The Gridiron Monster Burger and more game-day specials at Lakeside Bar & Grill

When the college football season starts this Saturday, August 30th and the NFL games next Sunday, September 7th, Northwest Peoria’s Lakeside Bar & Grill will be ready with 2 new game-day menus and specials. One of the new specials they will be showcasing is the massive Gridiron Monster Burger on Saturdays. All games will be shown on over 40 hi-definition TVs.

Over-the-Top Tailgate Eats and the Gridiron Monster Burger

Every Saturday starting at 9:00 a.m. college football fans can start their day with a Bloody Mary Cart, 43 cans of Huss Brewing’s Devil’s Halo, $3 domestic pints and tailgate eats that include the Gridiron Monster Burger, Hail Mary mozzarella sticks, Chain Gang Chili Cheese Fries and the First Down Sampler.

The towering $40 burger has layers of four beef patties, a crispy chicken breast, bacon, cheddar and pepper jack cheese, onion rings and mozzarella sticks, all piled high with chipotle ranch, lettuce, tomato, onion and pickles. Served with a pound of fries and dipping sauces, the burger is designed to feed four.

“Game days are about more than just watching the screen,” said Janeth Moore, vice president of operations for POV Foods, which owns Lakeside Bar & Grill. “We’ve created a lineup that makes football season feel like a weekly destination for good food and excitement.”

NFL Sundays Brunch

Prefer to watch the pros on Sundays, starting at 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. guests can enjoy breakfast (pictured above). Guests can enjoy game-day favorites such as the Sunday Snap Breakfast Burrito with eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes and cheese, the Red Zone Breakfast Sandwich with eggs, bacon and cheddar on a toasted bun, and the Gridiron Breakfast Bowl layered with eggs, potatoes, sausage, peppers and cheese. For a sweeter option, the RPO Pancake Bites feature mini pancakes dusted with powdered sugar and served with syrup.

Enjoy all-day happy hour prices on beer and $2 Tito’s Gatorade Shots.

“Our goal is to create an all-day experience for fans, whether they’re here for the early games, brunch or to stay through the evening matchups,” Moore said. “Football season is about community, food and energy, and we want Lakeside to be the place that captures it all.”

For more information and to see the full menus visit Lakeside’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.

PHX Brewing Co. and Huss Brewing Co. to merge

The two celebrated Arizona breweries are merging into one company under the name Zonafide Beverages LLC its been announced. The brands will remain independent but brewing operations will be consolidated to Tempe under Jeff Huss as Brewmaster. A featured post will offer details of the merger and what beer fans can expect going forward soon!

Australian wine tasting at GenuWine Arizona tonight

Go down under for a quick trip for 3 tastes of southern hemisphere wines tonight at the Central & Roosevelt wine bar from 6-8 p.m. Wine Club members are free and non-members are $10(Join the wine club!) and all get 20% off bottles from tonight’s tatting.

2025 Fall Arizona Restaurant Week dates announced

Hot off horizon Chef Week, the Arizona Restaurant Association has Friday, September 19th- Sunday, September 28th the twice yearly ARW. For first timers, Arizona restaurants offer up special 3-course meal for $33, $44 or $55. September 1st, ARA will publish the list of participating restaurants and their menus as the list continues to grow for the popular 10-day culinary adventure.

The Delicatessen set to open in September

Chef Joey Maggiore opens his newest concept, The Delicatessen on Wednesday, September 10th on Tatum Blvd. across from the new Paradise Valley development. The fast casual concept has a  new name since it was announced in February but will have the same New York Jewish style deli feel and taste. In the week’s ahead The Maggiore Group will announce details about hiring dozens of front and back of the house team members. Follow them @thedelicatessenaz for hiring and grand opening updates.

 

 

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

Summer Sunshine season menu at Over Easy

Now available at all 17 locations the bold and bright are available for dine-in, take-out or delivery, except alcohol.

  • Pork Belly HashSweet potato, crispy pork belly, caramelized onion, poblano, cherry tomato, bell pepper, cotija cheese, baja sauce, cilantro, and two eggs any style
  • Brown Butter BeignetsFresh berries, powdered sugar, house jam, and orange blossom honey
  • Sunny Side SpritzA summer-perfect blend of Aperol, peach, lemon, sparkling wine, and a splash of soda. Light, citrusy, and just sweet enough — it’s brunch sunshine in a glass.

New 4-course Chef’s Menu at Rusconi’s American Kitchen

Chef Michael Rusconi is offering a new menu for $60++ per person with wine pairings for an additional $29. The dinner starts with the chef’s amuse bouche before serving….

