RUBEE TUESDAY: Merkin Old Town Scottsdale, Jade Palace, Osteria Mia, Tia Carmen, The Rose Garden, Lauren Allen Culinary Events, Anhelo

September 19, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room in Old Town Scottsdale

Friday, August 25: Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room (Old Town Scottsdale). A Scottsdale City Lifestyle assignment on dishes using local honey brought me to one of my favorite chefs - Steve Zimmerman.

Kofta (lamb meatballs with harissa-spiced honey, zhug, toum, and ezme) at Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room in Old Town Scottsdale

We were treated to an array of delicious dishes from this talented culinary star - some of which you can read about in the digital issue at this link (page 25), and others that were chalkboard specials.

And I was thrilled to be one of the first to try the new line of naturally-flavored Queen B sparkling meads (lavender, rose petal, jasmine, and bergamot)!

For dinner that night, we were off to Jade Palace (North Scottsdale). Locally-owned Tequila Corrido was the guest of honor at their first cocktail dinner featuring GM Roman Kettler’s excellent cocktails.

Sunday, August 27: Osteria Mia (North Phoenix). We had family visiting from Vegas, so we treated them to dinner at one of our neighborhood favorites.

Monday, August 28: Tia Carmen (JW Marriott Desert Ridge). The SOMM Journal gathered some of Arizona's finest wine and beverage professionals at Tia Carmen for a Gavi Masterclass. The first stop on the Gavi World Tour, it was a delicious deep dive into this Italian white varietal. Click on the photo below for a video, including the delicious spread that the chefs at Tia Carmen created.

Tuesday, August 29: The Rose Garden (Downtown Phoenix). We had a media sneak peek of the new Sur La Bar mixology class that officially launches September 20. For all the details, check out my video by clicking the photo of Trey Biven below:

Afterwards, we were off to celebrate Lauren Allen Culinary Events at their rebrand launch party at The Royal View House, a luxurious 8,600-square-foot home on a 1-acre estate. Coincidentally, I had been to this beautiful property before as it is the home of one of the co-founders of WorldClass, who now rents it out as a stunning venue.

Lauren Allen Culinary Events cocktail welcome

Lauren Allen is known for her exceptional private dinners and events, and her launch party was another fabulous example. Congratulations Lauren!

Wednesday, August 30: Anhelo (downtown Phoenix). We’ve been back to Anhelo recently, but not for a full tasting menu experience. In fact, the last time we had made a reservation to do so, it was our anniversary last November and we had to cancel. We were blown away when we walked in and chef-owner Ivan had closed the restaurant just for us and created a special re-do Anniversary Dinner with this spectacular custom menu.

Custom tasting menu at Anhelo in downtown Phoenix

Needless to say, Anhelo, which has been a long-time favorite, now holds a special place in our hearts. Thank you to Ivan and his team for spoiling us with a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Check back next week for visits to Elliott Steakhouse. Anhelo, Fat Ox, La Famiglia, Pa’La, Atlas Wines, Cala, and Sel.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / Merkin Old Town Scottsdale, Old Town Scottsdale, Jade Palace, Tequila Corrido, Tequila dinner, Osteria Mia, Tia Carmen, Anhelo, The Rose Garden

RUBEE TUESDAY: Arboleda, Cafe Monarch, Ember at We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, The Mission Kierland, and La Famiglia

September 12, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Cappelletti pasta at La Famiglia in Scottsdale

Monday, August 21: Arboleda (Scottsdale Quarter). Back to one of our favorites! This time, we stopped by for sherry and an array of tapas, including gambas píl píl, and of course, WorldClass

Tapas and sherry at Arboleda in Scottsdale Quarter

Wednesday, August 23: Cafe Monarch (Old Town Scottsdale). I had made special arrangements with Ben Wald, Executive Chef of both Cafe Monarch and Reserve, for a Scottsdale City Lifestyle Magazine assignment. Keep an eye out for the Food issue to see what he created!

That night, we had reservations at Ember at We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort (Fountain Hills). I was already a fan of sommelier Dennis Payne, Chef Richard Pelz, and the team when we recorded this Taste of AZ podcast, but during our chat, I learned about their sold-out wine dinners. Since then, we’ve tried to attend every one.

Executive Chef Richard Pelz and team at Ember at We-ko-pa

Ember recently received Wine Spectator Magazine’s Best of Award of Excellence for the third year in a row, so it’s no surprise that their wine dinners are outstanding. This time, they welcomed Frias Family Vineyard of Napa Valley and special guest Fernando Frias for an unforgettable evening celebrating these exceptional Napa wines.

You can also watch my video reel here.

Frias Family Vineyard wine dinner at Ember at We-ko-pa

Thursday, August 24: The Mission Kierland (North Scottsdale). Acclaimed mixologist Christian Röllich is another podcast guest we’ve had on A Taste of AZ, where he told us about his new position as Beverage Director for Matt Carter’s stable of restaurants.

Röllich’s first menu overhaul was for Fat Ox, and now he’s done the same at The Mission, where we had a chance to sample some of his stellar cocktails, including: A welcome mamajuana (rum infused with herbs, roots, and spices, red wine, and honey); Rio Naranja (tequila, coconut, ginger, lemongrass and yuzu), Diosa Verde (tequila, arugula and cucumber); Little Tree (vodka, passion fruit, sarsparilla and turmeric); Chicha Sour (Pisco and chicha morada, a Peruvian purple corn drink), Mission Martini (Panamanian rum, honey, cinnamon and espresso); and Archbishop (bourbon and mole orgeat).

Stay tuned for my Christiaan Röllich feature in the next issue of Tasting Panel magazine!

Christiaan Röllich’s cocktail book, Bar Chef

Since we were so close to Famiglia, we wrapped up our evening at this hidden secret. This Italian gem owned by the talented duo of Sommelier Broc Chavez and Executive Chef Richard Rangel is one of my top restaurant recommendations. While it might fly under the radar, Famiglia is the kind of place that deserves more buzz and popularity, thanks to its warm, comfortable vibe and sophisticated Italian menu.

Yet another fantastic meal - this time, beet salad with gorgonzola, candied pecans, apples, and citrus, Calabrian cappelletti with ricotta, eggplant, and brown butter, and garganelli with braised chicken, peas, mascarpone, and lemon sauce. In fact, we enjoyed it so much that we made reservations to return in two weeks for Arizona Restaurant Week.

Check back on next week’s Rubee Tuesday for visits to Merkin, Jade Palace for a Tequila Corrido dinner, Sweet Republic, Anhelo, The Rose Garden, Tia Carmen, Osteria Mia, and a rebrand launch party for Lauren Allen Culinary Events.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / Arboleda, Ember, We-Ko-Pa, The Mission, Mission Kierland, La Famiglia, Merkin Old Town Scottsdale, Old Town Scottsdale, North Scottsdale

RUBEE TUESDAY: Las Vegas and Hotel Valley Ho

September 05, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Sunday, August 13 - Thursday, August 17: Las Vegas. For a SOMM Journal assignment, I headed to Vegas to cover a Roco Winery dinner at Chinglish. Look for my recap in the December issue!

We decided to add on some extra days, checking into the Park MGM for the first time. I’ll be posting more photos and details in the Travel section, but our dining highlights included La La Noodle, Eataly, and Ferrarro’s Ristorante….

…Primrose, Momofuku, and Bavette’s Steakhouse…

..and we always stop at Lindo Michoacan in Henderson before the drive back to Phoenix for lunch (and fresh tortillas to take home).

Friday, August 18: Celebrity Chef Dinner at Hotel Valley Ho. The finale of the resort’s summer Sip + Shop market series was a special dinner featuring James Beard award-nominated chefs Rene “Chito” Andrade and Beau MacMillan.

Hotel Valley Ho executive chef Russell LaCasce, writer Chistina Barrueta, Chef Beau MacMillan, Chef Rene Andrade, and Zane Smith of WorldClass

We dined with the team from WorldClass, one of the sponsors, whose beautiful Ibérico pork belly was used in Beau’s cooking demo for the first course…..

…and award-winning Devesa Argentine ribeye on the parillada platter with oxtail, papas sucias, nopales, frijoles con queso, tortillas, and salsa.

Chef Rene Andrade of Bacanora in Phoenix and Espiritu in Mesa

Check back on next week’s Rubee Tuesday for visits to Arboleda, Ember at We-Ko-Pa resort, The Mission, La Famiglia, and Merkin Old Town Scottsdale.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / Hotel Valley Ho, Rene Andrade, Beau MacMillan, Las Vegas

RUBEE TUESDAY: Paradise Valley Burger Company, Lon’s at The Hermosa, Weft & Warp at Andaz

August 29, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Herb-crusted halibut with WorldClass black truffle broth, root vegetables, and shaved truffle in the Wine Cellar at Hermosa Inn

Monday, August 7: Paradise Valley Burger (Phoenix). We love Brett Shapiro’s inventive burgers, and we’re not the only ones. The restaurant has racked up awards such as best burger in Arizona by the Travel Channel and Best Burger Joint by PHOENIX magazine, and has been featured on popular TV shows such as Diners, Drive-ins and Dives and Man vs Food.

