Posts Tagged ‘downtown phoenix restaurants’

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First Friday for September

Wednesday, September 1st, 2010

If you’re heading Downtown for First Friday, you’ll find some juicy new attractions this week. And by juicy, I mean melt-in-your-mouth burger sliders and pot roast with gravy, just to name a few of the dishes at Bliss, a brand-new eatery.

But first, for any newbies who don’t know about First Friday, I’ll keep it short and sweet: First Friday is the country’s largest, self-guided art walk. This event takes place every month in Downtown Phoenix from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and the pleasures range from live music, food and performance artists to more than 100 art galleries.

Just as a heads-up, the street closure is still on hiatus for Roosevelt, but Roosevelt Row restaurants are always open for business, so be sure to check out Bliss and its companion bar ReBar, which just opened at Roosevelt and Fourth Streets.

American Comfort Food, Updated

Bliss is co-owned by Mark Howard, who also owns Fez, one of the most popular restaurants in central Phoenix (oh, Fez, if only you delivered those sweet potato fries). The menu for Bliss features a new angle on American comfort foods, from pot roast and pork chops to mac and cheese with chicken and bacon.  After 10 p.m., Bliss offers $5 nibbles including mini beef tacos and burger sliders.

Target Free First Fridays

childrensmuseumThanks to Target, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix is open and free of charge during First Friday. A tribute to imagination, this interactive museum has one kid-friendly exhibit after another, from the Noodle Forest to the Texture Café, where kids use fabrics to create entire meals. The astonishing 3-story Climber, made from odd and found materials, provides kids with a one-of-a-kind experience.

Adult’s Night Out

This adults-only event returns this Friday to the Arizona Science Center with a free lecture from an actual CSI-type scientist. Kim Kobojek, forensic scientist, will give you the skinny on Hollywood vs. reality when it comes to crime labs. The lecture starts at 7 p.m., but for the regular admission fee, you can stick around and see an IMAX film or a Dorrance Planetarium presentation at 8:15 p.m. (the topic is “Black Holes”).

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The Rat Pack

Monday, August 23rd, 2010

Very close to one of our favorite restaurants, Cibo, 603 N. 5th Avenue, in the heart of the Downtown arts district, is this dynamic mural of the Rat Pack, Marilyn, Jack, Alice Cooper, and more. The buildings in this area are old houses; some are residences, some are businesses. The mural is a few houses north of Cibo on 5th Avenue, facing north. The gate was locked so I couldn’t get in but I was able to capture most of the mural in these shots.

I was surprised and pleased to see the artist’s name because Greg Bucher is the same person who painted the mural on the side of a Mexican restaurant, El Pacifico, that I wrote about a few weeks ago on my own blog.

El Pacifico is at 3311 N. 16th Street.

It’s definitely colorful here in Phoenix.

I have a feeling that Bucher has more public murals and, if I keep looking, I’m sure to come across some more of his excellent artwork.

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Downtown Grab Bag

Thursday, August 19th, 2010

When I was a kid, I used to love pulling presents from a grab bag. Or getting those mystery lollipops wrapped in question marks. If you’re like me, and have a soft spot for the unexpected, this is your week in Downtown Phoenix.

Face Your Fears at Arizona Science Center

snakesI know plenty of people who are fascinated by eight-legged critters and will rush over to see the spider exhibit from the ASU Spider Lab. I’ll be avoiding it like the terrified, overgrown child I really am. But, the rest of this event should make for spine-tingling fun, this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

From Pyrophobia (fear of fire) to Coulrophobia (fear of clowns; no joke), this event will help you face your fears or at least laugh them off for a while. If you’d like to overcome a fear of needles – or just do some good – The American Red Cross will be sponsoring a blood drive on site. Contact Brittany Conklin at conklinb@azscience.org to pre-register.

Law Enforcement Appreciation Night at Churchill’s Fine Cigars – Open to the public this Thursday from 4-8 p.m., this charity event will benefit the 100 Club, which supports the families of police officers and firefighters. That’s a fine thing, but so are the Perdomo cigars you can taste for free. Nick Perdomo, the owner of Tabacalera Perdomo in Florida, makes some of the best Nicaraguan cigars in the country.Churchills_CigarsWEB

Third Fridays Latino Style – The Arizona Latino Arts & Cultural Center (ALAC) currently has an exhibition that focuses on urban Phoenix through the eyes of Hispanic artists. The exhibit, called “La Phoeniquera,” should be soul food for lovers of Phoenix history and culture. This Friday, from 6 pm to 10 pm, you can also catch live painting demonstrations and hear Latin music.

