Tag: sushi

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.

Uchi bringing award-winning Japanese cuisine to Scottsdale

Austin, Texas based Hai Hospitality plans to open its first Arizona restaurant later in 2023 when Uchi opens in Old Town Scottsdale. It will be the James Beard award winning restaurant groups sixth location of its flagship restaurant and will be located in the previous Bandera restaurant at Scottsdale Rd. and 1st St. Hai also operates Uchiko, Uchibā and Loro Asian Smokehouse and bar.

“We’re both honored and excited to have the opportunity to bring Uchi even further ‘West’ to Scottsdale, said Hai Hospitality CEO Tony Montero. “I know Uchi will only add to the already vibrant and dynamic mix of destination dining, eclectic art, and nightlife in Old Town Scottsdale when it opens later this year, and we’re looking forward to bringing the distinct flavors, unique perspective, and unparalleled dining experience that is Uchi to Arizona,” he said.

What to expect at Uchi

“Uchi” translates to “home” in Japanese and is named after the little red house where Chef Tyson Cole opened the first Uchi in 2003. Cole’s non-traditional take on Japanese cuisine balances elevated dishes with relaxed service in a welcoming atmosphere. Guests dining at the restaurant can expect a menu that is updated daily and includes signature hot & cold tastings, sushi & sashimi, makimono, yakimono and tempura. A ten course seasonal omakase chef’s tasting, six course tasting and a six course vegetarian tasting will also be offered. Signature cocktails, sake, beer and wine will be ayailable to compliment the food.

The restaurant will seat 180 people and feature a sushi bar, cocktail bar, outdoor patio and private dining room. Phoenix based architecture and urban design firm AV3 Design and Tucson’s architect and design studio Hazelbaker Rush will design the restaurant. Two sculptural’s will flank both the sushi and cocktail bar  along with wood ceilings and artwork and lighting fixtures from local artists.

Check out my podcast Pulling Corks & Forks: The Podcast with Sandy Wasserman to hear from those in our community. Please subscribe, like & comment.

Wok ‘N Roll opens new location in midtown Phoenix

Founder & CEO Scott Stuart has opened the second location of his popular Scottsdale sushi & Asian style restaurant, Wok ‘N Roll in Phoenix at the corner of Thomas & Central. Known for its sushi, Chinese food, sports and rock n roll music Stuart opened his first location at Miller & Camelback Rds. in June ’18.

“Wok ‘N Roll combines two of my passions: great Asian food and classic rock ‘n roll.  When we decided to open in Scottsdale, the name was a natural.  We serve delicious sushi and Chinese favorites and put a smile on our customers’ faces with a bit of edgy irreverence.” says Stuart.

An accountant by trade, Wok ‘N Roll isn’t Stuart’s first restaurant as he opened O’Malley’s Sports, Spirits and Grill in Phoenix. He left the industry to raise his daughter then jumped at the opportunity to take over the former J’s Kaiyo Sushi. The fun and casual restaurant offers build-your-own rice & noodles bowls, traditional Chinese dishes and sushi. Starters such as Big Eye Tune Poke, Cucumber Salad and wings also adorn the menu. His fondness of Classic Rock can be found in his signature cocktails with names such as “2 Tickets to “Paradise” and “Smokin in the Boys Room”.

“Last year, when we were allowed to offer take-out only, I’d DJ on the patio in Scottsdale. People gathered in the parking lot.  Then I did pig roasts for fans to recall the scents of our kitchen. More people gathered.  As a result, when we were able to increase occupancy, we came out of COVID strong.”

The Phoenix location is larger than the Scottsdale location at 4,000 square feet and includes a lot of rock & roll memorabilia and lyrics of favorite songs on the wall. “Wok ‘N Roll appeals to boomers AND the younger crowds who grew up hearing their parents’ brand of rock music played over the years.  It’s a fun, welcoming atmosphere and rewarding for us because we appeal to a wide range of patrons. We’re very excited to bring our concept to Central Phoenix.”

