Month: March 2017

Just in time for spring Pomelo at The Orchard offers Happy Hour all day

The arrival of spring last week means longer days and a longer opportunity to enjoy Happy Hour at Pomelo at The Orchard daily from 11 a.m – 6 p.m. No better way to enjoy this great weather indoors or out at this former citrus farm turned restaurant, ice cream and candy store.

Pomelo Happy Hour

During Happy Hour guest can enjoy $5 cocktails, $6 specialty cocktails, $5 glasses of wine, $1 off beers and a menu of special appetizers in the bar and lounge. You can also try the signature Bellissimo cocktail made with Pomelo’s own Pomelo Vodka, Blackberry Thyme syrup, fresh grapefruit juice and sparkling wine.

Daily Specials

If a 7 hour Happy Hour isn’t motivating you enough to visit Pomelo maybe these daily specials will.

Monday and Tuesday—All day a pizza and select bottle of wine is just $20.

Wednesday—All day it’s just $10 for two tacos and a house margarita.

Thursday—From open to close a Grass-Fed Burger and Beer is just $13.

Friday—Start the weekend early with happy hour from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. in the bar and lounge area.

Saturday and Sunday—Brunch is served from until 4 p.m. and there are $5 Mimosas, Bloody Marys or Sangria available.

Pomelo at The Orchard is at 7100 N. 12th St. Phoenix 85020 (602)633-2442 http://www.pomelophx.com/

 

U.S. Egg launches “secret” menu items, get a sneak peek here.

The 1st U.S. Egg was hatched back in 1986 with the Gebran family purchasing it in 1991 and hatching 5 more locations across the valley in the last 26 years. To celebrate the 31st anniversary of the opening of the 1st restaurant U.S. Egg has unveiled a “secret menu” for its loyal customers.

Jalapeno Scramble photo courtesy of U.S. Egg

The  restaurant serves breakfast and lunch and the 8 “secret” menu items will be available all day, every day at all 6 locations. All menu items include fresh ingredients and creative flavors for its classic and unique menu items. U.S. Egg is one of the first restaurants to offer a gluten-free menu and is known for their Protein Pancake.

U.S. Egg “secret” menu items

  • Jalapeno Scramble – eggs, chorizo, cilantro, tomatoes, jalapenos, onions and Jack cheese. Served with hash browns and a tortilla. 11.49
  • Durango Burrito – eggs, chicken, green chilies and jack cheese. Topped with salsa and served with hash browns. 11.49
  • South Beach French Toast – French toast topped with blueberries, bananas, strawberries and fresh whipped cream. 11.49
  • Manhattan Skillet – Italian sausage, green peppers, onions, Jack cheese served on a bed of hash browns with an English muffin and two eggs. 11.49
  • Roast Beef Melt – roast beef, melted cheddar cheese, tomato and mayonnaise served on a grilled sourdough bun with a side of fries or coleslaw. 11.49
  • Hawaiian BBQ Chicken – barbeque chicken is topped with grilled pineapple and melted Swiss cheese served with fries or cole slaw. 11.49
  • BLLT – bacon, lettuce, tomato and turkey served on whole wheat toast served with fries or cole slaw. 11.49
  • Southwestern Chicken Melt – chicken breast, melted cheddar cheese, green chili sauce served on a grilled sourdough bun with a side of fries or cole slaw. 11.49
    South Beach French Toast. Photos courtesy of U.S. Egg

    In addition to good food U.S. Egg recently started selling their own locally roasted signature blend Guatemalan Sunrise coffee.

To find a U.S. Egg near you visit http://www.useggrestaurant.com/

 

 

 

The 6th annual Southeast Arizona Wine Growers Festival returns April 22nd & 23rd

The Arizona wine industry continues to gain respect and popularity by showcasing wines from the unique terroir the Arizona desert has to offer. There is no better way to experience wines from a particular region or AVA (American Viticulture Area) than going right to the region to taste the wine and feel the soil which influence the way the grapes are grown and wines taste. The weekend of April 22nd & 23rd is the weekend that wine drinkers will gather in Elgin to celebrate the 6th Annual Southeast Arizona Wine Growers Festival at Kief-Joshua Vineyards.

Southeast Arizona Wine Festivals photos courtesy of Janelle Bonifield

The 2 day event will be a great opportunity for festival goers to not only taste the wines from the region but to also learn about what makes Southeast Arizona wines unique from other regions of Arizona, U.S.A and the world. The opportunity to spend the weekend in Arizona wine country among the vineyards and with wine growers and wine makers can make for a lifetime of memories.