One of Guy Fieri’s favorites was my husband’s order on this visit: Country Fried Burger with jalapeno-thyme cream gravy, lettuce, tomato, and crispy fried onions on a griddled brioche bun.

Country Fried Burger at Paradise Valley Burger

If you follow PVB on Instagram, you’ll know that in addition to the inventive mainstays on the menu, you’ll also be tempted by the creative specials, as I was. In fact, I had to order both! The Back to School Burger with smoked peanut butter, strawberry-habanero jelly, smoked mozzarella, bacon, and crispy onions on crustless white bread and Nach'yo Grilled Cheese with housemade cool ranch chips, tequila cheese sauce, taco beef, serrano chiles, pico de gallo, and pickled onion served over a grilled cheese sandwich.

I’ve also included some past favorites:
Brûlée Burger with a brûléed bun, Havarti cheese, lettuce, bacon, fried egg, and pickled onions
Beach House Burger with green chile, smoked mozzarella, pico de gallo, avocado and jalapeno ranch
Cardinal Fries topped with cheddar, pulled pork, green chile-bacon-vodka cream sauce, and cilantro
Jalapeno Fries

Friday, August 11: Cool Dining in the Wine Cellar at Hermosa Inn. From June to September, Thursday through Sunday nights, guests can reserve a table for a special five-course tasting menu that changes weekly. When we heard this week’s was going to feature WorldClass Argentine black truffles, we had to make a reservation.

Wow! This turned out to be the best wine cellar dinner we’ve attended yet.

Executive chef Alejandro Martinez remarked that the aroma and flavor of these Argentine truffles rivaled those from Périgord, France, and I had to agree. From the amuse of sweet potato medallion with quail egg and truffles to the sugared doughnut stuffed with raspberry-truffle-cocoa nib jam, the entire experience was spectacular.

Our decadent night was not over yet, however, as we had been invited to the launch of Final Course at Weft & Warp at Andaz resort, a fantastic four-course dessert tasting menu by executive pastry chef Morgan Malzahn paired with Beverage Director Sergio Campos’ wonderful cocktails and wine pairings.

Click the photo below to see all of the fun on my video reel!

Check back for next week’s Rubee Tuesday as I head to Las Vegas, and then back home for a special Celebrity Chef Dinner at Hotel Valley Ho.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / Paradise Valley Burger, Hermosa Inn, Wine dinner cellar, Weft & Warp, Andaz Resort

RUBEE TUESDAY: Bobby-Q BBQ, PHOENIX Magazine Best Fest, Anhelo, Wren & Wolf, Compa Spirits Dinner at Chilte

August 22, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Beef Wellington (with WorldClass Devesa beef tenderloin) for two with whipped Parmesan potatoes and demi-glace at Wren &Wolf

Friday, August 4: Bobby-Q BBQ (Phoenix). I couldn't recall my most recent visit to this place (the last time I went to a Bobby-Q was at the Biltmore location), but it’s one of my dad's favorite spots, and I’ll be bringing my parents back pronto! (You can also watch my video reel here).

While the picturesque brick-walled patio with its corner fountain is as inviting as ever, the interior has almost doubled in size. The side bar has been converted to a second dining room, making it an ideal location for large parties and private events.

Of course, there’s award-winning BBQ, but I also discovered a great new cocktail list (like my Passion Fruit Mai Tai to wash down smoked chicken wings), daily specials like Fish Fry Friday, and creamy caramel pecan cheesecake.

I’m already planning to return on a Sunday afternoon with mom and dad.

Saturday, August 5: PHOENIX magazine Best Fest. This is the second year for this fun food festival hosted by PHOENIX magazine to celebrate the people and businesses in the magazine's annual Best of Valley issue. Click the photo below to watch my video reel.

Afterwards, we stopped by Anhelo (downtown Phoenix) for a cocktail. Loved the Diega Bonita with Mexican Diega Rosa gin, Belle de Brillet, lavender honey, and cava.

Chef-owner Ivan Jacobo also spoiled us with some new dishes from that night’s tasting menu (one of Arizona’s best dining experiences - I’ll be sharing photos from our upcoming dinner reservation): Spot prawn tart, pasta carbonara with mascarpone, crispy prosciutto, and egg yolks whipped with bacon fat, and his silky chawanmushi with lemon bubbles and caviar (which has since become a signature dish).

Wren & Wolf (downtown Phoenix). Earlier in the week, we had made reservations when WorldClass had let me know that they had flown in gorgeous Argentine truffles. Executive chef Ivan Gonzalez always creates something spectacular with their ingredients, and he hit it out of the park once again. We put our dinner choices in his hands and were spoiled with roasted bone marrow topped with A5 Wagyu and WorldClass caviar and black truffles, and Za’atar man’ouche stuffed with gouda and showered with more truffles.

For our main: His famous Beef Wellington (with WorldClass Devesa beef tenderloin) for two with whipped Parmesan potatoes and rich demi-glace. What a feast!

Sunday, August 6: Chilte (downtown Phoenix). I had been wanting to return to Chilte ever since this first visit, and the Compa Spirits dinner was the perfect excuse.

And what a dinner it was with a power team of three innovative talents - executive chef Lawrence Smith, guest mixologist Arlene Bean (MercBar, Highball), and Abel Arriaga, founder of Compa Spirits.

Guest mixologist Arlene Bean of Highball and MercBar

Compa Spirits seeks out boutique distillers and wineries throughout Mexico, and Arlene’s cocktail creations made with these artisanal spirits and paired with Lawrence’s creative dishes was an outstanding experience.

Check out this spectacular menu!

Compa Spirits dinner at Chilte in Phoenix

Check back on next week’s Rubee Tuesday for visits to Paradise Valley Burger Company, a truffle dinner in the wine cellar at Lon’s at The Hermosa, and Last Course at Andaz.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / BBQ, Bobby Q, Best Fest, Anhelo, Wren & Wolf, Chilte, Compa Spirits

RUBEE TUESDAY: Renata’s Hearth at Arizona Biltmore resort, Tia Carmen at JW Marriott Desert Ridge, Bitter & Twisted, The Italian Daughter, CRUjiente Tacos

August 15, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly Tuesday feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Bloomingdale cocktail at Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour in downtown Phoenix

Friday, July 28: Renata’s Hearth at the Arizona Biltmore (Phoenix). Back to one of my favorites, this time with Meridith May and Bill Brandel, owners of SOMM Journal and Tasting Panel magazines. Stay tuned for my upcoming SOMM Journal feature with Director of Restaurants Timothy Ahrens.

Saturday, July 29: Tia Carmen at JW Marriott Desert Ridge (Phoenix). This was the launch of the new 'Tia and Chef' guest chef series with chef-owner Chef Angelo Sosa and I was thrilled that his inaugural guest was Chef Maria Mazon, executive chef and owner of BOCA Tacos y Tequila in Tucson, whom I first met in 2016.

Both of these talented chefs are also well-known TV personalities - Chef Maria competed on Bravo’s Top Chef and Food Network’s Chopped, and Chef Angelo was on Bravo’s Top Chef for three seasons and HBO Max’s Selena + Chef.

Chef Maria Mazon, writer Christina Barrueta, and Chef Angelo Sosa at Tia Carmen

While the main event was Chef Maria’s special seven-course taco menu, our media group was invited to a pre-dinner cooking demo.

I don’t know who had more fun - our group, or the chefs! Click the photo below to watch the video reel.

And check out our fantasic feast: Thank you to chef Maria who introduced each of her delicious tacos, and GM Maritza for the great education on all our pairings:

Tuesday, August 1: Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour (downtown Phoenix). Every year B&T releases a new book of cocktails, and this year’s was another winner. It’s no surprise that their book has landed on Tales of the Cocktail Foundation’s Top 10 "World’s Best Cocktail Menu" multiple times.

Hasta La Vista, Berry! at Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour

Here are some of my favorites (including the jerk chicken on the food menu, a partnership with Jamaican restaurant, The Breadfruit & Rum Bar):
Hasta La Vista, Berry!: “A lively fusion of Mezcal and Martini & Rossi's Riserva Speciale Bitter dances with Aperitivo Rosato, harmonized by a tangy triple berry shrub. Topped with sparkling prosecco and a splash of club soda."
You Shell Nut Pass: ”An elegant blend of VSOP cognac, house-blended sweet vermouth, and amontillado sherry, harmonized with zesty lemon and a delightful touch of pistachio adds an alluring twist.”
Bloomingdale: “A delicate fusion of Roku gin and elderflower liqueur harmoniously intertwine with crisp Rosé wine and a house dry vermouth blend. A dash of Peychaud bitters completes this elegant, floral masterpiece. Served chilled and up.”
Nibs & Bitters Negroni: “Sous vide cocoa nib mezcal pairs perfectly with the bitter warmth of Campari and a touch of sweet vermouth blend. It's like a fireside chat with an old friend.”
Split Decision: “A silken blend of Tullamore D.E.W. and Monkey Shoulder whiskies, enhanced by rich banana Madeira and aromatic cardamom bitters. Smooth vanilla buttermilk syrup brings it all together, creating a luxurious, spirited sipper.”
M.V.P. “A refined twist on a cult classic Miami Vice, this tempting fusion features a house rum blend, exotic spices, and strawberry tea. Pineapple, coconut milk, and lime intermingle for a refreshing, tropical experience, all clarified for a smooth finish.”

