Wine pairings for your Thanksgiving meal

If a run to the local wine shop is on your “to do” list before Thanksgiving on Thursday these wine pairings may make the trip a little less stressful.

Sommelier Killian Buschetz of Chandler’s Cuisine & Wine Bistro suggests several wines depending on what your meal is.

Turkey- He suggests a Beaujolais (Gamay grape) from France for red. The easy to drink and fruit forward wine is good with the white meat and cranberry sauce. For white wine he suggests a Gruner Veltliner from Austria for its acidity and crisp flavor.

Ham- Whether you’re serving ham it on Thanksgiving or waiting until Christmas he recommends a Cabernet Franc for its robust tasting profile. Riesling from the Alsace region of France or Mosel region of Germany offers the acidity with a hint of sweetness for pairing with food.

Beef- The red meat desires a bold red wine from Bordeaux is his first choice. Specifically from Saint-Emilion known for its Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc blends. If need be a Napa Valley red can do the trick but watch out for high alcohol and big fruit wines.

Lobster- A Chardonnay with a hint of oak & butter is the way to go for this delicate seafood. A Pouilly- Fuisse from Burgundy makes for a nice wine pairing.

Salmon- A red Burgundy from Beaune known for its light body and fruit is always good. If you prefer a California or Oregon Pinot ask for a more earthy wine over a bold and jammie wine.

Pecan or Pumpkin pie- A sweet and nutty Pedro Ximinez sherry from Spain hits the spot for the end of the meal.

Wine pairings with a different perspective

Wine is very subjective therefore choices for wine pairing may differ from person to person. LDV Winery winemaker and co-owner Kurt Dunham offers his suggestions for dinner pairings.

He suggests American wines for this American holiday or even an Arizona wine. His go-to red wine is Grenache or an Oregon Pinot Noir. Chardonnay & sparkling wines from California or a Pinot Noir, Riesling or Gewurztraminer from Washington or Oregon are safe bets for your turkey. Check out his video he prepared for the occasion.

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.

EAT by Stacey Weber giving away a 3 free Thanksgiving meals

You can nominate a family to receive a Turkey and all the fixings (valued at $248) to feed a family of 4 until next Thursday, November 18th. You can nominate a family here or email at phoenix@eatbystacyweber.com. Pick up would be on Wednesday, November 24th between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the 4740 E. Shea Blvd Phoenix 85028.

The Phoenix Pizza Festival is this weekend.

Finally a favorite festival is here in downtown Phoenix’s Margaret T. Hance Park on Saturday and Sunday. See all the details, participants and changes for 2021 here.

2021 Slider Throwdown is this Sunday 11/14

The popular “Battle of the Burger” event returns to High Street in north Phoenix on Sunday. Stop by and vote for your favorite slider and help raise money for Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation from 12 – 4 p.m. Admission is $40 and includes sliders, lemonade from Cuties Lemonade & More food truck and dessert from Kicks Frozen Yogurt. Live entertainment and a silent auction will also be happening.

Seats still available for Miner Family Wines dinner

Assistant winemaker Michelle Safir will be in town for the dinner at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa next Thursday, November 17th. For more details see my September post about how to reserve your seat and December’s Truchard Vineyard dinner details.

Trade “Toys for Tacos” at Mesquite Fresh Street Mex

Until December 15th the fast casual concept has partnered with the Phoenix Rescue Mission to collect toys in exchange for a free taco. Drop off new & unwrapped toys, non-perishable foods and toiletries at a location near you.

The Montauk adds new dishes to its menu

The downtown Scottsdale restaurant added to its eclectic menu this week. The new dishes are as follows. Playa Salad – Oranges, red onion, pepitas and queso fresco over a bed of artisan greens with coriander vinaigrette to finish. Short Rib Bowl – Overnight braised short rib, house made BBQ sauce, roasted root vegetables, crispy baked potato wedges and scallions served with brown rice. Buddah Bowl– Roasted broccoli, cucumbers, spinach, avocado, grilled onions, edamame and pepitas, served with chipotle tahini and a soft-boiled egg over brown rice. Short Rib Huevos Rancheros (brunch only) – Eggs, braised short rib, refried black beans, red onion, queso fresco, morita-cashew salsa, sour cream, cilantro on a tortilla.

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.

Take-out or dine-in on Thanksgiving Day from local restaurants

Everybody’s favorite food holiday is just over 2 weeks away (Thursday November 26th). With Thanksgiving 2020 giving us new challenges cooking shouldn’t be one of them. This list offers restaurants(and a local retailer or 2) in the Phoenix area who are preparing traditional and non-traditional meals for dining in or preparing take-out to enjoy in the comfort of your own home.

