Category: Where to eat

Lin’s Grand Buffet to open near Metrocenter in January

All-you-can-eat family friendly restaurant, Lin’s Grand Buffet is bringing a new modern look to its newest location opening next month in Phoenix. It will be the 17th location in the southwest offering classic Asian American dishes such as Orange Chicken, Beef & Broccoli and Sesame Chicken along with fresh seafood, sushi, and made-to-order- steaks.

“We’re thrilled to expand our footprint with this refresh design here in Phoenix,” says CEO Frank Lam. “Since our founding in 2002, Lin’s Grand Buffet has been dedicated to serving our communities with quality food and friendly service. This location’s vision aligns perfectly with the revitalization of Metrocenter, and we’re excited to contribute to transforming this area into a vibrant hub for both locals and visitors.”

At over 10,000 square feet the Lin’s Grand Buffet can accommodate over 370 guests with a large selection of dishes for every taste. Opening in late January the restaurant at 10021 N. Metro Pkwy. 85051 will be the seventh in Arizona and will have a family friendly grand opening with ribbon-cutting, dragon dances and more with the opening date being announced in early January. 2025 will also see more expansion for the company in Arizona.

“In today’s challenging economic climate, our mission remains the same: to provide an affordable dining option where families and friends can gather, celebrate, and enjoy quality food without compromise,” Lam added. For more information and updates visit their website or follow them on social media.

Spirit of Mexico to showcase authentic Nayarit foods and cocktails

When the Spirit of Mexico returns to downtown Phoenix’s Heritage Square it will showcase the foods, drinks and culture of the coastal state of Nayarit. Located on the Pacific Ocean between Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta, seafood and agave reign supreme and for two days festival attendees will be able to sample agave cocktails and learn how to make authentic dishes such as ceviche and the smoky pescado zarandeado (grilled fish) from expert chefs.

Festival highlights for foodies will be cooking classes, Nayarit inspired mixology classes, guided tastings of agave spirits such as Tequila and Mezcal, Bacanora and Sotol. There will also be live music and performances, dancing, food trucks, cultural exhibits, artists and vendors. The festival will be on Saturday and Sunday, March 22nd and 23rd and General Admission ($10) and VIP Experience ($45) tickets are now on sale and kids under 12 are free. The VIP Experience at the Spirit of Mexico Festival gets access to registration to the cooking and spirits classes and 10 coins for the agave distillate tasting. For more information, festival updates and to purchase tickets visit the Spirit of Mexico 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.

 

 

 

 

The Spaghetti Shack looking to expand its pasta to-go concept

Started by five lifelong friends in Tempe, The Spaghetti Shack is looking to grow beyond its Tempe and Pinetop-Lakeside locations in 2025. The community focused concept is seeking like minded entrepreneurs with its new franchising program to help serve up its classic Italian American comfort food. Its become a local favorite at both locations with it’s simple crowd-pleasing menu of customizable pastas, meatballs, garlic bread and more.

“We built this business with the same love and energy we’ve shared as lifelong friends,” said Joey Palomarez, President. “Franchising was the natural next step. We want to empower owner-operators who share our values to bring affordable, community-focused dining to their neighborhoods.”

Growing through franchising at The Spaghetti Shack

Potential owner-operators looking to join the Shack family should have a passion for community, culture and collaboration. The Spaghetti Shack model is approachable, inclusive and with a low start-up costs and a proven system is a great opportunity for first-time business owners looking to get into the restaurant industry. A solid foundation and on-going support provide franchisees the necessary tool for collaborating and success.

At The Spaghetti Shack it’s not just about great food, it’s also about giving back to the community and having a lasting impact. Partnerships with Donate Life, Million Dollar Teacher Project and their annual Shacktacular fundraiser, Palomarez and The Spaghetti Shack have proven their commitment to the community and culture and their mission will continue with franchisees.

“We want to be more than just a pasta place,” says Palomarez. “Our goal is to feed families, cater to sports teams, and create spaces where people feel connected to their communities. Every Shack will reflect that mission.” For more information about The Spaghetti Shack and this unique opportunity 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.

Skysill Rooftop Ski Chalet pop-up at Westin Tempe

This is the last weekend for beautiful views of the valley while enjoying festive holiday cocktails and seasonal treats (fondue, gingerbread cookies and macaroons) at the downtown Tempe rooftop bar. $29 gets you a reservation, cider and cake pop with the 360-degree view. Friday and Saturday are 21+ and Sunday is open to all ages and guests are invited to bring an unopened new toy for Toys for Tots. For information and menus for about holiday and NYE dining at their signature restaurant Terra, visit their website. Reservations for the Skysill pop-up can be made at OpenTable.

Rusty Spur Saloon takes money off the wall for charity

The country western bar in Old Town Scottsdale known for its walls full of dollars started a tradition every December by removing the bills and donating them to the Phoenix Children’s Foundation. This year they received $6,000 ($5,742 from wall, $248 from owner POV Foods) topping last year’s collection of $5,000. “These dollar bills symbolize not only the memories made here but also the potential to make a difference in our community,” said Janeth Moore, operations manager of Rusty Spur Saloon.

