Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

Taste of Euro next Tuesday, May 20th at Romeo’s Euro Cafe

The downtown Gilbert cafe has its next 3-course pairing dinner next week. A Spinach & Arugula Salad, Orzo pasta with vegetables and Chocolate Souffle are on the menu. The dinner is $48++ and reservations can be made by calling 480-962-4224.

Phoenix City Grille offers Wine 101 this summer

The Uptown Phoenix restaurant is offering a monthly two-hour class starting on June 13th by introducing new wine drinkers to the basics about wine. The Friday night classes are from 5:30 -7:30 p.m. and is $40 per person and include a bottle of wine to take home.

The remaining schedule of classes include….July 18th Wines of the USA, August 22nd Riedel Glass Tasting Experience $89 per person, September 23rd Blind Tasting Challenge. Seating is limited and reservations are required and can be made by emailing privatedining@phoenixcitygrille.com

New summer specials at Pizzeria Virtu

Chef Gio Osso’s Old Town Scottsdale Napoletana-style pizzeria has two cool new specials all summer long. On Tuesday‘s indulge in a hand-crafted classic Margherita Pizza paired with two glasses of wine for only $30. Wine Wednesdays are here with 50% of all wine bottles (excluding the reserve list).

810 Entertainment offer new cocktail for Phoenix Mercury season

With the WNBA tipping off Saturday night in Downtown Phoenix, the concept in Cityscape offers the new Mercury Riser cocktail is made with Western Son Watermelon Vodka, triple sec, lime juice, and cranberry juice and is garnished with a lemon wedge. It costs $6 with a Mercury game ticket otherwise its $9.

Spring 2025 Arizona Restaurant Week is here

The popular twice yearly 10-day event starts today and goes through next Sunday, May 25th. Almost 200 restaurants statewide are offering a $33, $44 or $55 menu for the occasion. A list of participating restaurants and their menus can be found at the Arizona Restaurant Week website.

Wine club launch and events at Jamie’s Bottle Shop

Now that Jamie’s Bottle Shop has been opened for about two months, owner Jamie Hormel and her team of sommeliers are launching their new wine club and announcing upcoming wine tasting and educational events.

A wine club for every palate

Whether you are new to wine or are a collector their is a wine club for you with four levels to choose from. To join the you can sign-up in person at the Old Town Scottsdale shop or online.

Discovery Club, $55/month 

Build your taste and expand your confidence with the Discovery Club, where fresh styles, producers and regions will be introduced each month. Perks include: 

    • A curated selection of two wines — one white, one red — chosen to inspire and expand palates. 
    • 10% off all retail wine, except Reserve Room selections. 
    • No corkage fee for retail bottles enjoyed in-store. 
    • Early access to select wines. 
    • Invitations to member-only events. 

Jamie’s Wine Club $140/month

Designed for those who love the excitement of trying something new, perks of the Jamie’s Wine Club include: 

    • Three bottles of curated wine selections that include a white, red and the sommelier pick of the month.
    • 10% off all retail wine, except Reserve Room selections. 
    • No corkage fee for retail bottles enjoyed in-store. 
    • Early access to select wines. 
    • Invitations to member-only events.

Collectors Club, Inquire for pricing

For the advanced wine aficionado, the Collectors Club provides exceptional wines from Jamie’s Bottle Shop’s private reserve. Collectors Club membership is extremely limited and currently sold out. To join the wait list, please visit the website. Perks include: 

    • Quarterly allocations of 12 rare and unique bottles from Jamie’s Bottle Shop’s private reserve, featuring legendary producers and vintages. 
    • Personal wine concierge services. 
    • Early access to select wines. 
    • Invitations to member-only events. 
    • 10% off all retail wines, except Reserve Room selections. 
    • No corkage fee for retail bottles enjoyed in-store. 

Annual Membership, $95/year

Want to choose your own wine adventure? Jamie’s Bottle Shop’s Annual Membership provides the advantages of the wine club while providing the freedom to explore your personal selections. Perks include:  

    • Early access to select wines.
    • Invitations to member-only events.
    • 10% off all retail wines, except Reserve Room selections.
    • No corkage fee for retail bottles enjoyed in-store. 

