Waste Not partners with Pita Jungle on National Pita Day

For more than 36 years Waste Not has been sustainably gathering unused food from restaurants and events then distributing them to food shelters and non-profits to help prevent food waste and hunger. Saturday, March 29th is National Pita Day and the non-profit and Pita Jungle have partnered to raise money to help the cause.

“We’re thrilled to once again join forces with Waste Not,” says Pita Jungle Co-Founder Bassel Osmani. “In continuation with our multi-years collaboration with Waste Not and thus consolidating our support in aiding the suppression of food insecurity, Pita Jungle commits to contribute proceeds from our National Pita Day promotion to support their meaningful mission.”

A $1 from every pita sandwich sold will be donated to the non-profit including Mediterranean Roasted Chicken (Shawarma), Falafel Pita, Grilled Chicken Pita, Gyro, Philly Chicken and Philly Steak Pitas and vegan pita offerings. The day long promotion is available for dine-in or take-out at participating locations.

“Pita Jungle has been an incredible partner to Waste Not for more than a decade,” says Tonia Smith, Development Manager at Waste Not. “Their support helps ensure that thousands of Arizonans facing hunger receive nourishing meals through our programs. Arizona has the worst overall food waste in the country while nearly one million people in our state experience food insecurity. Partnerships like this are essential to raising awareness, rescuing more food, and creating a lasting impact for both people and the planet.”

 

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

Events & news about what’s going on around the Phoenix restaurant community, breweries and wineries.

Fish Fry Fridays at Chompie’s

If you follow me on Instagram, you know I’m hooked on fish n chips, now we all can get a platter at all Chompie‘s Phoenix area locations every Friday. Hand-dipper beer battered cod with crispy fries, cole slaw and homemade tartar sauce for only $17.99 starting at 11:00 a.m.

Chef Joey raising money for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS).

The local celebrity chef is raising money for the next 10 weeks in honor of his daughter Giuliana who has stage 1 Lymphoma. A portion of sales from wines by the glass sales at The Italiano and margarita sales at The Mexicano will be donated to LLS.

Terra Tempe gets Wicked through the end of March

The signature restaurant in the Westin Tempe turns into the Emerald City while the award-winning play has its run at nearby Gammage Auditorium. Signature cocktails like the gin based “Green for Good” and Instagram worthy enchanted bites are available.

Get free bagels at Barrio Bread

While bagel & pizza lovers wait for the opening of, Don Guerra’s Bagel & Slice he’s offering up 2 free bagels with the purchase of a loaf of bread from his Barrio Bread. Until the opening guests can order then pick-up bread and complimentary bagels on Tuesday’s & Friday’s from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at their Hayden Flour Mill commissary in Gilbert.

Ling & Louie’s Buy 1 Get 1 at 1/2 price on weekends

Every Saturday & Sunday get a 1/2 priced brunch entree with the purchase of one at full price at their Scottsdale location. A portion of proceeds from their Big-Hearted Brunch will be donated to local charities. It can’t be combined with other offers, and you should mention this offer when ordering.

Keeler Hospitality Group introduces new Beverage Director

Keeler Hospitality Group, the owners of Liberty Station American Smokehouse & Tavern, Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse and Poppy’s Office has announced that Tait Ludwick as the group’s new Beverage Director. Ludwick was hired five years ago at KHG as a busser and worked his way up to a server, bartender, bar manager and restaurant manager before taking over his new role this month.

“We have seen Tait grow with our company over the last several years,” said Matt Keeler, KHG’s CEO and co-owner. “We are confident he has the talent, work ethic and dedication to excel in this role and look forward to supporting his efforts.”

In his new role Ludwick sees his job from not just from a business perspective for Keeler Hospitality Group but also from the guest’s perspective. His goal is to bring the “taste and experience” and plans to elevate the guest’s experience while introducing guests with new ideas and flavors they haven’t seen in cocktails. “I am grateful I have been given the tools at Keeler Hospitality Group to improve myself and my skills,” said Ludwick. “Whether it’s tasting new spirits and wine to gain more knowledge or the fact that there is always something to learn and improve on, this company makes me feel at home.”

His first order of business is to add new bourbon selections at Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse and to introduce a new cocktail menu based on guest’s preferences at both of Liberty Station’s Scottsdale locations.

