Category: Grand Opening

Chandler welcomes the second location of The Mexicano

Chandler Fashion Center is the second location of The Maggiore Group’s popular concept The Mexicano and guests can start dining there today. The opening comes a couple months after the re-opening of the flagship location in Paradise Valley that was closed due to a kitchen fire last October. Guests will find that the new location will have the same elevated menu from Chef Joey Maggiore along with an interactive dining experience that includes the build-your-own-margarita bar.

“Our Chandler location will be the same fun, energetic, delicious Mexicano our guests know and love,” says Maggiore, chef and co-founder of The Maggiore Group and Chef Joey Concepts. “We are thrilled to be bringing our second location, and the party, to the Easy Valley next month.”

On the menu guests will find Instagram worthy dishes such as the guacamole and salsa Ferris wheel, birria bao buns, margaritas and other traditional Mexican dishes with Chef Joey’s modern fusion of ingredients. The new restaurant will also feature a daily happy hour, Taco Tuesdays with $2 cochinita pibil and chicken tinga tacos, and Margarita Mondays featuring half off all margaritas.

Celebrating the Chandler grand opening

The interior was designed by Christina Maggiore that will showcase the bright colors of its Mexican City roots & culture and authentic imported wood furniture. A DJ will be there seven days a week spinning Latin music and you may catch a live performance from a Mariachi band. The celebration starts today at 4:00 p.m. and the first 200 people at The Mexicano in Chandler will receive special SWAG and one lucky winner will win a $500 gift card. During today’s fiesta like atmosphere there will be traditional dancers, a Mariachi band and more entertainment throughout the evening.

The Mexicano Chandler is at 3905 W. Chandler Blvd. 85226. and opens daily at 11 a.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.

The Main Ingredient raising $$ for Pediatric Cancer

The Coranado neighborhood restaurant since 2010 is celebrating the opening of their new outdoor bar with $4.80 draft beers from 2p.m. til closing, raffles to win free sandwiches for a year, entertainment and an afternoon ribbon cutting with Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. A portion of all the day’s sales will be donated to the Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children, who helps local families affected by cancer.

Pita Jungle Gilbert to donate money next Tuesday

On March 25th the location at 1431 E. Williams Field Rd. will donate 50% to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Guests dining in must mention LLS when ordering and those ordering online can enter promo code LLS as the coupon code. Third party deliveries are excluded from this promotion.

Women in Wine Tasting at GenuWine Arizona

The downtown Phoenix wine bar will be pouring 3 wines made by women on Thursday, March 27th from 6 -8 p.m. The cost is $10 unless you’re a Wine Club member then it’s free. The wines poured will be 20% off bottle purchases during the evening.

Bad Jimmy’s opens in Scottsdale

The popular burger food truck turned brick & mortar restaurant opened its 2nd location in Scottsdale this week at Miller & Indian School Rds. Open Wednesday – Monday at 11 a.m. the Scottsdale location follows the Downtown Phoenix location and presides a third location opening later in 2025 in Uptown Phoenix.

Thai Chili 2 Go continues expanding in 2025 and 2026

The quick casual Thai concept will be opening 7 locations in the coming 2 years with the first in Queen Creek in late March. Other locations opening later this year include Marana (near Tucson), Peoria (Vistancia), Surprise (Asante), Buckeye and near Cactus Rd. & Loop 303. In 2026 a second location in Buckeye at Verrado is planned. The new openings will bring a total of over 20 locations in Arizona.

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.

Burrito Express opening first hybrid location inside Circle K

The valley’s hometown burrito joint since 1995, Burrito Express continues its expansion with its first hybrid location inside a Gilbert Circle K. A grand opening celebration and festivities is scheduled for next Sunday, February 23rd from 7a.m. until noon. The first 50 guests will receive a free burrito and buy one burrito, get one free will be offered until noon.

