Category: downtown Scottsdale

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

It’s A Wrap Month and more Summer Specials at Miracle Mile Deli

Summer is here and so are some deals at the Central Phoenix deli in June and July.

June is “It’s a Wrap Month” at Miracle Mile Deli. Choose from three mouthwatering wraps for just $15, served with a side and a crisp kosher dill pickle:

Honey Crispy Chicken Wrap – Crispy white meat chicken, romaine hearts, wonton noodle strips, shredded carrots, and red cabbage, tossed in our Asian honey sesame dressing, and wrapped in a spinach flour tortilla.

Chipotle Ranch Turkey Wrap – White meat turkey breast, fresh avocado, shredded asadero cheese, romaine hearts, tri-color tortilla strips, shredded carrots, and red cabbage tossed with our Chipotle Ranch dressing, and wrapped in a spinach flour tortilla.

Athena Chicken Wrap – Grilled white meat chicken breast, Feta cheese, romaine hearts, crispy onion strings, shredded carrots, and red cabbage tossed with our Greek Athena vinaigrette, wrapped in a spinach flour tortilla.

From June 1 to August 31, Miracle Mile’s popular Summer of Shakes & Floats returns! Cool off with a classic milkshake or ice cream float for just $6.

“Burger at The Bar” in June at Virtu Honest Craft

Every Wednesday in June, Chef Gio Osso creates a uniquely creative burger paired with hand cut fries and draft beer. Sounds good right, but there are some rules….Only 12 burgers made each week, Only at the bar, No splitting, No reservations and No exceptions. Each burger for the following week gets revealed the Friday before(today!!) at their website or on their social media.

DAOU Wine Dinner at Tommy V’s Urban Kitchen

The Downtown Scottsdale restaurant hosts a 5-course dinner paired with wines from the Paso Robles winery on Friday, June 20th at 6:00 p.m. The night starts with an Heirloom Tomato Salad before the pasta courses and the Filet Mignon entree, all paired with red, white & rose wines. Seats are $125++ per person and to see the full menu & reserve your seat head to their website or call 480-427-2264.

New Summer hours at LDV Winery’s tasting room

The Downtown Scottsdale tasting room that pours award-winning Arizona wines has new hours for the summer. They open 7 days a week at noon until 8:00 p.m. Monday-Thursday, until 9:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday and until 6:00 p.m. on Sunday’s. Happy Hour just got happier where you can get a glass of wine for $7.00 from 3:00-6:00 p.m. Monday – Friday. Also happening this summer……..

Date Night Fridays starting at 6:00 p.m. get two flights of wine & choice of a meat or cheese charcuterie board for $41.62. The price includes a free flight, 10% off the board, and an 18% gratuity.

Mid-Week Summer Sale- Every Tuesday and Wednesday get 50% off all bottles of wine to enjoy at the tasting room or take home and all boards are $5 off.

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.

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.

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.

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

Eat Up Drive In celebrates 4th anniversary with $4 burgers

Opened in 2021 during the pandemic, the Arcadia fast casual concept celebrates next Tuesday, April 29th. Their Wood Grilled Cheeseburgers will be $2.50 off all day.

Mollydooker wine dinner at Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse

No punches will be thrown next Wednesday, April 30th for the 5-course dinner paired with Australian white & red wines. Seating is $120++ per person and seating is limited. To make reservations you can call 602-374-4784 and for more information you can visit their website.

  • 1st Course—Scallop Crudo with lemon, cilantro and olive oil paired with the 2024 Violinist Verdelho
  • 2nd Course—Slow-Roasted Pork Tenderloin with golden beet puree, green beans and plum reduction paired with Two Left Feet Shiraz, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon (Wine Spectator 2021 92 pts.)
  • 3rd Course—Grilled Lamb Chop served with a mini loaded baked potato and broccolini paired with Blue Eyed Boy Shiraz (Wine Spectator 2022 92 pts.)
  • 4th Course—Prime Baseball Sirloin with Yukon Gold mash and asparagus paired with Gigglepot Cabernet Sauvignon (Wine Spectator 2021 90 pts.)
  • Dessert Course—Chocolate Lava Cake

sneakybird opens its 4th location

The never ever fried chicken concept opened its 4th location in Queen Creek in The Marketplace at Hudson Station recently. The oven-grilled chicken sandwiches, tenders, flat breads and salads are available with plenty of dry rubs and sauces for dipping.