Over 15 acclaimed wineries will be pouring new releases including Burning Tree, Pillsbury Wine Co., Callaghan Vineyards and Arizona Stronghold as the AVA celebrates its 33rd anniversary as Arizona’s first and only AVA and one of the 1st wine regions in the country to be given AVA status.

The exciting Southeast Arizona (AVA) was named one of the 10 Best Wine Trails in the United States by USA Today.

“We are once again bringing together wine makers from all across Arizona. This year we want to celebrate that on October 26, 1984 the Sonoita/Elgin Wine Growing Region was granted AVA status, making it one of oldest federal government granted viticulture areas in the United States.” – Kief Manning, Winemaker, Kief-Joshua Vineyards

When you’re not sipping on wine or speaking with wine makers, festival goers will be able to taste food from food vendors while listening to live music. The Chili Appreciation Society (CASI) will also be holding a regional two-day professional cook off  with attendees casting their vote in the People’s Choice Competition with proceeds to benefit Rotary International.

The festival goes from 11a.m. -5p.m. both days at Kief-Joshua Vineyards 370 Elgin Rd. Elgin AZ. 85611 with tickets on sale for $20-$40 at https://www.winegrowers.eventbrite.com/

 

 

 

 

Bourbon, Brews and Basketball up on the roof at Hotel Valley Ho

All eyes will be on the Phoenix area as we are set to host the NCAA’s Final Four basketball tournament the first weekend of April. Scottsdale’s Hotel Valley Ho is getting us psyched up for the big game with another edition of their Rooftop Beer Garden series with a Bourbon, Brews and Basketball themed party on Sunday April 2nd from 3-6pm.

Guests will be elevatored up 8 stories to the roof top to not only see gorgeous views of Camelback Mountain and 360 degree scenic views of the valley but to sip on beers from Arizona Wilderness Brewery Company and bourbon from Woodford Reserve.

A delicious BBQ & Southern food menu will be served and includes Beef Brisket and Pork Cheek Baked Beans from the smoker, Whole Roasted BBQ Chicken & Beer Glazed Pork Spare Ribs at the Chef Station along with a Salad Bar where guest can choose any or all of the side dishes that include Ham Hock Collard Greens w/ Jalepeno, Shrimp and Corn “Frogmore Stew” and more.

Be sure to save room for desserts such as Brown Sugar Peach Cobbler with Ice Cream and Classic Southern Buttermilk Pie with Lemon.

DJ Mr. P-Body will be spinning tunes to keep us entertained while watching vintage championship basketball clips.

Advance reservations are required for this event and cost is $59 per person plus tax & gratuity. Reservations can be made by calling (480)376-2600 and more information can be found at http://www.hotelvalleyho.com/

 

A garden fresh Easter brunch at The Farm at South Mountain

With St. Patrick’s Day in the rear view mirror and spring training closer to the end than the start, restaurants are now looking to Easter Sunday for more spring time fun & celebrating. The Farm at South Mountain is no different and is gearing up for its garden fresh Easter brunch on Sun. April 16th.

Considered as one of the best brunches in Phoenix, seating will be begin at 8:30 a.m. and every 15 minutes after that until 11:15 a.m. Guest will be able to enjoy over 10 buffet options that include a selection of fresh-baked pastries including Coffee Cake, Danishes and more along with The Farm’s famous Pecan French Toast, scrambled eggs with Cheddar cheese, salsa, vegetables and more.You can’t serve brunch without Applewood smoked bacon and country sausage.

If you prefer to eat on the lighter side several salads including Caprese and Kale & Quinoa will be available along with yogurt and granola, dried fruits and cheeses and much more.

Make sure you’re wearing your Sunday best as the Easter bunny will be there to have your photo taken. After brunch burn it off by playing one of the several yard games, stroll through the garden or the chicken coop.

This special brunch is priced at $55.95 for adults, $25.95 for children 8-12 years, $15.95 for children 2-7 years and children under 2 are free. An 8.1% sales tax & 20% production fee are extra and cancellations will not be accepted after April 12th. For more information, to view the full menu & make a reservation for the family visit http://www.thefarmatsouthmountain.com/

The Farm at South Mountain is at 6106 S. 32nd St. Phoenix 85042. (602)243-9081

 

Traditional Passover dinner available at Chompie’s delicatessens

With the Jewish holiday Passover less than a month away Chompie’s Deli’s are getting ready to serve the traditional holiday dinner from April 10th – 18th.  The dine-in menu will be available the first 2 nights of April 10th & 11th with take away meals available for all 8 nights.