Wednesday, August 2: The Italian Daughter (North Scottsdale). We were invited to check out the new menu and it was a delicious reminder to return here more often. Thank you to Chef Vittorio Colafranceschi, who made one of the best Italian seafood dishes I have ever had - an off-menu special of Dungeness crab guazzetto.

Thursday, August 3: CRUjiente Tacos (Phoenix). As always, another great visit to this award-winning gem. Look for my Sonoran Scoop column in the next issue of SOMM Journal!

Check back on next week’s Rubee Tuesday for visits to Bobby-Q BBQ, PHOENIX Magazine Best Fest, Anhelo, Wren & Wolf, and Chilte.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / Renata's Hearth, Arizona Biltmore, Tia Carmen, JW Marriott Desert Ridge, Italian Daughter, Scottsdale, Downtown Phoenix, CRUjiente Tacos, Bitter and Twisted

RUBEE TUESDAY: Sugar Bowl, House Brasserie, Frasher’s Tavern, TEXAZ Grill, Course, The Mick Brasserie

August 08, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

WorldClass Polanco caviar service at The Mick Brasserie

Friday, July 21: Sugar Bowl (Old Town Scottsdale). One of my assignments brought us to this historic ice cream parlor and restaurant that opened in 1958. Loved the vibe (and strawberry malt and ice cream sundae). Our first visit, but we’ll be back!

Another assignment for the Scottsdale Visitors Guide was a great excuse to visit Richard Allison, beverage director at The House Brasserie (Old Town Scottsdale).

Wrapping up my Friday, we had a fun time (as always!) at Frasher’s Tavern. Thank you to chef-owner George Frasher, who had invited us to a special wine dinner where he cooked up some Rao-inspired dishes that he learned when they took over the Tavern for Super Bowl 2023.

Tuesday, July 25: TEXAZ Grill (Phoenix). We love this Phoenix institution, famous for its chicken fried steak, and need to come back more often. I also always order the fried okra, crispy jumbo shrimp, catfish, and peach pie a la mode.

Wednesday, July 26: I love when assignments bring to me see some of my favorite talents, like sommelier Nick Padua at Course (Scottsdale). You can also read about Course in my SOMM Journal column.

Our last stop was The Mick Brasserie, one of our favorite Scottsdale spots, not only for the fantastic food, but for the wine program (be sure to ask beverage director Jeff to suggest pairings). We also picked up the wines we had purchased at their Argentina wine dinner.

Recommended dishes from their new summer menu: Chef’s Caviar Preparation of the Day with WorldClass Polanco Siberian Reserve caviar, creme fraiche with gribiche (hard-boiled eggs, cornichons, chives, and capers) with pickled shallots and grilled brioche.

36-hour foccacia, chilled crab salad, and shrimp toast:

Check back on next week’s Rubee Tuesday as I visit Renata’s Hearth at Arizona Biltmore resort, Tia Carmen at JW Marriott Desert Ridge, Bitter & Twisted, Italian Daugher, and CRUjiente Tacos.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / Sugar Bowl, Old Town Scottsdale, Frasher's Tavern, George Frasher, TEXAZ Grill, Course Scottsdale, The Mick Brasserie

My Sonoran Scoop Column in SOMM Journal: Course in Scottsdale

August 04, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

Check out the June/July 2023 issue of SOMM Journal for my latest Sonoran Scoop column featuring Course in Scottsdale. You can find it on page 20 of the digital issue on the SOMM Journal website.

TIP: Sign up for a free subscription if you are in the wine industry.

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categories / Somm Journal articles
tags / Course, Scottsdale, Cory Oppold, Nick Padua

RUBEE TUESDAY: The Americano, Toro at the Scottsdale Fairmont Princess, Arboleda, Bourbon and Bones Peoria, Proof at the Four Seasons

August 01, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

The Zombie at Toro at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Friday, July 14: The Americano (North Scottsdale). Every summer, I work with one of my favorite organizations, Experience Scottsdale, on assignments for the Scottsdale Visitors Guide. A printed guidebook released annually, it can be downloaded or mailed to you.

Some of my current favorites: Happy Hour lobster salad with caviar and, on the regular menu, burrata with peach, speck, and pistachio crumble, roasted clams, and Fiore di Vitae cocktail.

Wednesday, July 19: Toro at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess was another stop on assignment.

Located on the Scottsdale’s TPC course, the menu showcases the diverse flavors of South and Central America and its Japanese and Chinese-Peruvian influences. Here are some must-orders:

WorldClass black cod with miso-chipotle glaze, kabayaki sauce, grilled asparagus, daikon radish, and togarashi aioli:

Danmari Negroni (Roku gin, Trakal, Japanese sweet sake vermouth, bitter liqueur, Banane du Bresil, and Sakura bitters)
Grilled avocado with corn pico de gallo
Fried rice with butter-poached lobster and chorizo

Grilled WorldClass Argentinian Devesa beef (picanha cut) with chimichurri, house BBQ sauce, potatoes, and shishitos:

Thursday, July 20: This was a busy day with three fun stops. First, was back to Arboleda for a special cocktail creation by Richie Moe, gambas pil pil, and smoked salmon on potato rösti with caviar and champagne cream.

Stop Two was the Grand Opening of Bourbon and Bones in Peoria. I’m pretty excited that the newest location of this upscale steakhouse is only a 10-minute drive.

A perfect ending to the day was an invitation to a fantastic mezcal dinner at Proof at Four Seasons Scottsdale Troon North. So glad Proof has brought back these cocktail dinners! We were all impressed with this menu by Chef Edgar, Pastry Chef Yudith, and cocktail pros Jackie and Autumn:

Check back on my next Rubee Tuesday for visits to Sugar Bowl, House Brasserie, Frasher’s Tavern, TEXAZ Grill, Course, and The Mick Brasserie.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / The Americano, Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Toro, arboleda, Scottsdale Quarter, Bourbon and Bones, Four Seasons, Proof, Cocktail Dinner

RUBEE TUESDAY: D&Y Chinese, Arizona Biltmore, Course, and Chantico

July 25, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly Tuesday feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Abel Arriaga of Compa Spirits at Arizona Biltmore

Thursday, July 6: D&Y Chinese (Glendale). For our final dinner with family visiting from New Hampshire, we headed to our favorite neighborhood Chinese spot (you can see more in past Rubee Tuesdays here). Another delicious feast, including a new favorite - tamarind crab with fresh crab from their seafood tanks.

Sunday, July 9: Compa Spirits cocktail dinner at the Arizona Biltmore (Phoenix). Another fun educational experience with guest host Abel Arriaga, founder of Compa Spirits, this time at Renata’s Hearth! He’s been introducing Arizona to some fantastic artisanal spirits. Check out this fantastic menu by Chef Daniel Weber and cocktail pairings by lead bartender Tara.

You can see more on my video reel by clicking the photo below:

Chef Carlos Rodriguez Rios of ‘Hearth 61 and Course, Abel Arriaga of Compa Spirits, and Lisa Carrington of The Cocktail Maven

Abel will be hosting his next Compa Spirits’ cocktail dinner at Chilte on Sunday, August 6th, and I’ll be back for more! Details at THIS LINK.

Monday, July 10: Course (Scottsdale). I was thrilled to be invited to Course’s inaugural wine dinner. In celebration of the new summer tasting menu and the Sassicaia summer release, chef-owner Cory Oppold and GM Nick Padua paired dishes with wines from the Kobrand Imports European portfolio.

Nick and Cory introduced each course, and special guest Steve Schwartz of Kobrand shared the story behind the wines. What a spectacular dinner!

WorldClass caviar and creme fraiche sorbet cone

This is also the five-course dinner being served Tuesday and Wednesday nights (with different wine pairings), so make a reservation to experience it for yourself.

Thursday, July 13: Chantico (Phoenix). I had a great time joining fellow writers for a special evening with Sandra Felix, Director of the Baja California Sur Tourism Board, to learn more about this beautiful destination. Can’t wait to visit!

Four of my favorite Chantico dishes: Shrimp aguachile, halibut ceviche, grilled tiger shrimp with coconut rice, and cochinita pibil.