Flour & Thyme is now open for dinner and lunch is coming next week

Good news, Chef Ivan Jacobo’s new restaurant in downtown Phoenix is now open for dinner and starting Thursday, December 26th will start lunch service. F & T is in Jacobo’s former fine dining restaurant Anhelo Restaurant that is relocating to Scottsdale and is expected to open in early 2025. On the menu is handmade pastas, a short rib blend burger, veal tomahawk, duck breast, seafood and more. Lunch is served fro 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and dinner service begins at 5 p.m.

 

Riot Hospitality Group to open Shiv Supper Club in early 2025

The Scottsdale restaurant scene will start 2025 with a new supper club offering a new culinary experience when Riot Hospitality Group opens its new Shiv Supper Club in the first couple months of the new year at 7373 E. Camelback Rd. in Scottsdale. The new upscale supper club, named after the culinary instrument, will be the first of its kind in Arizona and cover over 13,000 square feet.

“We created Shiv Supper Club to be a fully immersive experience inspired by the world’s most renowned dining destinations,” said Ryan Hibbert, CEO of Riot Hospitality Group. “From the creativity behind the menu to the energy of the venue, every element has been perfectly crafted to excite every guest, and Shiv elevates the standard for fine dining in Scottsdale.”

Riot Hospitality’s Culinary Director Dustin Cooke from the group’s Hand Cut Chop House and Farm & Craft curated the menu with Restaurateur and Chef Jeff Mahin from the Michelin starred Fat Duck in England, Nobu and restaurant group Lettuce Entertain You. The dishes will show off luxurious ingredients and photo-worthy presentation including caviar, seafood towers and Truffle Butter Bread Service to start. Prepared table-side fresh truffles will be shaved into the house-made compound butter. Entrees will include Charcoal Fired Prime Steaks including the colossal Tomahawk steak prepared table-side. Other dishes include Scallop Crudo and Smoked Show Chowder with halibut in a lemon broth.

The cocktail program at Shiv will include everything from classic Martinis to signature cocktails each thoughtfully created for taste and presentation. A well-curated wine list will offer something for every occasion. Nightly entertainment will take the stage to keep the energy going with cutting-edge sound and technology that will take your senses to the next level. The Dessert Room by Shiv will offer champagne, decadent desserts and more entertainment for the late-night crowd. For more information and updates visit Shiv’s website and follow them on social media.

Pacific Rim & Bento brings Hawaiian food & culture to Mesa

Looking to eat Hawaiian dishes and learn about the Pacific culture, then a new restaurant in Mesa can help you visit the islands without visiting the islands. Chef and owner Blaise Aki opened Pacific Rim & Bento to introduce people to the foods of his native island Kauai and its aloha spirit. Everything from the traditional Hawaiian lunch plate to poke to Kalua pork to musubi to bento boxes are available at his new brick and mortar restaurant.

“Food is love and I love sharing my culture with our community one delicious dish at a time,” said Aki. “One thing I am proud to offer is our award-winning poke, we’re sourcing the freshest high-quality fish possible and have weekly poke specials.” 

After high school Aki joined the Marines, then went off to culinary school in Portland before returning to Hawaii as an executive chef at an exclusive resort in Wailua. He and his wife Kanani decided to move to Arizona in the early 2000s wanting to plant some roots on the mainland. Pacific Rim & Bento isn’t Aki’s first foray in the local food and restaurant industry as he’s been the owner of Pacific Rim & Sushi, his successful food truck and catering company. His dream was to one day open a brick-and-mortar restaurant serving quality food and to connect with the community and sharing the Hawaiian culture.

Pacific Rim & Bento is at 1720 W. Southern Ave. Mesa 85202 and is open Tuesday – Saturday from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. For more information visit their website.

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.

sneakybird to open first West Valley location

Scottsdale based sneakybird is opening their first West Valley location this Saturday, November 23rd in Surprise. It’s the fast casual concepts third location with three more openings planned in the next six months. The grand opening celebration starts at 10 a.m. at the Village of Prasada and has prizes, photo opportunities, music and more.

“The secret to the success of sneakybird, spelled with all lowercase letters by design to underscore its sneaky-good and sneaky guilt-free product, is the combination of a specially designed oven and innovative breading recipe that blends panko flatbread as well as aged parmesan that together combine to give the crunch and flavor of fried chicken,” said Dan Chaon, founder of the sneakybird.

Known for their “never-ever fried” recipes since 2022, sneakybird offers oven-roasted chicken sandwiches, wraps, tenders and wings in their dry rubs that include ancho lime, smoky honey peach, salted maple and more. Those that prefer breadless chicken can have their chicken “naked” (grilled) with salt, pepper and garlic. The flavorful chicken taste doesn’t stop with the dry rubs as there are several sauces available for dipping and topping your chicken. Sauces include “Sneaky”, their signature Buffalo style, “Soko”, Asian sweet & heat, “Music City Hot”, Nashville hot, “Fool’s Gold”, golden mustard & smokey BBQ sauce and “Teriyaki”.

“sneakybird also features handcrafted flatbreads – chicken pesto, pepperoni, and the Islander, which features honey-chipotle sauce, mozzarella, pineapple, capicola, and fresh cilantro – as well as three epic options for tater tots, including a sweet potato alternative, salad, coleslaw, and even a chilled vegetable medley,” said co-owner Jordan Strasser. “There are also copious options for kids, all focused on the same craveable philosophy.”

sneakybird Surprise is at 16430 W. Waddell Rd. and is open 7 days a week from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. For more information visit their website.