I moved to Scottsdale in 1993 coming from New Jersey seeking warm weather and a laid back lifestyle. I started in the local restaurant industry after my arrival at Cafe Terra Cotta in Scottsdale as a server with local chefs Charleen Badman (FnB) and David Traina (Liberty Market) in the kitchen. The wine bug bit me and I worked at AZ Wine to learn about wine before it was cool and trendy.
From there I went full-time into the wine industry where I sold beer, wine and spirits to local restaurants, wine bars, retailers and resort where gained an appreciation for the local restaurant community.
About that time I became a “foodie” getting to eat at some of the best restaurants in Phoenix and around the world when I had the chance to travel. Spending my time in around the local wine industry I’ve built many relationships with chefs, restaurateurs &Â winemakers and marketers with those relationships still today.
Pulling Corks and Forks started in 2010 as a wine review blog, it quickly became a place for news about Phoenix restaurants. I focus mostly on locally owned restaurants, resorts, food festivals, wineries, brewers, distillers and more. I’ve seen the Phoenix restaurant scene and the Arizona wine industry grow into a community that has garnered respect on the national and international food & wine scene.
Since then I’ve written an occasional guest blog post and wrote burger reviews for the now defunct Phoenix Examiner. While those reviews are no long on the internet I saved all, one day you may see them. I’ve become a food judge for the Arizona Taco Festival and other food & drink competitions over the years. I guess like to eat & drink.
You’ll probably bump into me checking out a new restaurant, at a food festival or around town. Feel free to say hi as I always like to meet those who read my blog.
I hope you enjoy and take advantage of the information I’ve been able to provide.
Cheers.
Follow me.
