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Dad deserves good food and drinks from local restaurants

Father’s Day is coming up quickly on June 21 and restaurants know ties and tools aren’t much fun. They know dear old dad wants to eat & drink with friends and family. These Phoenix area restaurants (and a couple up north) are offering deals whether you’re dining in or taking it home.

Central Phoenix

Miracle Mile Deli– $100 of gift cards for only $80 to start until June 21st. Father’s Day meal deal specials include Breakfast In Bed (Feeds 4): Includes 4 Plain Bagels, Whipped Cream Cheese, Nova Smoked Salmon, Capers, Tomato, Cucumber, Onion, Seasonal Fresh Fruit, Yogurt & Granola.  $55 Lunch At Home (Feeds 4):  Customers can pick up of our Sandwich Kits – $45  Dinner For the Fam (Feeds 4-10): Customers can pick any of our Miracle Meal Deals – Prices range from $55-$95. See website for menu. Please call 602-776-0992 to place an order by 6 p.m. Sat. June 20th. 4433 North 16th Street Phoenix, AZ 85016

Joe’s Diner – The Number Two ($11.79) includes two eggs cooked any style, 2 strips of bacon, 2 sausage patties, two pancakes and a cup of Joe. Joe’s Diner, 4515 N. 7th Ave., Phoenix. 602-535-4999.

Phoenix City Grille – Specialty Brunch menu item include Steak & Eggs ($19), mesquite grilled flank steak will be cooked to Dad’s preference served alongside chipotle chimichurri, Ramona Farms tepary bean puree, Kennebec breakfast potatoes and grilled Mama Lola flour tortillas. Dinner specials include Prime Rib ($37), a 12 oz. cut served with guajillo chile jus, smoked onion rings and horseradish whipped potatoes; and Seafood Pasta ($25), fresh pappardelle tossed with sautéed wild gulf shrimp, Chula seafood salmon, artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes drizzled with lemon caper butter sauce. 5816 N. 16th Street, Phoenix. 602-266-3001.

Mora Italian– is offering a Father’s Day special for $60 dine-in per person and $50 carry out (carry out excludes liquor). The meal includes as 12 oz Niman Ranch Sirloin Steak with Bagna Cauda Frites. Dads will also receive a cigar and a selected choice of wine, whiskey, scotch or beer.

Downtown Phoenix

Trapp Haus – Father’s Day Gift Basket ($49.99) includes a curated mix of a shot of Maker Mark Bourbon, Helio Basin 602 Larger, PTG Championship Rub, PTG Rootbeer BBQ Sauce, cookies, PTG Pitmaster recipe cards, Trapp Haus Bananda and $10 Trapp Cash. 511 E. Roosevelt St., Phoenix. 480-664-4822.

PHX Beer Co. Tap Room and Brewery- make sure to enter your dad (or yourself if you are a dad) to win a free Traeger Mesa 22 Grill (value $500). Now through June 19th either text PHXBeer to 20300 or visit https://www.phxbeerco.com/traeger-contest for the chance to win. On June 19th, one winner will be pulled. One entry per email and must be 18 or older to enter. 3002 E. Washington St.

North Phoenix

Original Breakfast House – Specialty menu items include steak and Portobella Hash ($17), Chile en Nogada Omelette ($16), Shrimp and Grits ($14.50) and Carrot Cakes Pancakes ($11.50). 13623 N. 32nd St, Phoenix. 602-482-2328.

Glendale

Urban Margarita – Father’s Day weekend specialty menu, served all weekend, includes Lobster Flautas ($13), Pineapple Habanero Baby Back Ribs ($18) and Slow Braised C.A.B. Short Ribs ($25) and Jeremy’s Blueberry Bourbon Brioche Bread Pudding ($11). For Father’s Day brunch, served until 1:30 p.m., the menu includes Fresh Grapefruit “Paloma” ($13), Sirloin Steak Ranchero ($16), Slow Braised Prime Rib Benedict ($17) and Bananas Foster French Toast ($13). 6685 West Beardsley Road, Glendale AZ. 623-561-6674.

North Scottsdale

Sol Cocina– Father’s Day Brunch Sat & Sun. June 20th & 21st served all day. Scottsdale Quarter -15323 N Scottsdale Rd. 85254 480-245-6708.

