Category: new concept

Prime Steak Concepts buys the Chart House for new concept

The owners of upscale restaurants Steak 44, Ocean 44, Dominick’s Steak House and other restaurants around the country announced that they have bought the popular Chart House restaurant in McCormick Ranch but won’t be operating it for long. Prime Steak Concepts has closed the lakeside restaurant with plans to open a new concept in the Fall ’26 after demolition and complete rebuild. The new concept is still in the R & D phase with no details available currently.

“We are excited to bring a new concept and new building to this incredible location. The entire property will be re-imagined,” said Jeff Mastro. “We have been developing a great new concept and menu and are excited to share it with our community and our guests. My brother Mike and I grew up just a few blocks away in McCormick Ranch and this is the perfect place for us to do something very special that fits this iconic location.”

The announcement comes a few months after Prime purchased the iconic Durant’s Steakhouse in Central Phoenix and is giving it a refresh while keeping its vintage interior and decor. Durant’s is scheduled to open later this year. The Chart House opened in 1984 on Camelback Lake and offered views of Camelback and Mummy Mountains while serving meat and seafood and was known for its large salad bar.

Details for Prime Steak Concepts new restaurant will be shared late in 2025, and you can stay up to date for Durant’s opening and the new concept at their website.

 

 

Four Corners Taphouse bringing elevated sports bar to NW Peoria

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

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

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

On the menu at Four Corners Taphouse

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

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

151 Hospitality opens The Mercer at the Esplanade

When the Little Pickle opened last month in the Esplanade at 24th St. & Camelback Rd. it marked the first of three new concepts for 151 Hospitality. The fast casual deli serving bagels sandwiches, eggs, a Hand Cut Hot Pastrami sandwich, and more is now joined but the group‘s second concept The Mercer.

The American bistro housed in the former Merc Bar offers guests lunch and dinner comfort food with menus filled with seafood, meats, salads, a raw bar, sushi and more in the wood lined dining room and bar. Dishes such as Salmon Tartare, a Prime Rib French Dip sandwich, Linz New York Strip and Brick Chicken.

Like its predecessor, cocktails are taken seriously and  award-winning mixologist Jason Asher was brought in to oversee the beverage program and create a menu of Martinis and classic cocktails including a Pisco Sour, Negroni and a Sidecar.

3 concepts, one kitchen for 151 Hospitality

Opening three restaurants at one of the, if not the most highly visible intersections in the valley doesn’t come at a discount amidst high rises filled with law firms, financial advisors and Fortune 500 companies. To help keep the high cost of kitchen equipment and labor down partners Rick Phillips and Peter Hearn use one kitchen for both restaurants and later in the year their high-end Mexican concept, Camello will have its dishes prepared from there as well.

The idea for one kitchen isn’t new as hotels have done it for years but it’s not often to see smaller restaurants groups with two full service and a fast casual concept so close together that they can make it happen. The kitchen staff doesn’t care about which restaurant the food is for, they just see food being ordered and it will be for the expediters to get the plate ready and direct traffic as the food goes out to guests. No small task that is overseen by Executive Chef Fidencio Alatriste, who’s worked around the valley at The Mission and with local restaurant groups including Fox Restaurant Concepts, Evening Entertainment Group and The Maggiore Group. Both Phillips and Hearn, feel this is the best way to offer high quality food in an upscale atmosphere and keep labor costs low. At the end of the day, they want the food and cocktails to tell the story.

The pair opened The Merc Bar, in New York, and in 1996 came to Phoenix to open a second location. Hearn left for a while to work with his college friend, Sam Fox before reuniting with Phillips to bring these concepts to life. Phillips concentrated on The Merc Bar and food festivals over the years before deciding it was time to close one chapter and start the next.

The two speak highly of each other and their decades old friendship with Phillips calling Hearn a “very inspiring, cultlike figure” who seeks out those who look to grow and have a career in the hospitality industry.

Camello coming later this year

Still under construction and in no hurry to open (in the summer) Camello “camel” will bring high end Mexican food inside and on the patio with views of The Biltmore Fashion Park and the peaks of the Phoenix Preserve. Not many details are available yet, but Hearn says, “it will be like a pool party, without the pool”. Stay tuned.

The Mercer is open 7 days a week at 11a.m. with menus and more information at their website.