Upcoming tastings and educational events

Advanced Sommelier Katherine Janowiak hosts a weekly wine tastings and educational events every Friday at 6:00 p.m. It’s the next best way traveling to the world’s best wine regions without leaving Arizona. All events are scheduled on an ongoing basis and will emphasize individual wine regions and countries. For more information and book a class at the shop’s website.

2025 Summer Chef Series from Devour Phoenix

We’re still a month away from the official start of summer 2025 and no matter how hot it gets, you still must eat. So why not let four of the best chefs from around the valley cook for you once a month. If that sounds good to you, the 2025 Summer Chef Series dinners are scheduled on the 3rd Monday of the month from May to September with each dinner featuring two valley chefs who will create a seasonal 4-course menu to celebrate community and showcase local culinary creativity.

Each month’s dinner starts at 6 p.m. and tickets for the Dinner Series are an all-inclusive $1,250 per person ($250 per dinner) and come with curated drink pairings. Heading out of town to cool off, don’t worry the tickets are transferable and they make great gifts for your favorite foodie or split with friends. There will be no refunds. One guest at each dinner will win a pair of tickets to the 2026 Devour Culinary Classic. The series is a partnership with Local First Arizona and In Good Spirits Hospitality with the schedule below.

  • Monday, May 19 – Chefs Stephen Jones & Lori Hashimoto at The Larder + The Delta
  • Monday, June 16 – Chefs Bernie Kantak & Gio Osso at The Gladly
  • Monday, July 21 – Chefs Justin Beckett & Stephen Jones at Beckett’s Table
  • Monday, August 18 – Chefs Lori Hashimoto & Bernie Kantak at  Hana Japanese Eatery
  • Monday, September 15 – Chefs Justin Beckett & Gio Osso at Virtù Honest Craft

For more information and to reserve your seat visit their website.

 

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

Only Michelin one star taco stand coming to Dbacks game tonight

Tonight’s baseball game will have a pop-up taco stand from Mario Hernandez Alonso, son of the founder of Taquería El Califa de León. The Dbacks are kicking off Mexican Heritage Weekend with tacos on Chase Field’s Plaza with the famous Gaonera tacos which debuted back in 1968.

Craft 64 celebrates Cinco de Mayo all month long

Both the Scottsdale and Chandler pizza & beer restaurants is exploring Arizona’s Mexican heritage and how its ingredients work with traditional pizza. All month long get the house-made 64 Al Pastor, Tha’ Taco and 64 Fajita pizzas along with a Jicama Fresca salad and a Cinco De Pollo sope special. 3 Mexican style beers were made by co-owner James Swann are on tap and 4 seasonal cocktails including the Watermelon Margarita were created for the month-long event.

Chula Seafood Uptown offers new Tuna Tataki Salad

For a limited time, guests visiting the Central Phoenix location can enjoy a new salad. The seared tuna tataki comes served alongside a crispy medley of Napa and red cabbage, fresh cucumber, cherry tomatoes, snap peas and julienned carrots all tossed in a vibrant soy-ginger dressing and paired with chilled Udon noodles and enoki mushrooms.

Famous 48 closes its doors

The Scottsdale restaurant served its last meal on Sunday, May 4th and wanted to thank their customers that supported them over the years.

 

 

Reservations now being taken for Shiv Supper Club

The finishing touches are being completed, and reservations are being taken for the new Shiv Supper Club set to open next Wednesday, May 14th. The new upscale dining experience and its after-hours lounge, The Dessert Room will be something the Scottsdale dining scene hasn’t seen in years and will be the new “place to see and be seen” from Riot Hospitality Group, owners of other Scottsdale area restaurants and nightclubs.

“Shiv was designed to be unforgettable,” says Ryan Hibbert, CEO of Riot Hospitality Group (RHG). “From the theatrics of the service to the music, lighting, and atmosphere, every moment is curated to surprise and excite. It’s not just dinner… It’s a night you’ll talk about long after it ends.”

