Category: hotel

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 

 

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 Fridays at Chompie’s

If you follow me on Instagram, you know I’m hooked on fish n chips, now we all can get a platter at all Chompie‘s Phoenix area locations every Friday. Hand-dipper beer battered cod with crispy fries, cole slaw and homemade tartar sauce for only $17.99 starting at 11:00 a.m.

Chef Joey raising money for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS).

The local celebrity chef is raising money for the next 10 weeks in honor of his daughter Giuliana who has stage 1 Lymphoma. A portion of sales from wines by the glass sales at The Italiano and margarita sales at The Mexicano will be donated to LLS.

Terra Tempe gets Wicked through the end of March

The signature restaurant in the Westin Tempe turns into the Emerald City while the award-winning play has its run at nearby Gammage Auditorium. Signature cocktails like the gin based “Green for Good” and Instagram worthy enchanted bites are available.

Get free bagels at Barrio Bread

While bagel & pizza lovers wait for the opening of, Don Guerra’s Bagel & Slice he’s offering up 2 free bagels with the purchase of a loaf of bread from his Barrio Bread. Until the opening guests can order then pick-up bread and complimentary bagels on Tuesday’s & Friday’s from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at their Hayden Flour Mill commissary in Gilbert.

Ling & Louie’s Buy 1 Get 1 at 1/2 price on weekends

Every Saturday & Sunday get a 1/2 priced brunch entree with the purchase of one at full price at their Scottsdale location. A portion of proceeds from their Big-Hearted Brunch will be donated to local charities. It can’t be combined with other offers, and you should mention this offer when ordering.

Smashed and Seared culinary event coming to Found:RE Hotel

With the start of Arizona Cocktail Weekend next week several cocktail and culinary experiences are scheduled around town. Downtown Phoenix’s Found:RE Hotel is hosting the cocktail-centric Smashed and Seared on Saturday, Mach 1st from 8 p.m. until midnight partnering with Maker’s Mark and The Good Food Table.

Chefs Devan Cunningham and Drew Keane show off their culinary talents that were featured on the Food Network’s “Ciao House” with Keane becoming the seasons winner. The theme of “Smashed and Seared” is pairing smahburgers with Maker’s 46 with guests having the chance to taste unique crafted cocktails and smashburgers from Cunningham and Keane.

“Guests can expect an unforgettable evening of gastronomy as we honor Arizona Cocktail Weekend at the FOUND:RE,” said Chris Genung, general manager of the FOUND:RE Phoenix Hotel. “We are thrilled to partner with Maker’s Mark and The Good Food Table to host this celebration of flavor, creativity and the art of pairing.”

Chef Cunningham is the founder of The Good Food Table and co-owner of Phoenix’s CC’s on Central where he’s built a reputation for featuring southern flavors with influences from around the world and combines nostalgic dining experiences with traditional and innovative cooking techniques. Keane is the Executive Chef at Chicago’s Gibson’s Italia where he has a reputation for cooking with classic Italian techniques in a modern steakhouse environment.

Admission to Smashed and Seared is free and is one of several events at the hotel in conjunction with Arizona Cocktail Weekend.

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

Martini Hour & “The Bachelor” at Match Market & Bar

The Downtown Phoenix restaurant inside the Found:RE Hotel offers up a selection of martinis and food specials during the 29th season run of the show. All day Monday (the night the show airs) and from 2 -6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday guests can enjoy $12 Chopin Vodka or Roku Gin martinis and $2 off house martinis. The following food specials are available to complement the cocktails.

  • Bruschetta Trio—Choices include fresh mozzarella caprese; olive tapenade and Manchego; goat cheese and strawberry; and ricotta, pesto, pear and Marcona, $15
  • Chicken Wing Sampler—Featuring chicken wings in house hot sauce and bacon-balsamic BBQ, $12
  • Spanish Croquetas De Jamon, $8
  • Lamb Meatballs, $8
  • Brussels Sprouts Almondine, $6
  • Patatas Bravas, $5

Pastrami sliders on sale at Miracle Mile Deli

If you love pastrami the way I do, then head to the Central Phoenix deli who is offering up a pair of its popular pastrami sliders and a side for only $12 next Monday- Saturday.

