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.

M.I.K.I.D and Red, White & Brew partner to raise money

Red, White & Brew is partnering for the month of May with Mentally Ill Kids in Distress (M.I.K.I.D) at its Mesa and Prescott restaurants. The Arizona nonprofit is committed to improving the behavioral health and wellness of children and youth through its family centered approach.

Starting today through May 31st guests can “Dine & Donate” by ordering the popular Lemon Basil Chicken entree and or a Church Music IPA from The Shop Beer Co. $2 will be donated for each entree ordered and $1 from each beer sold hurchwill be donated to directly to M.I.K.I.D. Every bite and sip will help to raise money for critical support, preventive education and reunification of families navigating the challenges of youth mental health throughout Arizona.

For more information visit Red, White & Brew’s and M.I.K.I.D. websites.

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.

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 DishBeef Wellington, Wren & Wolf 
  • Most Crave-Worthy BurgerDouble Burger, Bad Jimmy’s 
  • Arizona Grown PurveyorsHayden Flour Mill 
  • Favorite Local Craft BeerSpellbinder, Wren House Brewing 
  • Most Creative Handcrafted Cocktail ProgramPoppy’s Office 

Experiences

  • Outstanding Bar/Nightlight ExperienceBarcoa Agaveria 
  • Ultimate Patio AtmosphereLon’s at the Hermosa Inn 
  • Exceptional Culinary ExperienceCourse Restaurant 
  • Iconic Speakeasy ExperienceTell Your Friends 

Restaurants

  • Top Sushi RestaurantUchi Scottsdale 
  • Emerging Restaurant of the YearLe Ame 
  • Uniquely ArizonaMariposa 
  • Outstanding Hospitality GroupGenuine Concepts 
  • Phenomenal Fast Casual ConceptTaco Chelo 

People

  • Team Member of the YearAvelina Young, El Charro Café, Yuma 
  • Manager of the YearJacqueline Verge, The Americano 
  • Top Mixologist/BartenderMichael Hopper, Atria 
  • Top ChefIvan 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.

Get the Golden Pancake, win pancakes for life at Eggstasy new Queen Creek location

Pancake lovers need to head to the new Queen Creek location tomorrow Saturday, April 5th as 3 guests will find a Golden Ticket with their order. Order any specialty pancakes or pancakes as your side dish for a chance to win. Its owner Peter Yarros way of saying “thank you” to the QC community who’s embraced the new location since opening in January.

Boo-Rrito raffle at Burrito Express in April

As ASU running back Cam Skattebo has announced he’s entering the upcoming NFL Draft guests ordering the signature Boo-Rrito any of the 7 restaurants around the valley will have the chance to enter the month-long raffle. Prizes include cleats, gloves and a signed football from the NFL hopeful. BE hopes to sell 3,000 Boo-Rrito’s (a hearty combination of chicken, beans, cheese, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, sour cream, guacamole and rice) in April.

Papago Orange Blossom is Beer of the Month at Famous 48

As spring begins to bloom so is the Mandarin Wheat beer from the locally owned brewer at the Scottsdale restaurant. A 16 oz. pint is $5 and a 22 oz. is $7 for the light fruity and smooth draft beer.

Greek wine tasting at GenuWine Arizona next Thursday

Have you ever had a Greek wine? Did you even know they made wine in Greece? Whether you did or didn’t know, the Roosevelt Row wine bar is pouring 3 Greek wines next Thursday, April 10th from 6-8 p.m. The cost is $10 unless you’re a Wine Club member then it’s free. Member or not you’ll get 20% off any bottles you purchase from the tasting.

Two from Arizona nominated for James Beard Award

The were over a dozen potential James Beard Award winners from Arizona when the semifinalists were announced earlier this year. The Foundation announced this week the nominees that will have the chance to win the prestigious restaurant industry award at the June 16th ceremony. Crystal Kass from Phoenix’s Valentine has the chance to win Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker and Lom Wong’s Yotaka Martin is up for Best Chef: Southwest.