Highlights of the kitchen and bar

The high energy restaurant will offer a menu that will highlight dishes from both land and sea from RHG’s Culinary Director Dustin Cooke in collaboration with Chef Jeff Mahin of Michelin starred restaurants Fat Duck, L20 and Nobu. Highlighs include…..

To Share:

  • White Soy Poke – A clean, vibrant start. Sashimi lightly dressed in white soy and citrus, balanced with subtle heat and crunch for a refreshing opening note.
  • Wild Truffle Carpaccio – Thin slices of beef tenderloin layered with aged parmesan, crispy oyster mushroom, arugula, garlic aioli, and truffle vinaigrette, an elegant construction of the world’s finest flavors.
  • Tableside Truffle Butter – Fresh-baked Parker House Rolls are elevated tableside with hand-shaved truffles folded into our house-made butter, served alongside hot honey for a savory-sweet finish.

Signature Seafood & Caviar Offerings:

  • Nuggets and Caviar – Comfort food best enjoyed with your pinky up: Crispy, golden chicken nuggets paired with caviar, served with accompaniments that elevate, surprise, and delight.
  • Lobster Caviar Dome – Crowned with premium caviar and gold leaf, presented on house-baked brioche toast and lobster-infused butter. This celebration of opulence will always be the envy of the table next to you.

Entrees:

  • White Shrimp Bolognese – A satisfying rendition of an Italian classic. We use shrimp and white wine so you can indulge without regret.
  • Scallop and Bisque – Seared to a golden crust, East Coast scallops are paired with a decadent lobster bisque crafted from our house caviar dome. The bisque is finished with cognac cream and fresh fennel for a layered experience.

Charcoal-Fired Steaks:

  • The all-too-common Scottsdale steak experience is mundane, but Shiv’s Waygu & Tallo beef program is disciplined by modern tradition and relentless innovation. Including a colossal Tomahawk steak presented table-side

Beverage Director Lindsi Mundy has created a cocktail program that will be pushing the boundaries of the cocktail industry. Each cocktail will have its own story and will be Instagram worthy.

  • The Cocktail Program:
  • Salt & Vinegar Martini – Vodka infused with salt & vinegar chips, pickle brine, dry vermouth, and pepperoncini, served with chips.
  • Well Dressed – A sophisticated mix of gin, vermouth, lemon olive oil, served with a side of salt & pepper popcorn.
  • Cry Baby – A warming blend of Buffalo Trace bourbon, lemon, maple cinnamon syrup and grapefruit.

The Dessert Room will offer late night sweet treats on Friday and Saturday nights starting at 10:00 p.m.

Signature desserts include:

  • Dessert Caviar Service – Fruit-based pearls over panna cotta with coconut crème fraîche and vanilla shortbread. This is a play on classic caviar service using dessert items.
  • Bananas Foster Baked Alaska – Flambéed table-side with banana-infused rum. This is presented as a table-side fire show with vanilla ice cream, banana, rum cake, meringue fire.
  • PB Cube – A glossy chocolate cube filled with peanut butter mousse and fudge brownie.

Reservations can be made at the Shiv’s website.

Circle K and Burrito Express expand in-store partnership

What started in February with a hybrid location in a Gilbert Circle K, Burrito Express and its partnership with the global convenience store is expanding around the Phoenix Metro area. Currently there are 5 new Burrito Express Fast & Fresh locations are in the planning stages with 4 in the East Valley and 1 in Maricopa.

“At Circle K, even as we have grown into a global brand, our roots here in the valley run very deep, which is why it’s important to us to collaborate with local innovators in bringing new value to our customer experience,” said Morten Jensen, vice president of operations for Circle K’s Grand Canyon Business Unit. “Burrito Express enjoys a tremendous following and adds an exciting new dimension to the Circle K food offer. We’re very pleased to be partnering with them in serving up some of the best-tasting burritos you can find in the valley.”

The partnership highlights the quality of fresh food Burrito Express prepares and the customer service they provide. The partnership is part of the global convenience stores hub and spoke model. Each location’s kitchen acts as the hub preparing fresh food. “We’re thrilled to expand our partnership with Circle K and to make our fresh, wholesome burritos available to a broader clientele,” said Angel Marin, co-owner of Burrito Express with his brother Mark Marin. “We look forward to the strategic expansion of Burrito Express Fast and Fresh in hubs throughout the valley and beyond.”

