Category: north Scottsdale

Keeler Hospitality Group introduces new Beverage Director

Keeler Hospitality Group, the owners of Liberty Station American Smokehouse & Tavern, Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse and Poppy’s Office has announced that Tait Ludwick as the group’s new Beverage Director. Ludwick was hired five years ago at KHG as a busser and worked his way up to a server, bartender, bar manager and restaurant manager before taking over his new role this month.

“We have seen Tait grow with our company over the last several years,” said Matt Keeler, KHG’s CEO and co-owner. “We are confident he has the talent, work ethic and dedication to excel in this role and look forward to supporting his efforts.”

In his new role Ludwick sees his job from not just from a business perspective for Keeler Hospitality Group but also from the guest’s perspective. His goal is to bring the “taste and experience” and plans to elevate the guest’s experience while introducing guests with new ideas and flavors they haven’t seen in cocktails. “I am grateful I have been given the tools at Keeler Hospitality Group to improve myself and my skills,” said Ludwick. “Whether it’s tasting new spirits and wine to gain more knowledge or the fact that there is always something to learn and improve on, this company makes me feel at home.”

His first order of business is to add new bourbon selections at Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse and to introduce a new cocktail menu based on guest’s preferences at both of Liberty Station’s Scottsdale locations.

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.

2nd anniversary specials at sneakybird

Saturday, February 15th is a day of celebrating at all 3 locations in Scottsdale, Gilbert & Surprise. Free cookies to the first 200 people, double sneakybird rewards points and giveways will be happening. It’s the official launch of Camp Sneaky, its new community giving arm that focuses on supporting education at all levels.

February’s Third Tuesday tasting & dinner at Romeo’s

The Downtown Gilbert cafe has its 3-course dinner and wine pairing dinner next Tuesday, February 18th. The main course is a pan seared pork chop paired with a Italian red blend. The dinner is $48++ per person and reservations can be made by calling 480-962-4224.

New “eggrything” bagel now available at Chompie’s

All 4 locations in, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Chandler and Glendale rolled out the newest bagel this week. The egg-based bagel is seasoned with seeds throughout the bagel and is also topped with them and is available with their popular Mix & Match Box, a baker’s dozen for $14.99.

Huss Brewing is the Official Craft Beer of Sun Devil Athletics

The Sun Angel Collective announced the partnership with Huss Brewing going into the 2025-26 athletic seasons. Huss’s Devils Halo Angel Ale will be available at ASU sporting venues, at select retailers and on tap in local bars and restaurants. Proceeds will support the Sun Angel Collective to help support student athletes.

February case special at Aridus Wine Company

All month long get the 2020 Fume Blanc for $144 for a case ($12 a bottle) for non-members and only $96/case ($8 a bottle) for members. The case(s) can be picked up at their Scottsdale tasting room or delivered for $15. To order and join the wine club 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.

Hask Kitchen raising money for Habitat LA with new Has# Pancake Trio

February is National Pancake Month and all seven valley locations celebrate with a new trio of Red Velvet, Pineapple and S’mores stacks. $2 of every trio sold in February will be donated to Habitat for Humanity Greater Los Angeles (Habitat LA) and its disaster relief efforts.

Chula Seafood celebrates 6 years in Uptown Phx

The local seafood monger & restaurant celebrates the anniversary of its 2nd Phoenix area restaurant on tomorrow, February 1st with specials at all 3 locations. All locations will have “Two Buck Shucks” and each location will offer specials as follow….

Uptown

  • Tuna Katsu Sando featuring a fried panko-crusted ground tuna patty on wondrous white with cabbage and tonkatsu sauce, $16.
  • Polenta Shrimp App featuring 13 to 15 shrimp, guajillo-marinated, sauteed and served on top of polenta cakes with a lime gastrique, $14.
  • Whole Fried Thai Snapper—Crispy fried snapper with Thai basil salsa verde, herb salad and coconut rice, MP.

