Category: multi-course dinner

Round Pond Estate wine dinner at 3 Mastro’s in Scottsdale

Next Tuesday, June 17th the local Mastro’s Steakhouse, Mastro’s City Hall and Mastro’s Ocean Club will host a five-course dinner paired with Round Pond Estate wines. The ultra-premium family-owned winery in Napa Valley is known for its highly sought after Cabernet Sauvignon and artisan foods. The evening’s experience will also include Round Pound Estate olive oils used in the preparation of several of the courses. The five-course dinner includes….

  • King Crab Hand Roll – Round Pond Chili Olive Oil, Carrot, Apple, Daikon, Shiso, Nori
  • Summer Salad – Strawberries, Watermelon, Herbed Sauvignon Blanc Vinaigrette
  • Wagyu Black Truffle Ravioli – Brown Butter, Balsamic Reduction, Grana Padano
  • New York Strip 6oz – Marinated Artichokes, Rosemary Garlic Emulsion accompanied by Round Pond Garlic Oil Sauteed Spinach and Garlic Mashed Potatoes
  • Butter Cake with Strawberries & Balsamic – Vanilla Bean Ice Cream, Strawberries, Strawberry Balsamic Sauce

Seats for the 7:00 p.m. Round Pond Estate dinner are all inclusive at $250 per person, with part of the proceeds benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association. Seats can be reserved at Mastro’s website.

Lite Bites & Sips and more for summer at Marcellino’s

We don’t need the official start of summer (June 20th) to tell us Phoenicians that summer is here with local restaurants pulling out their summer playbook of specials, new and old, to bring us desert dwellers out in triple digit heat. One of those restaurants is Marcellino’s Ristorante at Southbridge in Downtown Scottsdale. Chef and co-owner Marcellino and his wife Sima are bringing back their “Summer Supper Special” menu and “Dinner and a Movie” night and are adding the Lite Bites & Sips menu.

Summer Supper Special

Avoid the summer crowds of Italy as you enjoy a special 3-coure prix-fixe supper for $55++ per person with a four-person party limit. Choose for your 1st course (antipasto) a Caprese featuring imported fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, garden basil and extra virgin olive oil. The Insalata Organiche is a simple but refreshing salad of organic mixed field greens with aged balsamic dressing. The Cozze appetizer showcases mussels sautéed with white wine, olive oil and garlic or spicy marinara.

For your second course choose one of Marcellino’s award-winning hand-made pastas including Gnocchi Sorrentina, Paccatelli or Pollo Saporito (pictured above). No decision needed for dessert as you’ll enjoy a cooling homemade Tiramisu. Select bottles of wine are on Summer Special as well, so make sure you take a look at that list.

The Summer Supper Special is available Tuesday – Thursdays through September 4th.

Lite Bites & Sips

New this summer at the bar is a new offering on Tuesday – Thursdays from 4 – 6 p.m. The Lite Bites menu include Caprese, Crostini with mozzarella and prosciutto or mozzarella and mushrooms, or Salumi and Cheese. Pair with a glass of red, white or rose wine, all priced between $8 – $10.

Dinner and a Movie

Up to 10 people can enjoy dinner and a movie every Tuesday and Wednesday evening starting at 5:30 p.m. No cost for the movie, but a dinner order is required whether its from the Summer Supper menu, the regular menu or one of Marcellino’s nightly specials. Perfect for date nights, girls’ night out or to see a movie you’ve yet to see.

Movie night starts tomorrow, June 10th with La Cage Aux Folie and the summer schedule is as follows….

“Moonstruck” – June 18, July 15, September 3

“Cinema Paradiso” – August 12, August 27

“La Cage Aux Folle” – June 10, July 1, July 16, August 26

“The Big Night” – June 11, July 8, August 20

“Marriage Italian Style” – June 17, June 25, July 2, August 19 

“Under the Tuscan Sun” – June 24, July 9, August 13, September 9 

Marcellino’s will be closed for a brief summer break starting July 20th and re-opening on August 7th. To make a reservation of 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.

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.

2025 Summer Chef Series from Devour Phoenix

We’re still a month away from the official start of summer 2025 and no matter how hot it gets, you still must eat. So why not let four of the best chefs from around the valley cook for you once a month. If that sounds good to you, the 2025 Summer Chef Series dinners are scheduled on the 3rd Monday of the month from May to September with each dinner featuring two valley chefs who will create a seasonal 4-course menu to celebrate community and showcase local culinary creativity.

Each month’s dinner starts at 6 p.m. and tickets for the Dinner Series are an all-inclusive $1,250 per person ($250 per dinner) and come with curated drink pairings. Heading out of town to cool off, don’t worry the tickets are transferable and they make great gifts for your favorite foodie or split with friends. There will be no refunds. One guest at each dinner will win a pair of tickets to the 2026 Devour Culinary Classic. The series is a partnership with Local First Arizona and In Good Spirits Hospitality with the schedule below.

  • Monday, May 19 – Chefs Stephen Jones & Lori Hashimoto at The Larder + The Delta
  • Monday, June 16 – Chefs Bernie Kantak & Gio Osso at The Gladly
  • Monday, July 21 – Chefs Justin Beckett & Stephen Jones at Beckett’s Table
  • Monday, August 18 – Chefs Lori Hashimoto & Bernie Kantak at  Hana Japanese Eatery
  • Monday, September 15 – Chefs Justin Beckett & Gio Osso at Virtù Honest Craft

For more information and to reserve your seat 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.