Fashion 4 A Cause – This live fashion show at the Wyndham Phoenix highlights a nonprofit group called Athletes 4 Awareness, which works to enlighten the community about health and fitness. Local clothing designers, hair stylists and barbers will display their cutting-edge skills. Tickets are $15 per person.

Live Fridays at Seamus McCaffreys – In case you’re wondering what’s surprising about this event, it’s the pairing of an Irish pub and a pop/funk/jazz trio, Nick Heward and The Elements of Style. The show starts at 9 p.m., and you can knock back a Guinness or two beforehand.

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American Vegetarian

Thursday, August 5th, 2010

I don’t have to tell our vegan and vegetarian readers that Americans love meat. In a close race to see who could clog more arteries, Denny’s Beer Barrel Pub in Pennsylvania lost out to Mallie’s Sports Grill in Michigan, which makes a killer – in every sense of the word – 185-pound burger.

But don’t despair. I like to think that we Arizonans eat a little healthier than our pals in the heartland.  Even with the abundance of burgers, chicken and seafood on the menus, there are still plenty of vegetarian options at American restaurants Downtown. Here’s a taste:

District American Kitchen and Wine Bar –The menu at this sleek eatery in the Downtown Sheraton emphasizes locally grown produce. For lunch, the Small Plates section includes a creamy Baked Tomato Soup with Fontina cheese, a simple but satisfying Arugula Salad made with heirloom tomatoes, and a wonderful Black-Eyed Pea Hummus with garden vegetables and jalapeno cream. The Smoked Tofu Casserole, cooked with local veggies and quinoa pasta shells, is the one option that should work for both vegetarians and vegans.

veggietalesNetworks – This might be one of the happiest finds of all for vegetarians.  All nine of Network’s grilled burgers can be made with a veggie patty. In an odd what’s-wrong-with-this-picture-moment, two of the burger styles do come with bacon, so be sure to either avoid them or ask your server to leave the bacon off.

Sam’s Café –I’m crazy about the Spinach & Portabella Mushroom Quesadilla, served with a tomatillo-avocado salsa and spicy Margarita Slaw. Both vegans and vegetarians can order the Grilled Vegetable Pasta, tossed with spinach, black beans and a garlic soy sauce.

Tom’s Restaurant and Tavern – Tom’s is a true-blue, all-American diner, but the menu is so big, vegetarians will find some attractive, homey options. That includes the Very Veggie Melt on grilled rye, the Radiatore Pasta with seasonal veggies, the Stuffed Baked Potato and the Fresh Fruit Platter.

Breadfruit – You’re probably wondering why I’ve included this Jamaican eatery in a list of American restaurants. Here was my thinking: America was once a part of Britain and so was Jamaica. Not buying that? OK, you got me. I just think Breadfruit is a small treasure, with options for both vegans and vegetarians, like the Plantain Avocado Spring Rolls and the House Tropical Salad, a light, luscious blend of fresh vegetables and pineapple in a homemade ginger poppy seed vinaigrette. For your entrée, sample the yummy Coconut Curried Tofu, served with an ample helping of rice, peas, coconut steamed veggies and plantains. As a bonus, you can listen to Bob Marley while you dine.

Head back to the Downtown Blog for Part I and Part II of this series on vegetarian dining.

 

There’s more where that came from…
or text “FOOD” to 25866 and become a Downtown Insider!

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No Meat Mediterranean

Wednesday, July 28th, 2010

First, a word to our vegan friends: I’m in awe of you. It’s tough enough to be a vegetarian, but vegans have to summon the discipline to say “no” to butter, eggs and cheese, some of the staples of Mediterranean cuisine.