Stolpman wine tasting at GenuWine Arizona

The Central California winery will have their “Love You Bunches” wines poured next Thursday, February 13th from 6-8 p.m. at the Roosevelt Row wine bar. Tickets are $10 and all wines poured during the tasting are 20% off bottles. Tickets can be purchased here.

73rd Laveen BBQ happeing on February 22nd

Looking for some slow cooked pit BBQ then plan on atteneding from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Caesar Chavez Park. The annual fundraising event put on by the Laveen Community Council raise’s money for other community events, scholarships for high school seniors, youth programs and community organizations. Entry is free and food and more will be available for purchase and this year there will be a Fun Zone for the family-friendly event.

Meatloaf specials at Chompie’s through April

Craving some comfort food meatloaf the way mom used to make? If so, all 4 locations are serving up these four meatloaf specials from now until April 30th.

  • Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf Plate topped with onion strings, mashed potatoes, homestyle green beans and a cocktail roll; served with gravy on the side for $19.99
  • Traditional Meatloaf Plate topped with onion strings, mashed potatoes, homestyle green beans and a cocktail roll; served with gravy on the side for $19.99
  • Traditional Meatloaf Sandwich with bacon, tomato and jack cheese on grilled parmesan sourdough bread; served with fries for $17.99
  • Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf Sandwich with tomato, red onion, green leaf and mayo on sourdough; served with fries for $16.99.

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

Skysill Rooftop Ski Chalet pop-up at Westin Tempe

This is the last weekend for beautiful views of the valley while enjoying festive holiday cocktails and seasonal treats (fondue, gingerbread cookies and macaroons) at the downtown Tempe rooftop bar. $29 gets you a reservation, cider and cake pop with the 360-degree view. Friday and Saturday are 21+ and Sunday is open to all ages and guests are invited to bring an unopened new toy for Toys for Tots. For information and menus for about holiday and NYE dining at their signature restaurant Terra, visit their website. Reservations for the Skysill pop-up can be made at OpenTable.

Rusty Spur Saloon takes money off the wall for charity

The country western bar in Old Town Scottsdale known for its walls full of dollars started a tradition every December by removing the bills and donating them to the Phoenix Children’s Foundation. This year they received $6,000 ($5,742 from wall, $248 from owner POV Foods) topping last year’s collection of $5,000. “These dollar bills symbolize not only the memories made here but also the potential to make a difference in our community,” said Janeth Moore, operations manager of Rusty Spur Saloon.

Flour & Thyme is now open for dinner and lunch is coming next week

Good news, Chef Ivan Jacobo’s new restaurant in downtown Phoenix is now open for dinner and starting Thursday, December 26th will start lunch service. F & T is in Jacobo’s former fine dining restaurant Anhelo Restaurant that is relocating to Scottsdale and is expected to open in early 2025. On the menu is handmade pastas, a short rib blend burger, veal tomahawk, duck breast, seafood and more. Lunch is served fro 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and dinner service begins at 5 p.m.

 

Taste of the Tavern Beer Fest happening in two weeks

SanTan Brewing & Spirits and Loc-Ale Beer Co. will be featured on the evening of Thursday, November 14th at The Phoenician Tavern for their Taste of the Tavern Beer Fest. The outdoor event will overlook The Phoenician Resort & Spa’s golf course and will pair the locally brewed and distilled beers & spirits with the Tavern’s culinary creations at five food and beverage stations.

In addition, the Taste of the Tavern will have a glow in the dark putting contest, raffles for prizes, cigars for purchase, live music and gift bags for attendees. Beer and spirits will be available for purchase for you to enjoy at home.

Food and beverage pairings include…

-Seared New York with malted caramel and chili, paired with AZ Loc-Ale Toasty Amber Lager and SanTan Caramellow Salted Caramel Whiskey.
 
-Sea Bass Ceviche with Meyer lemon, cilantro, and Fresno, paired with SanTan Juicy Jack Hazy IPA and Saint Anne’s Citrus Rose Gin.
 