Click on each restaurants website to see the menu, pricing and ordering instructions and deadlines.

Dine-in

Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa– Paradise Valley

Match Market & Bar– Downtown Phoenix

Liberty Station Tavern– Scottsdale (DC Ranch & Terravita)

Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse– Carefree

The Boulder Resort & Spa– Carefree

Kona Grill– Scottsdale & Gilhttps://paulmartinsamericangrill.com/promotions/thanksgiving/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Thanksgiving2020bert

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse– Multiple locations

Paul Martin’s American Grill– Scottsdale

Taphouse Kitchen– Phoenix & Scottsdale

Gabriella’s Contemporary Italian Cuisine– Scottsdale

Take-out

Chompie’s– Multiple locations

Match Market & Bar– Downtown Phoenix

Liberty Station Tavern– Scottsdale (DC Ranch & Terravita)

Cowboy Club– Sedona

Fuel to Fit– Tempe

Wildflower– Multiple locations

Sprouts Farmers Market– Multiple locations

SanTan Brewing Company– Chandler

Aioli Gourmet Burgers– Phoenix

Z’Tejas– Chandler & Paradise Valley

Trapp Haus BBQ– Downtown Phoenix

Tracy Dempsey Originals– Tempe

Kona Grill– Scottsdale & Gilbert

Miracle Mile Deli– Central Phoenix

Taphouse Kitchen– Phoenix & Scottsdale

Gabriella’s Contemporary American Cuisine– Scottsdale

Phoenix City Grille– Phoenix

What restaurants are open to serve you on Thanksgiving.

Still un-decided if you want to make Thanksgiving dinner or holding out for that one special invite? If the answer is “no” but you’re still looking to celebrate with turkey and all the fixings and wondering what restaurants are open on Thursday November 28th, wonder no more.

Liberty Station American Tavern & Smokehouse- Both Scottsdale locations are open serving a 3-course dinner for $32 per person and $16 per child 12 and under. Reservations for can be made online at www.libertystationtavern.com or by calling (480) 278-7044 for seating at the DC Ranch location or (480) 595-9930 for seating at the Terravita location.

Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse- From 12 noon- 7p.m. join this north Scottsdale steakhouse for 3- course a la carte menu of traditional holiday favorites. The three-course menu is $55 per person or individual pricing is available per course — 1st course is $10, 2nd course is $39, and 3rd course is $10. A turkey dinner for children ages 12 and younger is available for $25 per child. Reservations can be made online at www.keelerssteakhouse.com or by calling (602) 374-4784.

Luci’s Healthy Marketplace will be open from 6 a.m. – 1 p.m. for your morning coffee, breakfast and last minute needs. Luci’s is at 1590 E Bethany Home Rd. Phoenix.

Dave and Busters at Tempe Marketplace opens at 4 p.m. til 12 a.m. and will offer Game Day specials.

Agave del Scottsdale in Scottsdale is offering a Mexican inspired 3 -course menu for $55. To see the offerings and make reservations head to https://agavedelscottsdale.com/

Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room and Osteria- Up in Cottonwood check out a one plate Thanksgiving dinner with a Merkin’s twist from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. http://merkinvineyardsosteria.com.

Voila French Bistro is doing special Thanksgiving Brunch from 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Reservations are required. The three-course menu is $49 per person. Kid’s, 12 and under $20. www.voilafrenchbistro.com

Modern Oysterbar Chophouse is taking reservations for its traditional turkey dinner will offer a special menu crafted by Executive Chef Mike Bouwens from 1 to 8 p.m. The regular menu will also be available that day. http://modernoysterbarchophouse.com/

Fired Pie’s Tanger Outlet and Arrowhead location will open at 6 p.m. for hungry shoppers getting a head start for Black Friday.

The Keg Steakhouse & Bar at Tempe Marketplace and Desert Ridge Marketplace will be open 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. offering a 3 course dinner for $30.

Lucille’s BBQ at Tempe Marketplace has a Thanksgiving menu and limited regular menu from 11 a.m – 8 p.m.

The Hotel Valley Ho has a Thanksgiving Buffet from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. in Sands for $69. Zuzu is serving buffet dinner from 4 – 9 p.m. for $52 – $72 depending on entree selection. Children 12 & under can eat for $22 at either buffet. Reservations can be made at https://www.hotelvalleyho.com/hotel/hotel-events/thanksgiving

Mountain Shadows Resort- Hearth ’61 is serving a seasonal brunch menu and special Thanksgiving dinner menu from 11:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Visit https://www.mountainshadows.com/resort/events/thanksgiving to make reservations.

Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain has a generous buffet in the Views Ballroom from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. for $105 ++. The resort’s signature restaurant Elements offer s 4-course prie-fixe menu for $115++. Kids 12 & under can eat at either for $35. Reservations can be made at http://www.sanctuaryaz.com/

Match Restaurant & Lounge serves a chef prepared feast from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. and includes turkey and all the fixins for $29 ++, $12 for children ages 9-12 and $7 for children 6-8. http://www.matchphx.com/

 

 

Leave the Thanksgiving Day cooking to these restaurants

Dine-in or take- out here are 3 more Phoenix area restaurants will to do the cooking for you and your family on Thanksgiving Day. Hurry if you plan is to take-out you only have a couple of days to place your order if you it in time for Thanksgiving.

Miracle Mile Deli

This Thanksgiving, order “Everything But the Bird” at Miracle Mile Deli. This local restaurant offers traditional and yummy side orders to share with loved ones. Order by Tuesday, Nov. 21 at 2 p.m. to ensure an on time pick up the day before Thanksgiving. Miracle Mile Deli will be closed on Thanksgiving day.

 “Everything but the Bird” Pricing

Quart of Homemade Mashed Potatoes (serves 3 to 4) – $9.49

Quart of Homemade Gravy (serves 3 to 4) – $9.49

Quart of Homemade Stuffing (serves 3 to 4) – $7.49

Pound of Cranberry Sauce (serves 3 to 4) – $4.79

Quart of Potato Salad (serves 3 to 4) – $9.49

Quart of Cole Slaw (serves 3 to 4) – $9.49

Quart of Pasta Salad (serves 3 to 4) – $9.49

One Dozen of Kaiser OR Onion Rolls – $10.20

Big Loaf of Rye Bread (24 slices) – $8.99

Regular Loaf of Rye Bread (12 slices) – $4.79

Pound of Hot Pastrami (serves 3 to 4) – $15.98

Pound of Corned Beef (serves 3 to 4) – $12.98

Pound of Hot Brisket of Beef (serves 3 to 4) – $12.98

Order of 3 Potato Pancakes (with applesauce and sour cream) – $7

Pint of Horseradish – $6.99

Pound of Dill Pickles (approximately 10 spears) $3.79

Quart of Homemade Soup (serves 2) – $9.49

Whole Pie (Pumpkin, Pecan, Apple, Cherry, Lemon Meringue, Coconut Meringue, Boston Cream, Blueberry) – $14

Also taking pre-orders for pies…make sure to get yours in now! The locally owned restaurant is at 4433 N. 16th Street in Phoenix.  Visit miraclemiledeli.com

Luci’s Healthy Marketplace and Luci’s at the Orchard

Whether you need the complete meal or a certain side a la carte, all you have to do is reheat. This Thanksgiving, call in your order at Luci’s Healthy Marketplace or Luci’s at the Orchard for a home cooked meal that’s sure to impress. Pickups at Luci’s Healthy Marketplace only the day before Thanksgiving. Cancellations and final orders must be made by November 20. There will be no refunds after this date. Luci’s healthy Marketplace will be open on Thanksgiving Day from 6 a.m.- 2 p.m. for any last-minute needs.

Complete Meal $159.99 (Feeds 6-8)

12-14 Lbs. Pre-Cooked Premium, All-Natural, Locally-Roasted Turkey

1 Quart Turkey Gravy

1 Pint of Fresh Cranberry Sauce w/ Local Honey (Gluten Free, Vegetarian)

1 Dozen Dinner Rolls (Vegetarian)

1 Pumpkin Pie (Vegetarian)

Side Item 1 – 3 Lbs. Cornbread Stuffing

Side Item 2 – 3 Lbs. Seasonal Vegetables (Gluten Free, Vegan)

Side Item 3 – 4 Lbs. Yukon Gold Herb Mashed Potatoes (Gluten Free)

Substitute one of the three Side Items for our Seasonal Fall Salad (Butternut Squash, Roasted Pumpkin Seeds, Pecans, Dried Cranberries, Roasted Corn and Field Greens served with Citrus Vinaigrette)

A’la Carte Items

Corn Bread Stuffing – $8.99 per Pound

Seasonal Vegetables – $9.99 per Pound

Yukon Gold Herb Mashed Potatoes – $8.99 per Pound

Turkey Gravy – $7.99 per Quart

Fresh Cranberry Sauce w/ Local Honey – $7.99 per Quart

Seasonal Fall Salad (Feeds 6-8 People) – $49.99

Just “The Bird”

$7.49 per Pound (approx. 12-14 Lbs.)

