The Arizona Republic

Erica Sagon – Jan. 17, 2008 12:02 PM The Arizona Republic

To get the most out of Amy’s Baking Company, a charming French-Italian bistro in Scottsdale, head straight for the drool-worthy bake case. Bring a date, or a couple of friends, who will want to share French-press coffee ($6 for about two cups) and a giant slice of Italian white-chocolate cake with raspberries ($12), or any of the other superb desserts whose selection is ever-changing. Tarts, towering cakes and other confections (some of which are dusted with gold glitter) are made daily by Amy Bouzaglo, who co-owns the restaurant with her husband. Despite Amy’s location in a strip mall, the owners have created a place to linger, on the patio or inside, where the black-and-white harlequin floors, black chandeliers and ornate, gilded mirrors give off a European vibe. Amy’s achieves salad success by not scrimping on the toppings. In the Rossa, you’ll find colossal chunks of goat cheese, candied pecans and oven roasted beets. There’s a theme running through the pasta selections on the menu: cream sauce. The butternut squash ravioli ($17) are filled with a velvety, slightly sweet mix of squash and mascarpone cheese. The pasta rustica ($16) is a lighter and wonderfully spicy choice, with penne, chicken and andouille sausage in a red-pepper marmalade and white-wine reduction. But if you’re deciding how to best spend your calories and money at Amy’s, dessert is the way to go.