Check back on my next Rubee Tuesday for visits to The Americano, Toror at the Scottsdale Fairmont Princess, Arboleda, Bourbon and Bones Peoria, and Proof at the Four Seasons.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / D&Y Chinese, Arizona Biltmore, Renata's Hearth, Course, Course Scottsdale, Chantico

RUBEE TUESDAY: Sicilian Butcher, The Mexicano, Thirsty Camel at The Phoenician, Farm Provisions in Prescott, Pie Box at Rock Springs Cafe

July 18, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly Tuesday feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Cocktails at Thirsty Camel at The Phoenician — Cocktails at Thirsty Camel Lounge at The Phoenician resort

Sunday, July 2: Sicilian Butcher (Phoenix). Joey Maggiore’s restaurants are always on our go-to list when family is in town and bonus. It also serves food until 10 pm, so was the perfect choice for my cousin’s first meal in AZ after picking him up at the airport Sunday night.

Some highlights: Octopus with ceci bean puree, rapini, celery and potaotes; Caesar salad with anchovies; chicken parmigiana meatballs with malfadine in cream sauce; carbonara with chicken parm.

For dessert? Italian pastries from Sicilian Baker next door.

Italian desserts at Sicilian Baker in Phoenix Arizona

Monday, July 3: The Mexicano (Phoenix). The rest of my family visiting from New Hampshire had arrived on Saturday so for our first meal out together, I picked The Mexicano. No surprise - it was a big hit!

Chicken tinga burrito requested as a chimichanga served enchilada style and red and green salsa.

Build-Your-Own Margarita Bar (video Reel here); frozen margrita sampler; queso fundido; guacamoles with elote and with pomegranate; ahi tacos; birria bao buns; tortilla salad with aji tuna; Sonoran molcajete; dessert board (churros, cream-stuffed conchas, flan):

Tuesday, July 4: Thirsty Camel Lounge at The Phoenician (Scottsdale). My cousin requested a cocktail lounge at a resort with a beautiful view, and I knew just where to take him. Special thanks to Art for his off-menu creations!

Wednesday, July 5: Farm Provisions (Prescott in northern Arizona). A day trip to Prescott included one of our favorites. We love everything about this family-owned spot - great comfortable vibe, excellent craft cocktails and a delicious farm-fresh menu (read more in my Prescott article here in A Taste of AZ magazine).

Ranchers Reuben with house-made corned beef, Jarlsberg cheese, bacon 1000 island, and Granny Smith apple sauerkraut on rye

You can see more on my video Reel here.

We ended our a day with a stop at Rock Springs Cafe and Pie Box on the way home for some of their famous pies (cherry pie for dad, blueberry-cherry for us).

Check back on my next Rubee Tuesday for visits to D&Y Chinese, Arizona Biltmore, Course, and Chantico.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / Prescott, Farm Provisions, Sicilian Butcher, Sicilian Baker, The Mexicano, Thirsty Camel, The Phoenician

RUBEE TUESDAY: Prime at Gila River Resort and Casino at Wild Horse Pass, Tia Carmen, Tarbell’s and Vecina.

July 11, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly Tuesday feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Seafood tower at Prime at Gila River Resort Casino — Elevated Seafood Tower at Prime at Gila River Resort & Casino - Wild Horse Pass

Wednesday, July 28: Prime, A Shula's Steak House Gila River Resorts & CasinosPrime, A Shula's Steak House Gila River Resorts & CasinosPrime, A Shula's Steak House at Gila River Resorts & Casinos – Wild Horse Pass (Chandler). While I’m usually here to attend one of their spectacular wine dinners, this time I was interviewing Chef Michael Dei Maggi, Advanced Sommelier Troy Tranzow, and Gila River Resort & Casinos Corporate VP of Food and Beverage Maj Kayyali for a SOMM Journal feature.

Chef Michael Dei Maggi, Sommelier Troy Tranzow, and Gila River Resort VP of Food and Beverage Maj Kayyali

After a great interview, we stayed for surf and turf that included the Elevated Seafood Tower, Potted King crab (a new favorite!), and Japanese A5 Wagyu (not pictured).

And, as alway, fantastic cocktails thanks to the skills of Camille Tixier.

Camille Tixier of Prime at Gila River Resort and Casino in Chandler, Arizona

Tamarindo Sour (Knob Creek rye, Alma Tepec Chile Pasilla liqueur, lime juice, Camille’s tamarind syrup, grapefruit bitters, and a rim of crushed Lucas tamarindo candy), Vieux Carré, and Sunshine Spritzer (Sloe gin, Italicus, Suze and club soda).

Writer Christina Barrueta of Write On Rubee with the team at Prime at Gila River Resort

Thursday, July 29: Tia Carmen at JWMarriott Desert Ridge (Phoenix). In August, The SOMM Journal is hosting a Gavi Master Class at Tia Carmen, providing a perfect opportunity to join Meridith May, the editor and owner of SOMM Journal, and event manager Dawn for lunch and a walkthrough at one of my favorite restaurants.

For dinner that night. we headed to another of our favorites, Tarbell’s, for a wine dinner highlighting mushrooms with special guest Brian Hedger, owner of local mushroom purveyor Hypha Foods.

Another fantastic experience at Tarbell’s!

Friday, June 30: Vecina (Phoenix). We ended our food-filled week at a Phoenix gem I wish I could get to more often, And this visit was extra-special as we were joined by Abel Arriaga, founder of Compa Spirits, and his family.

I fell in love with this taco árabe when it was a special, so I'm thrilled they added it to the menu! It features WorldClass Ibérico de Bellota pluma with chipotle crema, cashew dukkah, micro cilantro, and Fresno chiles on flatbread.

Taco árabe with WorldClass Iberico de bellotta pluma

Other must-orders include the Raiz Rioja cocktail with guacamole, chicken karaage with aji amarillo and togarashi, hiramasa ceviche with coconut leche de tigre, and skirt steak tacos with cascabel chile.

And this is still one of my favorite octopus dishes in town - WorldClass octopus with mole rojo, white beans, aji verde, and crispy potatoes.

Abel’s mission is to support small businesses across Mexico by curating beautiful artisanal spirits and boutique wines. Naturally, we had to sample some for ourselves, and wow, I was impressed! If you’re heading to Vecina (or see this on any other menus around town), be sure to order a bottle of Parvada Tinto from winemaker Lucía García Alonso in Valle de Parras in Coahuila de Zaragoza (the oldest wine region in America). It’s a rich and layered blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tempranillo with notes of cocoa, plum, and black fruit and especially delicious paired with my taco árabe.

And to pair with decadent mezcal banana bread and peanut butter mousse, I was introduced to Lechugilla, a lesser-known agave spirit. Both of these were beautiful expressions of Lechuguilla (two different species), and I can’t wait to explore this category more. Thank you, Abel, for the introduction!

Lechugilla Cumbrita de la Sierra is made by Maestro Destilador Dolores González and hails from Chihuahua. The agaves are cooked in an earthen oven covered with pine needle duff, milled by hand using an axe and wooden mallet, fermented in a stone and clay basin with spring water, and distilled in a unique hybrid still called a "tren."

Lamata Lechuguilla Sonora, crafted by Maestro Vinatero Martín Yépiz in Alamo, Sonora begins with cooking the agaves in an underground oven before mashing with an axe in a wooden canoe. Abel pointed out that with a lot size of only 150 liters, it’s a rare find and has become a collector’s item. Tip: I also spied this on the backbar at Arboleda on my last visit.

Looking to do some exploration yourself? Join me at next month’s Chilte and Compas Spirits cocktail collab! Get all the details by clicking the photo below.

Check back on my next Rubee Tuesday for visits to Sicilian Butcher, The Mexicano, Thirsty Camel at The Phoenician, and Farm Provisions in Prescott.

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tags / Vecina, Prime, Compa Spirits, Tia Carmen, JW Marriott Desert Ridge

RUBEE TUESDAY: Hermosa Inn Staycation, Cool Dining in the Wine Cellar, Little Rituals

July 04, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly Tuesday feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Spanish Dagger and Watermelon Sundae cocktails at Little Rituals in downtown Phoenix

Saturday, June 24: Hermosa Inn (Paradise Valley). One of our favorite summer traditions is a staycation at this historic boutique resort which was originally the private hacienda of renowned artist Lon Megargee. You can see a full video reel of our hosted stay here.

The reception area at the Hermosa Inn in Paradise Valley, Arizona — Hermosa Inn Lobby

After visiting the charming Hermosa Inn lobby where we helped ourselves to freshly-baked chocolate chip cookies and picked up our keys (and saw my Phoenix Cooks book in the gift shop!), we checked in to our luxurious Deluxe Casita. Each beautifully appointed casita features a king-size bed, marble bathroom with walk-in shower and clawfoot tub, fireplace, and a private patio.

We also loved the warm welcome - thank you to executive chef Alejandro Martinez for spoiling us with some amazing treats!

After snacks and cocktails, we headed to the pool and our reserved cabana.