Summer Martinis now available at The Montauck

The downtown Scottsdale restaurant with an East Coast vibe has 5 new savory, floral and citrusy martinis to keep you cool.

  • Salt & Vinegar – Aviation Gin or Ketel One Vodka, Salt, Vinegar
  • Pepper-tini – Aviation or Ketel One Vodka, Pepperoncini Brine, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Cracked Black Pepper
  • One and Only – Ketel One Botanical Peach and Orange Blossom, Lillet Blanc, White Haven Sauvignon Blanc, Lemon
  • Italian Summer – Caravella Limoncello, Ketel One Vodka, Lemon, Aperol
  • Rose Colored Glasses – Glendalough Wild Rose Gin, Elderflower, Lemon, Grapefruit

BJ’s Restaurant launches Snickers Pizookie

The restaurant has partnered with Mars to offer guests a freshly baked brown sugar cookie with chunks of Snickers bar then topped with vanilla bean ice cream, a chocolate shell topping,ar  caramel sauce and sprinkled with more Snickers. The limited time sweet treat is available for dine-in only. Find a location near you at BJ’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.

Octo 2025 now on the menu at Virtu Honest Craft

Chef Gio Osso made a name for himself with his Pulpo dish (charred octopus with lemon ceci, arugula & fennel insalata, and Calabrian chile butter) that has remained on the menu ever since his Scottsdale restaurant opened in 2013. Twelve years later he’s introducing for a limited time a new innovative creation. Octo 2025 is charred octopus and potato tostada layered with ‘nduja agrodolce, crispy gnocco fritto, citrus crema, and a punchy padron salsa. Don’t worry, the original is still on the menu.

Passover Special at Miracle Mile Deli

Starting tomorrow Saturday, April 12th- 19th (closed on Sunday) at the Central Phoenix deli get a plate of Brisket of Beef, Steamed Veggies & a cup of Matzoh Ball Soup for $19.49.

Third Thursday specials for ASU students at Skysill Rooftop Lounge

The tallest open-air rooftop in the Valley is at the Westin Tempe and next Thursday, April 17th (Third Thursday) ASU students with proper I.D. specials can save some money from 6-10 p.m. The monthly event has a bucket of 4 ASU Halo Amber Ale beers for $30 and 15% off your total bill with student I.D.

Cien Agaves is going to the dogs for Yappy Hour

The Old Town Scottsdale cantina is partnering with Barb’s Dog Rescue on Monday, April 21st from 4-6 p.m. Find out about adopting a dog, get personalized dog tags engraved and win puppy prizes. Reservations are recommended and can be made here.

Winners from the 2025 Foodist Awards

Every year the Arizona Restaurant Association hosts the awards recognizing many of the standout members of the ARA. Awards were handed out this week and below are the winners. Chris Bianco is this year’s distinguished recipient of the Pioneer Award for his years of commitment to this local food and restaurant industry and the community.

Food and Beverage

  • Standout Signature Dish – Beef Wellington, Wren & Wolf 
  • Most Crave-Worthy Burger – Double Burger, Bad Jimmy’s 
  • Arizona Grown Purveyors – Hayden Flour Mill 
  • Favorite Local Craft Beer – Spellbinder, Wren House Brewing 
  • Most Creative Handcrafted Cocktail Program – Poppy’s Office 

Experiences

  • Outstanding Bar/Nightlight Experience – Barcoa Agaveria 
  • Ultimate Patio Atmosphere – Lon’s at the Hermosa Inn 
  • Exceptional Culinary Experience – Course Restaurant 
  • Iconic Speakeasy Experience – Tell Your Friends 