Wok ‘N Roll Phoenix is at 2801 N. Central Ave. Phoenix 85004. For more information check out their website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

 

 

Buck & Rider announces a new North Scottsdale location

Arcadia’s popular Buck & Rider known for fresh seafood flown in daily has announced that they will be opening a second location at The Shops at Chauncey Ranch in North Scottsdale. Seafood fans will still have to head to the Camelback Rd. restaurant as the new location is about a year away from opening.

LGO Hospitality opened the original location in 2015 and has built its reputation serving quality seafood and meats by working directly with the fishermen and farmers. All fish is cut in-house with oysters and fish selections are rotated on a daily basis. Seafood comes from all directions with the seasonality, weather and skill of the fisherman dictating what’s available on the menu.

“Opening an authentic Buck & Rider location in Scottsdale gives us the ability to share our vitality, vim and vigor with the local community. Our goal has always been to bring the freshest seafood possible to Phoenix,” said Emily Collins of LGO Hospitality. “We’re eager and enthusiastic about sharing our unique and genuine vision with even more Arizonans. We utilize the freshest and most immaculate ingredients and apply exactness in cooking so that interference with the natural elements of the food is minimal and truly celebrate the ingredients.”

Serving lunch, dinner, brunch and happy hour Buck & Rider guests to Scottsdale will recognize familiar dishes such as Steak Tartar, Hand Rolled Sushi, Baja Shrimp Ceviche and the famed Abby’s Oyster Bar. A signature cocktail list with premium liquors and wine will compliment your meal. A full patio with outside bar is included in the design by local architect Cathy Hayes with her inspiration and design of the new location being influenced by modern designs and natural decor of the area. For more information and updates as to the opening visit the Buck & Rider website or on Facebook.

Local restaurants re-opening for takeout and delivery

While many local restaurants switched gears to pick-up, delivery and even selling groceries last month many shut down to assess the situation. Several of those that shut down are re-opening this week for pick-up and delivery. While it’s still unknown about the future of restaurants Gov. Ducey will meet with restaurants and the Arizona Restaurant Association in coming weeks to set a plan for re-opening dining rooms. These local restaurants have re-opened this week for takeout.

Hand Cut Chop House has re-opened with touchless takeout, curbside pick-up and free delivery from Uber Eats, DoorDash, Postmates & Grubhub. A limited menu of food and drinks are available daily from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Place an order by calling 480-494-2008. 7135 East Camelback Road #154 Scottsdale, Arizona 85251

Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row in Gilbert is offering a limited menu of a la carte offerings and family meals. Off the menu customers can choose from appetizers, salads, sliders, entrees and dessert. Larger portioned family meals of a Whole Chicken Meal, a All American Burger Meal and Three Cheese Mac & Cheese feed 4 – 8 people. Bottles of wine & liquor, cocktails & cocktail kits and growlers of beer are also available to go. You can order online or by calling (480) 476-8595. Pick up is available as is free delivery from Uber Eats, DoorDash, GrubHub and Postmates. The other locations will open at a later date. 323 N Gilbert Rd, Gilbert 85234.

Little Miss BBQ‘s Sunnyslope location is testing drive thru pick up of limited amount of sandwiches and Green Chile Burritos today & Saturday. All orders must be placed online for pick up from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. No walk up and no delivery. 8901 N 7th St Phoenix, AZ 85020.

Comedor Guadalajara south of downtown Phoenix is back open for takeout. They have set up a drive thru in the parking lot. Phone orders are recommended and they ask if the line is busy please try calling back. 1830 S. Central Avenue, Phoenix AZ 85004. 602-253-8299

MIXT opened in March and quickly shut down has re-opened at Scottsdale Quarter. The fast casual farm to table restaurant offer salads, protein bowls, Kombucha, sandwiches and more. Hours are daily from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. 15125 N Scottsdale Road Scottsdale, AZ 85254.

