Category: retail

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.

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.

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.

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.

 

 

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.

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

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

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

Pastrami sliders on sale at Miracle Mile Deli

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

Stolpman wine tasting at GenuWine Arizona

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

73rd Laveen BBQ happeing on February 22nd

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

Meatloaf specials at Chompie’s through April

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

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

AZ Lemonade Stand introduces AZ-ZERO

The new year brings out a new beverage from locally owned AZ Lemonade Stand. AZ-ZERO boasts “Zero Sugar, Zero Calories, All the Flavor” in two flavors, Original Lemonade and Strawberry Lemonade. Using monk fruit as a natural sweetener for its bold refreshing taste the popular beverage is also made with real lemons and other natural flavors.

“We’re incredibly proud of AZ-ZERO because it’s not just another product; it’s the result of a challenging journey,” said Kyle Hollenbeck, Co-Founder of AZ Lemonade Stand. “Taking a product like lemonade, traditionally made with lemons and sugar, and reducing the sugar without losing that signature flavor was no easy task. Lemonade is inherently associated with sweetness, so finding a way to maintain the bold, refreshing taste we’re known for while eliminating sugar was a true challenge. By using monk fruit, we’ve achieved that delicate balance—delivering the same crisp, flavorful experience, but now with zero sugar and zero calories.”

Growth and community at AZ Lemonade Stand

Founded in 2020 by Hollenbeck and Aioli Burgers founder Tommy D’Ambrisio, AZ Lemonade Stand has sold over a million jars of its high-quality lemonade and continues its growth partnering with Hensley Beverage Company for distribution in Arizona. The brand is also community minded with charity sponsorships with groups such as #LOVEPUP, JoyBus and Malama Maui.

“Community support and giving back have always been essential to our business practices. We’re thankful to our local community for supporting our businesses, so we give back as much as we can,” said Hollenbeck. 

For more information and where to find AZ-Zero and the original lemonades 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.

Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers opens 18th Arizona location

The new location is now opened at Gilbert Town Square serving up scratch made meals including award-winning cheeseburgers and 150 beers on rotating taps. It will be the first location to have a “Shake and Bake” counter for custom made milkshakes and ice cream cookie sandwiches. The restaurant will start hosting the first ever monthly car show on the first Tuesday of the month. The first car show will be on January 7th, 2025 with all cars welcome and no registration needed.

Tempe Eats to close and transition to an event venue.

Guests wanting to check out the Tempe food hall have until January 7th, 2025 before it closes. From there it will be an event and and private rental venue. It previously hosted fundraisers, live music, Latin Night and Country Night. “We’re excited to focus on creating memorable experiences for special occasions,” said Teresa Nguyen, Owner of Tempe Eats.

Tracy Dempsey Originals wines will be open on today and tomorrow

Despite originally planning to be closed Friday (today) and Saturday, the Tempe kitchen retail shop and bakery will be open from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Perfect timing to pick-up some bubbles for New Year’s Eve and post-holiday sale items. In January the shop will move to a smaller location next door and not many more days left to visit the larger store front.

30% off at Koibito Poke thru December 31st

For the rest of the year those with the Loyalty App can get 30% off when ordering online or in person. You’ll find the savings under the “Rewards” tab on the app. It’s also the last chance to get an extra $10 gift card when purchasing a $30 or more gift card until the 31st.

 

 

 

 

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.

Holiday Wine & Dine event returns to the SHOPS Gainey Village

Thursday, December 5th brings the return of the popular Holiday Wine & Dine event at the upscale retail center in Scottsdale. From 4 – 7 p.m. guests attending the free event can sample wines from Pomo Pizzeria, Lure Fish House, Sunset Wine & Bistro, Village Tavern along with juices from Kaleidoscope Juice. You’ll also be able to snack on samples of festive treats from Panera Bread Company and other baked goods and warm up with hot chocolate from The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. 

Live music will be performed by a variety of performers including Volcano Steel Drum Duo, electronic violinist Natasha, The Sahanas Brothers Guitar Duo and others. Horse drawn carriages, photos with Santa Claus, festive lighting and a Christmas tree under the night sky will have people feeling festive in the holiday season. 

For more information about the Holiday Wine & Dine event visit the SHOPS Gainey Village website.