Each location will serve 4 breakfast burritos and 4 lunch burritos from 6 a.m. – 3 p.m. Monday – Friday and 7a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. For more information visit Burrito Express’ website.

  • Breakfast Burrito Supreme
  • Steak and Egg Burrito
  • Potato and Egg Burrito
  • Chorizo and Egg with Potato Burrito
  • Steak Potato and Cheese Burrito
  • Burrito Supreme
  • Chicken, Potato and Cheese Burrito
  • Bean and Cheese Burrito

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

National Italian Beef Day all month at Portillo’s

The iconic Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich celebrates its own Day on May 24th, but the popular Chicago style food concept is celebrating all month long with four offers and more.

·     BOGO for the Beef-Lovers:  Portillo’s is kicking off the celebration with a savory offer: Buy one, get one free regular Italian Beef sandwich for all Portillo’s Perks members throughout the month of May. Not a member yet? Just sign-up during May to unlock the offer and enjoy double the beefy goodness.

·     Here Comes the “Gravy Train”: In true Chicago style, Portillo’s is wrapping a CTA Blue Line train in full Italian Beef glory. Decked out in mouthwatering imagery and bold branding, this rolling tribute will cruise the city’s tracks from May 5 to June 1.

·     Beef Hunt—Social Scavenger Style: Portillo’s is also hiding the goods—literally. A social scavenger hunt will be taking place in Chicago, Dallas, Phoenix, and other markets, where lucky fans can find hidden Portillo’s swag bags. Each bag is stuffed with branded merch and a free sandwich card to enjoy an Italian Beef on the house. Follow Portillo’s on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for updates and clues on where to snag a swag bag!

·     Italian Beef is Everywhere​: Portillo’s is taking their legendary Italian Beef Sandwich beyond the restaurant. Experience the iconic Italian Beef in creative and unexpected ways through their exclusive artist series on social media. Follow Portillo’s on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to see Italian Beef like never before and explore its influence in art, culture and beyond.

Miracle Mile Deli’s 76th anniversary specials

The Central Phoenix deli celebrates over three decades of serving deli sandwiches and more. Nostalgic pricing is happening starting this Monday for the week and includes….From May 5–10, customers can enjoy a $19.49 sandwich-and-pie combo special, a nod to the year Miracle Mile Deli opened in 1949. Guests can choose from the Deli’s legendary sandwiches the Pastrami, Straw, New Yorker, or Combo with a side and and pair it with a slice of homemade pie for just $19.49. All purchases will be entered into a sweepstakes for a $500 MMD gift card. 

To keep the love going beyond Anniversary Week, the deli is offering a “Moms, Dads, Grads & Teachers” Gift Card Special from May 1 through June 15. Purchase $100 in gift cards for only $75. It’s the perfect gift for those who helped you through the year or for yourself to enjoy a summer of stacked sandwiches and scratch-made meals. 

Teacher Appreciation Week around Phoenix

Teachers don’t get the love they used to, but from May 5th-9th they’re getting exclusive specials at these Phoenix area restaurants.

Over Easy – Over Easy is treating teachers to a boost of energy with a caffeine-filled promotion! During Teacher Appreciation Week at all locations, teachers can enjoy a FREE cup of Over Easy’s premium Press coffee. Offer valid with proof of school ID. 17 Arizona locations. https://eatatovereasy.com/

Royale Kitchen + Cocktails – In celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week, Royale Kitchen + Cocktails is offering a 20% discount to all educators with a valid educator ID. Located on the vibrant Melrose Mile, Royale serves up casual metropolitan fare and top-notch drinks in a stylish, welcoming setting. https://www.royalekitchenphx.com/

Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey – Educators enjoy 20% off their bill at Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey in Phoenix during Teacher Appreciation Week with a valid educator ID. Known for its exceptional sushi, crafted cocktails, and extensive Japanese whiskey selection, Sandfish in Phoenix offers a refined yet casual dining experience by award-winning Chef Engin Onural. A perfect spot for teachers to relax and indulge! https://www.sandfishsushiwhiskey.com/

Streets of New York – The local and family-owned franchise is giving guests the chance to nominate their favorite teacher to win a $50 to the New York-style pizzeria. Nominations can be submitted at www.streetsofnewyork.com/teachers . Nominations will be open through Saturday, May 4. www.streetsofnewyork.com.

