available seating. Perhaps I will go back with my coupon and finally get around to trying that part of the restaurant.

When you walk in, you are struck by two things: First, you are greeted by none other than the owner, Nino. That the owner gives that kind of attention should have been a sign of the great things that were to come. Then you look at the surroundings. The Southwest motif that was the former Café Terra Cotta is long gone, replaced by very ostentatious surroundings, reminiscent of something you would see in a larger city.
We were started off by being offered our choice of a Five Palms martini, a gin based drink made with Hendrick’s gin, mint and cucumber (very, very good) or red or white wine. They were very generous with the drinks and they kept flowing all through the event.
We then got the tour of the place and got to marvel at what’s been done with the remodel. It’s very impressive and my trying to describe it would not do it justice. You have to go see it for yourself. There are basically three different spaces, catering to different price levels, which according to Nino was one of the goals. Nino’s Bar is upstairs and aims for casual and affordable. The downstairs bar is slightly more upscale and offers some more robust menu options, still at an affordable level. Finally, the main restaurant which is for those looking for fine dining. It’s all covered here under one roof.
We retreated to the bar downstairs and our plates were graced with some very fine offerings: A tempura crusted shrimp atop a pool of creamy chipotle sauce that… well just give me a martini glass full of that stuff. Next came the chef’s take on crab rangoon — crispy wonton topped with crabby, creamy goodness. Then — hold on for this — a pork belly slider with caramelized onions and an apple gastrique… WOW! The savory portion was finished off with a wild mushroom pizza topped with truffle oil that assaulted the olfactory senses when it hit the table… and it tasted better than it smelled. Dessert was a tiny tart with mousse made with Grand Marnier, topped with candied orange rind on top of a smear of chocolate sauce. I am not a dessert person but each bite seemed to get more complex… and better.
Naturally the awesome-​lovable-​we-​are-​so-​lucky-​she-​is-​our-​CM Bella was on hand flitting about to make sure everyone was taken care of. SHE’S THE BEST!
Thanks to Bella, Nino and his incredibly gracious staff for hosting this event and taking such good care of us. I can’t say enough about how well we were treated and how lucky we are to be able to participate in events like this. Thank you!

Five Palms has so much to offer! It is a classy restaurant with a «secret» patio-​turned-​ballroom, a gallery with an eclectic yet beautiful collection of art pieces, and a specialty wine and cigar shop. Owner Nino Aidi gave a personal tour of his restaurant, shared with us his Syrian-​French upbringing and his vision of fine dining in Tucson. What a successful transformation of the space formerly occupied by Terra Cotta and a wonderful addition to the Foothills restaurant scene! The upstairs evening view from the patio was the most gorgeous, and the live music in the downstairs wine bar created a lovely intimate ambiance.
Food and service were excellent. My fellow Unilocalers were dying for more of the delicious truffle pizza, pork belly slider, and fried shrimp! We would definitely come back to try more menu items and put the coupon we received to good use. Although I didn’t drink, I was told the wine and cocktail were amazing as well.
While Five Palms surely offers a luxurious dining experience filled with art and class, it does not feel intimidating or imposing. It retains the old-​time glamor yet asserts a view of modernity in its own unique way. Plus, food is good.
Bravo, another great Unilocal event! Thank you Bella and Nino!

Five Palms is a great restaurant housed in an incredible setting and how lucky are we Elites that we were treated so well and given the grand tour by none other than Nino himself, the owner!
We gathered in the bar upon arrival and enjoyed our choice of a fabulous mint/​cucumber martini, white or red wine. After catching up with friends for a bit, Nino took us on our tour. We were led upstairs to a banquet room where Nino told us his story — and a very interesting one at that! I loved his humor when telling about his restaurants in Mexico and the successes & failures. I just love when a business owner takes the time to talk to us and tell us about themselves. Honestly, I think it’s one of my favorite parts about these special Elite events.
We saw the beautiful, private dining room that is upstairs and then went out on to the upstairs patio where the views are tremendous. We were then led back down to the main dining room where the elegant surroundings and table settings made me feel like I was in a place that wasn’t my Tucson. Elegance but without fussiness.
We made our way back to the downstairs bar area and were seated in comfy tables that felt almost like booths with their high bench style seating. Servers brought out several dishes for us to try: a beautifully breaded shrimp resting on a bit of smoky chipotle sauce; then a crab rangoon (my favorite!) that was unique in that it was open with the filling set on top of the crispy fried wonton; a nicely sized pork belly slider (a tad too sweet for me); a wild mushroom and white truffle oil pizza resting on a bed of greens (was it me or were those greens incredibly salty?); and finally an adorable little Grand Marnier & chocolate tart. I enjoyed a glass of the house red which was very smooth and tasty.
I’d love to come back to Five Palms and enjoy a wonderful dinner and I think I will now that Nino gave everyone a $ 20 off coupon! Thanks Nino!
Bella, thank you for arranging this unique peek at a gorgeous Tucson restaurant.