Liberty Station Terravita – 20% off all To-Go BBQ Orders OR $1 beers with purchase of any BBQ item (limit 2). 34522 N Scottsdale Rd #180, Scottsdale. 480-595-993

Moe’s Roadhouse – Roadhouse Burger, fries and domestic draft ($12); Firehouse Jalapeño Burger, fries and domestic draft ($12); Mango Habanero Wings, 8 wings ($8); Hard Milkshake served with a shot of JD/Jameson/ or RocknRye ($8); $2 Domestic Draft 16oz; $3 Specialty Draft. 16oz; $5 Rock n Rye Whiskey, Jack Daniels, Jameson and $5 Titos. 18251 N Pima Rd # F120, Scottsdale. 480-686-8908.

PHX Beer Co.- $4 PHX Beer Co. beers (limit two) for dad! Dad also gets to add free bacon to any entrée, sandwich or pizza. Dad still want to turn up the bacon? Dad’s Favorite Bacon & Beer Flight will be available for just $10. 8300 N Hayden Rd in Scottsdale.

The Americano– is celebrating in style with a Father’s Day “Wagyu, Whiskey and Cigar” menu for $85 per person. Guests will be greeted with choice of Zaddy’s Beer, Grand Canyon Prickly Pear Vodka, or Pacifico Clara Carreno Espadin with Chili-Salt. For appetizers, guests can choose Octopus Fritto, with pickled fennel puree and salsa peperoncino or Wagyu Meatball, with pomodora, parmesan and herb salad. The main course will consist of either Wood fired sirloin wagyu steak & frites, with truffle maitre’d butter and roasted garlic aioli or Pappardelle pasta with milk braised lamb, house-made tomato sauce, mascarpone and mint. Be sure to save room for a decadent dessert of tiramisu and a glass of Very Old Barton Kentucky Straigh Bourbon and cigar to take home. There is also an optional $35 wine pairing available.

More restaurants for dad

Downtown/ Old town Scottsdale

Merkins Vineyards– Merkin Vineyards in Old Town Scottsdale is offering a ‘Take & Grill’ option which will serve four and includes a choice of a main dish – Salmon Filet, Lamb Rack, or Stuffed Squash and comes with sides of Roasted Potatoes, Garden Peas, & Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus for $79. For those who want to take dad out, the ‘Bottle & Board’ special will be offered for dining in, which includes four types of cheese or charcuterie items with bread and a bottle of Merkin Vineyards wine for $48.

LDV Winery – Father’s Day basket ($60) complete with a rich, complex 2015 Syrah from LDV Winery and locally made Super Chunk’s signature caramel corn with bacon and chocolate. 7134 E. Stetson Drive #110, Scottsdale. 480-664-4822.

Hotel Valley Ho– Treat dear old dad to the ultimate brunch or dinner experience at ZuZu with jaw-dropping savory menu items available all day long like the Double Steak Benedict with short rib ragout and poached eggs ($18), a 16 oz. Charbroiled Ribeye ‘Oscar Style’ with king crab hollandaise ($42), the #1 Juicy Lucy Burger with smoked blue cheese ($24), and last but certainly not least, the King Kong Bloody Mary with tempura-fried short rib grilled cheese, jumbo poached shrimp, an antipasti skewer, and more ($32). Wash it all down with penny beer pints, available with the purchase of any of the featured entrées. The seasonal brunch menu will also be served from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and the seasonal dinner menu will be served from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Carefree

Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse –   Enjoy $1 draft beer or house wine with purchase of any steak (limit 2). 7212 East Ho Hum Road, Carefree. 602-374-4784.

dad
Photo courtesy of Skyler Scott and Mountain Shadows Resort

Multiple locations

Press Coffee– World’s Greatest Dad blend is a limited supply is a balanced blend with nutty flavors and an overall sweetness. It is being sold at all eight Valley Press locations for $16 during the month of June and online. A gift set is also available which includes a bag of the World’s Greatest Dad blend ($16 Value) and a Press MIIR Camp cup ($25 Value) for $35.

Thai Chili 2 Go – Buy One, Get One Free price (all locations) all day. Entrees start at $11. Nine locations throughout the Valley.

Wildflower– Dear old dad gets 2 delicious Chocolate Chip Cookies with all orders.