Westside Concepts – In celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week, Westside Concepts is offering educators 50% off their meal at Haymaker and Copper & Sage, all day from May 5–9, with a valid educator ID. Haymaker, with four convenient locations across the West Valley, serves up hearty, satisfying meals in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Copper & Sage, located in Goodyear, offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience with elevated comfort food and craft cocktails. https://westsideconcepts.us/

Aftermath Projects – Aftermath Projects is showing appreciation to our amazing educators with a sweet deal — teachers can enjoy a FREE dessert with the purchase of an entrée (dine-in only) when they present a valid educator ID. This offer is available May 5-9 at Aftermath Bar & Kitchen in Phoenix, as well as Born & Bred with locations in Chandler andScottsdale. https://aftermathphoenix.com/

Hash Kitchen – The creative a.m. eatery Hash Kitchen is flipping gratitude onto every plate during Teacher Appreciation Week! May 5 though 12, teachers who dine at Hash Kitchen will receive a 10% discount with proof of educator ID. Restrictions may apply. Seven Valley locations. www.hashkitchen.com.

Star Wars Day cider bombers at Cider Corps

A limited amount of 32oz. cider bombs will be available Saturday and Sunday in anticipation of Star Wars Day, this Sunday May 4th at the Downtown Mesa cidery. MANGOLORIAN – Fermented Apple Juice fortified with Apple Brandy, infused with Mango Puree. Bold, juicy, and ready for bounty hunting. MUSTAFAR-ITA – Fermented Apple Juice fortified with Apple Brandy, flavored with Blood Orange Puree, Lime Juice & Agave. Its margarita inspired with a dark side.

Joining Cider Corps in the galaxy will be Myke’s Pizza and Pair Cupworks, who will be creating Star Wars themed pizzas and beverages.

Seven course Orange themed dinner at Match Market & Bar

The doors open at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 10th at the Downtown Phoenix restaurant inside the Found:RE Hotel. The dinner starts at 7 for the orange themed dinner that includes….

  • First Course—Stonefruit and Cheddar.- A delightful contrast between the sweetness of stonefruit and the sharpness of cheddar
  • Second Course—Golden Beet and Goat Cheese Roulade. A harmonious blend of earthy beets and creamy goat cheese rolled to perfection
  • Third Course—Orange Tomato and Persimmon Carpaccio- This refreshing dish showcases the delicate balance of sweet persimmons and tangy tomatoes
  • Fourth Course—Orange Bell Pepper Rice, Salmon, Roe, Carrot and Mustard Velouté- A symphony of flavors with perfectly cooked salmon crowned by a luscious mustard velouté
  • Fifth Course—Kombucha, Red Shrimp and Romesco. A bold combination marries the effervescence of kombucha with succulent red shrimp
  • Sixth Course—Filet Mignon, Chanterelle Mushroom and Creamy Red Lentils- This luxurious entrée features tender filet mignon complemented by chanterelle mushrooms and velvety red lentils
  • Seventh Course—Orange and Vanilla Tart- A sweet ending that fully encompasses the essence of this vibrant themed dinner.

Orange themed cocktails and orange wines will be available for purchase to compliment your meal. Seats are $130++ and can be reserved by going to their website.

M.I.K.I.D and Red, White & Brew partner to raise money

Red, White & Brew is partnering for the month of May with Mentally Ill Kids in Distress (M.I.K.I.D) at its Mesa and Prescott restaurants. The Arizona nonprofit is committed to improving the behavioral health and wellness of children and youth through its family centered approach.

Starting today through May 31st guests can “Dine & Donate” by ordering the popular Lemon Basil Chicken entree and or a Church Music IPA from The Shop Beer Co. $2 will be donated for each entree ordered and $1 from each beer sold hurchwill be donated to directly to M.I.K.I.D. Every bite and sip will help to raise money for critical support, preventive education and reunification of families navigating the challenges of youth mental health throughout Arizona.

