Sips & Bites: News from the Phoenix restaurant community

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

It’s a Shellabration at Chula Seafood on Saturday

The local fish monger & restaurant is shellabrating the 8th anniversary of “Rosie”, the original location opened in 2016 at Roosevelt & Hayden Rd. in Scottsdale. $2 buck shucks (oysters) and happy drink prices all day at all 3 locations. Visitors to Rosie will have other food specials all day long.

Restaurants getting an early start on Halloween

With ghosts & goblins heading out next Thursday night several local restaurants are getting a head start on the spooky & scary.

Hash Kitchen-Brunch After Dark” happens at the Chandler location on Saturday, October 26th from 6 – 10 p.m. Enjoy brunch dishes, eerie cocktails and the B.Y.O Bloody Mary bar along with DJ Iceman spinning the tunes, karaoke, best dressed costume contest, giveaways and prizes every hour. There is a $15 addmission which will be deducted from your final bill at the end of the night. Tickets can be purchased at this EventBrite link.

Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey- The Melrose neighborhood restaurant has a special menu from Friday, October 25th-31st. Included on the spooky menu is….

Signature Dish ($21): Harvest Pork Belly – Featuring tender pork belly paired with a velvety kabocha puree, refreshing Asian pear, zesty mignonette, and a sprinkle of cilantro.

Specialty Cocktails ($14): Heatwave – Ignite your senses with a bold blend of Blanco tequila and green chile vodka, spiced up with Hellfire Bitters and a hint of pomegranate. Witch’s Brew – This spellbinding concoction is made of lemongrass ginger shochu and Midori, combined with refreshing aloe and cucumber. Finished with a splash of yuzu and lemon.

Catalyst Crafted Ales- Saturday, October 26th is for the dogs at the Tempe brewery. From 1 – 3 p.m. there will be Howl O’Ween pet costume contest with prizes, beer specials for pet parents and new brunch dishes from S.A.LT. A $10 donation for every entry will be donated to Tempe’s Lost Our Home Pet Rescue.

Wine Girl- The popular Scottsdale wine bar gets into the holiday spirit with themed cocktails.

Monster Mash Shot – Unleash your inner monster with this vibrant shot of strawberry winearita and agave tequila, rimmed with black sugar and topped with shimmering green glitter.

Bloody Mimosa – A chilling twist on a classic! This Bloody Mimosa features house prosecco filled with a fake syringe of grenadine, creating a gory yet glamorous drink perfect for spooky celebrations.

Harvest Fizz – This refreshing mix of bubbly prosecco and crisp apple cider is served in a coupe glass and topped with a sparkling gold glitter ice cube.

Hendry Wine Dinner at Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse

Wednesday, November 6th brings the wines from the Napa Valley producer to Carefree for a four-course dinner. The dinner starts at 6 p.m. and seats are $125++ per person and seats are limited and can be required reservations can be made by calling 602-374-4784.

1st Course: Pan-Seared Scallop with brown butter and smoked cauliflower puree paired with 2022 Hendry Barrel-Aged Chardonnay, Napa Valley

2nd Course: Seared Pork Tenderloin with cheesy grits, green beans and black cherry apple sauce paired with 2020 Hendry Pinot Noir, Napa Valley

3rd Course: Roasted Lamb Chop with creamy risotto, asparagus spears and cherry reduction paired with 2019 Hendry Block 28 Zinfandel, Napa Valley

4th Course: Prime NY Strip Steak with au gratin potatoes, Brussels sprouts and red wine demi-glace paired with 2022 Hendry HRW Cabernet, Napa Valley

Desert Course: Maria’s Chocolate Tort

Kierland Fine Art & Wine Festival this weekend

Kierland Commons welcome wineries from southern Arizona’s Willcox wine Country and more than 150 artists this Saturday & Sunday, October 26th & 27th. The two-day festival starts at 10 a.m. and goes until 5 p.m. and is free to enter. Those 21 and older can purchase wine tasting tickets for $30-$45 in advance and $35-$40 at the door. Proceeds from wine sales go to Horses Help.