Other grand opening festivities include…

  • The first 50 guests will also receive a free swag bag filled with merch, including a Burrito Express Platinum Card that offers cardholders 10% off their Burrito Express purchases throughout 2025. This special card also grants cardholders a chance to win tickets to Arizona sports events such as Diamondbacks, Suns and ASU games throughout the year.
  • Customers can also experience a meet and greet with ASU athletics players. From 7-8 a.m., ASU baseball players Rohan Lettow and Kien Vu will be onsite and from 9-11 a.m., ASU football players C.J. Fite, Xavion Alford, Kyson Brown and Chamon Metayer will be onsite for autographs and photos.
  • The Burrito Express Fast and Fresh grand opening event supports the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, a nonprofit organization that helps first responders, veterans and the families of 9/11 victims. From Sunday, Feb. 23 through Friday, Feb. 28 a percentage of sales from this Burrito Express location will be donated to the organization.

The new location inside Circle K joins the seven other Phoenix area streetside locations and is located at 7165 S. Val Vista Dr. Gilbert 85298. For more information visit their website.

The Mexicano re-opening after kitchen fire last fall

Guests will be welcomed back to North Phoenix’s The Mexicano restaurant on Friday, January 31st with fresh new look after a kitchen fire closed the restaurant a few months ago. Chef Joey Maggiore and his wife Christina will present “The Mexicano 2.0” with a grand reopening celebration starting at 3 p.m.

Guests can expect the same chef driven menu of authentic Mexican cuisine given a modern twist with Chef Joey’s signature dishes. Since debuting in 2021, the restaurant that has been come to be known for its guacamole & salsa Ferris wheel and the new look will include a build-your-own-margarita bar and new dishes including “The Best F#%king Fries Quesadilla Taco”, “Pork Osso Bucco Molcajete”, and “Chorizo Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms”. A new tortilla making station has been added bringing an authentic feel to the restaurant. New cocktails created by Phoenix mixologist Jason Asher who is well known around the world for his creative and unique libations will also make their debut.

Christina Maggiore designed the interior that includes an open airy feel with greenery, sleek furnishings and a covered patio. “We are so thankful for the incredible reception and support we received the first time around, and we are beyond excited for what’s to come with The Mexicano 2.0,” says Joey Maggiore, chef and co-founder of The Maggiore Group and Chef Joey Concepts. “This second round will match the energy of the original, but with an elevated, vibrant, and sexy new décor. Plus, the immersive experience that we’ve been working on will take it to the next level. The greenery and flowers come to life for the most spectacular experience for our guests. “

Attending the The Mexicano grand re-opening

The first 100 guests on the 31st will get a $30 gift card to use that evening or on a future visit and anybody attending the opening weekend will get a chance to win a VIP pre-party at the newest location opening in Chandler in the next few months.

The Mexicano is at 4801 E. Cactus Rd. Phoenix and for more information can be found at 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.

Marcellino Ristorante puts an Italian twist on Thanksgiving family meals

Not in the mood to do much cooking or don’t want turkey this Thanksgiving look at what the Scottsdale restaurant’s Taste of Italy take-out menu has to offer. Handcrafted raviolis, Paccatelli and Gnocchi Sorrentin by Marcellino himself are being made for large (serving 15- 20 people) and medium (8-12 people) parties are available with reheating instructions. Orders are to be pre-paid and ordered Tuesday- Saturday no later than Tuesday, December 26th for pick-up on the next day (Wednesday) from 2-4 p.m. Orders can be placed by calling 480-990-9500 and more information and pricing can be found on their website.

Phoenix City Grille hosts Remus Bourbon Dinner

Tired of turkey and leftovers then make your reservations for the four-course dinner being served on Wednesday, December 4th at 6 p.m. Co-hosted by Arizona Whiskey Guy John Christie, the main courses will be Pan Seared Jumbo Sea Scallop and Duroc Pork Chop paired with special edition and reserved bourbons. The experience is $120++ per person and can be made by emailing Brittnee Reed or calling 602-510-7174. More information can be found at PCG’s website.

Festivin tickets are on sale

The Wrigley Mansion’s annual celebration of wine will be upon us quicker than you can say “fill up the glass” come January 16th – 19th 2025. Tickets for the Grand Tasting, interactive seminars, cooking demonstrations and more are sure to sell out. Tickets for events must be purchased in advance and can be purchased here.