Uriel Telix promoted to Executive Chef at PCG

Phoenix City Grille’s owner Dennis Shaw has announced changes to its culinary team including promoting longtime employee Uriel Telix to Executive Chef. Other promotions included of Corey Azure to Executive Sous Chef and hiring Severo Hernandez as Sous Chef. Shaw himself is relatively new to PCG as he became a partner in 2024 as founder and owner Sheldon Knapp semi-retired.

“We are pleased to welcome Severo as our new Sous Chef and to promote Uriel to the position of Executive Chef as well as appoint Corey to Executive Sous Chef,” said Shaw, “The talents of these three chefs are sure to be noticed by our diners and we will continue focusing on consistent excellence while also presenting new and exciting experiences for our guests.”

Telix has been with PCG for 19 years hired as a line cook before being promoted to Sous Chef then Chef de Cuisine before his recent promotion to Executive Chef. He’s looking forward to growing as a leader of the culinary and honing his craft. “I’m looking forward to inspiring and leading our talented culinary team to carry on the tradition and legacy of Phoenix City Grille,” Telix said, adding, “Our guests can continue to expect fresh, creative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. I’m excited to evolve the menu with innovative ideas while staying true to the spirit of Phoenix City Grille.”

Joining Uriel Telix at PCG

Severo Hernandez is new to PCG and hails from Oaxaca, Mexico where he helped preparing family meals for his large family and enjoys bringing people together with food and making them happy. He’s previously worked as sous Chef at Sierra Bonita Grill and North Italia where he’s enjoyed motivating others to their fullest potential. “I’m excited to be part of the PCG team and look forward to being part of a growing business,” said Hernandez, “In this role, I strive to show my passion for cooking and will go out of my way to guide others to do the same.”

Corey Azure started at PCG in 2005 as Sous Chef after studying culinary arts at the Art Institute of Phoenix and Le Cordon Bleu in London and Paris. With a back round in French cooking he’s learned much about Mexican cuisine from working with Uriel Telix. “Being able to execute an idea and seeing the reaction to a good recipe is very rewarding,” says Azure of his passion for cooking. “My cooking is inspired by tasting other cuisines and trying to learn new flavors.”

Haymaker opens fourth location in the West Valley

Westside Concepts opened its newest breakfast, lunch and dinner concept Haymaker at Sunrise Market in Buckeye’s Verrado neighborhood last week. Known for its family recipes with an all-day breakfast menu that features Country Fried Steak & Eggs, 100% Angus Chuck beef burgers and signature dishes such as the Haymaker Benedict and Pulled Pork Skillet. The restaurant is also known for its large selection of whiskeys. The new Verrado location joins two in Peoria and in Goodyear.

“Haymaker is extremely special to us at Westside Concepts and to my family,” said Westside Concepts Owner and West Valley resident Joey Lucidi. “It was our first concept, and it has propelled the entire company and its growth.  We couldn’t be more excited to bring a brand no reimagined design and location to North Peoria, and a completely new location to great neighborhood of Verrado.”

The rustic farmhouse setting was designed Social Design Studio has 4,800 square feet features the main dining room, bar and outside patio. The open dining room offers natural wood finishes with a modern look.

The new Haymaker is at 20990 W. Sentinel Dr. #101 Buckeye. Visit their website for more information and to see the menu.

 

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

Events & news about what’s going on around the Phoenix restaurant community, breweries and wineries.

Portillo’s “Beef Bus” rolls into Phoenix

The popular Chicago style food concept has its own food truck that will be at events around Phoenix until April 12th. Favorites such as Italian Beef sandwiches, Chicago-style Hot Dogs, Maxwell Street Italian and Polish sausages and more will be served up in smaller versions. You can find the “Beef Bus” starting today at…

Friday, March 7 – Sunday, March 9 Phoenix Raceway (7602 Jimmie Johnson Dr, Avondale, AZ 85323); Event Hours: Friday and Saturday 10am–2pm, 4pm–8pm; Sunday 9am–12pm; while supplies last

Friday, March 14 – Sunday, March 16 Ostrich Fest (2250 S. McQueen Rd. Chandler, AZ 85286); Event Hours: Friday 2pm–12am; Saturday 10am–12am; Sunday 10am–11pm; while supplies last

Friday, March 21 – Sunday, March 23 Ostrich Fest (2250 S. McQueen Rd. Chandler, AZ 85286); Event Hours: Friday 2pm–12am; Saturday 10am–12am; Sunday 10am–11pm; while supplies last

Friday, March 28 Amadio Ranch (4701 W Dobbins Rd, Laveen, AZ); Event Hours: 10am–9pm; while supplies last