Osteria Mia opened this week for takeout in north Phoenix. Pizza, homemade pasta and more Italian delights. 2530 W Happy Valley Rd Phoenix AZ, 85085.  623-434-4604

Pedal Haus Brewery re-opened its Tempe and Chandler brew pubs this week. A full menu along with award winning cocktails and beers are available to go. Food & drink specials are also offered daily. The Tempe location at 730 S. Mill Ave. #102, Tempe 85281 is open Wednesday & Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Chandler location at 95 W Boston St., Chandler is open Wednesday & Thursday 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday: 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday: 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Kawaii Sushi in Glendale is open, their Peoria location is temporarily closed. 6530 W. Happy Valley Road, Suite 112 Glendale, AZ 85310 (623)566-3888

Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante will open on May 5th for takeout. 19420 N. 59th Ave.
Glendale, AZ 85308. 623-777-1868

 

 

 

Delivery and take-out options at Phoenix restaurants during pandemic

Many Phoenix restaurants have closed their dining rooms to customers but are preparing meals for delivery or take-out. Here is a list of local restaurants. This will be updated going forward.

Ocotillo Restaurant & Bar has a pop-up menu on their website for pick up daily from 11:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. Weekend Brunch available 11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Get 10% off all takeout orders. Buy $100 gift card, get $20 card free. To order call 602-687-9080. 3243 N. 3rd St. Phoenix 85012.

Bourbon & Bones is open from 4 – 9 p.m. for curbside pick up & takeout. A modified menu is available with 25% off pick-up or takeout orders and 50% off select beer, wine and spirits. To order call 480-629-4922. 4200 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale 85251.

Hopdoddy Camelback & Scottsdale are open for curbside pick up & delivery from 11:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. for burgers, shakes and more. Use promo code “Buy1Give1” to have a hands free burger delivered to healthcare workers. Delivery available thru UberEats (free), Postmates and DoorDash

Steak 44, Ocean 44 & Dominick’s Steakhouse are offering luxury takeout daily from 12 – 7 p.m. with white glove curbside service. The restaurants are offering their full menus and all bottles of wine to take home.

Farm & Craft has started a touch less takeout and curbside pick up service. Individual and family style appetizers, salads, entrees, bowl and more are available as are selected bottles of wine. Vegetarians are available too. Open Thurs. – Sun. from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. with 24 hour notice needed for Family Style meals, to order call 480-568-8980 or order on-line. Delivery from DoorDash and Postmates is available. 4302 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale 85251.

Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse has a to go menu along with butchered meats for home cooking. Wine & Caipirinas available to go as well. Free delivery on orders of $50 or more and within 15 miles. Call 480-609-8866 to order. 6300 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale 85253. 

Miracle Mile Deli– The central Phoenix deli is open Mon. – Sat. 11 a.m. – 7 .m. for pick up of individual meals, family meals deals, deli meats, breads and more. Delivery available from Postmates and UberEats. See website for complete menu of offerings and call 602-776-0992. 4433 North 16th Street Phoenix 85016.

Zuzu at Hotel Valley Ho– is offering a new to-go menu from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Buy 1 bottle of wine with you meal, get the 2nd at no cost. Gift cards are also available. Call 480-376-2600 order. 6850 E. Main Street, Scottsdale 85251.

Mountain Shadows Resort– Breakfast burritos, burgers and more are available for pick up at Rusty’s from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Bottles of wine start at $15 and gift cards are available to. Orders can be placed at 480-624-5442 5445 E. Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley 85253.

Barro’s Pizza– All locations continue to do takeout for pickup and delivery. Lunch specials to incl 2 slices & a drink for under $5.

Be Coffee– The coffee shop in Monorchid is open from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. for it signature drinks and cold outs to go. Delivery available from Grubhub, UberEats & Postmates. 214 E. Roosevelt Phoenix.

My Pie Pizza– All My Pie Pizza locations remain open for takeout (curbside) and in most areas, 3rd party delivery is available through DoorDash, Postmates, Uber Eats and Grub Hub.

