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 Dish – Beef Wellington, Wren & WolfÂ
- Most Crave-Worthy Burger – Double Burger, Bad Jimmy’sÂ
- Arizona Grown Purveyors – Hayden Flour MillÂ
- Favorite Local Craft Beer – Spellbinder, Wren House BrewingÂ
- Most Creative Handcrafted Cocktail Program – Poppy’s OfficeÂ
Experiences
- Outstanding Bar/Nightlight Experience – Barcoa AgaveriaÂ
- Ultimate Patio Atmosphere – Lon’s at the Hermosa InnÂ
- Exceptional Culinary Experience – Course RestaurantÂ
- Iconic Speakeasy Experience – Tell Your FriendsÂ
Restaurants
- Top Sushi Restaurant – Uchi ScottsdaleÂ
- Emerging Restaurant of the Year – Le AmeÂ
- Uniquely Arizona – MariposaÂ
- Outstanding Hospitality Group – Genuine ConceptsÂ
- Phenomenal Fast Casual Concept – Taco CheloÂ
People
- Team Member of the Year – Avelina Young, El Charro Café, YumaÂ
- Manager of the Year – Jacqueline Verge, The AmericanoÂ
- Top Mixologist/Bartender – Michael Hopper, AtriaÂ
- Top Chef – Ivan Gonzalez, Wren & WolfÂ
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