Big_Fat_GreekWhile that makes it a brain-teaser for vegans to order Italian and Greek food, options are still available that go beyond salad greens. So, for both our veg and vegan readers, here are some guilt-free dishes at Downtown eateries:

My Big Fat Greek Restaurant – Everything at this Arizona Center restaurant is big, including the portions and the menu. So here’s a quick rundown: Vegetarians can choose from two appetizers, three different pizzas, and four yummy pita-bread dips, including Baba Ganoush and Tzatziki, which is also vegan-friendly. Everyone can order the Mediterranean Grilled Vegetables, and vegetarians can dive into two classic Greek dishes, Spanakopita and Tyropita.

Wade-MoisesPastaBAR – Critics and diners alike have had a fairly ecstatic reaction to PastaBAR, owned by Wade Moises, who put in his time working for superstar chef Mario Batali. (Note: Chef Wade, left, also has a heavy hand in the outstanding menu at Phoenix Public Market Urban Grocery & Wine Bar.) With the restaurant’s emphasis on organic and locally grown produce, vegetarians and vegans will love the Local Farm Vegetables. The pasta is homemade, including the Bavette al Cedro, a simple, satisfying dish made with lemon, Italian butter and Parmigiano.

Crust Italian American Fusion – Order your favorite pie at this casual, open-kitchen pizza spot, located in the Convention Center. Their Sicilian-style pizzas include several vegetarian-friendly choices, and vegans can go for the “Create Your Own Pie” option.

Focaccia Fiorentina – This friendly, family-owned eatery has twice been named “Best Downtown Lunch” by Phoenix New Times. Try the Giardiniere sandwich, made with grilled zucchini, mozzarella, tomato and olive oil or any of 10 hand-stretched pizzas that are veg-friendly. Nearly all the pastas, including the Penne alla Vodka – be still my heart – are made without meat, chicken or fish. Vegans can order the Plain Pasta, which is anything but.

ciboPizzeria Bianco – Waiting in line at this acclaimed eatery is like standing at the Gates of Heaven: the wait is long and you may not get in, but if you do, your envious friends will give you hell. The Rosa, made with red onion, Parmigiano and pistachios is a slice of…well, you know. The Margherita pizza passes the veg test, too, and the Marinara, made without cheese, should be fine for vegans.

Cibo – I love this charming spot, a converted bungalow from 1913, and its varied, excellent menu. Try the wonderful Pear Salad, made with arugula, pears, pecorino cheese, honey and toasted almonds, or any of seven veg-approved pizzas. Vegans will go for the Mixed Vegetables dish, which includes roasted red peppers, zucchini and sweet potatoes, an unexpected touch.

Want more Downtown Dining?

Text “FOOD” to 25866 or check out the 2010 Downtown Dining Guide (now in digi-mag form!)

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Vegetarian Options Mushrooming Downtown

Thursday, July 22nd, 2010

Vegetarians often get the short end of the sticky bun. There are very few all-veg restaurants anywhere in the Valley, and the quality of the food is sometimes borderline at best. On the bright side, vegetarian options are sprouting up all over Downtown, and one of the best places to find them is at any of the local Asian spots. Take your pick:

Moira Sushi Bar & Kitchen – The Arizona Republic gave this lively Japanese eatery a solid thumbs-up. Vegetarians can avert their eyes from the sushi and consider the red miso soup and edamame appetizers before heading for the main event: a section called “Hot Kitchen,” which features 10 different stir-fry bases, all vegetarian. You have the option to add tofu or simply eat your veggies as mom intended. (And yes, non-vegetarians dining with you can add a protein to their dish). Try the Kareh Raisu, a yummy red curry or the Firecracker, made with a spicy mango-wasabi sauce.

Hsin_CafeHsin Café – This friendly spot, located on the ASU Downtown campus, has a simple, tasty and extremely affordable menu. Order the Veggie Delight for only $5.99; it’s made with fruit, which may sound odd, but actually adds lightness and flavor.

Nobuo at Teeter House – As most of us have heard by now (Editor’s Note: Or read in the 2010 Downtown Dining Guide), the newest kid on the block is Nobuo at Teeter House.  Helmed by award-winning Chef Nobuo Fakuda, this new spot is currently open just for lunch and has a limited menu. But, if you’d like to get a jump start on sampling his food, there’s one vegetarian dish you can order: The Tofu Salad, which includes udon noodles with a sesame dressing.