Pedal Haus Brewery–  This Father’s Day dads get a free set of logo’d beer glasses with the purchase of one of three dishes at Pedal Haus Brewery. Grilled Salmon with Israeli Cous Cous and asparagus ($16.25), Full rack of ribs with baked beans and coleslaw ($24.25) or the Double Cut Bone In Pork Chop with creamy mashed potatoes and asparagus ($22.25). Tempe 720 S. Mill Ave, #102 85281. Chandler 95 W. Boston St.

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria– Grimaldi’s has partnered with Tribute Wine for this Father’s Day meal deal that includes an 18″ traditional cheese pizza, large house or Caesar salad and bottle of Tribute Cabernet Sauvignon for $40. In addition, guests who purchase this select deal can choose from two Father’s Day themed Tribute Wine labels to customize their wine bottle. This deal is available Friday, June 19th through Sunday, June 21st for dine-in or carryout.

Fired Pie– is selling par-baked take ‘n bake pizzas. Guests can order an of Fired Pie’s signature Pizza Creations for $14 and simply throw them on the grill to bake to perfection! Fired Pie will also be running a social media contest to giveaway a Wood-Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven.

Tempe

Voodoo Daddy’s Steam Kitchen– Offers a family take out meal for dad for $84.95. Included are Hand battered Buttermilk Chicken Tenders, Cheese Grits, Gumbo, eight beignets and a six pack of Red Stripe. Those interested can preorder for pickup by visiting VooDoo Daddy’s website. 1325 W. Elliot Rd., Suite 106. 480-659-6145.

Northern Arizona

Cauceaus Cellars & Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room– The Father’s Day package includes a bottle of Bittermilk Oaxacan Old Fashioned Cocktail Mixer, a can of Puscifer Queen B Hard Cider, a container of Ramon Peña Bonita Tuna packed in Olive Oil, a bottle of Chili Beak Spicy Roasted Chili Oil, a bar of Goodnow Farms Putnam Rye Whiskey Special Reserve Dark Chocolate and a flight of five Caduceus Wines. This gift set is $69.95. Caduceus Cellars is located at 158 Main St, Jerome, AZ 86331

Cowboy Club – Burger & Beer special ($12). Choose a Club Burger or a Crispy Chicken Sandwich served with traditional cut or sweet potato fries and a chilled 14-oz glass of beer (chose from any beer on tap). One cent refills up to two times. 241 North State Route 89A, Sedona. 928-282-4200

Even more restaurants

Downtown Chandler

SanTan Brewing & Spirits– If dad that loves to learn about the science and art of making his favorite libations, SanTan Tours is the perfect gift! Located at SanTan’s production facility off Warner & Arizona Ave in Chandler, the tour explores the similarities of both the brewing and distilling process. Samples are included and tickets are just $15 per person and will be offered every hour Saturday and Sunday from 12- 6 p.m.

To maintain social distancing, each tour will be limited to 10 attendees each hour. This is a 21+ over activity only and drink samples are provided. Book your tours today at link above.

Spirit House– There’s no better way to end your Father’s Day than with a night out at Spirit House Tasting Room & Cocktail Bar. Leave the kids with a sitter and join us for a complimentary dads-only tasting of the multiple award-winning Butcher Jones Arizona Straight Rye Whiskey. He’ll also enjoy a wide variety of hand-crafted cocktails include the signature Commonwealth Old Fashioned, Cherry Lime Highball, French 75 and many more.

Spirit House is located behind SanTan Brewing Company in Downtown Chandler at 8 S. San Marcos Place, Suite 106, Chandler, AZ 85225.

Chandler

Chase’s Diner – Meat Lover’s Special ($12.99), which comes with a generous helping of bacon, ham, sausage, two eggs and pancakes. Choice of coffee or tea. 2040 N Alma School Rd., Chandler, AZ 85224. 480-855-3663

SanTan Spirits is launching an exclusive club for super fans called, Cask Club! This subscription-based membership is the perfect way to experience SanTan Spirits all year with a curated box of six bottles including Cask Strength and exclusive spirits. Your first box will be ready to pick up during Father’s Day Weekend.

Each new Cask Club subscription comes with your choice of two engraved Glencairn tasting glasses or a mixing glass + a membership sticker. Other Cask Club benefits include 20% off at the SanTan Tours tasting room, a free bottle of bitters on your birthday and $20 gift cards to the brewpub for membership referrals.