A’la Carte Desserts

Pumpkin Pie – $12.99

Pecan Pie – $14.99

Located on the corner of Bethany and 16th Street, this neighborhood spot is a staple in central Phoenix. Visit www.lucishealthymarketplace.com information.

Luci’s at the Orchard is at 7100 N 12th St. Phoenix http://Lucisorchard.com

Chompie’s

Let Chompie’s Prepare Your Thanksgiving Meal

Chompie’s, Arizona’s New York-style deli, releases its Thanksgiving Day menu today and is now taking pre-orders for whole oven-roasted turkeys, pies, or full course meal packages. The full dinner and a la carte selections are designed to make giving thanks a little easier this holiday season. Chompie’s five Valley restaurants will be open Thanksgiving Day, not just for order pick-ups but also for dine-in service.

“We know how busy it is during the holidays,” says Chompie’s founder Lovey Borenstein. “Sometimes you need a little help in the kitchen so you can spend most of your time with your family.”

Chompie’s turkeys and “fixings” are cooked fresh from scratch using the Borenstein family recipes. They’re made the same day as the scheduled pick up and include re-heating instructions, so they can be served in about 30 minutes.

The Thanksgiving menu includes full meal packages, individual turkeys, and a ala carte sides:

The Traditional Full Meal Package (serves 12-15 generously)  – $219.99

Thanksgiving Dinner (for dine in or to go) – $19.99 per person

Extra Large Whole Oven Roasted Turkey – $99.99  * Carved for $129.99

Fresh Baked Apple or Pumpkin Pies – $12.99 ea.

Fresh Baked Deluxe Pies – $14.99 ea

Homemade Stuffing – $6.99 / lb

Matzo Ball Soup – $9.99 / qt

Homestyle Green Beans – $7.99 / lb

Whole turkey and large dinner packages must be ordered at least 72 hours in advance for pick up on Nov. 22 or 23.  Chompie’s five Valley locations will be open until 3pm on Thanksgiving Day.

Locations:

Scottsdale:  9301 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale 85260   // 480-860-0475

Tempe: 1160  E. University, Tempe 85281    // 480-557-0700

Phoenix:  4550-324 E. Cactus Rd., Phoenix 85032   // 602-710-2910

Chandler:  3481 W. Frye Rd., Chandler 85226    // 480-398-3008

Glendale:  7700 W. Arrowhead Towne Center #1145 // 623-344-3104

 

Phoenix restaurants cooking Thanksgiving dinner to dine-in or take-out

Many restaurants are taking the stress out of Thanksgiving by doing the cooking for you. Whether you prefer dine in at a restaurant or have them do the cooking for you to take home and make it look like you’ve done it all yourself, the Phoenix restaurants below are offering you options.

A 2nd list will be posted tomorrow but hurry up and make a decision as most restaurants have a cut off date for your pick up order.

Match at The Found:Re Hotel

MENU 

 

Roasted butternut squash soup

Candied chestnuts and pepitas

*

Slow Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Relish and Apple-pecan stuffing

Mashed potatoes and Charred Brussels sprouts with bacon

*

Spiced Pumpkin pie with Ginger Bread and Vanilla whipped cream

$38.00 adults $28.00 kids under 12 (plus tax and gratuity)              THE FOUND:RE HOTEL 1100 N. Central Ave. 10:30 to 5:00 PM http://www.matchphx.com/

Liberty Station and Market Street Kitchen

Let Liberty Station or Market Street Kitchen handle the cooking! Both restaurants offer to-go packages and in-house special menus.

For $25 per person (not including tax), guests can purchase a to-go feast including:

Sliced Rotisserie Turkey

Mac N Cheese | Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Stuffing | Green Beans | Cranberry Sauce

Homestyle Gravy | House Bread | Pumpkin Cheesecake

To place an order, call 480-595-9930 (Liberty Station) or 480-278-7044 (Market Street Kitchen) by 9 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 19. Thanksgiving packages will be available for pick up at a scheduled time between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 23.