Tip: Each cabana rental at Hermosa Inn comes with either a bucket of Arizona beers or a carafe of sangria served with a cheese and fruit platter or guacamole, chips and salsa.

You can read about all the summer specials, including cabanas and room discounts for Arizona residents, here.

One of the Hermosa Inn’s most romantic secrets is the Wine Cellar. Beneath the hacienda lies a subterranean sanctuary which once hosted clandestine poker games and illegal gatherings during Prohibition.

Usually reserved for private events, the wine cellar at Hermosa Inn is kept at a cool 57 degrees and in the summer is open to the public. From June to September, on Thursday through Sunday nights, guests can reserve a table to experience a spectacular five-course tasting menu that changes weekly. As the intimate space only seats 12 people, be sure to make reservations.

We were joined by our friends John Bergman, co-founder of WorldClass, and Zane Smith. A round of pre-dinner Negroni Sbagliatos and a Vieux Carré were ordered before we dived into this incredible wine-paired feast:

And if that wasn’t enough, Chef Alejandro spoiled us with a bonus course of WorldClass Spanish Carabineros prawns and New Zealand scampi which Bergman has recently introduced to the Arizona market. Wow! The flavor and sweetness of these world-renowned delicacies is incredible and I’m excited that they will be appearing on local menus.

WorldClass Spanish Carabineros Red Prawns — WorldClass Red Carabineros Prawns from Spain

WorldClass Argentine ribeye with duck fat potato puree, spinach, grilled onions and Malbec reduction at Lon’s at Hermosa Inn

The next day, we had planned brunch at Lon’s at the Hermosa for one last meal before check-out.

LON’s dining room at the Hermosa Inn in Paradise Valley

Brunch is served daily from 7:00 am to 1:30 pm, and I highly recommend a new addition to the menu - Lon's Quiche with citrus-radish salad, Baja crab, and WorldClass Patagonian shrimp.

My husband was just as happy with his Bloody Mary and huevos rancheros with local Schreiner’s chorizo, Anasazi beans, and tomatillo salsa.

Tuesday, June 27: Little Rituals (downtown Phoenix). This Phoenix gem is a personal favorite of mine, but I’m not the only fan. This cocktail lounge and restaurant has garnered various local “Best of” honors, has been nominated for a James Beard award, and, most recently, was named a Top Four Finalist for Best U.S. Hotel Bar by the prestigious Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards.

We were invited to sample some of Little Ritual’s newest cocktails and Mr. Hollywood was one of my favorites of the night. An elegant combination of Remy Martin, Pineau de Charentes, sweet onion cordial, and Taittinger champagne, it was crowned with a house potato chip topped with caviar and creme fraiche.

I also had a chance to sit down with co-owner Aaron Defeo and will be sharing the details behind our cocktails in a separate feature - stay tuned!

More of the excellent cocktails that have won Little Rituals so many accolades:

Watermelon Sundae (Hendrick’s Gin, Bonal and fortified watermelon with a cucumber and watermelon granita garnish).
In Love with Cocoa (Abasolo Ancestral Corn Whisky, sonicated wild cacao, Damiana, vanilla, chocolate bitters, coconut, sea salt).
Swipe Right (Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey infused with green tea and cherry blossom, Stone Fruit Eau de Vie, raspberry honey, verjus).
Ballpark Highball (Suntory Toki whisky, Monkey Shoulder blended Malt, barley tea sherry, house club soda, and a side of Japanese-Style Peanuts).
Chaotic Good (Amrut Old Port Rum of India, Smith & Cross Jamaican Rum, Heirloom Pineapple Amaro, chai, sotol, Golden Milk Syrup, sour orange, guava).

And plan on dinner at Little Rituals too. Must-orders by talented Chef Nathaniel Cayer-Myette include his warm Parker House-style rolls with pandan-vanilla butter, Pho French dip with brisket, sambal aioli and house hoisin sauce, lamb chops with fingerling potatoes, cardamom yogurt and cumin chimichurri, grilled broccolini, and crispy Brussels sprouts with bacon jam.

Check back on my next Rubee Tuesday for visits to Prime at Gila River Resort and Casino at Wild Horse Pass, Tia Carmen, Tarbell’s and Vecina.

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tags / Hermosa Inn, Paradise Valley, Little Rituals, Downtown Phoenix

RUBEE TUESDAY: Cafe Monarch, Hotel Valley Ho, ZuZu

June 27, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly Tuesday feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Show Stopper Shake at Zuzu at Hotel Valley Ho in Old Town Scottsdale — June’s Show Stopper Shake at Zuzu at Hotel Valley Ho is inspired by the classic Happy Meal - a chocolate shake with a macaron "burger" and cake pop "nuggets."

Thursday, June 15: Cafe Monarch (Old Town Scottsdale). It’s always nice to get together with John Bergman, co-founder of WorldClass, when he is in town, and on Thursday we were joined by Zane from his team and Eddie, GM at Prime at Gila River Casino Resort, for a spectacular dinner.

Some of the options from our four-course dinner with the Reserve wine pairing:

Shrimp ceviche with charred pineapple salpicon, avocado, and plantain chip
Sesame-crusted bigeye tuna with umeboshi tare sauce, compressed jicama, kimchi aioli, and crispy rice
Berkshire pork belly with Crow's Dairy sumac goat cheese, grilled peaches, spiced cashews, gooseberry, wild arugula, meyer lemon vin, and honeycomb
Surf and turf with Wagyu and sea bass, root vegetables, fingerling potatoes, manchego butter, wild mushroom, and Bordelaise
Frutti di mare with ‘nduja and lemon crema

Friday, June 16: Hotel Valley Ho (Old Town Scottsdale). We were invited for a hosted staycation at one of our favorite resorts along with a weekend of special events.

My room at Hotel Valley Ho resort in Old Town Scottsdale

After checking in, it was off to the OH Pool to meet up with media friends at our reserved cabana.

As part of the Hotel Valley Ho’s monthly Sip + Shop market series, James Beard award nominee Lindsay Autry of THE REGIONAL in West Palm Beach and Honeybelle at PGA National Resort was the celebrity guest for the weekend. Our media group had a chance to chat with Lindsay, a finalist on Bravo’s “Top Chef,” over cocktails and appetizers at a special meet-and-greet.

Chefs Russell LaCasce and Lindsay Autry — Executive Chef Russell LaCasce of Hotel Valley Ho and chef-owner Lindsay Autry of THE REGIONAL

Afterwards, we dined at Zuzu on fantastic dishes such as steak frites with WorldClass Devesa ribeye from Argentina, chimichurri, peppercorn Foyot sauce, and garlic-parmesan fries; sugar snap pea pasta carbonara with pesto cream and toasted hazelnuts; lemon meringue pie.

WorldClass Argentine beef with Devesa ribeye at Zuzu at Hotel Valley Ho in Old Town Scottsdale — WorldClass Argentine ribeye and frites

On Saturday morning, we slept in before heading over to the hotel’s monthly indoor farmer’s market. When our summer heat means the outdoor farmers markets go on hiatus, the Hotel Valley Ho opens their doors to invite guests to shop local purveyors, wines and spirits to a free indoor market with live music (for more information and to register for July’s event with special guest Robert Irvine, visit this link)

As guest chef, Lindsay served her amazing tea-brined fried chicken and kale and green apple slaw. I’m ready to make a trip to Florida just to eat this again!

Chef Lindsay Autry, guest chef at Sip and Shop at Hotel Valley Ho in Old Town Scottsdale

Wine and spirits were poured (I visited Tequila Corrido and DAOU Vineyards in between bites) and it was nice to see so many familiar faces, like MJ Coe and James Porter of Breadworks, Chris Schlattman of Better Events Management private chef service (soon to open a restaurant!), Brent Kille of Sonoran Pasta Co, Jason Raducha of Noble Bread, and Rachel Benkowski with Bone Haus Brewing.

I’ll be stocking my pantry and fridge with plenty of goodies from Sonoran Pasta Co, Wild Rye Baking, and Breadworks.

That night, we gathered at Hotel Valley Ho’s Sands venue for Chef Lindsay’s cooking demo and delicious three-course dinner paired with DAOU Vineyards. We began with a welcome cocktail with Tequila Corrido, and chimichurri salt rim paired with passed bites such as oysters and fried green tomatoes.

Our mouthwatering feast paired with DAOU wines included seafood gumbo with sausage and fried okra, WorldClass Devesa Argentine ribeye with shishito peppers, Swiss chard, and short rib raviolo, and Atlantic Beach pie with lemon curd and candied Honeybell oranges.

As one of the sponsors, John Bergman, founder of WorldClass, spoke to the crowd about its mission to “Discover Hidden Treasures” and introduce them to chefs and diners.

WorldClass Account Executive Zane Smith, Hotel Valley Ho Executive Chef Russell LaCasce, and John Bergman, co-founder of WorldClass

Before checking out the next day, we returned to Zuzu for brunch, which is offered daily from 10 am to 2 pm. For me, a Purple People Eater and strawberry cheesecake French toast, and for my husband the Hot Chicken sandwich. Thank you to the Hotel Valley Ho for another wonderful stay!