SanTan Brewing & Distilling– Full pub menus are available for pick up or delivery in addition to larger quantities for family meals. oreder $50 or more and recceive a FREE 32oz can of beer when you use promo code a BEER at checkout. Delivery thru Grubhub, Postmates, DoorDash & UberEats. Call 480-917-8700. 8 S. San Marcos Pl. Chandler, AZ 85225

Pita Jungle– Select locations throughout Arizona have a limited menu available for takeout along with Family Meals for $35. Select bottles of wine are $15.

Ghost Ranch– Friends & Family meals to go, pick up only. Chicken tacos and enchiladas with sides for $25. Feeds 2 -3 people. Call the restaurant at 480-474-4328.

Serrano’s Mexican Restaurants– Meals serve 6-8 or 8-10 people. Take out only. All 5 locations. The $39.99 Family Pack specials include:

Taco Family Pack: The special includes two dozen taco-size flour tortillas, 32 oz. of either shredded beef or chicken (or combo), shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, 8 oz. smooth hot sauce or tomatillo salsa, bag of chips, 16 oz. chunky house salsa and 16 oz. bean dip.

Burrito Family Pack: The special includes one dozen flour tortillas, 32 oz. shredded beef or chicken or refried beans, 16 oz. enchilada sauce (red, green or tomatillo), bag of chips, 16 oz. chunky house salsa and 16 oz. bean dip.

Nachos Family Pack:  The special includes 32 oz. of either shredded beef or chicken, 16 oz shredded lettuce, 16 oz shredded cheese, 8 oz. pico de gallo, 8 oz guacamole, 3 oz sliced olives, bag of chips, 16 oz. chunky house salsa and 16 oz. bean dip.

Taco Salad Family Pack: The special includes 32 oz. of either shredded beef or chicken, salad mix for 6-8 people, 8 oz shredded cheese, 8 oz. tomatoes, 8 oz dressing of your choice, bag of chips, 16 oz. chunky house salsa and 16 oz. bean dip.

$5 Grab ‘n’ Go Burritos: Serrano’s will also offer shredded beef, shredded chicken or bean and cheese burros for those looking for a single meal option. To avoid a wait, please call ahead to order.

Pomo Restaurant Group delivery & take out options.

All Pomo’s are offering 30% off and free delivery on orders over $100, here’s how to order from each location.

Pomo Pizzeria- Shops at Gainey Village.  Take- out or delivery.

1. Call for Pickup or Delivery: (480) 998-1366 Curbside is right in front.
2. Online Order for Pickup: https://pomovillage.mobilebytes.com<https://pomovillage.mobilebytes.com/>
3. Online Order for Delivery: https://pomovillage.mobilebytes.com<https://pomovillage.mobilebytes.com/>

Pomo Pizzeria Downtown Phoenix- 705 N 1st St #120, Phoenix, AZ 85004

1. Call for Pickup or Delivery: (602) 998-1366. Curbside right in front.
2. Online order for pickup: https://pomodowntown.mobilebytes.com/
3. Online Order for Delivery: https://pomodowntown.mobilebytes.com/
4. Third Party Delivery: ubereats, postmates, grubhub, doordash

Pomo Pizza at Biltmore Fashion Park– 2502 E. Camelback Road

1. Call for Pickup or Delivery: (602) 954-5278 Curbside loading area south east
2. Online Order for Pickup: https://pomobiltmore.mobilebytes.com/
3. Online Order for Delivery: https://pomobiltmore.mobilebytes.com/

Pomo Pizzeria Gilbert– 366 N Gilbert Rd #106, Gilbert, AZ 85234

1. Call for Pickup or Delivery: (480) 878-2222 Curbside, back entrance with reserved spots
2. Online Order for Pickup: https://pomovillage.mobilebytes.com<https://pomovillage.mobilebytes.com/>
3. Online Order for Delivery: https://pomovillage.mobilebytes.com<https://pomovillage.mobilebytes.com/>
4. Online Order for Delivery: Postmates, Ubereats, Doordash

More delivery & pick up options

Kaleidoscope Juice is delivering orders of $80 or more on packaged juices with 25 mile radius of their old town Scottsdale location. All locations are open for Grab n Go and are encouraged to call in order ahead of time.