What is Passover?

The 8 night festival of Passover celebrates the Israelites release from slavery in ancient Egypt. “Coming together for the Passover meal is an important tradition for us at Chompie’s,” says Chompie’s founder Lovey Borenstein. “This is our 29th year providing this special dinner and each year, and we’re so happy to be able to offer it to our friends and family.”

Passover dinner

Dinner for adults is $32.95 and $14.95  for children and the menu is as follows.

  • Choice of Housemade Chopped Liver OR Gefilte Fish with Beet Horseradish
  • Choice of Chicken Soup with Matzo Ball OR Sweet and Sour Cabbage
  • Entrée Choice of:
    • Half roasted chicken with savory Passover Stuffing
    • Braised Brisket of Beef with Gravy
    • Steelhead Salmon Filet
    • Roasted Turkey Breast with Passover Stuffing and Gravy
  • Potato Latke with Applesauce OR Roasted Potatoes
  • String Beans OR Old World Tzimmis
  • Assortment of Holiday Cakes

Dinner will be served from 5 p.m. til closing and a “To Go” menu will be available for those that want to celebrate the holiday at home with the traditional dinner. Reservations are strongly recommended and dinner will be served at all 5 Chompie’s Phoenix area locations.

Scottsdale:          9301 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale 85260. 480-860-0475

Tempe:                 1160  E. University, Tempe 85281.  480-557-0700

Phoenix:              4550-324 E. Cactus Rd., Phoenix 85032. 602-710-2910

Chandler:            3481 W. Frye Rd., Chandler 85226. 480-398-3008

Glendale:            7700 W. Arrowhead Towne Center #1145. 623-344-3104

For more information go to http://www.chompies.com/

 

 

 

 

 

Arizona’s Grabbagreen continues local & out of state expansion

Healthy eating continues to become more convenient in Arizona and beyond as the 4-year-old Scottsdale based Grabbagreen has agreed to open 2 new locations in the southeast valley. In a franchise agreement with brother and sister Matt Black & Janae Furr of Black & Furr LLC it will make for the company’s 80th franchise agreement since they started franchising in 2015.

In addition to the Queen Creek & Chandler locations other Arizona franchisees will be opening locations around Phoenix. A Gilbert location at Loop 202 & Gilbert Rd, is their 1st east valley location that opened this past Monday. A second Scottsdale location at Scottsdale Rd & Bell Rd. will open in May bringing a total of 8 Grabbagreens in Arizona.

Fresh pressed juice. Photos courtesy of Grabbagreen

Grabbagreen serves healthy fast food that is made to order with green based super foods on a menu that includes ingredients that are naturally gluten-free, preservative and GMO free along with proteins that are hormone and antibiotic free and the menu is mostly organic. The menu includes bowls, fresh pressed juices, handcrafted smoothies, Acai bowls and a kids friendly menu. Signature items are available along with a “Grab Your Own” option based on individual dietary needs.

“Living in Arizona, we have been big fans of Grabbagreen since it opened its first location in 2013” say Matt Black. “Grabbagreen was the obvious choice for us. We fell in love with business opportunity that Grabbagreen brings to our family and we can’t wait to grow the Arizona -based brand and bring healthy fast food to the East Valley.”

Grabbagreen has 15 restaurants in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, New Jersey, North Carolina, Tennessee and Texas with plans to open 20 more in 2017.
For more information and to find a location near you visit http://www.grabbagreen.com/

Ocean Poke Company to open with week long specials

It seems like Poke, the Hawaiian raw fish salad, is the biggest food craze of 2017 much like the FroYo was a few years back. It seems like every other week there is a new Poke restaurant or location opening around Phoenix and the week of March 27th is no different. Ocean Poke Company opens along the popular restaurant row of Indian School Road in Phoenix.

The fast casual Ocean Poke Company offers fresh “poke bowls” with vegetables, grains, noodles, fruits, sauces and proteins which are healthful and energizing. During the week-long celebration many daily specials will be available.

“Our options are a little different—we wanted to feature both signature bowl ideas for poke fans who want to make it easy—and customizable options with more variations for those who really want to create their ultimate bowl,” said Ocean Poke Co. Co-Founder Chad Ahrendt.