Rosie

  • Coconut Shrimp with fries, choice of sauce and lemon, $17 for a 3-piece/$20 for a 6-piece
  • Fried Shrimp with fries, choice of sauce and lemon, $15 for a 3-piece/$18 for a 6-piece – Sauce choices include sweet chili, spicy Kewpie, masago ranch and cocktail sauce
  • French Fries, $8
  • Green Chile Cheese Fries with cheddar cheese sauce, green chilies and cilantro, $14
  • A la Carte Coconut Shrimp Taco—A flour tortilla filled with spicy Kewpie, coconut shrimp, purple cabbage, pineapple serrano salsa and avocado, $12

Grayhawk

  • Filet O Fish—White fish brandade patty breaded in panko then deep fried and served with American cheese, malt vinegar tartar sauce, shredded iceberg and house-made pickles on a Noble slider bun. Served with a side of chips, $15
  • Lobster Grilled Cheese— Butter-poached lobster with a white cheddar mornay on toasted Noble sourdough and served with a side of tomato soup, $25
  • Tuna Bulgogi Kimchi Fries—Crispy French fries topped off with seasoned ground yellowfin tuna, caramelized onions, kimchi, American cheese and sesame mayo, $15

Let’s do lunch at…….

Fire at Will starting Monday, February 3rd from 11 a.m. – 4p.m. The Scottsdale restaurant will offer a daily menu with more than 20 Small Plates, Burgers and Sandwiches, Salads, Big Plates, Sides and Desserts to choose from. Highlights such as French Onion Dip, Italian Chopped salad, Bacon BBQ Burger and Shrimp & Grits will impress the lunchtime crowd with its locally sourced ingredients like the way the dinner menu has since it opened.

Cider Corps offers new late night hours February 3rd

The downtown Mesa cidery will be staying open later as we get into the Phoenix area’s busy season arriving. The new taproom hours will begin 7 days a week from 11 a.m. -until 10 p.m. Monday – Friday, until 12 a.m. Friday & Saturday and 8 p.m. on Sundays. Myke’s Pizza will be serving NY-style slices of Cheese, Pepperoni and Vodka Sauce with Jalapenos Friday & Saturday nights from 8 – 10 p.m.

Bourbon & Bones reschedule Rickhouse event to March, 1st

With Parada Del Sol taking over Old Town Scottsdale tomorrow the scheduled Rickhouse Bourbon event will take the day off so those can attend the western celebration. The event returns the first Saturday in March.

 

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

Tickets available for this weekend’s Arizona Wine Festival in downtown Phoenix

Heritage Square will host the two-day festival this Saturday & Sunday. Admission is free with Early Bird tickets available for those looking to taste wine from over 20 Arizona wineries. Tickets will be available for purchase at the door and an official announcement for a $6 million donation to Cochise Community College for its new Ann Marie Stephens Viticulture program and wine making scholarships will be made at 4:30 p.m. Saturday. The generous donation was made by Ann Marie Stephens.

Sunday Supper at Hush Public House with Sonoran Pasta

The two local owned businesses pair up this Sunday, January 26th for a four-course family style supper that includes…

  • Barrio Bread Focaccia with whipped ricotta and honey
  • “The Best Damn Ceasar”—enough said!
  • Sonoran Pasta Rigatoni with Sunday sauce, meatballs, sausage and braciole
  • Cannoli with sweetened ricotta and chocolate chips

This experience goes off between 5 – 9 p.m. at the North Scottsdale restaurant for only $60++ per person and reservations can be made here.

Rombauer wine dinner at Tommy V’s

Owner Zoran Klisara welcomes guests to his Downtown Scottsdale restaurant on Thursday, January 30th pairing dishes from his kitchen with wines from Napa Valley and other northern California wine regions. The five-course dinner starts at 6 p.m. and features Seafood Cannelloni, Wild Mushroom Risotto and Filet Mignon. Seats are limited at $135++ and can be made at the restaurant’s website.

LDV Winery wins awards for 3 wines from San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

The prestigious competition awarded the wineries 2017 Petite Sirah- Bronze, 2023 Rose-Silver and 2022 Viognier- Bronze at the 25th anniversary event. Over 50 judges tasted more than 5,500 wines from over 950 North American wineries.

“It is an honor to be judged by the industry’s most notable wine connoisseurs and to be ranked among the continent’s best wines,” says Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of LDV Winery. “We will continue to put all our efforts and passions into producing the best wines we can and putting Arizona on the map as a true wine destination.”