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.

The World’s Greatest Dive Bar holds fundraiser for Bar Manager

The Cleator Bar & Yacht Club (off I-17 on the way up to Crown King) is helping to raise money for their Bar Manager, Bartender and un-offical “First Lady of Cleator”, Tina Barnhardt who has had numerous health issues including a heart attack recently. “Tina’s 9 Lives Run” will take place on Saturday, April 26th in and around the ghost town. A 9 a.m. off-road ride is scheduled followed by food & drinks at the bar and live music at 3 p.m. from The Bradshaw Brothers. Guests are encouraged to bring pot luck style snacks, dishes and desserts and those who can’t join the fun can donate to help Tina pay off her mounting medical bills at a GoFundMe account. For more information and directions see their website and or Facebook page.

Tuesday is Neighborhood Night at Hush Public House

The secret’s out now as the Scottsdale restaurant now offers a 3-course dinner menu for $55++ per person with two and three options per course that include Pan Roasted Halibut, Italian Beef, Crispy Cauliflower and more. Don’t worry the full menu is still available all night.

Queen Creek Olive Mill brings home Silver Awards

The locally grown and made olives and olive oils competed in the 2025 New York International Olive Oil Competition and brought home 4 Silver Awards for its olive oil, the most they’ve ever won in a single year. The winning extra virgin olive oils are the Delicate, Arizona, Delicate and Estate.

Barrio Bagel & Slice is now open.

James Beard winning Baker Don Guerra opened his newest concept last week with partner Oren Molonvinsky. Read about what to expect at the drive-thru bake shop at February’s post.

 

 

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.

Portillo’s “Beef Bus” rolls into Phoenix

The popular Chicago style food concept has its own food truck that will be at events around Phoenix until April 12th. Favorites such as Italian Beef sandwiches, Chicago-style Hot Dogs, Maxwell Street Italian and Polish sausages and more will be served up in smaller versions. You can find the “Beef Bus” starting today at…

Friday, March 7 – Sunday, March 9 Phoenix Raceway (7602 Jimmie Johnson Dr, Avondale, AZ 85323); Event Hours: Friday and Saturday 10am–2pm, 4pm–8pm; Sunday 9am–12pm; while supplies last

Friday, March 14 – Sunday, March 16 Ostrich Fest (2250 S. McQueen Rd. Chandler, AZ 85286); Event Hours: Friday 2pm–12am; Saturday 10am–12am; Sunday 10am–11pm; while supplies last

Friday, March 21 – Sunday, March 23 Ostrich Fest (2250 S. McQueen Rd. Chandler, AZ 85286); Event Hours: Friday 2pm–12am; Saturday 10am–12am; Sunday 10am–11pm; while supplies last

Friday, March 28 Amadio Ranch (4701 W Dobbins Rd, Laveen, AZ); Event Hours: 10am–9pm; while supplies last

 Saturday, March 29  Uncorked Wine Festival Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (7555 North Pima Road, Phoenix, AZ 85258); Event Hours: 5:30pm–10pm; while supplies last

Tuesday, April 1 GCU vs. U of A Baseball, Grand Canyon University (3300 W Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85017); Event Hours: 5pm–9pm; while supplies last

Saturday, April 5 ASU Devilpalooza, Arizona State University (500 E Veterans Way, Tempe, AZ 85287); Event Hours: 7:30pm–11pm; while supplies last

Saturday, April 12 Pat’s Run, Mountain America Stadium (500 E Veterans Way, Tempe, AZ 85287); Event Hours: 6am–1pm

**Dates and locations subject to change without notice**

Virtu Honest Craft to host Balcones whiskey dinner

Reservations are filling up fast for Chef Gio Osso’s five-course dinner paired with the Texas whiskey at his Scottsdale restaurant on Wednesday, March 19th. Kelli Burdick will be on hand to discuss each whiskey and their unique characteristics and pairings. Seats are $125++ per person for the 6:00 start and reservations can be made at OpenTable.

Poppy’s Office planning Westland Whiskey pairing experience

The North Scottsdale speakeasy is hosting a four-course dinner created by Keeler Hospitality Group’s Executive Chef Anthony Apolinar. Westland’s Beer Cask, Wine Cask, American Single Malt and Colere whiskey’s will be poured alongside each dish. The dinner starts at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 19th and seats are $55++ and reservations can be made by calling 480-602-2906.

Durant’s new owners donate unused food to St. Vincent de Paul

News broke last week that the Mastro family and business partner Scott Troilo had bought the iconic Phoenix steakhouse. The new owners are giving it a refresh and making minor changes in the kitchen in time to celebrate the restaurant’s 75 anniversary. Brothers Mike and Jeffrey Mastro had students from their alma mater at Brophy Prep to load and unload the truckload of non-perishable food after last week’s final service before the changes begin.

New restaurant openings

Two new locations that were recently mentioned at Pulling Corks and Forks have now opened.

Macayo’s Family Mexican opened its relocated Tempe location and Lin’s Grand Buffet opened their new Metrocenter location in recent days.

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.