GenuWine Arizona hosts holiday market

With the holiday season just about in full swing the downtown Phoenix wine bar/shop is hosting a holiday market next Sunday, November 30th. From 12- 3 p.m. attendees can visit with four jewelry and ornament vendors and of course, there will be wine with free samples and 20% off wines poured.

Chompie’s Scottsdale gets a new look

To offer dine-in and take-out customers a better experience the restaurant has new tables, chairs & booths, new counters & marketplace, new restrooms, new furniture & blinds on the patio and more. Don’t worry the sandwiches, soups, salads and other traditional Jewish deli dishes haven’t changed.

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

National Coffee Day is this Sunday, September 29th

Need your daily fix of caffeine then head to……

Noble Ground Coffee for any hot or cold drink for just a $1. This includes new Fall flavors such as Pumpkin Pie and Maple Pancake.

Randy’s Donuts if you’re a loyalty member for a free cup of Randy’s Roast or iced coffee. No purchase is necessary, and the free drink will appear in the member’s account. Randy’s Donuts has two locations in Phoenix at 5709 N. 7th Street and 17405 S. 40th Street. Both locations are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday.

Press Coffee is offering 25% off a yearlong coffee subscription all weekend long.

Chula Seafood Uptown celebrates Oktoberfest with schnitzel

For all 31 days in October the Uptown Plaza location celebrates the German festival with a seafood twist. The Swordfish Jägerschnitzel is served with a scrumptious mushroom leek gravy with brown apple butter spaetzle and German braised red cabbage. It’s available for both lunch and dinner for $28++.

Anhelo Restaurant hosts Burgundy wine dinner October 4th

The downtown Phoenix restaurant will welcome guests next Friday to enjoy a six-course dinner featuring the wines of Domaine Anne et Hervé Sigaut that dates to the 19th century. The dinner is $265 per person and for an additional $100 a glass of their coveted Domaine Sigaut’s 2020 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru. is available. Prefer champagne, a glass of Dom Perignon is available for $75. The dinner begins at 6 p.m. with limited seating and seat can be purchased at OpenTable.

Grand opening celebration for 3rd Stemistry location

Saturday, October 5th marks the newest coffee lab & flower shop from Dylan Capshaw at the Roadrunner Apartments at 6601 E. McDowell Rd. Scottsdale 85257. From 9-11 a.m. guests can get a $1 drip coffee, a free stem with purchase, light bites and entertainment. Additionally monthly flower subscriptions will be 20% with a 3-month minimum.

New dishes on the menu at Ling & Louie’s

The Asian bar & grill on Shea Blvd. just east of 92nd St. in Scottsdale has just released new dishes on the menu. New dishes include Almond-Crusted Pork Tenderloin, Louie’s Bao Buns, Louie’s Donut Holes and Loaded Mashed Potatoes.

Eggstasy opens newest location in Phoenix at The Colony

The 7th location of the popular brunch spot, Eggstasy has opened along 7th St. at The Colony in Uptown Phoenix. Known for their inventive takes on breakfast and lunch classics, the locally owned brunch spot looks forward to serving its high-quality dishes that use locally sourced ingredients.

“We’re really excited to join the Uptown Phoenix neighborhood and we couldn’t ask for a better spot than The Colony,” said Eggstasy owner Peter Verros. “The eclectic mix of retail, dining and residential is the perfect setting for the morning enthusiasm we bring with our food, atmosphere and staff at Eggstasy.” Verros opened the first location in 2008 using his years of experience in the kitchen and management as his inspiration.

The menu at Eggstasy is full of classic brunch dishes such as pancakes, crepes, omelets and burgers. Signature dishes include Skirt Steak & Eggs which covers both breakfast and lunch cravings, Caprese Benedict and the Sunrise Sandwich with layers of egg frittata, chicken sausage, kale, Swiss cheese and pesto.

Golden Pancake grand opening at Eggstasy

Now opened, the official grand opening is Saturday, October 12th and 3 guests can win pancakes if they find the Golden Pancake in their stack. Order a stack of one of their specialty pancakes or choose pancakes on the side for chance to win pancakes for life at any Eggstasy location.

