Category: breakfast

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.

Get your BBQ Passport stamped at Haymaker in May

May being National BBQ Month, the 4 Haymaker restaurants in the West Valley invite you to get your BBQ Passport stamped in exchange for food, kind of. When you dine at all 4 locations in Peoria (2), Goodyear and Buckeye in May you can get your Passport stamped and once you’ve dined all 4 locations you will get a $50 gift card for a future visit.

Haymaker and Westside Concepts Owner Joey Lucidi has been perfecting his in-house smoked BBQ dishes and signature bourbon BBQ sauce since 2013. If BBQ isn’t for you, Haymaker offers a full menu of breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes made from family recipes. Only !00% Angus Chuck beef is used for their burgers and signature dishes include Mama’s Meatloaf and the Haymaker Benedict and Pulled Pork Skillet are served all day along with all the breakfast dishes on the menu.

For more information and to find a location near you visit Haymaker’s website.

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

Get the Golden Pancake, win pancakes for life at Eggstasy new Queen Creek location

Pancake lovers need to head to the new Queen Creek location tomorrow Saturday, April 5th as 3 guests will find a Golden Ticket with their order. Order any specialty pancakes or pancakes as your side dish for a chance to win. Its owner Peter Yarros way of saying “thank you” to the QC community who’s embraced the new location since opening in January.

Boo-Rrito raffle at Burrito Express in April

As ASU running back Cam Skattebo has announced he’s entering the upcoming NFL Draft guests ordering the signature Boo-Rrito any of the 7 restaurants around the valley will have the chance to enter the month-long raffle. Prizes include cleats, gloves and a signed football from the NFL hopeful. BE hopes to sell 3,000 Boo-Rrito’s (a hearty combination of chicken, beans, cheese, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, sour cream, guacamole and rice) in April.

Papago Orange Blossom is Beer of the Month at Famous 48

As spring begins to bloom so is the Mandarin Wheat beer from the locally owned brewer at the Scottsdale restaurant. A 16 oz. pint is $5 and a 22 oz. is $7 for the light fruity and smooth draft beer.

Greek wine tasting at GenuWine Arizona next Thursday

Have you ever had a Greek wine? Did you even know they made wine in Greece? Whether you did or didn’t know, the Roosevelt Row wine bar is pouring 3 Greek wines next Thursday, April 10th from 6-8 p.m. The cost is $10 unless you’re a Wine Club member then it’s free. Member or not you’ll get 20% off any bottles you purchase from the tasting.

Two from Arizona nominated for James Beard Award

The were over a dozen potential James Beard Award winners from Arizona when the semifinalists were announced earlier this year. The Foundation announced this week the nominees that will have the chance to win the prestigious restaurant industry award at the June 16th ceremony. Crystal Kass from Phoenix’s Valentine has the chance to win Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker and Lom Wong’s Yotaka Martin is up for Best Chef: Southwest.

Harold’s Corral introduces new owners and new dishes

Cave Creek’s original “Wild West Saloon and Restaurant”, Harold’s Cave Creek Corral is in the news as they introduce new owners and several new dishes to their menu. Co-owners Danny and Meri Piacquaido welcome new co-owners Mike “Z” and Kris Ziebart of Carefree as long-time co-owners Bill and Marie Vale have turned over the reins to the saloon that’s been around for over 90 years.

“After more than 21 incredible years, our dear friends and longtime partners, Bill and Marie Vale, have decided to pass the torch,” said Danny Piacquadio, Harold’s longtime co-owner and general manager. “Their leadership, dedication, and passion have helped shape Harold’s into the iconic gathering place it is today, fostering a strong community spirit, supporting local charities and schools, and making Harold’s a true Cave Creek institution.”

New co-owners Jim “Z” and Kris Ziebart with longtime co-owners Danny and Meri Piacquadio. Photo courtesy of Harold’s Cave Creek Corral.

Bill is known around town as “Harold’s Mayor” and says there is something that brings people together at Harold’s for fun times and networking. The new co-owners are Wisconsin natives where they spend the summer and have no problem with their new restaurant being “Heinz Field West”, a gathering spot for Pittsburgh Steelers fans during the football season. “I may have my own bar stool with a Packers sticker hidden underneath it,” Ziebart joked. “And Kris says she looks better in black and gold, so we have acquired some Steelers swag.”

New on the menu at Harold’s Corral

The popular Cave Creek saloon and restaurant welcomes locals and tourists who will see new dishes to the menu next time they visit.

The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and also has a reputation for attracting local and national musicians and bands who perform year-round. The owners are committed to growing the line-up of musicians and bands, including national acts, to perform at their outdoor venue behind the restaurant.

New dishes to the menu include….

Fried Pickles: Crispy battered dill pickle chips served with ranch dressing for $11.

JJ’s Loaded Totchos: Crispy tater tots with bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions served with a side of sour cream and chipotle ranch for $12.

Italian Stallion: A hearty sandwich featuring salami, Coppa, pepperoni and provolone cheese baked on an Italian roll and topped with jalapenos, onion, lettuce, tomatoes, and Italian dressing for $15.

Italian Calzone: A scrumptious calzone made with salami, Coppa, pepperoni, jalapeños, onions, and provolone cheese for $16.

Thunderbird Chicken: Delicious sauteed chicken with mushrooms in a wine cream sauce served over pasta for $19.

Grandma P’s Pizza. A Piacquadio family favorite featuring a 6 square pan focaccia style pizza with red sauce for $16.50 (toppings are extra).