Fired Pie– All 21 locations has a Date Night deal ready for pick up. 2 pizzas 9or salads) and 4 rotolis for 420. Use promo code “Date” when ordering. Also 2 pepperoni or cheese pizzas for 410 when you use promo code “pepp”.

Koibito Poke– has partnered with Postmates, Door dash and Uber Eats for food delivery.

PHX Beer Co. Scottsdale– The restaurant is still open but offers sandwiches and salads for pick during lunch hours, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. for $12.

Salads

House-made Chicken Tortilla Soup and Small Salad

CK Chopped Salad—Kale, romaine, tomato, red peppers, smoked mozzarella, black beans, corn, pepitas, agave onions and a house creamy malt vinaigrette. Add grilled chicken for $5 or salmon, shrimp or prime flat iron steak for $7.

Sandwiches

BLT—Applewood bacon on toasted sourdough with lettuce, tomato and mayo.

Grilled Ham and Cheese—Seared ham, sandwiched between melted cheddar cheese and sourdough.

Grilled Chicken Sandwich—Seasoned and grilled chicken breast with lettuce and tomato on challah bun.

BBQ Pork Sandwich—Zesty, smoked and pulled BBQ Pork on challah bun with sliced red onion.

The All Day Family Combos that feeds 3 – 4 people.

Black Iron Pizza & Salad ($22)—14” Melrose (house-made sauce, secret cheese blend) & CK Chopped Salad. Toppings extra.

Black Iron Pizza & Wings ($28)–14” (house-made sauce, secret cheese blend) & 12 wings (choice of Guajillo Chile, BBQ, Buffalo and Smoked Salt & Pepper). Toppings extra.

Salad & Wings ($25)—CK Chopped Salad & 12 Wings (choice of Guajillo Chile, BBQ, Buffalo and Smoked Salt & Pepper)

Southern Fried Chicken Tender Dinner ($42)—Choice of two sides (coleslaw, Cast Iron Mac N Cheese, Mashed Potatoes, seasoned fries or fruit). Includes Morenci Copper Ale BBQ Sauce.

Crowlers—For adults only (2 pack $18/4 pack $35), choose from 12 PHX Beer Co. beer selections.

Aoili Gourmet Burgers- Meal prep kits are available for pick up or delivery. 5-9 meals @ $9 each + tax and delivery, 10-13 meals @ $8.50 each + tax and delivery 14 + meals @ $8 each + tax and delivery

Burger Kits – Package is $29.99 and includes four burger patties, buns, cheese, lettuce, tomato, bacon, grilled onions, salt and aioli sauce. All orders placed by Thurs 5 p.m. and will be delivered Sunday between 11 a.m. and can be picked up between 4 – 8 p.m. To order info@aioliburger.com

 

Nobu Scottsdale opens Monday and is taking reservations

The new luxury wing at Scottsdale Fashion Square is buzzing with excitement as world renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa opens Nobu Scottsdale on Monday January 27, 2020. The sushi and Japanese cuisine restaurant has begun taking reservations for this highly anticipated opening. His first restaurant opened in New York City in 1994 with partners Robert DeNiro and Meir Teper, the trio now have restaurants on 6 continents.

“Scottsdale is a very special city, and a location we have been looking forward to opening for a very long time,” said Chef Matsuhisa. “Scottsdale is a truly unique destination for a special kind of luxury and Fashion Square is at the center of it all,” he said.

Chef Nobu made a name for himself in the 1990’s when he put his take on classic Japanese cuisine and sushi using new flavors and cooking techniques. He’s built a loyal following at over 40 restaurants and hotels around the world.

Nobu Scottsdale will have classic dishes such as Yellow Tail Sashimi and Black Cod with miso along with dishes only found in Scottsdale. Local ingredients will play a big role on the menu and cocktail program. The cocktail program continues to evolve as mixoligists from around the world continue to curate it.

“Each location has a unique menu that is influenced by global trends as well as the local scene,” says Nobu. “We look forward to bringing guests the signature dishes they have come to love, along with new dishes exclusive to Nobu Scottsdale.”