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.

State Forty Eight collaborates with Spinato’s

Locally owned Spintato’s Pizzeria & Family Kitchen and the State Forty Eight Foundation are collaborating on a new pizza and margarita to support local entrepreneurs until May 31st at all six Spinato’s locations. The State Forty Eight Pizza is the first specialty pizza at Spinato’s using Hayden Flour Mills flour. In late 2024 Spinato’s decided to offer a healthier and locally grown & milled flour and made the switch to Hayden Flour Mills, which is one of Arizona’s oldest companies.

“We are big fans of State Forty Eight and we jumped at the chance to collaborate with them on a pizza to raise funds for their foundation,” said Anthony Spinato, CEO of Spinato’s Pizzeria & Family Kitchen. “Mike Spangenberg and his State Forty Eight team do tremendous work supporting small businesses and startups. We admire their innovation and commitment to strengthening our community, and we’re excited that our guests can help support their efforts as well.”

The State Forty Eight Pizza is a zesty Southwest Margarita pizza made with olive oil, mozzarella, Pico de Gallo, feta, lime crema, cotija, and cilantro. The Phoenix is an orange blossom margarita paying tribute to valley’s once thriving citrus industry.

Celebrate State Forty Eight on April 9th

The celebratory launch is scheduled for Wednesday, April 9th at Spinato’s Gilbert location at Epicenter at Agritopia from 6 -8 p.m. Admission is free, but reservations are recommended where guests can win prizes, fun surprises and enjoy live music from Hayley Green. A portion of the proceeds from pizza, margarita, t-shirts and stickers will be donated to the SFE Foundation.

“Arizona is full of incredible, talented entrepreneurs with diverse business challenges. Our goal is to lift them up with support and guidance. Ultimately, we want to build a thriving ecosystem of local businesses committed to creating a stronger economy for all who call Arizona home,” Mike Spangenberg, CEO and Co-Founder of State Forty Eight and Chairman of the Board for the State Forty Eight Foundation said. He is also grateful to collaborate with Spinato’s to support local business’.

Prices for the pizza are $18.25 (small); $24.25 (medium), and $30.25 (large). The Phoenix Margarita is $16. Special pricing packages are also available that include the pizza, margaritas, stickers, and the special collaborative T-shirt.

Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

The Main Ingredient raising $$ for Pediatric Cancer

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

Pita Jungle Gilbert to donate money next Tuesday

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

Women in Wine Tasting at GenuWine Arizona

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

Bad Jimmy’s opens in Scottsdale

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

Thai Chili 2 Go continues expanding in 2025 and 2026

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

Waste Not partners with Pita Jungle on National Pita Day

For more than 36 years Waste Not has been sustainably gathering unused food from restaurants and events then distributing them to food shelters and non-profits to help prevent food waste and hunger. Saturday, March 29th is National Pita Day and the non-profit and Pita Jungle have partnered to raise money to help the cause.

“We’re thrilled to once again join forces with Waste Not,” says Pita Jungle Co-Founder Bassel Osmani. “In continuation with our multi-years collaboration with Waste Not and thus consolidating our support in aiding the suppression of food insecurity, Pita Jungle commits to contribute proceeds from our National Pita Day promotion to support their meaningful mission.”

A $1 from every pita sandwich sold will be donated to the non-profit including Mediterranean Roasted Chicken (Shawarma), Falafel Pita, Grilled Chicken Pita, Gyro, Philly Chicken and Philly Steak Pitas and vegan pita offerings. The day long promotion is available for dine-in or take-out at participating locations.

“Pita Jungle has been an incredible partner to Waste Not for more than a decade,” says Tonia Smith, Development Manager at Waste Not. “Their support helps ensure that thousands of Arizonans facing hunger receive nourishing meals through our programs. Arizona has the worst overall food waste in the country while nearly one million people in our state experience food insecurity. Partnerships like this are essential to raising awareness, rescuing more food, and creating a lasting impact for both people and the planet.”