 

 

 

Graze and Go AZ offers Bottomless Charcuterie Bar Cart

Not everybody has what it takes to quit a six-figure corporate job to go into the artisan food industry the way Heidi Koffman did. She just opened her new charcuterie bar cart business, Graze and Go AZ available for hire for on location events. The compact and versatile cart comes stocked with bottomless premium cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruits, nuts and crackers that will fit almost anywhere and will be the center of attention. The cart’s are perfect for customizing one’s own charcuterie board.

“I wanted to create a catering experience that is both interactive and elegant,” said Heidi Koffman, owner of Graze and Go AZ. “With our bottomless charcuterie bar cart, guests can enjoy their favorite flavors while experiencing a social and engaging element to any event.”

Koffman says her cart is perfect for almost any occasion including…..

  • Corporate Events & Networking Receptions – Impress clients and employees with a stylish, effortless food experience.

  • Weddings & Bridal Showers – A sophisticated touch for cocktail hours and receptions.

  • Graduation Parties & Holiday Gatherings – Celebrate special moments with a unique charcuterie experience.

  • Mother’s Day Brunch – Treat mom to a beautifully curated selection of gourmet bites.

For more information about Graze and Go AZ visit their website or visit them on social media at @GrazeAndGoAZ.

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.

Feta Cowboy now open in Tempe

The founders of Pita Jungle have opened their newest concept, the fast casual Feta Cowboy in Tempe’s McClintock Fountains at McClintock & Warner Rds. The new concept’s flavors show off what happens when you combine Mediterranean and southwest ingredients in a build-your-own environment. Diners can expect to assemble their bowls, burritos and pitas from their in-house crafted menu.

“At Feta Cowboy, the food and flavors are a delicious manifestation of our beautiful American gastronomical experience and the interconnectedness of global cuisine,” says Bassel Osmani, co-founder of Feta Cowboy. “Healthy nutrition and layers of flavor come together in unique ways to create simply amazing food.”

Where rustic flatbread meet tortillas and shawarma meets asada guests, can build their meal with proteins such as brisket, birria, shawarma, taouk and gyro meat that can be grilled, braised or hot off the rotisserie. Build it a top premium rice such basmati or calrose or legumes such as lentils du puy or Roma beans and toss it with dips or seven flavorful sauces including Zhug, harissa and Toom. Signature bowls are also available making the different combinations endless. For the “Lil Cowboy’s” a build-your-own-kids menu is available and different dietary lifestyles can be accommodated.

Feta Cowboy is open seven days a week from 10:45 a.m. – 9 p.m. and is at 1840 E. Warner Rd. Tempe. For more information visit their website.

 

Patsy’s New York Delicatessen coming to Paradise Valley

Hot off the grand reopening of The Mexicano, chef and restaurateur has announced his newest restaurant, Patsy’s New York Delicatessen opening this spring. The location should be familiar to many as it will be the newest concept in the former The Rosticceria restaurant and temporary home of The Mexicano pop-up. And if you’re familiar with Chef Joey’s other concepts you know there will be a signature attraction you haven’t seen in other restaurants.

“We’re bringing Arizona its first one-of-a-kind bagel bar, featuring 14 uniquely flavored cream cheeses—from artichoke & spinach dip to Nutella, and even a signature pastrami lox schmear,” says Chef Joey Maggiore, co-founder of The Maggiore Group and Chef Joey Concepts. “Our New York-style bagels will be made fresh in-house daily, using authentic New York water for that perfect bite.”

Named after Joey’s grandfather’s nickname when he was a butcher in The Bronx, Patsy”s New York Delicatessen will offer classic Jewish deli food with Joey’s modern touch. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner the restaurant will offer both a fast casual counter for those on the go along with a full-service dining room serving breakfast sandwiches & platters, house smoked & cooked deli meats and towering NY style deli sandwiches. Potato knishes, sugar cookies, NY style cheesecake and Black & White cookies will give the deli a taste of NY nostalgia. A custom soda bar where diners can craft their own egg cream will catch diners’ attention.