Check back on my next Rubee Tuesday for our Hermosa Inn staycation with Cool Dining in the Cellar and a visit to one of my favorite cocktail lounges, Little Rituals.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / Hotel Valley Ho, Zuzu, Old Town Scottsdale

RUBEE TUESDAY: Rough Rider, The Mexicano, Arboleda, Fabio on Fire Panini and Gelato, Trevor's on Mayo, Buck & Rider

June 20, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly Tuesday feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

WorldClass Devesa ribeye topped with chiltepin butter, al pastor marinated bone marrow with elote, queso fresco and salsa macha, and tortillas at The Mexicano in Scottsdale

Monday, June 12: Rough Rider (downtown Phoenix). I was invited to join Frey Ranch Farm and Distillery co-founders Colby and Ashley Frey for a special farm-to-table dinner to celebrate the distribution of their award-winning whiskeys in Arizona. We learned that Colby’s family has been farming in northern Nevada since 1854 and their 1,500-acre farm east of the Sierra Nevada represents this legacy, with the grains for all of their bourbon and rye whiskeys sustainably grown on site. You can also see a video recap by clicking here.

Ashley and Colby Frey, founders of Frey Ranch Farm and Distillery

In collaboration with the bar team at Rough Rider, Beverage Director Alex Montoya introduced expertly-crafted cocktails that were inspired by his childhood flavors and nostalgic flavors. They incorporated not only Frey Ranch spirits, but also their honey and grains, as well as Arizona-grown ingredients.

Welcome Cocktail: Frey Ranch bourbon and rye, tropical tea, wildflower honey, lemon, and pineapple.

Chefs Ian Herschberg and Michael Swift, who had been invited to stay at the ranch, shared their experience, with executive chef Ian telling the crowd: “We had an amazing time at the ranch. It’s one of the best experiences I’ve had as a chef, being able to go out to the farm itself. Every single course features something from the farm to emphasize the ingredients.”

Chefs Ian Herschberg and Michael Swift of Rough Rider in downtown Phoenix

The menu:

Smoked trout rillettes with pickled celery on top of housemade rye cracker using Frey Ranch rye flour.
Cocktail: Oasis of Nevada with Frey Ranch bourbon, Frey Ranch honey, cinnamon, soda, and lemon.

Alfalfa sprout salad with greens, fennel, and blueberries tossed in a dressing made with Frey Ranch honey produced by bees which feed off of alfalfa flowers.
Cocktail: Dust Maker, my favorite cocktail of the night. It combined Frey Ranch Rye whiskey, Frey Ranch malted barley-infused Maraschino liqueur, lemon, orange bitters, and Alex’s fantastic amaro made with Arizona citrus, honey, and chamomile flowers (which some of us asked to try on its own - wow!).

Shrimp and grits (with Frey Ranch cornmeal) with chipotle cream sauce.
Cocktail: For The Land, made with Frey Ranch bourbon, herbal amaro, sweet vermouth, bitters, Frey Ranch toasted oat-piloncillo foam.

Risotto made with Frey Ranch wheat berries, bone marrow, and saffron topped with braised and pressed short rib drizzled with Bordelaise sauce.
Cocktail: Slow Grown, a clarified oat milk cocktail with Frey Ranch bourbon, vanilla, Frey Ranch cornmeal tejuino with piloncillo, blueberry oleo, and Nixta corn liqueur.

Chocolate cake with layers including malted barley cake and cream cheese-chocolate frosting,
Pairing: A pour of the exquisite Frey Ranch Cask Strength Single Barrel #1404, with notes of butterscotch, creme brulee, and caramel.

Tuesday, June 13: The Mexicano (North Scottsdale). I’m working on an assignment for The Tasting Panel magazine about a not-yet-released Spanish beverage called Spicy Wings. You can read all about it in the September issue, but until then, here are some behind-the-scenes shots of our fun afternoon. You can also watch the video reel by clicking here.

Chef Fidencio Alatriste of the Mexicano in Scottsdale — Chef Fidencio Alatriste of The Mexicano with a platter of WorldClass Devesa ribeye

Stop two for my Tasting Panel assignment was Arboleda.

Richie Moe at Arboleda in Scottsdale Quarter

That night, we stopped by for a sneak peek preview of Fabio on Fire Panini & Gelateria which officially opened the next day in Sunrise Promenade near Lake Pleasant Parkway and Happy Valley Rd in Peoria. I’ve been in love with Fabio Ceschetti’s Fabio on Fire Italian restaurant since it opened, and I’m just as excited about his second spot offering a deli for imported Italian ingredients, panini on wood-fired puccia, and the BEST gelato. You can see more on my video reel by clicking here.

Fabio on Fire Panini and Gelato — Toscano panini: Wood-fired porchetta with Parmigiano cheese spread, provolone, and fried zucchini.

Chef Fabio Ceschetti of Fabio on Fire Panini and Gelato

Wednesday, June 14: Trevor’s on Mayo (North Scottsdale). This was a quick stop to visit Beverage Director Jordan Chandler for the final part of my Tasting Panel magazine feature. Thank you Jordan!

Afterwards, we had lunch across the street at Buck & Rider (North Scottsdale): The burger for my husband, and fish and chips for me.

Check back on my next Rubee Tuesday for visits to Cafe Monarch and a Hotel Valley Ho staycation with the 2023 kick-off Sip and Shop market and a celebrity chef dinner with Chef Lindsay Autry.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / downtown Phoenix, Arboleda, Rough Rider, The Mexicano, Fabio on Fire, Fabio on Fire Panini and Gelateria, Trevor's, Buck & Rider, Buck and Rider

RUBEE TUESDAY: Trevor's, Chilte, Course, Rice Paper, Il Capo Pizzeria, Mother Road Beer Dinner at the Arizona Biltmore

June 13, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly Tuesday feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

At Chilte in downtown Phoenix, diners can add on WorldClass caviar to a savory dish like the green chorizo vampiro (pictured below) or sweet such as the fabulous guava tart with white cheddar and shrimp dust here.

Tuesday, June 6: Trevor’s on Mayo Blvd (North Scottsdale). I had a fun time with my fellow judges for a blind seltzer tasting. Look for the results in an upcoming issue of Tasting Panel magazine.

Wednesday, June 7, 2023: Chilte (downtown Phoenix). In the July issue of A Taste of AZ magazine you’ll be able to read all about Chilte, one of Arizona’s most exciting new restaurants, and my interview with Chef Lawrence Smith. Since I wrote that feature, Lawrence introduced some new menu items, so here’s a peek at a fantastic feast where I was joined by my friends from WorldClass. You can also watch a video Reel HERE.

I wasn’t able to fit them in my article, but the craft cocktails created by Chef Lawrence are just as spectacular as his creative Mexican dishes. Clockwise from top left:

Green Chile Margarita with house-roasted green chiles
Por Siempre with sotol, piloncillo and mole bitters
El Verde Peligroso with gin, kiwi, epazote and celery bitters
Whiskey Sour
Sangre De Maize, a mezcal and corn Negroni

One of many signature dishes, Lawrence created Black Pink for his episode on Food Network Chopped where the secret ingredient was chocolate. It’s an amazing combination of WorldClass langoustine red shrimp in a chocolate-spiked agua chile with pink grapefruit, cucumber, and house tostadas.

Black Pink at Chilte with WorldClass langoustino red shrimp

Other must-orders:

Yuca fries with furikake, queso cincho, and Buddha’s Hand aioli.
Chicharrones with charred tomatillo guacamole, jamaica and chile de árbol salsa and Benny Blanco flour tortillas.
Chorizo verde vampiro with handmade tortillas, green chorizo, queso Chihuahua, and salsa macha.
Quesadilla with queso Chihuahua wrapped in a hoja santa leaf with salsa verde, goat cheese, chiltepin, salsa macha, and a sprinkle of chicatanas (Oaxacan roasted ants).
Birria with miso consommé and salsa tatemada
Marrow Burger with green chile, bone marrow, white cheddar, caramelized onions, lettuce, and Chimayo aioli on a Noble Bread bun served with Frites Street fries dusted in togarashi and cotija.

And tip: On Wednesdays, wine by the bottles are half-price, like the Mexican chardonnay below, Château Camou from Guadalupe Valley.

The Grilled Romaine with goat cheese and smoked corn was another new addition that debuted on June 7. Be sure to add the option of three juicy WorldClass Patagonian lamb chops to your salad (or a double order like we did!)

WorldClass Patagonian lamb chops can be added to the grilled Romaine salad

I had to order two of Chef Lawrence’s favorite cocktails as an after-dinner drink(s) and they were just as stellar as my first cocktail: Hada Madrina (absinthe, gin, and pineapple garnished with queso cincho and chiltepin) and the Carajilllo (local Provision espresso, Spanish 43, orange, and lavender).