-Bacon wrapped dates with maple whiskey reduction and chili goat cheese, paired with SanTan LumberJack Oatmeal Amber and CinnaMaple Whiskey. 
 
-Roasted vegetable tart with roasted red onion, baby carrots, asparagus, oven-dried tomatoes, and queso fresco, paired with SanTan Playlist Kolsch and Sacred Stave American Single Malt Whiskey. 

-Tiramisu paired with SanTan Winter Warmer Strong Ale and Sacred Stave American Single Malt Whiskey.
The event goes from 6-9 p.m. and tickets are $75++ and can be made by calling 480-423-2445 or by visiting the resort’s website.

Phoenician Fall Fest brings BBQ and more to Jokake Inn

It doesn’t quite feel like Fall yet but hopefully buy Saturday, October 12th it will. That’s when the first ever Phoenician Fall Fest is taking place at the resort’s historic Jokake Inn at 5:30. The event will have BBQ served up from local food trucks, cocktails from Jack Daniels, a s’mores station, mechanical bull riding, line dancing and country music from Scottsdale’s Herndon Brothers. A portion of the evening’s proceeds will be donated to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals benefiting Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

Food and drinks are available for purchase and tickets for the Phoenician Fall Fest are $55 per person and a limited number of VIP packages are available for $1,000. VIP packages include entry to the party, food truck meal tickets and personal seating for up to 8 people at the firepit. Information and tickets can be found at the resort’s website.

 

Sip & Shop returns with celebrity chef dinners at Hotel Valley Ho

Scottsdale’s Hotel Valley Ho brings back its popular Sip & Shop Summer Market Series in June, July & August and adding three celebrity chef dinners in conjunction with each event. The indoor market will be in Sands from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturday June 17th, July 15th and August 19th and will feature local chefs and artisan purveyors. Guests will be given a wristband for six tastes of beer, spirits or wine and a 20% off voucher for a meal at Zuzu within 30 days. Live music from J Forte will entertain guests at the free event and guests will be able to purchase food from local chefs and sweets from the hotel’s pastry Chef Maria Arenas.

Sip & Shop celebrity dinners

The celebrity chef dinners will be a collaboration between the hotel’s Executive Chef Russell LaCasce for a 3 course meal paired with wines. The chef’s will also be in action at the market where they will be doing cooking demonstrations.

June 17th– Chef Lindsey Autry comes to Scottsdal to join Chef LaCasce. The three time James Beard Award nominee and finalist on Bravo’s Top Chef has two restaurants in Florida, The Regional in West Palm Beach and Honeybelle at PGA National Resort. The meet & greet reception starts at 6 p.m. and is $199 per person. See Lindsey at the demo station that morning in the market.

July 14th– Celebrity chef, author, philanthropist and host of Food Network’s “Restaurant: Impossible”, Robert Irvine joins Chef LaCasce Friday night for dinner and then on Saturday at the market at the demo station. Mingle with the chefs at starting at 6 p.m. for $299 per person.

August 18th– Local celebrity chefs Rene “Chito’ Andrade and Beau MacMillan mix it up at Friday night’s dinner and then on Saturday at the market. Meet the chefs for dinner starting at 6 p.m. for $199.

You can reserve your seats for the dinners at the hotel’s website and get your free tickets for Sip & Shop Summer Market at Eventbrite.

Hear Chef LaCasce’s story on Episode 26 of Pulling Corks and Forks: The Podcast.

 

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

Memorial Day deals around Phoenix

Kona Grill- All weekend veterans, active-duty military, reserves, and Gold Star Families get 20% off their order. On Monday, All-Day Happy Hour for Industry Workers in the hospitality, retail & medical industries. Enjoy a $12 red, blue, and white margarita flight during the weekend.

STK Steakhouse- 20% Off for all Veterans, active-duty military, reserves, and Gold Star Families – available all weekend long. All-Day Happy Hour for Industry Workers – Hospitality, Retail & Medical – available Memorial Day only. Enjoy a $19.95 red, white, and blue steak topping – lobster tail, blue corn tortilla & garlic cream sauce.