Sens Asian Tapas & Sake Bar – A hot date night spot, Sens is also a vegetarian-friendly restaurant. I’ve dined here with friends, and loved their small plate approach, which gives you room to sample more. Most of their lunch items – from the wok dishes to the shitake mushroom-based soups – provide the option to add tofu to your veggies. At dinner, sample the claypot-cooked Red Curry Tofu or any of five vegetarian entrees.

Thai Elephant – I think this one’s a given. Everyone who lives or works Downtown has probably eaten here and knows the prices are affordable and the dishes are delectable. Ordering here is a snap for vegetarians, since most lunch and dinner items can be prepared with tofu. If you’re a vegan, just keep in mind that a few dishes, including Pad Thai, are made with egg.

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What To Do When It Hits 100

Thursday, June 10th, 2010

Summer has officially arrived, and with it comes the urge to hide in the house with the A/C on full blast. I hope you resist the urge, because there are all kinds of ways to keep your cool Downtown.

world cup2010 World Cup Watching

This year’s World Cup takes place in South Africa, which is the first time Africa has hosted these global games. That’s big stuff, and so is the first-ever World Cup match-up between USA and England. The games start this Friday, June 11th and Downtown has several official locations for watching the action (yes, there’s actually a World Cup Soccer Bars Directory for Phoenix. Who knew?)

To see guys use everything but their hands to score, head for Alice Cooper’stown or Majerle’s 9-Lounge. Another prime viewing spot has to be The Rose & Crown Pub, since no one loves soccer quite like the Brits. Knock back some Guinness or any of the pub’s many imported or domestic beers to keep from losing your cool.

Third Friday Art Reception

Next Friday, June 18th, local artist Mhelanie Banzon Silao will be featured at a Third Friday art reception. Using lengthy exposures, Silao’s amazing photography captures multiple light sources in one shot. See “Captured Light: Light Paintings” from 6:30 pm to 9 pm at the Artlink Heritage Square Gallery.

Movies, Movies, Movies

While I admit that I do the whole Netflix thing, I still prefer sitting in a dark, crowded theater with a box of popcorn and a sense of anticipation. Three blockbusters are currently playing at the AMC Arizona Center 24 theaters, including IronMan2, Robin Hood and the Prince of Persia, plus Get Him to the Greek, starring the hilarious Russell Brand.

Cocktails at Hanny’s

This sleek, upscale restaurant/bar specializes in all kinds of spirits. Their Midnight Martini gives you the chance to sample one of their signature drinks in a small size for only $2.50 (after midnight, of course). Hanny’s serves food till 1 am 7 days a week, and last call at the bar is at 1:30 am.

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Honor One of Your Favorite Parents

Wednesday, May 5th, 2010

You and I get 364 days a year. Mom gets one. In short, the odds aren’t stacked in mom’s favor.

Mothers-DaySo on behalf of moms everywhere, I’d like to suggest giving her the one thing she wants most on Mother’s Day: some time and attention.  You’ll find lots of options in Downtown Phoenix that will get her way more jazzed than that card you have your eye on.

Now, go clean your room and wash behind your ears. You have till the count of three.

For Boomer Moms

If your mom grew up with the sounds of the British Invasion, here’s the perfect event. Sunday at 2 p.m., the Phoenix Symphony Pops Series presents “The Beatles & Friends: Sounds of the 60’s.”  Besides the Fab Four, the concert will include music from the Beach Boys and the Mamas & The Papas.

Paging Heidi Klum

Fashionista moms should love “Catwalk,” a new production by Scorpius Dance Theatre. Fusing funky local fashions, athleticism and hot choreography, the show is staged on a runway. The last performance is Mother’s Day at Phoenix Theatre’s Little Theatre.

Because She’s a Good Sport

Take her out to the ballgame. Sunday’s showdown at Chase Field between the Diamondbacks and the Milwaukee Brewers starts at 1:10 pm, and all moms will get a Mother’s Day D-signer Tote Bag.

Mom Earned That Mimosa

The Mother’s Day Brunch has become an American tradition, and who are we to argue? To quote The Simpsons, “It’s not quite breakfast, it’s not quite lunch, but it comes with a slice of cantaloupe at the end.”