Both restaurants will also serve a special Thanksgiving menu from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. The three-course meal includes:

Starter (choice of)

Autumn Greens Salad or Fairytale Pumpkin Soup

Main

Rotisserie Roasted Turkey with all the traditional fixings

Dessert (choice of)

Pumpkin Cheesecake  Or Pati’s Rum Cake

The cost is $32 for adults and $16 for children 12 and under, not including tax.

Liberty Station 34522 N. Scottsdale Rd. (480) 595-9930 http://libertystationtavern.com

Market Street Kitchen 20825 N. Pima Rd Scottsdale (480)278-7044 http://www.marketstreetkitchen.com

Thanksgiving Curbside Catering by The Market by Jennifer’s

The Market by Jennifer’s will offer Thanksgiving curbside catering on November 23. The meal serves a party of six for $219.99 ($36 per additional person).

Whole Roasted Turkey

Whole roasted turkey stuffed with sweet yellow onion and fresh orange slices

Served with a pan roast gravy and cranberry orange relish 

Artisan Bread Stuffing                                                                                                       Classic Herb Whipped Potatoes                                                                                 Roasted Baby Sweet Potatoes                                                                                     Haricot Vert with Sliced Almonds                                                                             Arizona Honey Glazed Carrots                                                                                    Simple Greens                                                                                                                         Fresh Baked Bread Board

Pumpkin Pie with Spiced Whipped Cream Or Pecan Pie with Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream

 Extra pies are available for $24 each.

The Market Restaurant + Bar by Jennifer’s 3603 E. Indian School Rd., Ste A Phoenix, AZ 85018 602-579-5327 themarketphx.com

Pre-order Thanksgiving Dishes from Perk Eatery

Perk Eatery will offer a few unique take-out items to add to the Thanksgiving feast!

The Sausage and Sage Stuffing is $32 and serves 8-10 people. It comes ready to bake! The delicious Blackberry Apple Crostata ($24), Pumpkin Pecan Ganache Pie ($34) and Chocolate Lines Banana Cream Coconut Pie ($34) are sold in disposable pie plates.

All items are baked fresh for pick up on Wednesday, Nov. 22. Final orders must be in by Monday, Nov. 20 at 5 p.m.

Perk Eatery 6501 E Greenway Pkwy #159, Scottsdale  (480) 998-6026 http://perkeatery.com

Santuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa

Guests can choose between a four-course, prix-fixe menu at elements, Sanctuary’s signature restaurant, or the bountiful buffet at The Views Ballroom.

In addition to a Traditional Turkey Dinner with chestnut stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry apple relish and giblet gravy, entrée choices at elements will include Duck Confit Raviolis with braised Swiss chard, candied fennel, parmesan cream and tomato jam; Citrus Grilled Swordfish with green onion and mushroom farro, smoked eggplant, avocado, and harissa butter; and Honey Hoisin Glazed Short Ribs with Chinese broccoli, candied root vegetables, and parsnip puree.

Dessert highlights include a Ginger Pumpkin Tart with maple cookie crust and toasted bourbon marshmallow, and Cinnamon Cheesecake with autumn fruit compote, warm rum toffee sauce, and almond crumble.

Available from noon to 8 p.m., the elements dinner is priced at $95 per person. The full menu can be viewed here. Featuring carving stations, the Thanksgiving buffet at The Views Ballroom will be served from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is priced at $85 per person.

For both meals, children ages 6-12 dine for $25, ages 5 years and under dine free. Drinks, tax and gratuity are additional. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 480-607-2300.

Hotel Valley Ho offers 2 options for Thanksgiving dinner

If you’re a last-minute planner, don’t feel like discussing current events around the dinner table with family & friends or you just don’t feel like cooking there’s still time to make a reservation at Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale for Thanksgiving dinner. Whether you prefer a variety of traditional holiday fare or unique dinner items there’s room at the table for you.

Pecan pie photo courtesy of Hotel Valley Ho
Pecan pie photo courtesy of Hotel Valley Ho

Thanksgiving dinner buffet in Sands

Serving from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. this classic Thanksgiving buffet will include all your favorites including a slow roasted turkey stuffed with chorizo cornbread stuffing, all the classic side dishes and homemade desserts. In addition diners can give thanks for chilled shrimp, crab claws, roasted brussels sprouts with bacon and a pomegranate reduction and more. The buffet is $59 per adult & $19 per child plus beverage, tax & tip.

A la carte menu in Zuzu

Zuzu will be serving its seasonal menu along with turkey and all the trimmings from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Reservations are recommended for both dinners and can be made by calling 480-421-7997