For more information and to see the full menu visit their website.

 

 

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.

 

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.

Patsy’s New York Delicatessen coming to Paradise Valley

Hot off the grand reopening of The Mexicano, chef and restaurateur has announced his newest restaurant, Patsy’s New York Delicatessen opening this spring. The location should be familiar to many as it will be the newest concept in the former The Rosticceria restaurant and temporary home of The Mexicano pop-up. And if you’re familiar with Chef Joey’s other concepts you know there will be a signature attraction you haven’t seen in other restaurants.

“We’re bringing Arizona its first one-of-a-kind bagel bar, featuring 14 uniquely flavored cream cheeses—from artichoke & spinach dip to Nutella, and even a signature pastrami lox schmear,” says Chef Joey Maggiore, co-founder of The Maggiore Group and Chef Joey Concepts. “Our New York-style bagels will be made fresh in-house daily, using authentic New York water for that perfect bite.”

Named after Joey’s grandfather’s nickname when he was a butcher in The Bronx, Patsy”s New York Delicatessen will offer classic Jewish deli food with Joey’s modern touch. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner the restaurant will offer both a fast casual counter for those on the go along with a full-service dining room serving breakfast sandwiches & platters, house smoked & cooked deli meats and towering NY style deli sandwiches. Potato knishes, sugar cookies, NY style cheesecake and Black & White cookies will give the deli a taste of NY nostalgia. A custom soda bar where diners can craft their own egg cream will catch diners’ attention.

Christina Maggiore is bringing Manhattan to Arizona with her interior design that includes an immersive art installation, diner red accents and an old school charm atmosphere with staff donning vintage dining hats. Patsy’s will soon be hiring for dozens of positions in the near future and an announcement will be made. Patsy’s New York Delicatessen is at 12811 N. Tatum Blvd. Phoenix 85028. For more information and updates follow the on social media at @patsysdeliicatessen

 

 

 

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 pop-up at Chula Seafood’s “Rosie” location

Saturday 1/11 at 11 a.m. at the south Scottsdale location a.k.a “Rosie” is hosting a fried fish pop-up that includes Chula Seafood Alaskan cod, fish n chips, crispy cod tacos and more.

Hot Pastrami & Pie Week returns to Miracle Mile Deli

From Monday, 1/13- Saturday 1/18 guests can take advantage of a deal at the Central Phoenix deli. Choose from a Pastrami, New Yorker, Straw or Combo sandwich, a side of fries & a pickle and slice of pie for only $19.49.

OverEasy kicks off 2025 with new seasonal dishes

The breakfast and lunch spot with 16 locations throughout Arizona starts the year with two new sweet & savory dishes and a latte. Available for dine-in, take-out or delivery the new menu items are…..

  • Red Chile Tostadas – Two crispy corn tortillas, carnitas, feta cheese, onions, black beans, crema, smothered in red chile sauce served with a sunny side up egg
  • Cannoli French Toast – Sweet cannoli cream, cinnamon swirl bread, cannoli streusel, orange zest
  • Caramel Cold Brew Latte $6.49 (Spike It +$3) – Press Cold Brew, cream, house made caramel sauce, whipped cream

Macayo’s closing Tempe location to open a new one nearby

The Mexican restaurant and cantina is closing their location at Rural Rd. & Loop 202 as its lease expires at the end of January. Fear not Mexican food fans, their new location will be just down the road closer to ASU in The Cornerstone on the southeast corner of Rural & University. Expected to open in mid-February it will be more convenient for ASU students & the community and have an outdoor patio.

The restaurant is hiring front and back of the house team members at a hiring fair with on-site interviews on Monday 1/13 until Wednesday 1/15. For more information visit their website.

Buy 1 Get 1 at 1/2 price Taco Tuesday at Ghost Street Asian Taqueria

The virtual kitchen inside Scottsdale’s Ling & Louie’s Asian Bar & Grill offers this weekly deal at their website or through their app when you use promo code TACOTUESDAY at checkout.

 

 

 

 

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

Dia de los Muertos at Cien Agaves tomorrow

The “Day of the Dead” celebration takes place Saturday, November 2nd from 5 – 8 p.m. at the Old Town Scottsdale restaurant & cantina. Reservations are recommended for beer & tequila tastings, face painting, entertainment from DJ Flawlyss and more.

Devour Culinary Classic tickets on sale tomorrow

Phoenix area foodies will be at their computers bright and early tomorrow as tickets for the popular culinary event go on-sale to the public. The event sells out within weeks and more information and details can be found at my recent post.

National Donut Day at Randy’s Donuts

Election Day is National Donut Day at the popular donut shop. Wear your “I Voted” sticker on Tuesday, November 5th and purchase a dozen donuts at any of the three Phoenix area locations for a free specialty drink OR get a free small black or iced coffee with the purchase of a 1/2 dozen. All locations are open at 6 a.m.

Noble Ground Coffee opens new location in downtown Phoenix

The local coffee shop who is dedicating to making the communities which they serve better has opened their 8th location at 101 N. First Ave. The Official Coffee of The Phoenix Suns and Mercury has a unique concept where they share the proceeds of sales with local charitable causes identified by their parent company, Thrive Services Group. The new location is open Monday – Friday from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. and on the weekend from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

It’s pumpkin season at Chompie’s

Taste the flavors of fall until December 31st at all four Phoenix area locations including the new breakfast special, pumpkin pancake plate for $11.99. Add two eggs any style and bacon or sausage for $4.79. Other pumpkin flavored desserts and sweet treats are also available.