Wine & Candy tasting at GenuWine Arizona

With kids trick or treating, adults can head to the downtown Phoenix wine bar to taste 4 wines with 4 candies from 6-8 p.m. on Halloween night. Tickets are $20 and you get 20% off wine purchased from the tasting that night.

 

Sips & Bites: News you can use from the Phoenix restaurant community

Quick sips & bites of news about what’s going on around the Phoenix restaurant community, breweries and wineries.

Bring your favorite pooch to Morning Squeeze on August 26th.

Celebrate National Dog Day next Thursday at the popular breakfast & lunch spots locations in Scottsdale, Tempe & downtown Phoenix. Bring them by the restaurant for a free house-made biscuit or something else from the Tail Waggers menu. $.99 Mimosas for you, dog lovers.

Wine Tasting Wednesday Wine at The Mick

One of the best restaurants to open in 2020 is Scottsdale’s The Mick Brasserie & Bar and every Wednesday they host a tasting, usually wine, starting at 6 p.m. Chef Brent (check out my podcast with Brent) creates a special menu for the night and prices do vary week to week. Next Wed. Aug. 25th they’re doing a sake tasting, Sept. 1st- Chardonnays from around the world. Sept. 8th- South African wines, Sept. 15th– Winemaker from Smith/Deveraux Winery Sept. 22nd– Four Peaks Brewery. Visit their website for more information and to see their menu and other up-coming events.

The Buzz Eatery now open in Kierland Commons

After a soft opening in the spring the breakfast, lunch & early dinner spot is now open. Catch a “buzz” from their selection of coffee drinks, wine, cocktails & adult popsicles while enjoying bagels, acai bowls, baked goods, treats and more from their breakfast and all day menu. They open at 7 a.m. Mon. – Sat. & Sun at 8 a.m. and close daily at 7 p.m. For more information and to see the menu check out their website.

Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row adds new dishes to the menu

The Gilbert location added 7 new dishes recently from new Executive Chef Dustin Cooke. Sweet Chili Cauliflower, Bourbon Glazed Wings, Truffle Mushroom Burger and Maple Almond Salmon are few of the rock star dishes.

FRANCINE celebrates its 1st anniversary with new cocktails

The French inspired Mediterranean restaurant in the luxury wing of Scottsdale Fashion Square added new cocktails available through the Fall & Winter. The French Connection, an infused rum and St. Germain cocktail, Summer Thyme, uses a Silencio Mezcal base. Le Jardin combines Citadelle gin & yellow chartreuse San Remo is a premium whiskey-based cocktail and Archies Nightcap starts with Botanist Gin & Averna Amaro. All cocktails were created by bartenders Frank Soldano, Gage Myette, Trevyn StClair with the help of Executive Chef Brian ” Chef Archie” Archibald.

Don’t forget to check out my podcast, Pulling Corks & Forks: The Podcast with Sandy Wasserman to hear from those in our community. Please subscribe, like & comment.

The Buzz Eatery & Treats coming to Kierland Commons

Kierland Commons is a buzz about new concept coming in November to the popular north Phoenix mixed use development. The Buzz Eatery & Treats will welcome residents, neighbors and visitors to enjoy everything from a cup of coffee, pre-packed meals, glass of wine, a flight of honey and more when the doors open.

“The Buzz is a convenient and casual place to dine, socialize with neighbors, enjoy a sweet indulgence with the kids, or grab a nourishing meal to take home or back to the office,” says Mike Torresso, co-owner of The Buzz Eatery. “We have something for everyone and multiple options so guests can feel comfortable when they walk through our doors — whether they stay awhile or simply ‘buzz in and buzz out.’

The Buzz Eatery & Treats eats

An open atmosphere lets guests eat at the counter, enjoy a glass of wine or meal inside or on the patio. Beverages include everything from a drip coffee, espresso drinks, craft beer, kombucha, seasonal cocktails and glasses of wine. The menu will include “all day faves” such as breakfast burritos, customizable acai bowls, hot and cold sandwiches, soups & salads and shareables for the table.