Restaurants

  • Top Sushi Restaurant – Uchi Scottsdale 
  • Emerging Restaurant of the Year – Le Ame 
  • Uniquely Arizona – Mariposa 
  • Outstanding Hospitality Group – Genuine Concepts 
  • Phenomenal Fast Casual Concept – Taco Chelo 

People

  • Team Member of the Year – Avelina Young, El Charro Café, Yuma 
  • Manager of the Year – Jacqueline Verge, The Americano 
  • Top Mixologist/Bartender – Michael Hopper, Atria 
  • Top Chef – Ivan Gonzalez, Wren & Wolf 

 

The Dessert Room to offer after hours vibe at Shiv Supper Club

Riot Hospitality Group announced in December that they were transforming The Mint nightclub into an upscale Shiv Supper Club and opening day is set for later in April. One of the highlights will be The Dessert Room, a Friday and Saturday night after-hours spot opening at 9:30 p.m.

“At Shiv, we wanted to create something truly special—an experience where dessert isn’t just an afterthought but the highlight of the night,” says Ryan Hibbert, CEO of Riot Hospitality Group. “The Dessert Room was born from my vision to transform our supper club into a seductive, late-night escape, featuring bold culinary creations, indulgent cocktails, and a vibe that makes the night feel unforgettable from start to finish.”

Dramatic sweets in The Dessert Room

Details are emerging of what late night enthusiasts can expect including 12 signature desserts from acclaimed pastry chef Nundi Harris, exclusively available during late night hours. Here are a few of the desserts one can expect once inside.

  • Dessert Caviar Service – A whimsical reimagining of classic caviar service featuring fruit-based pearls over basil panna cotta, paired with coconut crème fraîche and shortbread—playful, refined, and unexpected.
  • Fruity Pebbles-Inspired Pearl Cake – Inspired by nostalgic cereal, this shimmering entremet layers cereal-infused sponge, milk mousse, and a crunchy feuilletine base, all glazed to resemble an iridescent pearl.
  • Bananas Foster Baked Alaska – A showstopping fusion of Bananas Foster and Baked Alaska, featuring vanilla ice cream and caramelized banana atop rum cake, dramatically flambéed tableside in banana-infused rum.
  • PB Cube (pictured) – A sleek chocolate cube filled with peanut butter mousse, dark chocolate crémeux, and praline crunch—finished with a glossy ganache mirror glaze for ultimate decadence.
  • Deconstructed Tropical Cheesecake – A deconstructed take on cheesecake with vanilla bean mousse, spiced pineapple, cherry compote, and a crunchy crumble—each bite a playful escape to the tropics.

Of course, dessert cocktails will be available for you to indulge in such as The Mint Chocolate Truffle and The Powder Room Nightcap. Take your late-night experience to the next level with table side champagne service and a premium selection of spirits.

“Shiv’s Dessert Room deliberately challenges expectations,” explains Dustin Cooke, Culinary Director of Riot Hospitality Group. “We’re blending savory techniques with sweet components, incorporating unexpected textures, flavors, and presentations. Guests aren’t just eating dessert — they’re experiencing it through theatrical service, multi-sensory elements, and storytelling. We’ve reimagined dessert as a destination rather than a meal’s conclusion.”

Reservations for The Dessert Room will be separate from Shiv and reservations and more information can be found at their website.

Jamie’s Bottle Shop to open in Scottsdale next week

Old Town Scottsdale will welcome a new wine shop next Friday, March 28th when Jamie’s Bottle Shop opens at 7033 E. Main St. Owned by Jamie Hormel, she’s not new to the valley’s wine scene as she’s also the owner of the historic Wrigley Mansion and its extensive wine collection. The new shop will welcome “cork dorks” as well as new wine drinkers with more than 700 selections from $15- $15,000 that include rare wines, hidden gems and sustainable wines from around the world.