Order your subscription today online at https://santanspirits.com/cask-club/ or in person at 495 E Warner Road, Chandler, AZ 85225.

Paradise Valley

Mountain Shadows Resort– Savor brunch at Hearth ’61 from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with a special Braised Short Rib Hash ($16) or select any of the classics from the seasonal brunch menu. Prefer to have a memorable dinner experience instead? In addition to the seasonal menu, enjoy a three-course prix-fixe meal including Pan-Seared Dungeness Crab Cake, Oven-Roasted Barbeque Beef Brisket, and Key Lime Pie for $49 per person plus tax and gratuity. Dinner will be served from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and reservations are required. All menu items are available for dine-in and curbside pick-up. Please call 480.624.5458 for reservations and more information.

If dad is looking to hit the links and take advantage of the beautiful sights out on the greens, treat him to Birdies, Brews, and Views and play a round of golf while sampling craft beers. Then enjoy a Birdie Club Sandwich at Rusty’s, for $94 per person. Give dad the gift of golf all summer long with the Summer Unlimited Golf Pass valid through September 20 for $349 plus tax. For more information and tee times, please call 480.624.5433.

Rusconi’s American Kitchen– A three-course feast ($52/person) with the choice of a starter: American gulf shrimp, guajillo seared ahi tuna or tomato and burrata salad; a choice of an entrée: pecan wood fired grilled prime flatiron stead or boneless short ribs and green chili macaroni; and a choice of dessert: dark chocolate bread pudding or caramelized Nixon square fig and Madagascar vanilla creme brûlée. Service starts at 5 p.m. 10637 N Tatum Blvd suite 101 B Phoenix, AZ 85028 480-483-0009.

Salty Sow– Father’s Day weekend (Fri. – Sun.) get a signature 12 oz. Prime Rib with au jus, mashed potatoes and creamy horseradish for only $29 per person. For reservations call 602-795-9463 or go online. 4801 E Cactus Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85032

Surprise

Reel Pizza Pies– 25% off Meat Head specialty pizza for dine-in or take-out. 13953 W. Waddell Rd., #103, Surprise 85379. 623-800-0909

 

 

 

Cannabis dispensary, The Mint is holding a cannabis infused recipe contest

Arizona largest cannabis dispensary, The Mint is holding a contest to find the best cannabis infused recipe. Through June 30th, Arizona card holders 21 years of age and older are encouraged to submit their creations. The winning recipe will be featured in The Mint’s kitchen to join other menu items for to-go orders. Cannabis infused foods with less sugar help people battling everything from cancer & epilepsy to Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s.

Entrants need to their share recipe, idea or creation along with the proposed name, key ingredients and description. 10 finalists will be judged by a panel of chefs by July 1st and a grand prize winner will be announced on July 10th which is when the industry celebrates cannabis concentrates and extracts. The winner will also have their recipe in a cannabis infused cookbook to be released in August. The winner will receive $2,500 in cash and a $2,500 donation to a food bank in their name. Sales of the cookbook will also be donated to food banks who have been struggling to feed people the last few months.cannabisRecipe submissions are being accepted until 11:59 p.m. June 30th 2020 and can be sent to Recipes@TheMintDispensary.com. The Mint has a dispensary in Mesa and Guadalupe with a third planned to open this year in north Phoenix.

 

Pizzeria Bianco to donate profits on World Food Day

Critically acclaimed Pizzeria Bianco will be donating a part of its profits to Food for the Hungry on World Food Day, Wednesday October 16th. Guests can dine at either location at Heritage Square in downtown Phoenix and at Town & Country Center at 16th St. & Camelback Rd. to help raise money for the non-profit.

The Phoenix-based non-profit is an international relief and development organization is trying to establish a zero-hunger world and eliminate all forms of poverty.

“Currently, 821 million people suffer from chronic hunger and almost 15,000 children under the age of five die of malnutrition-related causes every day,” said Beth Allen, Senior Communications Manager of Food for the Hungry. “To combat this statistic, people around the world come together on World Food Day to promote awareness and action to eradicate hunger in our lifetime. We are so grateful to Pizzeria Bianco for joining us in our efforts to end hunger in some of the hardest areas of the world.”

Pizzeria Bianco’s two Phoenix locations at 623 E. Adams Street and 4743 N. 20th Street.