Eggstasy opens 7 days a week at 7 a.m. and is open until 2:30 p.m. Monday – Friday and until 3 p.m. on Saturday & Sunday. The Uptown Phoenix location is at 5538 N. 7th St. Phoenix 85014. For more information and to view their 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.

A busy week for Chef Joey Maggiore

The chef and owner of several popular restaurants is celebrating this week’s release of his book, Brunch King that is filled with recipes from his Hash Kitchen. And today’s the opening of his newest restaurant, The Italiano at Shea Blvd. and 92nd St.

Arizona Restaurant Week starts today

The Arizona Restaurant Association’s popular twice-yearly celebration of local restaurants kicks off 10 days (thru Sunday, 9/29) of specials menus around the state. Well over 100 restaurants have created 3-course menus for $33, $44 or $55. Reservations are suggestive and a list of restaurants and menus can be found here.

Family Tuesdays at Red, White & Brew

With the rising costs of dining out POV Foods wants to make it affordable for families to eat out. Starting this week Tuesdays at their Mesa and Prescott restaurants kids eat free with the purchase of an adult entree.

National Chimichanga Day at Macayo’s

All locations will be celebrating on Thursday, September 26th with specials, giveaways, a pinata smash and more. Specials include….

BOGO Chimis! Buy one a la carte chimi and get one free with the purchase of two beverages (plus, add a side of rice, beans, guacamole or Macayo’s famous Baja sauce for just .78 cents each!). Samples of Dos XX and Don Julio tequila will also be available.

National Dumpling Day at Thai Chili 2 Go

Thursday, September 26th is also National Dumpling Day and TC2GO rewards members get a 6-piece dumpling order for $1 with the purchase of a 6-piece order. orders need to be made on the TC2GO app or online and are available at all locations.

Fall flavors return at STK Steakhouse and Kona Grill

The two Scottsdale restaurants add new menu items to savor the flavor of the season. The new menus include cocktails, entrees, sides and desserts.

Kona Grill– Welcome Back Pumpkin menu- Pumpkin Spice Margarita, Pumpkin Mocha Martini, Lobster & Pumpkin Ravioli & Duck Empanadas, Roasted Acorn Squash and Pumpkin Pie.

STK Steakhouse- Pumpkin Menu- Pumpkin Bourbon Smash, Pumpkin Mocha Martini, Pumpkin Ravioli & Lobster, Pumpkin Potato Gratin and Pumpkin Pie. Wagyu lovers can enjoy Masabi Bone Marrow and A5 French Dip.

Mox Boarding House opening in Chandler

A unique restaurant and board game store opens this week in Chandler as Mox Boarding House welcomes foodies and board game enthusiasts. The opening is the first in Arizona for the Seattle based restaurant that opened in 2011 which has other locations in Bellevue WA. and Portland OR.

“We’ve been working on this project since 2021, and we’re so excited to open our doors and welcome the Chandler community,” said Jorel Miller, Vice President of Mox Boarding House. “Our goal has always been to create a space where people can come together to play, eat, and enjoy themselves. We can’t wait to share this experience with our new neighbors.”

The menu at Mox Boarding House offers house made gastro style dishes including the popular Tavern Mac and can accommodate various diets including vegan and gluten-free. The full-service bar offers beer, wine, ciders and craft cocktails. A vast library of board games are available to entertain guests for free and hundreds more for sale including Dungeons and Dragons, Warhammer and Magic: The Gathering. For those looking to host gaming events, an event hall is available and can accommodate up to 64 people.

The public is invited to a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Chandler mayor Kevin Hartke on Friday, September 20th at 2:00 p.m. Events will be held all weekend long where guests can win prizes, enjoy in-store promotions & discounts and a MTG Duskmourn pre-release on Saturday. Mox Boarding House will be open Monday-Friday at 11 a.m. and at 10 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The restaurant is located at 1371 N. Alma School Rd. 85224. For more information and to stay up to date on events visit their website.