“As we crafted the vision for Jamie’s Bottle Shop, I knew that if the concept was going to have my name on the door, it needed to be a space where wine lovers can explore without the pretension — whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or just starting your wine education journey,” Hormel said. “Jamie’s Bottle Shop is all about discovery, conversation and finding that next bottle you’ll absolutely love.”

What to expect at Jamie’s Bottle Shop

Weekly wine tasting and classes will be held in the Champagne Room and The Reserve Room will be separately temperature controlled to house rare and collectable wines. Expert staff have been hired to assist guests where they can take their wine home or enjoy at the shop pairing with scratch made bites including a Pressed Ham & Cheese Sandwich, Seasonal Market Salads and Charcuterie Boards. Jamie’s covers over 2,300 square feet designed by Scottsdale’s Mendil + Meyer Design Studio and will be stocked from floor to ceiling with wines. Natural wood elements, gold and green accents and temperature-controlled lighting will give the shop a refined and relaxed atmosphere.

“Jamie’s Bottle Shop is the come-as-you-are wine destination that will combine fine wine with friendly wisdom,” said Zephan Lachowicz, Wine Director and Sommelier. “Our focus is to make our guests feel comfortable while spreading the knowledge and love of wine, whether it’s by-the-glass or by-the-class.”

Jamie’s will be open Tuesday- Sunday from 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. For more information 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.

Arizona Cocktail Weekend is here

Signature events including The Cocktail Carnival, Top Bars and Last Slinger Standing kick off in Downtown Phoenix on Saturday with other events and pop-up around town at bars and restaurants. For more information read my post from earlier this month.

J&G Steakhouse to host Tequila Corrido dinner

The signature restaurant at The Phoenician Resort & Spa hosts a 3-course dinner prepared by Executive Chef Jacques Qualin on Thursday, March 13th at 6:30 p.m. A reception starts the evening that will feature Lime Gulf shrimp and Black Opal Wagyu skirt steak that is prepared and paired with different Tequila Corrido cocktails. Reservations are required and are $125++ and can be made by calling 480-214-8000 or visiting the resort’s website.

LDV Winery offers Wine Charcuterie class in March & April

The Downtown Scottsdale wine bar will offer 4 classes led by She Shed Chef on Tuesday, March 11th & 25th and Tuesday, April 15th & 29th from 6- 7:30 p.m. Sip on LDV wine(s) as you build your board for $60++ per session which includes a glass of wine. To reserve your seat, call 480-664-4822 or visit their website.

Devour Culinary Classic award winners announced

After another successful event, Local First Arizona announced the winners of this past weekend’s event. Judging the dishes were. Bahar Anooshahr, Christopher Gross, Lori A. Hashimoto, Howard Seftel and Janos Wilder. A full list of medal winners can be found at their website.

Best in Show

  • TPC Scottsdale: Al Pastor Pork Belly Taco, Chef Matthew O’Harris

Runners up:

  • Chilte: Prawns with Peanut Mole, Chef Lawrence “LT” Smith
  • The Gladly: Cactus Ham with Chicharron and Napoles, Chef Bernie Kantak
  • Valentine: Sonoran Hot Dog, Chef Donald Hawk

Best Use Of Heritage Food

  • Litchfield’s at the Wigwam: Buffalo and Tepary Bean Stew
  • Runner up: Nella’s Innovative Kreations’ Corn Tortilla with Tepary Bean Hummus, Prickly Pear and Sonora White Wheat Berries

People’s Choice Awards

  • Best Savory Bite: Tie between Clever Koi’s Pork Chashu Gordita and Gastronomic Union of Tucson (GUT) Chefs’ Sonoran Beef Roulade
  • Best Sweet Bite: Gastronomic Union of Tucson (GUT) Chefs’ Seville Orange and Prickly Pear Verrine
  • Best Sip: Iconic Cocktail Co.

Press Coffee purchases Panama coffee plantation, first estate coffee now available

The Phoenix based coffee roaster began selling its’ own coffee from a newly acquired plantation in the Volcan Valley near the Panama and Cost Rica border. The Press Estate whole bean coffee is now available online.