 

Back exploring food and more in Boston and Cape Cod

If you’ve followed this blog for a few years you would’ve seen a post or two from my visits to Cape Cod. Well I’m back for another visit by way of Boston for the week to escape the Arizona heat. After my first 3 days I have enough to tell you about from my morning in Boston to the days on The Cape.

Breakfast in Boston

I flew into Boston early Saturday morning and was greeted by my friend who re-located from Phoenix to the Boston area 20 years ago. It was pretty early so we decided to head into the city to wake up and made our way to the newly built Seaport District along Boston Harbor. On the south-side of downtown Boston the Seaport District is full of high rise office and apartment buildings, restaurants and attractions. The big attraction for us was the Harbor Walk that led us towards Boston’s North End for breakfast.

Italian market in Boston’s North End

The North End is Boston’s “Little Italy” neighborhood full of narrow streets lined with Italian markets and restaurants. We made our to Theo’s Cozy Corner for breakfast on Salem St. The small cash only breakfast joint serves up traditional breakfast fare at good prices. Eggs, pancakes, etc and good portions Theo’s was full of neighborhood regulars and a few of us outsiders looking to start our day. My friend and I both went with corned beef hash with 3 eggs, home fries and toast. A good choice leaving us both satisfied.

No trip to the North End is complete without a stop at Mike’s Pastry for cannoli for a my mid-morning snack. We also stopped into a traditional Italian market for sliced prosciutto and other meats and fresh bread.

After a walk back along the harbor to the car we headed to the south bay so I could continue down to the Cape.

Saturday and Sunday on the Cape

For years my family has been spending a few weeks every August in Harwichport which is on the south side on Nantucket Bay on a part of the cape that is considered Mid-Cape. A cute town we venture to restaurants to get our fill of fresh seafood. Whether it’s $1 oysters for happy hour at The Port or trying to find the “Best” lobster roll we have our favorites and are always on the lookout for new restaurants to try.

By the time I arrived in mid-afternoon Saturday I was ready to get my fresh seafood feast going. My nephew, brother-in-law and I went across the street to The Port for the $1 oysters from Chatham and Wellfleet. The week before I hear they polished off 90 oysters during one sitting but that wasn’t going to happen on this day as the restaurant was shorthanded with shuckers and we weren’t the only ones there for happy hour. 48 oysters were good enough to satisfy us on this day.

Oysters at The Port in Harwichport

Most days on the cape are lazy with a later start than had I been home in Arizona. Sunday morning started out foggy(the weather, not me) but by late morning the sun was out we’re off to Bank St. beach for a little sand and sun. After a few hours on the beach it was back to relax and decide where to do dinner. We decided it was time to get lobster rolls so we made our way to the Sesuit Harbor Cafe in Dennis. Sesuit on the north side of the cape about a 15 minute drive from Harwichport. Like other “seafood shacks” on the Cape and in New England, Sesuit Harbor Cafe offers fried, broiled or raw seafood. Place your order, find a table outside and wait for the servers bring your food. It’s fast casual before fast casual became a restaurant trend.

Lobster rolls for most of us were served with fries and cole slaw, my nephew went with half a broiled lobster. All were happy as we sat among the sea gulls, marina plotting our next move. We saved room for desert and made our way for homemade ice cream at Schoolhouse Ice Cream in Harwichport.

Sunday or Monday its all the same

When you’re on vacation all the days run together and you realize the work week has begun when the weekenders head back. Not us as Monday has us sleeping in, getting coffee and starting the day. After coffee and my morning walk I made my way to Brew’s Coffee Bar & Beer Garden for breakfast. Disappointing as they stopped serving many of the breakfast sandwiches I remember from 2017.  Only 4 choices to choose from that we’re pre-made and warmed up. My egg and bacon burrito was good but not really worth the $9 I paid for it.

Lunch had me craving fried oysters so I drove down the road to the Original Seafood Restaurant in Dennisport. The place has been around since the 1950s and had the old school drive-in feel. Seafood, burgers, hot dogs and more, my fried oyster craving was fulfilled.