For more information visit Red, White & Brew’s and M.I.K.I.D. websites.

In the Melrose District, Royale Kitchen launches daily specials

The recently opened Royale Kitchen + Cocktails has become a neighborhood gathering spot within Phoenix’s Melrose District for its creative cocktails and delicious dishes. This week they’re rolling out six new daily food & drink specials for locals and visitors to enjoy.

  • Monday – Pitchers & Platters: Four mix-and-match sliders (burger, grilled chicken, or crispy chicken) plus a pitcher of Modelo, Mich Ultra, or a signature cocktail for $38.
  • Tuesday – Tapas Night: Two tacos for $8 (veggie, grilled chicken, or pork), $8 Nachos Jr. (add chicken for $3), $10 Chips, Salsa & Queso, $5 tequila shots, and $6 house margaritas.
  • Wednesday – Humpday Happy Hour: Select apps from $3.50, $4 Modelo & Mich Ultra drafts, $5 wells, $6 Deep Eddy, house wine, and champagne, and $7 YUMtinis.
  • Thursday – RKC Martini Social: $7 YUMtinis all night long.
  • Friday – Flashback Fridays: $7 flashy cocktail of the week with throwback music videos.
  • Saturday & Sunday – Funday:
    • Brunch (10 AM–3 PM): $6 mimosas, $8 Bloody Marys, $13 bottles of champagne, $11 espresso martinis, and more.
    • Sat & Sun Funday (2–6 PM): $3 drafts, $5 wells, $6 Tito’s, plus DJ Sundays on the patio.

Wine trends to watch in 2025 from LDV Winery’s Peggy Fiandaca

We’re a 1/3 of the way through 2025 and what a crazy year it’s been so far around the world and in the global wine industry. LDV Winery co-owner Peggy Fiandaca offered up some wine trends for 2025 earlier in the year, now with tariffs on imported wines about to kick in, climate change and natural disasters on the rise now would a good time to see her eight trends to watch for the rest of the year and what has happened in the first few months of 2025.

  1. Labor shortages are real! “We anticipate this issue growing, particularly in the agriculture and hospitality industries,” she says.
  2. Supply-chain disruptions are a continual challenge for the wine industry, particularly due to high shipping costs and the threat of increased tariffs.
  3. Environmental concern is growing across all consumer demographics. “Consumers are looking for brands focused on sustainability and producing natural wines. The term ‘natural wine’ is unregulated, and the definition can be very broad; however, it has taken hold in popular vernacular,” Fiandaca says, adding, “LDV Winery has focused on being environmentally sustainable since our first grapevines were planted.”
  4. Health and wellness will continue to impact the wine industry. While there is increasing demand for wines with lower alcohol, low calorie and reduced sugar content. “However, there appears to be a lack of understanding between lower alcohol and reduced sugar content,” she adds. “The two are not always directly related.” LDV Winery table wines have always been zero residual sugar, gluten-free, and vegan.
  5. Consumers are looking for immersive wine experiences with an educational focus. People want to enjoy a wine tasting experience and learn how the wine was made or where and how the grapes are grown.
  6. New wine regions, like Arizona or Texas, are becoming popular wine destinations. “This trend is partly due to the high cost of wine tasting in traditional destinations like Napa Valley and Sonoma County,” Fiandaca says. “There is a growing conversation about whether these famed wine regions have priced themselves out of the wine tourism market.”
  7. There is a movement to demonize all alcohol consumption, even moderate wine drinking. “The link between alcohol drinking, including wine, and cancer is being widely publicized without caveats of moderation, the impact of other underlying health issues or balancing the conversation with wine’s positive health impact,” she says. “This worldwide movement is pushing governments, including the U.S., to more strongly regulate alcohol, even wine.”
  8. Federal regulators are considering potential wine label requirements for ingredient listings. One argument against the new regulation is that the cost of implementing it for small producers will be hard to absorb. “LDV Winery’s policy has always been to tell you what is in our wine without being forced,” says Fiandaca.