The 7 signature bowls are offered with 2 protein scoops for $10 and 3 protein scoops for $12 and include

  • OPC: White Rice, Tuna, Salmon, Cucumber, Carrots, Watermelon Radish, Wasabi, Green Onion, OPC Sauce
  • Cali: White Rice, Imitation Crab, Cucumber, Avocado, Green Onion, Pickled Ginger, Wasabi, Sesame Seeds, Spicy Mayo
  • Kim Chi: Tofu Noodles, Albacore, Shrimp, Kimchi, Daikon Sprouts, Pickled Red Onion, Green Onion, Masago, Sesame Seeds, OPC Sauce
  • Heat Check: White Rice, Spicy Tuna, Cucumber, Jalapeno, Wasabi, Green Onion, Daikon Sprouts, Chile Flakes, OPC Spicy Sauce
  • Go Hawaiian: Mixed Greens, Cucumber, Edamame, Green Onion, Sesame Seeds, OPC Sauce
  • Citrus: Tofu Rice Noodles, Albacore, Scallop, Mango Relish, Edamame, Watermelon Radish, Coconut Flake, Citrus-Ponzu Sauce
  • Go Green:Quinoa, Mixed Greens, Cucumber, Watermelon Radish, Carrot, Green Onion, Avocado, Daikon Sprouts, Edamame, Pickled Red Onion, OPC Sauce

Ocean Poke Co. is the brainchild of 4 successful entrepreneurs & Phoenix natives Chad Ahrendt, Chris Mercato, Charles Richardson and Brian Delia who bring many years of combined experience to the company.  “We have managed many businesses in the natural health industry, and I know this will help impact Ocean Poke Co. for the positive,” said Richardson.

Below is the schedule of daily specials.

March 27 & 28: 50% off your bowl

March 29 & 30: Buy one bowl, get one free (equal or lesser value)

March 31: A percentage of proceeds will benefit Phoenix Children’s Hospital

April 1: Free Cali Bowl or $8 off any other bowl, 11 am – 1 pm

Ocean Poke Company is at 3619 E. Indian School Rd. Phoenix 85018 and hours are 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Sun-Thursday) and 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturdays. http://www.oceanpokeco.com/

 

Lunch & Learn at Marcellino Ristorante

If you’ve ever wanted to learn what makes classic Italian cuisine so good now’s your chance as Chef Marcellino Verzino of his namesake restaurant, Marcellino Ristorante is hosting 2 Lunch & Learns  in coming weeks sharing his secrets and recipes.

Pasta & Pesto

Saturday March 18th is when 16 lucky guests will pull up a seat at the chef’s island and will watch and learn as chef Marcellino creates his homemade pasta and delicious pesto.

Gnocchi & Tomato Sauce

Come back on Saturday April 22nd and learn how he makes his Gnocchi and light tomato sauce as you watch chef gracefully make his way around the exhibition kitchen preparing his delicious potato dumplings.

Only 16 seats are available for each of the classes that will start at 1pm and conclude about 3pm. Attendees will dine on salad,  pasta and dessert after his cooking demonstration. Cost for each of the exclusive Lunch & Learns are $35++.

Reserve your seat by calling the restaurant at 480-990-9500.

Marcellino Ristorante is at 7114 E. Stetson Dr. Scottsdale 85251. http://marcellinoristorante.com/

 

 

 

Twin Peaks celebrates International Whiskey Day with their Kentucky Mule on March 27th

Another day another day celebrating a food or drink and on March 27th whiskies from around the world get their own day to shine as somebody has anointed the last Monday of March International Whiskey Day.  To celebrate the two Phoenix area Twin Peaks (Phoenix & Scottsdale) are putting a unique twist on the classic cocktail Moscow Mule with their Kentucky Mule on this festive day.

Twin Peaks will be 86’ing the vodka on this day and using Maker’s Mark Bourbon whiskey in its place for their Kentucky Mule. If you can’t make it out to Twin Peaks to toast International Whiskey Day with the brown spirit you can make your own Mule with Twin Peaks recipe below. Cheers!

Ingredients below yield 1 cocktail

1.5 oz. Maker’s Mark

.5 oz. lemon juice

.5 oz. simple syrup

2 oz. ginger beer

1 lemon wheel

1 mint spring

Directions:

Add Maker’s Mark to a copper mule mug. Add lemon juice and simple syrup and stir with a bar spoon. Top with ice and ginger beer. Garnish with a mint spring and lemon wedge.

Twin Peaks two Valley locations – Camelback (2135 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix) and Scottsdale (8787 E. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale). http://www.twinpeaksrestaurant.com/

 

 

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