Oyster roll at The Original Seafood Restaurant in Dennisport

After a lazy afternoon walking off my lunch and visiting with family it was time to think about dinner. My nephew and I were on our own and debated which pizza place to go to. The debate was George’s or Ember Pizza and Wings. Ember won out since we’ve never been so we decided to try their coal fired charred pizza. Getting their early before the dinner rush we ordered boneless Buffalo wings which were chicken tenders tossed in Buffalo sauce. Not my idea of wings and going forward I will always order bone-in wings.

Since my nephew doesn’t eat anything green most vegetables were out so we went with the Meat Lovers Pizza. Topped with bacon, sausage, pepperoni and meatballs the thin crust pizza was good and service was good too. Time for a walk and a relaxing Sunday night before we start another day on the Cape.

Check back for more eating adventures and exploring for the next few days. For more images of my trip follow me on Instagram @SandyWass

 

 

 

Birdgang Travel Club partners with BBQ Island for tailgate cooking lessons

Football season is here and tailgaters are saving their parking spots for cooking and pre-game partying. The Birdgang Travel Club will be out and about psyching up Cardinals fans up for 2019 season. The NFL team has high hopes after drafting first taking QB Kyler Murray. One of the Birdgang’s first event is at BBQ Island in Tempe for a “Tailgating 101” cooking class.

Saturday August 24th the class will teach fans to cook brisket stuffed jalapeño poppers, smoked chicken wings and more.Birdgang Travel Club

“We started Birdgang Travel Club as a way to show our dedication to the Red Sea across the great state and beyond. It’s been so much fun putting events together, celebrating with friends and making new ones each season,” said Tyler Vasquez, Co-Founder, Birdgang Travel Club.

Space is limited for “Tailgating 101” that goes from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the BBQ Island Tempe 1715 W. Ruby Dr. #105 85284. Tickets need to be pre- purchased for $50 or $45 for 2 or more.

More Birdgang Travel Club events

The die hard Cardinals fans are planning to hit the road with the team a couple of times this season. Reservations are being taken for road trips to Oct. 24-28 to New Orleans and Nov. 7-11 in Tampa Bay vs former head coach Bruce Arians.

Home games they huddle up at Majerle’s Sports Bar in Chandler before busing out to Glendale. The safe ride option offers breakfast buffet, a tailgate lunch and a ride to & from the stadium for $65. Tickets to the game and alcohol are not included. Fans are welcome to bring beer and alcohol for the ride over to the game. Tickets need to be pre-purchased.

“We started out as a small group of friends that would travel to away games but found it to be very expensive in small groups and quickly realized that by traveling in larger groups we could save a ton of money and have a lot more fun! So, we started Birdgang Travel Club as a way to take some of the work and expense out of individual travel planning. Now, after four years of traveling as a group, we are booking 200-300 fans at a time and are able to pass along an amazing experience and savings to our members,” continued Vasquez.

Maple & Ash to open August 20th at the Scottsdale Waterfront

One of the most anticipated restaurant openings of 2019, Maple & Ash has announced an opening date of Tuesday August 20th. The restaurant will open at the Scottsdale Waterfront and will be the first location after the original in Chicago. Two star Michelin chef Danny Grant and partners opened the first restaurant in 2015, before that worked in Scottsdale.

“This has been an incredible journey, and we can’t wait to open our doors to the Scottsdale community,” said Chef Danny Grant. “It has been a dream of ours to come home to where I began my culinary career and show off the Maple & Ash experience.”

What to expect at Maple & Ash

Maple & Ash uses wood fired cooking and although they don’t use the word “Steakhouse” in the name it’s considered a modern take on a classic steakhouse. Local chef Sean Currid joins chef Grant to execute the menu that includes the famed “Fire Roasted Seafood Tower” and “I Don’t Give a F*K” (IDGAF). The two chefs met when they worked together at Elements Restaurant at Sanctuary Resort & Spa on Camelback.

Guest will enjoy a world class selection of dry aged beef and fresh seafood. The IDGAF is Grant’s take on a chef’s menu and he thinks is the best choice from the menu. No mention of what’s included with the IDGAF so you’ll have to leave it up to chefs Currid and Grant. Currid boasts an impressive resume having worked around town at Michael’s at the Citadel, Zuzu at the Hotel Valley Ho and Mary Elaine’s at The Phoenician.

Sommelier Jason Caballero curates a wine list from around the world that won’t be your traditional steakhouse wine list. Caballero comes to Maple & Ash from Bourbon Steak at The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.