Christina Maggiore is bringing Manhattan to Arizona with her interior design that includes an immersive art installation, diner red accents and an old school charm atmosphere with staff donning vintage dining hats. Patsy’s will soon be hiring for dozens of positions in the near future and an announcement will be made. Patsy’s New York Delicatessen is at 12811 N. Tatum Blvd. Phoenix 85028. For more information and updates follow the on social media at @patsysdeliicatessen

 

 

 

Don Guerra opening Barrio Bagel & Slice in March

James Beard award-winning baker Don Guerra broke ground recently at a former Sonic Drive-In in Gilbert where he plans to open his Barrio Bagel & Slice drive-thru next month. The “drive-thru worth driving through” will bake his popular artisan Barrio bagels, Barrio breads and slices of pizza on site using Arizona grown and milled Heritage grains. Guerra is committed to supporting the “grain chain” throughout Arizona and is partnering with restaurateur, farmer, developer and contractor Oren Molonvinsky.

“We want our wholesome high-quality, healthy foods to be accessible to our entire community,” said Guerra. “Barrio Bagel & Slice is the next step in the evolution of our mission to be community supported and customer centered while redefining the concept of fast casual dining”.

Scratch made ingredients will top pizzas and bagels which will be available in a variety of flavors for breakfast bagel sandwiches and Sicilian style focaccia dough pizzas will be available during lunch and dinner hours. Signature sandwiches will be made with a choice of a Sonora bagel, torta roll or sourdough focaccia panini. Loafs of bread will be available all day daily at 9 a.m. until they’re sold out. Salads, sweets, coffee, tea and cold brews will also be available.

The fast casual drive-thru will keep the covered parking and will be designed with nostalgia and murals. Take-out, drive-thru and third-party delivery will be available. A second location in Tucson is already in the planning stages.

Don Guerra is looking to mentor and hire new bakers

With his Barrio Bread expanding and the opening of Barrio Bagel & Slice, Guerra is looking to hire enthusiastic new bread bakers who are looking to be ambassadors to his mission. Those food service professionals with prior baking experience and those looking to learn to make artisan breads using quality ingredients and Arizona Heritage grains from centuries old recipes should apply. Bakers will be involved in all aspects of the baking business from production to logistics & operations to customer service. For complete job descriptions and to apply, visit http://indeed.com/job/lead-baker (lead baker) and http://indeed.com/job/baker (baker).

Barrio Bagel & Slice will be at 689 N. Arizona Ave. and will be open 7 days a week at 7 a.m. and stay open until 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday and until 5 p.m. on Sunday. For more information about the new drive-thru visit their website.

 

 

YUMBAR now Royale Kitchen + Cocktails

As the one-year anniversary of The Royale, the outdoor complex in Phoenix’s Melrose District, approaches Owners Mark Howard and Rocco Menaguale have rebranded their casual restaurant YUMBAR to Royale Kitchen + Cocktails for 2025. The new restaurant is serving serving an elevated dining experience for dinner, brunch and an extended happy hour.

“The new name better reflects our focus as a neighborhood restaurant serving a large variety of metropolitan cuisine from our culinary team led by Chef Jeff Blake,” says Howard. “New selections and re-imagined favorites, along with our expanded martini, wine, and craft cocktail menus, offer our guests an exceptional dining experience seven days a week.”

Guests dining at RKC will have a larger dinner menu to choose from with new dishes that include Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry, Peachy Keen Chicken Sandwich and BLT Eggs Benedict at brunch. Favorites such as the Yum Burger, Jalapeno Popper Sandwich and the signature Mark Daddy Martini are still available.

Celebrating 1 year at Royale Kitchen + Cocktails

Both the restaurant and The Royale’s other concepts will be celebrating on Saturday, February 8th, 2025, from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Guests will enjoy food & drink specials, live music, a live art exhibit, giveaways and a chance to win exciting prizes from other tenants in the Big Royale Raffle. Other businesses in The Royale include Window Coffee Bar, Stem Swag, Cult Hair Salon & Spa, Your Health and Wellness and others.

“Our vision for The Royale was to blend mid-century modern style with an inclusive atmosphere, transforming what was once dilapidated autobody garages surrounding a junk yard into a vibrant center for connection, creativity, and joy,” says Rocco Menaguale, the architect and designer of The Royale. “We wanted to create a space that reflects the Melrose neighborhood’s character and brings people together. We are excited to celebrate our anniversary with the community and introduce the vibrant, welcoming atmosphere that makes this space so special.”

Royale Kitchen + Cocktails is at 635 W. Glenrosa Ave. Phoenix, for more information visit their website.