Eggstasy now open in Queen Creek

The 8th location of the Arizona-based company opened in the East Valley this week at 20735 E. Maya Rd. Favorites such as The Angus Skirt Steak & Eggs, Caprese Benedict, Cookie Butter Crepes, coffee drinks and more are available everyday start at 7 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. during the week and 3 p.m. on weekends.

It’s “Tomaso Month” at The Italiano with a special menu

There’s no better way to honor one’s family than to recreate what they did best and enjoyed doing. In the case of Chef Joey Maggiore, it’s to dedicate a month long specially created menu at his newest restaurant, The Italiano, in honor of his father, chef & restaurateur Tomaso Maggiore who passed away four years ago this month.

Through the end of January guests can dine on a four-course menu of Tomaso’s signature dishes made with handmade pastas and slow-cooked sauces. The “Tomaso Month” menu is as follows……

First Course: (For the table)

  • Antipasto – Eggplant Napoletana, Mozzarella Caprese, Bruschetta with Auricchio Provolone, Roasted Peppers
  • Scungilli & Calamari – Roasted garlic, potatoes, and a spicy tomato wine broth

Second Course:

  • Sicilian Salad – Heirloom tomatoes, fennel, poached potatoes, red onion, puntarelle, and a citrus vinaigrette

Primi Piatti:

  • Mezza Rigatoni alla Norma – Heirloom tomato sauce, braised eggplant, and dried ricotta

Fourth Course: (Choose One)

  • Petra Sole Francese – Lightly egg-battered with lemon wine caper sauce
  • Stuffed Veal Cuscinetto – Mascarpone, prosciutto, wild mushroom ricotta, and a sherry wine demi
  • Divine Sausage & Peppers – House made, chargrilled with caramelized onions, peppers, and a San Marzano wine sauce

Dessert:

  • Angel Kisses – Strawberries stuffed with cannoli cream

For more information and to make your reservation visit the restaurant’s website.

Poppy’s Office launches the 12 Drinks of Christmas on Friday

There’s still time to get in the holiday spirit with a glass filled with your favorite spirits and North Scottsdale’s hidden gem, Poppy’s Office is giving you 12 reasons too. Starting this Friday, December 13th and through Christmas Eve a new cocktail will be offered each day.

The 12 Drinks of Christmas at Poppy’s Office are (feel free to sing along with your true love)….

On the 1st Day of Christmas: St. Nicholas is made with cognac, crème de cassis, agave, Quinquina, Angostura bitters and Xocatl Mole Bitters.

On the 2nd Day of Christmas: Jingle Juice with Benchmark bourbon whiskey, lemon juice, Giffard Apricot, cinnamon simple, Giffard Gomme syrup and Angostura bitters.

On the 3rd day of Christmas: Mr. Narwhal featuring Miles gin, sweet vermouth, Amaro Lucano, Aperol, Angostura bitters and toasted almond bitters.

On the 4th day of Christmas: The Naughty List made with Benchmark bourbon whiskey, Pandan simple, Xocatl Mole Bitters and black walnut bitters.

On the 5th day of Christmas: North Pole Smash featuring Piggyback Rye, Amaro Nonino, Amaro Lucano, crème de cacao, cinnamon simple and lemon juice.

On the 6th day of Christmas: Fireside Old Fashion with Reposado Tequila, cinnamon simple, black walnut bitters and Peychauds Bitters.

On the 7th day of Christmas: Cotton Headed Ninny Muggins with Amaro Braulio and hot chocolate topped with mini marshmallow.

On the 8th day of Christmas: Grinch’s Heart featuring Selva Rey, lime juice, pineapple juice, Crème de Mure, Coconut Alchemist and orgeat.

On the 9th day of Christmas: Silver Bell made with Tommy Rotter Barrel Aged Gin, lemon juice Pamplemousse, cinnamon simple and a crème de mure float.

On the 10th day of Christmas: The Forghetti with Fernet Branca and Borghettis and a lemon twist.

On the 11th day of Christmas: Red-Nosed Negroni with Miles Gin, cacao nib-infused sweet vermouth and Hibiscus Campari.