Those in a hurry can buzz in & out with a selection of pre-packaged “Side Kicks”, snacks and meals including overnight oats, salads such as Greek & Caesar and comfort food styled sandwiches such as egg salad and turkey many made with a The Buzz’s own honey. A selection of flavored of “Buzz Bites” energy balls can be made gluten free and with vegan options. Catering can be provided for those that would like to bring the buzz home.

The Buzz Eatery & Treats is open 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. The restaurant is designed with social distancing in mind and follows CDC guidelines for the safety of guests and staff. For more information visit their website.

Save the date: 2019 Slider Throwdown is returning to Kierland Commons

If your calendar is filling up like mine is you’ll want to save the date of Sunday November 17th. That afternoon is when food trucks will battle to see who makes the best slider at the popular Slider Throwdown at Kierland Commons. The annual family friendly event raises money for the Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation (AFFCF).

“Our mission is to help foster children navigate the difficult and often unchartered waters of foster care by providing them with valuable resources as well as opportunities to participate in childhood activities that promote confidence and independence so they can grow into responsible, happy adults,” says Kris Jacober, executive director of the AFFCF. “With popular events like the Slider Throwdown we are thrilled and grateful to see the public aid in our mission to build up our community’s youth.”

Local food trucks Two Fat Guys Grilled Cheese, Food Diva and others will compete for “Best Slider”. Judge’s will look for creativity in the sliders and taste and attendees will vote for the “People’s Choice” award.

All proceeds will benefit AFFCF to help foster children have a “normal” childhood and prepare them for adulthood. Since 1983 AFFCF has raised over $10 million for foster care here in Arizona.

The Throwdown goes from 12 noon – 3p.m. and admission to the event is $35 per person. Included are samples of all sliders and 3 non-alcoholic drink tickets. There will be a silent auction to bid on with exciting packages and music by Lane Change. Tickets are available at https://www.affcf.org/sliderthrowdown/

 

TasteAbout Scottsdale to raise money for wounded military personnel

Expecting over 3,000 people to converge on Kierland Commons next weekend organizing TasteAbout Scottsdale is no easy feat. It’s nothing compared to what wounded military personnel have gone through serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. Military personnel will benefit from the hungry attendee’s as TasteAbout Scottsdale has partnered with Jared Allen’s Home for Wounded Warriors.

The food and beverage event takes place Saturday January 26th from 2 -9 p.m. with over 30 restaurants participating. In addition to tasting food and drinks there will be live music, a Burger Beatdown and speed painting.

“We are thrilled to bring together so many food and beverage purveyors all in one place to highlight the unique culinary talents in Arizona and benefit an important cause,” says Erik Merkow, founder and CEO of TasteAbout Scottsdale. “With every event, we take great pleasure in finding a platform for residents and visitors of the area to discover some of the best local restaurants, breweries, distilleries and more in a fun and entertaining atmosphere, while also giving back to the community.”

TasteAbout Scottsdale participants

The list of popular local restaurants, breweries and distilleries that will be providing sips and tastes is updated daily. Popular restaurants serving up include Hopdoddy Burger Bar, Famous 48, Kasai, Modern Oyster & Chophouse and Eggtasy to name few. Sip on beer from San Tan Brewing, Grand Canyon Brewing and Beer Research Institute.

Frankly Organic Spirits, Arizona Distilling and Dulce Vida Tequila will be pouring their spirits.

Local foodies will judge which popular chef serves the best and most creative burger at the Burger Beatdown. Guests will vote for Best Dish, Best Craft Beer, Best Drink and Best sweet Dish.

Once all votes are tallied the winners will be notified in the days after the event.

Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors.

Former NFL player Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors is a non-profit that builds and remodels homes for handicapped military personnel.

Artist Katia Von Kral will be showing off her “speed painting” talents for the event. Proceeds from her paintings sold at the event will be donated to the non-profit.

Tickets for the 21 and over event are available at Eventbrite. General Admission tickets are $65 per person and includes all tastes of food and drinks. VIP tickets are $85 and include 2 tokens for full pour drinks, VIP Garden access, Express Entry. Ultra VIP Tickets are $125 and come with 5 full pour drink tokens, a VIP swag Bag, VIP Garden Access and express entry.