Nobu Scottsdale is taking reservations for dinner and can be made by calling 480-581-0055 or by visiting their website.

 

Across the Pond to take over space vacated by Central Wine

The owners of Clever Koi and soon to open Fellow Osteria wasted no time when neighbor Central Wine closed to start working on cocktail bar Across the Pond. Slated to open in the fall Across the Pond will be an intimate cocktail bar that features 10 unique custom cocktails, Japanese whiskey, craft beers and wine.

Partners Nicholas Campisano and Joshua James have the designed space to give the bar a  “tropical mid-century modern” look.

“We’ve been looking to add a cocktail bar to the B&R portfolio for a while now, and had been looking all over the Melrose district,” James says, “But we always kept an eye on the Central Wine space. So when the previous tenant’s lease came up, it worked out great for both parties.”

Across the Pond bites and drinks menu

Traditional Japanese sushi (no rolls), bar bites and omakase a.k.a. “chef’s choice” dishes will be served from Clever Koi. The three types of fish used for sushi and omakase  will be sourced from local fish monger Chula Seafood.

James will create a cocktail menu with handcrafted selections that will emphasis Japanese whiskey and served in traditional highball style.

The name, James emphasizes Across The Pond is not a British-style pub, but a casual cocktail bar with Asian accents. “‘The Pond’ was always our nickname for Clever Koi on Central, so it was obvious to name it, Across The Pond.”

The 35 seat bar will be open Wednesday – Saturday from 4:00 p.m. til midnight. Across the Pond is at 4236 N. Central Ave. Phoenix 85012.

SumoMaya announces a new chef & Bottomeless Brunch on weekends

Chefs move from one restaurant to another like athletes get traded or sign with a new team. Scottsdale’s SumoMaya has announced that they have brought on a new chef to run their team in the kitchen. Roberto Madrid comes to SumoMaya from Deseo Restaurant at The Westin Kierland Resort in north Scottsdale.

Photo courtesy of Debbie Wolvos

One of the first tasks chef Madrid will be overseeing is the new weekend “Bottomless Brunch” the restaurant has begun serving on Saturdays and Sundays. As the popularity of leisurely brunching has become on weekends, SumoMaya’s $39 brunch includes Bottomless Margaritas, Mimosas, Bloody Mary’s and Michaelidas along with a few of rounds of foods. For those who chose not to indulge with cocktails brunch is $29.

While sipping on your cocktails guests can then choose from a family style menu for the “First Round” that includes Smoked Salmon Lox, Sweet Mexican Pastries, fresh fruit & granola and more.

Photo courtesy of Debbie Wolvos

On to the “Second Round” where options include….assorted sushi rolls selected by chef Madrid, SumoMaya’s popular Guacamole w/ Pomegranate or Ribeye with tostatdas, Huevos Revueltos Al Abanil with scrambled eggs or Bread Migas + Chorizo.

Diners then choose an entree from the creative menu that includes Sweet Potato Waffles with sliced bananas, Waygu Steak + Eggs with corn arepa, poached eggs and Hollandaise sauce or Market Vegetable Scramble with crispy quinoa amongst others. Popular weekday menu items such as Kimchee + Egg Fried Rice with mushroom and Korean chili aioli, Enchiladas Suiza, Pork “Al Pastor” Pad Thai will be available.

Make sure you save room for dessert(easier said than done, I know) as the unique Liquid Cheesecake Brulee or Bunelos, those delicious cinnamon donuts sweetened with condensed milk and dulce de leche are served family style.

Both early riser and those who like to sleep in on weekends can take advantage of brunch as SumoMaya serves from 9a.m. – 3p.m. on weekends.

SumoMaya is at 6560 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale 85250.

 

 

Eating my way through Delray Beach, Boca Raton & Boynton Beach.

Some live through stereotypes, some live in stereotypes and from time to time I live in a stereotype. That is the case when I travel to visit family in southeastern Florida towns of Delray Beach, Boca Raton and Boynton Beach. Certain aspects feel like a Seinfeld episode when Jerry is visiting his parents in “Del Boca Vistas”. The best times revolve around food and eating out and all that come with the experience. On a recent visit I ate out for most meals in strip mall eateries or dockside by the water and these are my chronicles, see if my experiences sound familiar.