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria- All veterans and active military with i.d. will get 15% off their order on Monday, May 29th. All 7 Arizona locations are participating, not to be combined with other offers.

Lobster Fest returns to Pedal Haus Brewery June 1st

Lobstah or lobster regardless how you say it most love a good roll during the summer. Due to popular demand all 3 locations will be serving a Maine lobster roll, fries and mug of Day Drinker Light Lager for $25 during June and July.

Found: RE Phoenix has a Sip & Shop pop up June 3rd

The downtown Phoenix hotel invites guests and locals to enjoy the leisurely pop-up from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. next Saturday . The free event offers food & drink specials and brunch in Match Market & Bar, live music and stylish lifestyle brands from local vendors. RSVP at their Eventbrite page.

Coffee 101 is back at Press Coffee

The locally owned coffee roaster brings back their one hour interactive class at their Roastery and in Sprouts Farmers Market every Saturday at 9 a.m. Once completed you can impress your friends about how to smell, slurp and taste four delicious and distinctly different coffees from around the world and learn the nuances of farming, processing and roasting to determine flavors like the pros.

Bourbon & Bones now open in Peoria

The newest chophouse & bar is open 24985 N. 83rd Ave. Peoria 85383. It’s the Scottsdale based Square One Concepts third location in the Phoenix area.

Check out my podcast Pulling Corks & Forks: The Podcast with Sandy Wasserman to hear from those in our community. Please subscribe, like & comment.

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

Cooper’s Hawk to open its 3rd Arizona restaurant in Gilbert

The Illinois based restaurant and winery has set May 8th as its opening day at its newest location in Gilbert. It joins the Scottsdale and Chandler locations serving a seasonal menu daily for lunch and dinner with happy hour Monday – Friday. The vast menu offers something for everybody including vegetarian, gluten-free and children’s options. A retail shop and wine bar welcomes you offering tastes of CH wines, to purchase bottles to go and to join their popular wine club. A 4th Arizona location in Surprise is set to open in the near future.

Limited edition Shazaaam! IPA available at PHX Beer Co.

The Phoenix brewery is honoring Phoenix Suns announcer Al McCoy with the release of Shazaaam! Valley Style IPA today, April 14th. 51 cases were brewed and their Phoenix taphouse will sell 4-pack cans to-go and have it on tap along with it on tap at their Scottsdale restaurant. McCoy announced his retirement at the end of this season after 51 years of announcing Suns games.

Taste of Argentina dinner at Zuzu next Thursday

A taste of South America comes to the signature restaurant at Scottsdale’s Hotel Valley Ho next Thursday, April 20th. Argentinean wines will be paired with a multi-course menu from Chef de Cuisine Alejo Candia and Pastry Chef Maria Arenas. Courses include empanadas, Asado over hardwood and charcoal and more. The dinner starts at 6:00 p.m. and seats are $119++ per person and you can reserve your spot by calling 480-421-7997.

Pedal Haus to celebrate its Lucky 7 anniversary

The Tempe, Phoenix and Chandler locations will celebrate the lucky anniversary on Saturday, April 29th from 12 noon – 7 p.m. Since opening its Tempe location the brewery has won over 40 medals in national and international beer competitions. $7 anniversary specials include Steins, 2 Day Drinkers, Burgers & Brats and Margaritas. Guest can purchased custom scratch off tickets to win prizes with all tickets sales being donated to local dog non-profit, Almost There Rescue.

Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers donates over $4,000 to local K-9 non-profit.

All 14 locations sold over 17,000 pints of Four Peaks draft beer in March as part of the restaurant’s Cold Beer Cares program. $4,300 was raised for Arizona Law Enforcement Canine Association (ALECA), which helps train and support canine teams throughout Arizona. ALECA is the largest non-profit public safety K9 organization in the country.

Check out my podcast Pulling Corks & Forks: The Podcast with Sandy Wasserman to hear from those in our community. Please subscribe, like & comment.