 Saturday, March 29  Uncorked Wine Festival Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (7555 North Pima Road, Phoenix, AZ 85258); Event Hours: 5:30pm–10pm; while supplies last

Tuesday, April 1 GCU vs. U of A Baseball, Grand Canyon University (3300 W Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85017); Event Hours: 5pm–9pm; while supplies last

Saturday, April 5 ASU Devilpalooza, Arizona State University (500 E Veterans Way, Tempe, AZ 85287); Event Hours: 7:30pm–11pm; while supplies last

Saturday, April 12 Pat’s Run, Mountain America Stadium (500 E Veterans Way, Tempe, AZ 85287); Event Hours: 6am–1pm

**Dates and locations subject to change without notice**

Virtu Honest Craft to host Balcones whiskey dinner

Reservations are filling up fast for Chef Gio Osso’s five-course dinner paired with the Texas whiskey at his Scottsdale restaurant on Wednesday, March 19th. Kelli Burdick will be on hand to discuss each whiskey and their unique characteristics and pairings. Seats are $125++ per person for the 6:00 start and reservations can be made at OpenTable.

Poppy’s Office planning Westland Whiskey pairing experience

The North Scottsdale speakeasy is hosting a four-course dinner created by Keeler Hospitality Group’s Executive Chef Anthony Apolinar. Westland’s Beer Cask, Wine Cask, American Single Malt and Colere whiskey’s will be poured alongside each dish. The dinner starts at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 19th and seats are $55++ and reservations can be made by calling 480-602-2906.

Durant’s new owners donate unused food to St. Vincent de Paul

News broke last week that the Mastro family and business partner Scott Troilo had bought the iconic Phoenix steakhouse. The new owners are giving it a refresh and making minor changes in the kitchen in time to celebrate the restaurant’s 75 anniversary. Brothers Mike and Jeffrey Mastro had students from their alma mater at Brophy Prep to load and unload the truckload of non-perishable food after last week’s final service before the changes begin.

New restaurant openings

Two new locations that were recently mentioned at Pulling Corks and Forks have now opened.

Macayo’s Family Mexican opened its relocated Tempe location and Lin’s Grand Buffet opened their new Metrocenter location in recent days.

Wine festival coming to Cave Creek this weekend

The Stagecoach Village Fine Art & Wine Festival pulls into Cave Creek for 3 days this weekend starting tomorrow Friday, March 7th thru Sunday. More than 85 food trucks, artists and live entertainment start at 10 a.m. each day. For those looking to sample some of Arizona best wines you’ll have to wait until 11 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The Stagecoach Fine Art & Wine Festival is hosted by Arizona Wine Events and Willcox Wine Country. Both are leading promoters of Arizona wines and showcasing them at local events.

“Cave Creek’s rugged terrain and beautiful scenery, along with its small-town feel, make it an ideal location for the Stagecoach Village Fine Art & Wine Festival,” said Mike Pigford, Event Organizer and Owner of Arizona Wine Events. “Attendees can stroll around and relax in the tranquil environment while enjoying the artwork, entertainment, food and an incredible selection of wines.”

Early bird tickets are available for wine & beer tastings from between $15-$35 and are available at the door for between 420-$45. 10 tastings tickets are included and for wine tastings guests get a commemorative glass. Information and tickets are available online. Stagecoach Village is at 7100 E. Cave Creek Rd. Cave Creek 85331.

Uptown Phoenix is new location for The Bar’s 2nd location

The popular Arcadia bar and restaurant The Bar, opened its second location in late February along 7th Ave. in Uptown Phoenix. Known for its laid-back vibe and throwback nostalgia to the 1990s- early 2000s the original location opened in 2019 by restaurateur Frank Vairo, owner of Nook Kitchen and other restaurants and bars in the area.

“Due to the success and popularity of The Bar Arcadia, we wanted to bring something similar yet uniquely its own to our diners in Uptown Phoenix,” said Vairo. “We are excited to present the neighborhood with a place to eat, drink, play, interact and just have a really great time in a welcoming and inviting space.”

The Bar Uptown offers a similar menu to Arcadia that includes award-winning wings, salads, Wisconsin cheese curds, potato skins and more. A selection of sandwiches and burgers are on the menu with the Smashburger expected to steal the show. Signature house cocktails were created by The Bar’s mixologist Elia Perez and include popular drinks from Arcadia.