Kincaid’s is offering a yummy brunch on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Steve’s Greenhouse Grill will feature a made-to-order omelet and Belgian waffle station. For a fabulous view coupled with a lavish buffet, make reservations at the Compass Grill atop the Hyatt Regency.

Happy Mother’s Day, everyone.

Got a date? Text ”ARTS” “FOOD” or “EVENTS” for great ideas!

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Saturday Night Live

Thursday, April 22nd, 2010

Live, from Downtown Phoenix, it’s…comedy, music and martinis. Here’s a quick rundown of events this Saturday night [Editor's Note: There are no day events listed because you'll be attending Urban Wine Walk 2010 right??], which includes some welcome freebies for anyone who’s feeling a bit cash-strapped (and honestly, who isn’t?).

The Turf Restaurant and Pub

Saturday’s musical guest: Whitney Steele. This talented songbird is a local favorite who’s performed with the Gin Blossoms. Her recent CD, Any Thoughts on That?, was produced by the drummer for Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers, one of my favorite homegrown bands.

Whitney and Aaron Ricker will perform an acoustic set at 9 p.m. at The Turf Restaurant and Pub. If you haven’t been to the Turf, a newcomer to Downtown, check out their complete menu and drink list.

Solstice Saturdays

Now in its second year, this dance party at BarSmith features DJ Element and Benjamin Cutswell spinning hip-hop on the first floor, and DJ Senbad and Pete Salaz playing house music until 3 a.m. No cover charge before 10 p.m.

cheech_and_chongCheech & Chong, Live at the Dodge

Boy, does this make me feel ancient. I remember Cheech & Chong from their heyday in the 70’s.  If you’d like a refresher course, or you want to see this stoner comedy duo for the first time, get tickets for their concert at the Dodge Theatre, this Saturday at 8 pm.

Live Music at the Grand Staircase

Here’s a terrific, absolutely free way to enjoy the last of our spring weather. Head for the Arizona Center, take a seat under the trees, and listen to live music from  local artists. 5 pm to 8 pm, this Saturday.

Prime Rib Special at Coach & Willie’s

Finally, here are those martinis I promised you. For just $15, a killer price, you can dine on a 10 oz. prime rib with garlic mashed potatoes and veggies.  Wine and martini specials are available to top off the feast this Saturday at Coach & Willie’s.

 

Got a little black dress but no place to go? Text ”nightlife” to 25866

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East Meets West on North 6th Street

Thursday, April 8th, 2010

Admittedly, I have a lot to learn at the Arizona Asian Festival. I don’t know tai chi. I can’t do origami. But I can say, without hesitation, that I’m a skilled eater, a talent that’s no doubt shared by our readers, who’ll enjoy tasting naan from India and spring rolls from Vietnam as much as I will.

AZasianFestivalNow in its 16th year, the Arizona Asian Festival brings East and West together this Saturday and Sunday at Heritage & Science Park. More than a dozen Asian cultures are represented, with two stages that showcase entertainment, including traditional dances and music, martial arts demonstrations, Japanese Taiko drumming and more.

Spend an afternoon strolling through the Avenue of Cultures, featuring booths from different cultures. Or take your tots to the Children’s Wonderland, designed to keep kids happy and parents sane.

Want to learn taekwondo? Local masters can show you how. Interested in body painting? Artists will demonstrate Mehendi, an ancient form of Indian body painting. And I haven’t forgotten my fellow foodies, who can sample heavenly food from Cambodia, Thailand, Korea, China, India and more.

fukadaSpeaking of heavenly food, Heritage & Science Park has an even bigger coup in store for those who love Asian cuisine. Chef Nobuo Fukuda, winner of numerous accolades (including the biggie, a James Beard Award), is opening his first Downtown restaurant this summer.

Fukuda is transforming The Teeter House from a Victorian tearoom into a cozy sanctuary for his artful blend of Japanese and global cuisine. Nobuo at Teeter House will serve bento boxes, steamed pork buns and Asian teas at lunch, while dinner will feature his signature sashimi and izakaya, or Japanese tavern, food.

Expect local and organic produce in his dishes, and wonderful pairings of wine and food. We’ll keep you posted about the opening date of Nobuo at Teeter House, which will add even more luster to the Downtown Phoenix dining scene. Until then, kanpai!

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