Most were simple meals with family and friends catching up and watching life go by as its high season in south Florida with snow birds, families visiting parents & grandparents and full-time residents.

Shortly after arriving in time for a mid-morning breakfast on the way back from the airport we decided on my aunts favorite greasy spoon, The Green Owl III in Boynton Beach. Breakfast and lunch served with simple staples of eggs, French toast, pancakes and the special of the day, Scrapple. I’m not entirely sure what Scrapple but you don’t see it here in Phoenix very often. I can say the eggs, corned beef hash and slice of French toast is exactly what you’d expect. Not huge portions but good solid breakfast foods with the regulars and an always full & hot cup of coffee with change back from a $10 in most cases. Cash only!

As often as I’ve visited in my 40 something years to this area there’s always a  favorite or 2 on the eating schedule. For dinner we made reservations at the family favorite Banana Boat on the Intercoastal Waterway in Boynton Beach. It was my 1st visit in a long time at this nautical & beach themed restaurant where seafood is good and fresh. The French Onion soup was spot on for bargain price of $6.95 before I stepped out of my seafood comfort zone and went with filet of Macadamia crusted Key West Grouper. The fish was good and flaky and the Orange Rosemary sauce was vibrant and delicious. http://bananaboatboynton.com/

We passed on desert as we headed down to the bustling Atlantic Ave. in Delray Beach to Doc’s All American for soft serve ice cream. Doc’s pre-dates any of my visits back to when my aunt grew up in the area and Doc’s was the place to go for food and fun when she was in high school.

I know what you’re saying, where’s the stereotypes and Seinfeld episode in all of this. That picture comes into play when family continues to arrive and we head to Saturday morning breakfast at Poppie’s Restaurant & Delicatessen  in Delray Beach where Miltary Trail meets Linton Blvd. This staple for gossip, big portions and people watching is slowly filing with regulars for morning coffee or after tennis at the club. Walking by the glass encased meats and deli favorites right to our table or booth I don’t remember but you get the drift. I expect Jerry, George and Elaine to coming strolling through the door any second as if they’re visiting Jerry’s parents. http://www.poppiesdelidelray.com/

I went with a platter of eggs, home fries, corned beef hash & a bagel. Big portions tasting the way it should as if we were up in New York deli.

For lunch, plans get made with our hometown friend for our traditional sushi lunch at Lemongrass Asian Bistro www.lemongrassasianbistro.com/  in downtown Boca Raton among the Bentley’s and Rolls Royce’s. This was our first visit to Lemongrass as our previous sushi place a couple blocks away has jumped on the ramen & noodle bandwagon. The sushi was fresh and filing as was it’s presentation. The Summer Roll(Vietnamese spring roll, not sushi) was one of favorites with its mint and shrimp stuffed goodness. Our favorite roll was the Aloha Roll with pineapple and more and my Bento box of sashimi and a “Sex on the Moon” roll was perfect.

During our late lunch I was informed dinner would be of the early bird kind at 4:30 for Chinese food. Up I-95 a few exits back to Delray Beach in a nondescript strip mall is Bird Nest Tree. http://www.birdnesttree.com/

My sister & I must have been the youngest patrons of this (stereo)typical Chinese food restaurant with dim lighting, leather booths and round tables. I opted to skip dinner as the taste of sushi still lingered on my palate and dinner plans with friends in Ft. Lauderdale was only an hour or so away. I did nosh on the large fried wontons on the table and grabbed a taste of Kung Pao chicken before our server scolded me and slapped a “sharing” charge on my families bill. It all looked and smelled like good Chinese food, maybe next visit for a full experience.

That’s not the end of my eating escapades as other meals were had at the country club, in homes of friends and family and at the wedding which brought all of us to Florida, that’s another post in itself. If you find yourself traveling the roads of these parts, these and other restaurants from previous visits make for good eating and people watching.