  • First Course—Tomato and Burrata Salad with marinated cucumbers, shallots, arugula pesto and basil sorbet Optional wine pairing—Squealing Pig Sauvignon Blanc–Marlborough, New Zealand
  • Second Course—Pan-Seared Georges Bank Scallops with English pea risotto, edamame beans and ginger carrot jus Optional wine pairing—Sonoma Cutrer Chardonnay–Russian River
  • Third Course—Pecan Wood Grilled Beef Tenderloin with potato puree, candied baby carrots and cabernet reduction Optional wine pairing—Browne Family Vineyards Heritage Cabernet Sauvignon–Columbia Valley
  • Fourth Course—Dark Chocolate Bread Pudding with caramel, chocolate and vanilla sauces
  • Optional wine pairing—Chef’s selected dessert wine

Reservations are suggested by heading to their website.

Local beer flights at GenuWine Arizona

Summertime sipping calls for cold beer and now at the Downtown Phoenix wine bar you can get 6 tastes of local draft beers for $15. Wine Club members can save 15% as well.

Christmas in July at Koibito Poke

Loyalty app users can save 20% off their entire order through Monday, July 14th when placing an order under the Rewards tab on the app. Order ahead or in-store for pick-up or delivery.

BOGO Tuesdays at Aridus Wine Company are back

Stock up at their Scottsdale or Willcox tasting room to get a bottle free when you purchase one at regular price. Only available on their 7 new releases, not available on clearance wines.

Four Corners Taphouse bringing elevated sports bar to NW Peoria

Next Monday, June 23rd marks the opening of Westside Concepts newest concept, Four Corners Taphouse on Lake Pleasant Pkwy in Peoria. The new upscale sports bar takes over the original location of Haymaker, another concept from owner Joey Lucidi and his team at WCs. Haymaker relocated across the street last year, and the transformation began. WCs also owns Copper & Sage, Maple & Rye, NW Coffee and other West Valley concepts.

“I am so excited for this new concept,” says Lucidi. “We’ve been wanting a local sports bar and taphouse for years. Moving Haymaker gave us the perfect opportunity to make it happen, and we couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. It’s going to be the go-to spot for all the big games and fun times.”

During the first week of operation the restaurant will offer happy hour all day, every day until Sunday, June 29th. The “ultimate game-day spot” offers over 4,400 square feet of space with indoor and outdoor seating to watch the game on 21 oversized 85-inch flat screen TVs with 360 degrees of viewing from every seat and 24 beers on tap. The space was designed by Social Design Studio.

On the menu at Four Corners Taphouse

The menu will offer a variety of classic and new dishes that work well for date night or to watch your favorite team. Dishes include Chicken Nachos, Italian Beef Sandwiches, The Mac-Daddy Burger, Artisan Pizzas, Chicken Philly Hoagie and more. A curated cocktail and wine menu will be available in addition to rotating taps for guests to pair their meals with. Lunch specials and rotating dinner specials will be available Monday-Friday.

Four Corners Taphouse will open daily from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and until 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The restaurant is at 24762 N. Lake Pleasant Pkwy and the full menu, and more information can be found at 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.

Ocotillo Restaurant launches Arizona inspired Spring menu

Set among Palo Verde trees and Spring flora that adorns the property, Central Phoenix’s Ocotillo Restaurant has rolled out its new Spring menu and hasn’t looked far for inspiration. Chef Michael Shirilla’s New American menu is inspired by Arizona and its local and seasonal ingredients for more than a dozen new dishes.

“I’m excited to introduce these delicious new dishes to our guests. We’ve worked hard to develop innovative flavor combinations for a new twist on familiar comfort foods,“ said Shirilla.

In addition to the new dishes Ocotillo Restaurant also has a new beverage program that includes dozens of new crafted cocktails, a larger wine list and more beers from local brewers. Below are a few of the highlights from the new Arizona Influence menu.

  • Thick-cut bone-in pork chop, served with green beans, miso-mustard vinaigrette, citrus-honey sambal glazed fingerlings, scallions, herbs, and chiles.

  • Grilled octopus with romesco sauce, crispy fingerlings, artichoke hearts, grilled lemon, and chimichurri.

  • Orecchiette – sausage, greens, garlic, shallots, tomatoes, Calabrian pork jus, basil, oregano, and parmesan.

  • Bucatini with green olives, capers, eggplant, shallots, artichoke, lemon sauce, herbs, basil oil, and crispy garlic.

Ocotillo is at 3243 N. 3rd St. Phoenix 85012. For more information and to view the entire menu 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.

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.