The perfect ending? Guava tart with cheesecake and guava curd in a sablée crust with coconut tres leches and white cheddar and shrimp dust (don’t forget the option of caviar for $10; it was a brilliant combination!) and a round of sotol.

Thursday, June 8: Mother Road beer dinner at McArthur’s at the Arizona Biltmore resort. I became a fan of this craft brewery after visiting them on a Flagstaff press trip for Arizona Beer Week (check out my write-up here). I partnered with Mother Road Brewing for this event, so look for my detailed recap next week. For a preview, you can watch my video Reel by clicking HERE.

Friday, June 9: Course (Scottsdale). As I mentioned in this Rubee Tuesday, Course just opened last month and it’s a fantastic addition to our dining scene. I’m also featuring GM and sommelier Nick Padua and chef-owner Cory Oppold in my next Sonoran Scoop column in SOMM Journal, and stopped by for an interview. Look for it in the August issue.

Nicholas Padua and Cory Oppold at Course in Scottsdale

Rice Paper is located in the same shopping center, so afterwards I picked up lunch to bring home (and enjoyed a Mexicanese Margarita while I waited for my order). Nick had recommended the Bruce Lee roll with pork, shrimp, crispy roll, jalapeño, Grandma’s hot sauce, Thai chile, and Ssiracha served with Asian pesto sauce, and it’s now my new favorite here.

Also in the shopping center is one of our favorite pizza spots, Il Capo Pizzeria, so dinner that night was a NY-style sausage pizza.

Il Capo Pizzeria Scottdale - NY Style pizza

Check back on my next Rubee Tuesday for visits to Rough Rider, The Mexicano, Arboleda, and Trevor's on Mayo.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / Trevor's, Chilte, Course, Course Scottsdale, Cory Oppold, Nick Padua, Il Capo Pizzeria, Rice paper, Mother Road, Arizona Biltmore

RUBEE TUESDAY: JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort, The Mexicano, D&Y Chinese, and Francine.

June 06, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly Tuesday feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

JW Marriott Desert Ridge Kokopelli’s Cabana Colada

Thursday, May 25: JW Marriott Desert Ridge. We had family visiting from Texas and one of our traditions (see last year) has been to spend a day poolside in a Canyon Creek Lazy River Day Suite. These luxurious cabanas offer a private half bathroom, air conditioning, misting system, indoor and outdoor seating, and more, and the kids love being steps from the lazy river (this year’s video HERE).

And the JW Marriott Desert Ridge pool amenities are actually going to get bigger and better with a current expansion into AquaRidge WaterPark. This $18 million pool transformation will include an enhanced lazy river, Havasu Playground with three new water slides, and an exclusive adults-only Sky Island. Click the photo below to get all the details.

Saturday, May 27: The Mexicano (North Scottsdale). This is one of our favorite spots with one of our favorite chefs - Fidencio Alatriste - and I knew the kids would love the fun menu and colorful vibe.

And good timing! Our visit happened to be three days after the launch of new cocktails and menu items, and you’ll want to add these to your new favorites list:

Amor Amago with tequila repo, lime, agave, and chocolate bitters; Summer Fling Margarita with strawberry and kiwi
Ahi tacos with chipotle mayo and serrano ponzu
Watermelon ensalada fresca
Chicken tinga empanadas
The BEST chicharrones (my Mexican husband said he hasn't had chicharrones this good since he was a kid)
Chile relleno with salsa verde

And while the kids loved their options from the children’s menu (cheese enchiladas and a chicken burrito), the big hit was the surprise dessert board.

Conchas stuffed with vanilla cream, flan with roasted pineapple and vanilla whipped cream, pineapple empanadas with caramel sauce, and a churro cart with chocolate, caramel, and tres leches dipping sauces. Gracias, Fidencio!

Thursday. June 1: D&Y Chinese (Glendale). A family dinner at our favorite neighborhood Chinese spot included trying three new-to-us dishes from the menu - roast duck carved Peking style with steamed buns, beef chow fun, and honey walnut shrimp.

Peking duck at D&Y Chinese in Glendale, Arizona

Friday, June 2: Francine (Scottsdale Fashion Square). Though we’ve been long-time fans of Francine and have been many times, our last visit was more than a year ago so we were long overdue. When we were invited to check out the spring menu, I was excited to meet new Executive Chef Connor Harmon and try his dishes. What a talent! We loved both the savory dishes, and his dessert creations. Here’s our fabulous feast (and you can watch a video Reel HERE):

Grilled WorldClass Portuguese octopus with piperade, Niçoise olives and fennel.

Pure Bliss (gin, Chartreuse, Lillet, Chareau) and vodka Martini with blue cheese-stuffed olives; frito mixto; pea soup en croute with crab; spinach risotto with pistachios and lobster add-on (now my favorite risotto in town!); chicken Milanese; Domaine Georges Lignier & Fils Clos des Ormes Premier Cru.

Herb-crusted WorldClass Patagonian lamb chops with baby vegetable sauté and rosemary olive oil, paired with 2017 Domaine Georges Lignier & Fils Clos des Ormes Premier Cru Burgundy.

worldclass lamb chops at Francine in Scottsdale — WorldClass lamb chops at Francine

Chocolate pot de crème with hazelnut crumble and Grand Marnier chantilly; Espresso Martini; lemon curd tart with torched meringue; Scholar’s Folly (Whistlepig 10-year rye, Averna, Manzanilla sherry).

Olive oil cake with local Steadfast Farm honey, salted caramel sauce, lemon and honey mascarpone, olive oil powder and honeycomb tuile.

olive oil cake with honey and mascarpone at Francine

Check back on my next Rubee Tuesday for visits to Trevor’s for a Tasting Panel magazine feature, Chilte at The Egyptian Motor Lodge, a Mother Road Beer Dinner at Arizona Biltmore, Course for a SOMM Journal interview, Rice Paper, and Il Capo Pizzeria.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / JW Marriott Desert Ridge, JW Marriott, Fidencio Alatriste, The Mexicano, D&Y Chinese, Francine

Pa'La Downtown in my SOMM Journal Column

June 01, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

Check out the June/July 2023 issue of SOMM Journal for my latest Sonoran Scoop column featuring Pa’La in downtown Phoenix. You can find it on page 20 of the digital issue on the SOMM Journal website. TIP: Sign up for a free subscription if you are in the wine industry.

WorldClass wood-fired octopus with smoked sweet pepper emulsion, marinated artichokes, Controne beans, and Steadfast Farm pickled daikon, paired with Vignerons de Florensac Les Poissons Picpoul de Pinet at Pa’La Downtown

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categories / Somm Journal articles
tags / Downtown Phoenix, phoenix, Pa'La

RUBEE TUESDAY: Epicenter at Agritopia, Podcast at The Mission, Tomaso’s, Festivin at The Wrigley Mansion, Mountain Shadows Resort, The Mick Brasserie

May 30, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly Tuesday feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Tuesday, May 16: Epicenter at Agritopia (Gilbert - first visit is HERE). I’m working on a feature on founder Joe Johnston and some of the F&B offerings at Epicenter, including Source, Belly, and Undertow Gilbert, so returned with Meridith May and Bill Brandel, owners of SOMM Journal and Tasting Panel magazines. Special thanks to Joe and Cindy Johnston who kindly made time to join us at Source!

Joe and Cindy Johnston chat with Meridith May, editor-in-chief and owner of SOMM Journal and Tasting Panel magazines.

Pre-dinner drinks at Undertow Gilbert: We’re big fans of Undertow in Phoenix, but this was our first time visiting the Gilbert location. And congratulations! Undertow Gilbert was just announced as a Top 10 Nominee for “Best New U.S. Cocktail Bar” in the 17th annual Spirited Awards®

Fireside cocktail at Undertow Gilbert — Fireside at Undertow Gilbert (Plantation O.F.T.D Overproof Rum, Germana Umburana cachaça, Jägermeister, pumpkin, pineapple, lemon, lime, condensed milk, and cinnamon).

Dinner at Belly: Grilled oysters with dashi butter & scallions, wok-fried green beans with bonito, orange chicken, chicken skewers, Vietnamese crab crepe (bánh xèo), and fried chicken.

Wednesday, May 17: The Mission Kierland (North Scottsdale). Christiaan Röllich was recently announced as the Bar Director for all of Chef Matt Carter’s restaurants (Fat Ox, The Mission and Zinc Bistro). To learn more about this superstar talent and author of Bar Chef – Handcrafted Cocktails, look out for our A Taste of AZ podcast.

A Taste of AZ podcast with Christiaan Röllich at the Mission Kierland *(photo credit: Paige Irvin)*

Later that night, we joined my parents for dinner at Tomaso’s in Phoenix. As I shared in this press release, The Maggiore Group closed Tomaso’s after 46 years with plans for a new restaurant honoring Tomaso Maggiore’s legacy.