On the 12th day of Christmas: Adam and Eve featuring Adam’s Hot Buttered Rum with whipped cream, a candy cane and powered cinnamon.

 

 

 

 

Harry Potter inspired pizza and beer collaboration at Spinato’s

Spinato’s Pizzeria & Family Kitchen is ending 2024 with the last of its collaboration with Steve Larson a.k.a The Wizard of Za with its Rose Au Gratin Pizza available at all locations until December 31st. The Harry Potter inspired pizza was co-created with Jaime Spinato the restaurant’s director of community outreach and brand manager. Like its other collaborations, a local brewer is chosen to create a special beer for the occasion and Phoenix’s Roses By The Stairs brewery created a Belgian style witbier, The Witty Wizard.

Jaime, who embodies the spirit of a true Ravenclaw says “We had a lot of fun creating this pizza, and I’m grateful for Steve’s guidance as we experimented with different ingredients,”. “The rosemary-dressed potatoes lend a savory elegance to the pizza and the delicate borage blossom flowers add a visual and culinary flourish. We added a sprinkle of edible blue glitter to give the dish a magical, almost otherworldly charm.”

The pizza features an Alfredo base with layered sliced potatoes dressed in olive oil and rosemary, garlic, caramelized onions, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, edible borage flower blossoms and it is topped with a sprinkle of edible blue glitter. The Witty Wizard offers hints of lemon, grapefruit, and thyme. The witbier captures a touch of magical whimsy with its enchanting blend of flavors. The zesty lemon and grapefruit bring a burst of sunshine, while the aromatic thyme adds a hint of herbal charm.

The Rose Au Gratin is $11.75 for a personal pizza and $29.75 for a large. A 16 oz. can of The Witty Wizard is $8 and is only available at the restaurant. Local artist Aaron Thomason created the harry Potter like design for the can. For more information visit the pizzeria’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.

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.

Good news! The Phoenix Pizza Festival is this weekend

The weather is looking good for this weekend’s festival at Margaret T. Hansen Park in downtown Phoenix. Tickets are still available, and details can be found at a recent post.

Third Tuesday dinner at Romeo’s Euro Cafe

The popular downtown Gilbert cafe serves up its monthly dinner next Tuesday, November 24th. Dinner starts with a tomato cucumber salad followed by a slow cooked beef shank and ends with mixed berry cobbler. Wines from around the world will be paired with each course and the dinner is $48++ per person and reservations can be made by calling 480-962-4224.

Seats available for champagne dinner at Christopher’s Wrigley Mansion

This Tuesday, November 19th the famed restaurant overlooking the Biltmore neighborhood welcomes Champagne Lelarge Puegot for multi-course pairing dinner. A reception starts the evening at 6 p.m. and is $250++ per person with reservations being made at OpenTable.

Gold medal winning tacos now available at Chula Seafood’s Grayhawk location

Every Taco Tuesday guests at the North Scottsdale location can taste the award-winning taco(s) from the 2024 Taco Fest. The Shrimp Tacos Dorados are crispy shrimp-and-potato-filled tacos topped with crema, salsa roja shrimp coctel, creamy avocado, crisp cabbage and zesty pickled onions. The tacos are also gluten-free.

Phoenix City Grille offers new daily specials

The Uptown Phoenix restaurant announced new weekly specials that include….

Martini Mondays- What makes Mondays a little better? Cocktails! Every Monday, guests can enjoy martinis and Manhattans all day long for just $10 each!

Take-Out Tuesdays- Too busy to dine in? No problem — on Tuesdays, guests that make a phone-ahead take-out order after 4 p.m. will receive 15% off their order! (Don’t forget to mention this promo when calling in the order.)

Wine Down Wednesdays- Every Wednesday after 4 p.m., guests can enjoy 25% off their favorite bottle featured on PCG’s Under $100 list.

Happy Hour- Enjoy special pricing on food and beverages every day from 3-6 p.m.

Brunch Happy Hour- During brunch, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sundays, specialty cocktails are just $10 each and bottles of sparkling wine are half price — perfect for “build your own” mimosas!