The centerpiece of the 10,000 plus square foot restaurant will be the 14 foot wood burning hearth. It will be surrounded by the dining room and lounge along with an outdoor patio and private dining rooms.

Maple & Ash will be open daily at 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. Sun. – Thurs. and until 11 p.m. on Fri. and Sat. The restaurant is at 7135 E. Camelback Rd #130 Scottsdale 85251. For more information visit their website.

Carlson Creek’s Scottsdale tasting room has 3rd anniversary celebrations

Carlson Creek Vineyard’s is celebrating the 3rd anniversary of its Scottsdale tasting room. Throughout the month of July daily and weekly events and tastings are planned. Wine Society members and the public are welcome to celebrate with them. Photo courtesy of Jenelle Bonifield of Food & Lifestyles AZ.

Scottsdale tasting room events

July 8-14: For current Wine Society members only, refer a new member and each will receive a complimentary bottle of 2013 Sauvignon Blanc

13th at 2pm:  Scottsdale tasting room’s 3rd Anniversary party featuring live music, food from Old Ellsworth Brewing Company and conversation with the winemakers (free to attend)

14th: All-day happy hour featuring $5 glasses of Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc and Rosé

July 15-21: Purchase a bottle of Carlson Creek wine + Queen Creek Olive Mill’s olive oil or vinegar and receive $5 off

18th at 6pm:  Wine Society members-only Library Wine Flight featuring five wines from the Carlson Creek library ($20/person)

July 22 – 31: Daily featured food and wine pairings ($15/person)

22nd: 2013 Sangiovese paired with garlic hummus, red pepper hummus, pesto and pita chips

23rd: 2013 Chenin Blanc paired with tortilla chips and date salsa from Sphinx Palm & Pantry

24th: 2014 Sauvignon Blanc paired with watermelon, feta and mint topped with Queen Creek Olive Mill’s balsamic vinegar

 25th: 2014 Rule of Three paired with chorizo, olive, mozzarella and parsley stackers

26th: 2015 Sauvignon Blanc paired with smoked salmon, cream cheese and cucumber bites

27th: 2014 Sangiovese paired with bleu cheese and dates from Sphinx Palm & Pantry

28th: 2017 Grenache Rosé paired with chocolate filled roll

29th: 2018 Chardonnay paired with butter and kettle popcor

30th: 2018 Sweet Adeline Riesling paired with spicy street corn

31st: 2015 Rule of Three paired with brie and Sauvignon Blanc fig preserves on a toasted baguette

July 25 at 6pm: Arizona Wine History class with Q&A and wine tastings ($10 for members / $15 for non-members)

The tasting room is at 4142 N. Marshall Way 85251. For more information, call the Scottsdale tasting room at 480.947.0636.

Celebration of Summer at Four Seasons Resort at Troon North

Whether you want to enjoy a cocktail and light bites or a sit down dinner the Four Seasons Resort at Troon North have something to offer. My last post about Talavera Restaurant dining experiences offers an epicurean adventure to Spain and Latin America. The resorts other restaurants Proof, An American Canteen, Onyx Bar and Lounge as well as Talavera, offer culinary treats created in time for summer.

I had the pleasure of tasting all of the dishes and drinks below. All cocktails below are created by the resorts beverage director in conjunction with the chefs of each establishment. The dishes are light and offer seasonal ingredients and the drinks were refreshing and unique.

Onyx Bar & Lounge at Four Seasons Resort at Troon North

Just of the lobby with a beautiful view to the south you can enjoy these specially created bites and cocktails. Talavera Restaurant Sous Chef Samantha Sanz and her culinary team created the these three dishes.

Salmon Belly Tartare
Chistorra and Peppers Flatbread with charred chistorra, pipperada, caramelized onion and mustard sauce, cotija cheese.
Cheesy Arepa Bite
Salmon Belly Tartare
Illegal Anejo Mezcal Old Fashioned
Negroni Spritz
Ultimate Honeydew

Proof, An American Canteen

Everything served in this roadhouse styled restaurant is from the good ol’ U.S.A. Take a road trip around the country in June, July and August with the specially created dishes and drinks.

Prepared by chefs Dell Morris, Joey Cavaretta and Conrad Butler “Proof Across America”  along with Smokehouse Fridays where entrees are cooked low n slow in their outdoor smoker.