During its last week of restaurant service, the Maggiores brought back 1977 menu items and prices. It was a special night and I’m so glad I was able to share one last meal here with my mom and dad.

Thursday, May 18: Wrigley Mansion (Phoenix). To kick off Festivin, their third annual wine festival, the Wrigley Mansion hosted a series of special dinners, including the Club Tresors Champagne dinner with Christine Mercnick of Grace Under Pressure. Click on the photo below for my separate Festivin Event Recap with more photos and videos.

Friday, May 19: Mountain Shadows resort (Paradise Valley). I joined a group of fellow writers for a Sneak Peek of Summer media staycation, and we were spoiled with an itinerary exploring all this beautiful property has to offer.

After checking in, we toured The Gallery with Curator Cece Cole. Be sure to check out the exhibits of local artists that rotate every two months.

Afterwards, we enjoyed a delicious family-style lunch with a cocktail class with Beverage Director Jim Gallen, before spending the afternoon in our poolside private cabanas.

Soon it was time for sunset champagne sabering with Hearth ‘61 GM Jimmy (you can see him in action in my video Reel HERE).

Our dinner at Hearth ‘61 just happened to coincide with Arizona Restaurant Week. I loved my selections of sweet corn soup, striped bass, and berry layer cake. You’ll want to add this to your list the next Restaurant Week in the fall! My husband was just as happy with his appetizer of meatballs with artichokes and polenta, and THE BEST pork chop in the Valley - an incredibly juicy black pepper-glazed Duroc pork chop sliced and served with heirloom carrots and Jacob’s beans ragout.

Saturday, May 20. Before checking out, we headed back to Hearth ‘61 for brunch. My plans were for a healthy start to the day with a Green Machine smoothie with spinach, kale, parsley, pineapple, mango, and almond milk and maybe a yogurt parfait…until I saw Chef Carlos Rodriguez Rios’ fantastic specials. There were no regrets!

Then it was time to head back to Wrigley Mansion for more wine festival festivities, starting with a wine luncheon and cooking class with Geordie’s Executive Chef David Brito. Click David’s photo below to see more.

Monday, May 22: The Mick Brasserie (Scottsdale). I always love the wine dinners at the Mick, and this one celebrating Argentina with WorldClass ingredients like langoustines, octopus, Argentine beef, and dulce de leche paired with Siete Fincas wines from owner Edgardo Stallocca was my favorite one yet! Video:

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A first course of grilled WorldClass langoustines with salsa criolla, lemon confit, garlic butter, and parsley foam

WorldClass Argentine dulce de leche mousse with chocolae ganache, port-compressed strawberries, and pailleté feuilletine

Edgardo Stallocca, founder of Siete Fincas wines

Check back on my next Rubee Tuesday for visits to JW Marriott Desert Ridge resort, The Mexicano, D&Y Chinese, and Francine.

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tags / Mountain Shadows, Hearth '61, staycation, Paradise Valley, Festivin, Wrigley Mansio, Wrigley Mansion, Wine festival, Tomaso's, The Mick, The Mick Brasserie, Worldclass, Wine Dinner, The Mission, podcast, A Taste of AZ podcast, Christiaan Rollich

RUBEE TUESDAY: Course, Arboleda, STK, Pa'La Downtown, The Cave at Quartz, Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken

May 23, 2023 / Christina Barrueta

A weekly Tuesday feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Chef Cory Oppold of Course in Scottsdal, Arizona and food writer Christina Barrueta of Write On Rubee — Congratulations to Chef Cory!

Wednesday, May 10: Course (Scottsdale). We were invited to make reservations for the Soft Opening and I couldn’t have been more excited! I’ve known chef-owner Cory Oppold for almost a decade, first meeting him when he was executive chef at Atlas Bistro. I knew his dream of having his own restaurant was a long time coming, and, wow, it was absolutely worth the wait.

Cory’s signature creative art-on-a-plate dishes are offered as a 10-course tasting menu Thursday through Saturday, and a 5-course tasting menu on Tuesdays and Wednesdays What an incredible evening! You’ll want to make reservations right now for this special spot that I predict will be one of the region’s defining restaurants in the culinary landscape for years to come; I forgot to take photos of dessert and wine labels, but you can see more on my video Reel HERE.

And did I mention the outstanding team he has assembled, like GM Nick Padua, who leads the beverage program?

GM and Wine Director of Course, Nick Padua — Nicholas Padua of Course.

And it was so nice to see so many more familiar faces like Carlos, Joe, and Sheila. Course officially opened on May 11, and its “immature sibling” Morning Would started serving Sunday brunch on May 28. Look for my Course feature in the August issue of SOMM Journal!

Thursday, May 11: Arboleda (Scottsdale Quarter). To celebrate National Tourism Week, Visit Phoenix, the tourism board for Greater Phoenix, invited our group of writers and media pros for Happy Hour at Arboleda. You can see my video Reel below of a fun time at one of my favorite spots, with some of my favorite people!

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And since master cocktail craftsman Richie Moe has joined the Arboleda team, we had to retire to the bar afterwards for some more libations.

That night, we headed to STK in Old Town Scottsdale, where we had been invited to a media preview of the Afternoon Tea they were offering for Mother’s Day the following Sunday. What a great idea! I loved the selection of tea sandwiches, scones and desserts, and champagne and cocktail options.

Afterwards, we were also treated to some more delicious bites from the Happy Hour menu, including tuna tartare tacos, falafel and tahini, calamari, short rib quesadillas, tater tots, calamari, and sliders.

Friday, May 12: Arboleda (Scottsdale Quarter). Back to Arboleda, this time with John Bergman, co-founder of WorldClass, who was visiting from Houston, and his team. I didn’t take many pictures as you can see photos from previous visits (including WorldClass jamón Ibérico, octopus, and Argentine ribeye) in past Rubee Tuesdays, but needless to say, it was another fantastic dinner.

Saturday, May 13: Pa’La Downtown (Phoenix). Since John was in town for the weeked, we happily took him up on another dinner invitation - Pa’La Downtown, one of my personal favorites (check out my column featuring Pa’La in the current ssue of SOMM Journal).

We were joined by chef Chris Brugman of Season Your Soul Hosptality (formerly of Mountain Shadows and Castle Hot Springs) and his wife Jill.

John had arranged a special omakase with chef-owner Jason Alford, including the pièce de résistance - whole suckling pig. The entire feast was spectacular! And special thanks to GM and beverage director Gilles Kolakowski for the excellent wine pairings.

Tagliatelle pasta with jamón dashi (made with WorldClass Cinco Jotas jamón Ibérico leg, kombu, and bonito flakes) with spicy capicola, mushrooms, and Parmesan-Reggiano:

Tagliatelle pasta with WorldClass jamón Iberico dashi.

Oysters with tomato ponzu and smoked trout roe
Smoked mussel and cured mackerel hand rolls
Salmon crudo with sea scallop leche de tigre
Roasted carrots with Japanese curry, eggplant miso, and saffron honey
Arcadia Meat Market beef tartare with Japanese milk bread
Seared foie gras with black currant gastrique and duck fat financier
Wood-fire roasted suckling pig

Executive Chef Jason Alford, owner of Pa’La Downtow, and John Bergma, co-founder of WorldClass

Monday, May 15: The Cave at Quartz (Downtown Phoenix). A brand-new craft cocktail addition to downtown helmed by mixologist Maxwell Berlin (formerly of Glai Baan), Quartz offers two different cocktail experiences. The menu at Quartz, a more traditional bar, has specialty drinks based on birthstones, while the reservation-only Cave hidden behind it offers an exclusive menu of cocktails inspired by the deserts of the world.

Once you check into the host stand at the entrance to The Cave, you’ll be led down a beautiful rose gold mirrored hallway to your private booth and greeted with complimentary welcome cocktails, such as locally-owned Gran Ponche Mexicano passionfruit and sparkling blanc de blanc:

Complimentary welcome cocktails at The Cave in downtown Phoenix

Be sure to read the inspiration stories on each creative cocktail! Favorites included Dreamtime, The Dancing Herd, Tomb of the Fizzy Kitty, and Souk Sazerac.

Check out my video Reel HERE for more.

Souk Sazerac with overproof rye whiskey, Branca Menta, Moroccan green tea, camel fat, and lemon arrak sand

Conveniently right next door for post-cocktail eats is Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken, which had been on my list for a while. You’ll want to add it to yours too. The crispy, juicy fried chicken lived up to the hype and I loved the fried green tomatoes and my sides of collard greens and fried okra too. Plus a shout-out for great service from Mary.

Check back on my next Rubee Tuesday for visits to Epicenter at Agritopia, Tomaso’s, Festivin wine festival at The Wrigley Mansion, and a staycation at Mountain Shadows resort.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / Course, Course Scottsdale, Cory Oppold, Pa'La, Downtown Phoenix, The Cave, Quartz, Phoenix cocktails, Gus's Fried Chickeb