 

 

 

2018 Slider Throwdown returns to Kierland Commons

The 2018 Slider Throwdown returns for another year of tasty slider goodness on Sunday Nov. 18th. at north Scottsdale’s Kierland Commons. The Throwdown will benefit Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation.

Guests who throw down the $35 admission will enjoy sliders from local food truck companies Buzz N Bee, Aioli Burgers, Food Diva and more. Local “Slider Experts” will decide who will be awarded the Best Slider with guests voting for the People’s Choice award.

The price of admission includes samples of all sliders and 3 non-alcoholic drink tickets. A Kierland Commons restaurant will partner with the Throwdown promoters to create an exclusive cocktail to purchase in the restaurant.

Petite cheeseburger

Proceeds will be donated to AFFCF which is dedicated to giving foster children a normal childhood. Most importantly they prepare the children for adulthood with scholarships and programs.

“Through our organization, we are able to help foster children navigate the difficult and often unchartered waters of foster care by providing them with valuable resources as well as opportunities to participate in childhood activities that promote confidence and independence so they can grow into responsible, happy adults,” says Kris Jacober, Director of the AFFCF.

AFFCF has awarded more than $5.7 million to 26,000 children in foster care.

The event will be from 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. with tickets available for purchase at http://affcf.org/sliderthrowdown

Slider Throwdown returns to Kierland Commons for charity

As memories of last years Slider Throwdown fall deeper into our subconscious we are made aware of this years Throwdown that is slated for Sunday November 12th from 12-3p.m. back at Kierland Commons.

For only $30 each attendees will be able to sample all the sliders and 3 non-alcoholic drink tickets. After tasting the sliders people will be able to vote the “People’s Choice” award along with “slider expert” judges for to see which food truck will wine “Best Slider”.

Food trucks competing include:

Two Fat Guys Grilled Cheese                                                                         Mango Flats                                                                                                                     Aioli Burger                                                                                                                     Food Diva                                                                                                                        Head to Hoof                                                                                                                    Left Coast Burrito                                                                                                    Emerson Fry Bread

One restaurant will partner with the Slider Throwdown to offer a signature cocktail at the chosen restaurant.

Proceeds from this years event will be donated to Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation(AFFCF). The money raised will help foster children enjoy their childhood despite unfortunate circumstances.

Kris Jacober, Director of the AFFCF, says, “We help these children through difficult circumstances by providing them with resources and allowing them to take part in enjoyable activities that promote self-esteem.”

You can help by purchasing you Slider Throwdown tickets and having a good time enjoying the delicious sliders.

 

2016 Slider Throw Down for charity set for November 13th at Kierland Commons

Who doesn’t like tasting the delicious flavors of tacos, pizza & burgers to satisfy your appetite, not this guy. While typing this post for the up-coming 2016 Slider Throw Down, I’m building an appetite for day 2 of taco judging. We enjoy tasting food prepared by full time restaurant chefs along with weekend chef and their taco or slider creations. The Slider Throw Down is set to take place at Kierland Commons on Sunday Nov. 13th from 12 noon – 3pm to benefit Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation (AFFCF)

Photo courtesy of Knife and Fork Media
Photo courtesy of Knife and Fork Media

slider throw down food trucks

This years Slider Throw Down will have local food trucks such as Butta Burger, Spice It Up and Phil the Grill preparing sliders for festival goers who contribute $25 for admission and 1 slider from each truck. All proceeds got to Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation. Slders will be judged by local “slider experts” and attendees who can vote for the “People’s Choice”

Arizona friends of foster children foundation

The AFFCF helps support children in foster care by letting them enjoy their childhood, according to Kris Jacober, Director of the AFFCF says, “We help these children through difficult circumstances by providing them with resources and allowing them to take part in enjoyable activities that promote self-esteem.” The AFFCF has awarded over $5 million dollars to children in foster care and yet there are still thousands of kids awaiting their help. By purchasing a ticket to the Slider Throwdown you can do your part to help. Purchase tickets here https://fs25.formsite.com/AFFCF/form18/index.html