Willcox Wine Festival coming for 2 days in May

As festival season continues its march towards the quiet time of an Arizona summer one of the last festivals is on the calendar in May. The Willcox Wine Festival is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, May 17th & 18th with the bi-annual event hosting a Winemakers Dinner, Saturday evening at 6:30 p.m. at the Willcox Community Center with the festival at 130 N. Railroad Ave.

The popular growing region of southeastern Arizona with its arid and Mediterranean like terroir and weather is known for growing Rhone varietals including Syrah, Grenache & Mourvedre and other varietals such as Malbec and Tempranillo. The region is home to many wineries and vineyards with 17 of them pouring their wines at the festival. Wineries scheduled to be pouring wine include Pillsbury Wine Co. Copper Horse Vineyard, Golden Rule Vineyards and others. A beer garden and food trucks will be on hand along with local artists, craft vendors and live music.

Tickets for the Willcox Wine Festival and Winemakers Dinner are on sale online for $35 on Saturday, $30 on Sunday, $15 for beer tasting and $75 for the Winemaker Dinner. Tickets will be available at the door for an additional $5-$10. All tickets for the festival include 10 tastings and a commemorative glass.

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

Final weeks at Pillsbury Wine Co. Cottonwood Tasting Room

April 13th is the last time at the popular watering hole in Central Arizona to taste the award-winning wines. Come grab some bottles, have some wines and hear stories of the good times had in Cottonwood. It’s open Wednesday – Sunday 12:00-7:00 p.m.

The fifth annual “Dollar for a Dozen” returns to Over Easy in April

The month-long fundraiser for Phoenix Children’s Hospital where guests at all 17 locations can donate $1. The restaurant will match by donating a dozen eggs to the United Food Bank for every dollar donated. Over $65,000 dollars have been raised for the cause since 2020.http://www.eatatovereasy.com/

Chateau Musar dinner at Christopher’s at Wrigley Mansion

Seats are going quickly for the Wednesday, April 15th dinner that will feature wines from Lebanon’s Bekka Valley. The reception will start at 6:00 p.m. and guests will hear about the wines and pairings guided by the expertise of Marc Hochar, wine director Jodi Bronchtein and General Manager Wesam Kawa. Seats are $550++ per person and can be reserved here.

Spring ’25 Arizona Restaurant Week dates announced

The Arizona restaurant scene get its twice annual boost with ARW from Friday, May 16th – Sunday, May 25th. The 10-day event has restaurants around the state creating prie-fixe menus for $33, $44, or $55 and includes well over 100 restaurants participating with at least 8 first time restaurants. On May 1st the website start posting restaurant’s menus for the event and will update as more restaurants join.

Pie ciders and Guinness on tap at Cider Corps.

Newly added to the downtown Mesa’s cidery’s tap program include American Apple Pie, Blueberry, Mixed Berry and Cherry Pie. Guinness has been added to create Snakebites with their cider and other craft beers are now available including beers from Flagstaff’s Dark Star Brewing and Coronado Brewing beers from CA.

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

2nd anniversary specials at sneakybird

Saturday, February 15th is a day of celebrating at all 3 locations in Scottsdale, Gilbert & Surprise. Free cookies to the first 200 people, double sneakybird rewards points and giveways will be happening. It’s the official launch of Camp Sneaky, its new community giving arm that focuses on supporting education at all levels.

February’s Third Tuesday tasting & dinner at Romeo’s

The Downtown Gilbert cafe has its 3-course dinner and wine pairing dinner next Tuesday, February 18th. The main course is a pan seared pork chop paired with a Italian red blend. The dinner is $48++ per person and reservations can be made by calling 480-962-4224.

New “eggrything” bagel now available at Chompie’s

All 4 locations in, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Chandler and Glendale rolled out the newest bagel this week. The egg-based bagel is seasoned with seeds throughout the bagel and is also topped with them and is available with their popular Mix & Match Box, a baker’s dozen for $14.99.

Huss Brewing is the Official Craft Beer of Sun Devil Athletics

The Sun Angel Collective announced the partnership with Huss Brewing going into the 2025-26 athletic seasons. Huss’s Devils Halo Angel Ale will be available at ASU sporting venues, at select retailers and on tap in local bars and restaurants. Proceeds will support the Sun Angel Collective to help support student athletes.

February case special at Aridus Wine Company

All month long get the 2020 Fume Blanc for $144 for a case ($12 a bottle) for non-members and only $96/case ($8 a bottle) for members. The case(s) can be picked up at their Scottsdale tasting room or delivered for $15. To order and join the wine club visit their website.