Weekly specials and daily features from the kitchen and the bar are offered along with happy hour specials that include $2 off drafts, $2 off full-size appetizers, $7 Tito’s, $7 glasses of wine, $5 well drinks, $6 Four Roses, $7 “Jamos” and $7 house mules. Dollar Wing Night, a hit at Arcadia will also be offered at the Uptown location.

You won’t go board at The Bar Uptown as it features darts, a pool table, karaoke, bingo & trivia nights and tournaments will be held. A game room offers video games and more and on weekends a DJ pumps up the volume. The Bar Uptown is open daily from 12:00 p.m. until 2 a.m. and is at 5504 N. 7th Ave. Phoenix. For more information visit their website.

Joe’s Diner trying again for world record pancake stack

Joe Seriale is trying to break a Guinness Book World Record set in 2016 as he will be trying to build the World’s Tallest Stack at his Phoenix diner. Tuesday, March 4th at 7:30 a.m. at Joe’s Diner, press, guests and others will be on hand to see Joe build a stack of his scratch made buttermilk pancakes to a height they’ve never been beating the current world record of 3 ft. 4 in. that took 213 pancakes to build.

“I made it to about two and a half feet last year with around 100 pancakes and after doing a few practice rounds over the last year, I’m ready to take another go at it,” said Joe Seriale, owner of Joe’s Diner.

Joe’s been making some of the Valley’s best pancakes 7 days a week since 2010. He loves serving up stacks to his customers and now it’s time to see if he can make the tallest stack in the world. Joe’s Diner is at 4515 N. 7th Ave. Phoenix.

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

Events & news about what’s going on around the Phoenix restaurant community, breweries and wineries.

Arizona Cocktail Weekend is here

Signature events including The Cocktail Carnival, Top Bars and Last Slinger Standing kick off in Downtown Phoenix on Saturday with other events and pop-up around town at bars and restaurants. For more information read my post from earlier this month.

J&G Steakhouse to host Tequila Corrido dinner

The signature restaurant at The Phoenician Resort & Spa hosts a 3-course dinner prepared by Executive Chef Jacques Qualin on Thursday, March 13th at 6:30 p.m. A reception starts the evening that will feature Lime Gulf shrimp and Black Opal Wagyu skirt steak that is prepared and paired with different Tequila Corrido cocktails. Reservations are required and are $125++ and can be made by calling 480-214-8000 or visiting the resort’s website.

LDV Winery offers Wine Charcuterie class in March & April

The Downtown Scottsdale wine bar will offer 4 classes led by She Shed Chef on Tuesday, March 11th & 25th and Tuesday, April 15th & 29th from 6- 7:30 p.m. Sip on LDV wine(s) as you build your board for $60++ per session which includes a glass of wine. To reserve your seat, call 480-664-4822 or visit their website.

Devour Culinary Classic award winners announced

After another successful event, Local First Arizona announced the winners of this past weekend’s event. Judging the dishes were. Bahar Anooshahr, Christopher Gross, Lori A. Hashimoto, Howard Seftel and Janos Wilder. A full list of medal winners can be found at their website.

Best in Show

  • TPC Scottsdale: Al Pastor Pork Belly Taco, Chef Matthew O’Harris

Runners up:

  • Chilte: Prawns with Peanut Mole, Chef Lawrence “LT” Smith
  • The Gladly: Cactus Ham with Chicharron and Napoles, Chef Bernie Kantak
  • Valentine: Sonoran Hot Dog, Chef Donald Hawk

Best Use Of Heritage Food

  • Litchfield’s at the Wigwam: Buffalo and Tepary Bean Stew
  • Runner up: Nella’s Innovative Kreations’ Corn Tortilla with Tepary Bean Hummus, Prickly Pear and Sonora White Wheat Berries

People’s Choice Awards

  • Best Savory Bite: Tie between Clever Koi’s Pork Chashu Gordita and Gastronomic Union of Tucson (GUT) Chefs’ Sonoran Beef Roulade
  • Best Sweet Bite: Gastronomic Union of Tucson (GUT) Chefs’ Seville Orange and Prickly Pear Verrine
  • Best Sip: Iconic Cocktail Co.

Press Coffee purchases Panama coffee plantation, first estate coffee now available

The Phoenix based coffee roaster began selling its’ own coffee from a newly acquired plantation in the Volcan Valley near the Panama and Cost Rica border. The Press Estate whole bean coffee is now available online.