Four seasons Resort at Troon North
Texas BBQ Platter

June- Stone Crab Cake with sea urchin and Key lime remoulade

July– Texas BBQ Plate with beef brisket, smoky beer cheese sausage and house made BBQ sauce. Watermelon Panzanella Salad with Crow’s Dairy goat feta and mint. I love BBQ!

August- Crispy cactus fries with cotija cheese and avocado ranch.

Havasu Heat (with Ixa Tequila, pineapple and charred jalapeño)

Huss Arizona Light Lager

Le Cumbre Elevated IPA

Talavera Restaurant

The Spanish steakhouse serves tapas styled small plates, desserts and cocktails unique to the Spanish culture. More from sous chef Sanz and dessert by Pastry Chef Lance Whipple.

Four Seasons Resort at Troon North
Brazilian Carrot Cake

Pan con Tomate – Noble bread, roasted garlic, heirloom tomato and Spanish olive oil

Queen Creek Olives

Summer Corn and Tomato Tapa with summer corn, heirloom tomato with tomato butter cilantro and charred lime

​Charred Tuna with grilled peach and salted marcona almonds

Summer Corn Paella with chorizo Bilbao, prawn, peas, mussels and clams, and chermoula verde

Brazilian Carrot Cake with chocolate brigadeiro icing, and summer carrot purée. This was a personal favorite, like no carrot cake you’ve had before.

Leche Frita with cajeta goat milk caramel and sherry blackberries

Rose Sangria with watermelon, tangerine and strawberry

Tarragon Gin Tonic- Did you see my Instagram video of Beverage Director Laura creating this cocktail?

The Four Seasons Resort at Troon North is at 10600 Crescent Moon Dr. 85262

“Hot Brand” awarded to Aridus Wine Co. by Wine Business Monthly

Willcox’s Aridus Wine Company received national recognition in February when Wine Business Monthly named it a “Hot Brand”. The annual list is compiled with wineries, growers, vintners and wines that are making a statement in the wine industry.

“We are enormously honored and thrilled,” said founder/proprietor Scott Dahmer, “to be recognized by this honor, which comes on a national scale and in a field of very distinguished other contenders.”

Wine Business Monthly singled out the 2015 Syrah as part of the profile which was made by winemaker Lisa Strid. The syrah comes from several local vineyards and is usually the first reds to be harvested each year. Strid likes to pioneer new varietals to the area and likes working with the challenging climate of the region.

Part of consideration for the “Hot Brand” award was the growth of the winery and its commitment to offer all “estate sourced” wines. The high elevation winery and vineyards is in Chiricahua Hills appellation of southeastern Arizona.

Hot Brand choice

Erin Kirschenmann, Wine Business Monthly editor, explains that “every year,
when Wine Business Monthly “Our goal is to always represent the American wine industry. Often, that means discovering a new winery in an established region while also paying homage to the stalwarts who continue to move the industry forward. It means we look at wineries in non-West Coast, “traditional” winemaking states, or those who might be bucking a trend or trying new techniques.”

The winery was founded in 2012 as a custom crush facility for the regions wineries in what was an old apple warehouse. Aridus is Latin for “dry or arid”  which is what the terroir offers, good for winemaking.

The Aridus Tasting room in Willcox is at 145 N. Railview Ave. the winery is nearby. The old town Scottsdale tasting room is at 7173 E. Main St. 85251. For more information visit their website.

“Battle Freak Shake” invites you to build your Show Stopper Shake

Ever want to have one of your homemade culinary creations on the menu at your favorite restaurant? Now’s your chance as you have until May 1st to submit your best milkshake recipe to Hotel Valley Ho’s “Battle Freak Shake” contest.

Once submitted online the Zuzu culinary team will review recipes & ingredients before picking the finalists on June 1st. The finalist will make their milk shake for them and the top shakes will go to “Battle Freak Shake”. The winner will….Have their shake featured as the Showstopper Shake in August, 3 night stay at hotel w/ upgraded guest room, Dinner for 2 at Zuzu and 2 90-minute VH Spa treatments. And of course bragging rights.

3 shakes will be featured at each of the hotel’s Chef + Farmer’s Market events. Guests and chef judges will vote for a winner who goes to the final market event of the summer to be crowned the winning shake.