Write On Rubee

An Arizona-based food, beverage and travel writer since 2008, I launched this website in 2015 to document my culinary adventures, beverage escapades, gardening endeavors, and travel in the Phoenix area and beyond. Also find a comprehensive calendar of Phoenix-area food and drink-related events on my Events page.

A Taste of AZ Food and Drink Festival
Jan
25
2:00 PM14:00

A Taste of AZ Food and Drink Festival

A Taste of AZ Magazine and Salt River Fields at Talking Stick are excited to announce the return of A Taste of AZ Food and Drink Festival. This food & drink festival pairs flavors from across the Grand Canyon State with food, live music, cooking demos, and beverages from Arizona’s top wineries, breweries, distilleries and more. All tickets will include unlimited food samples, plus 15 drink samples (beer, wine & cocktails), and free parking. Or upgrade to VIP for early 1 pm access, an exclusive VIP lounge, special seating for demos, and 2 complimentary tickets to a Spring Training game at Salt River Fields in 2025. For a WriteOnRubee discount, enter rubee in ACCESS CODE at THIS LINK. General Admission: $99. VIP: $139. The festival is 21+. Time: 2:30 – 6 pm (or 1 – 6 pm for VIP ticket holders).

View Event →
Flavors on Main
Mar
8
11:00 AM11:00

Flavors on Main

Get ready for a brand-new culinary crawl! Flavors on Main is a tour of Downtown Mesa’s burgeoning food and beverage scene centered on Robson & Main. Featuring award-winning breweries, eateries, a local distillery, and more, this quarter-mile block provides exceptional flavors for any palate. Tickets: $25. For more details, visit THIS LINK.

View Event →

A Taste of Mentorship Dinner with Chefs Angelo Sosa and Deuki Hong
Dec
13
6:00 PM18:00

A Taste of Mentorship Dinner with Chefs Angelo Sosa and Deuki Hong

On December 13, Kembara at JW Marriott Desert Ridge will feature the second in their collaboration series celebrating the importance of mentorship in the culinary world. Join host Chef Angelo Sosa and guest chef Deuki Hong of The Sunday Family Hospitality Group in San Francisco, author of the new ‘‘Koreaworld: A Cookbook,’’ for a family-style dinner inspired by Hong’s Korean-American heritage. The evening kicks off with a welcome cocktail, passed bites, and a discussion panel moderated by Arizona Culinary Hall of Fame food writer and author Christina Barrueta. Signed copies of Koreaworld will be available for purchase. Tickets are $129 per person and can be booked HERE.

View Event →
Andaz Culinary Series: Mayakoba
Dec
12
to Dec 14

Andaz Culinary Series: Mayakoba

Join Chef Sammy DeMarco on a journey to Mexico's Riviera Maya with guest chef Miguel Gomez of Andaz Mayakoba, including a cooking class on Thursday afternoon and multi-course menu at an exclusive 10-person chef’s table at 6 pm Thursday-Saturday. For reservations, click here.

  • Thursday, December 12th at 2 pm | Cooking Class

  • Thursday, December 12th and Friday, December 13th at 6 pm | Chef’s Table

  • Thursday, December 12th – Saturday, December 14th | Cocina Milagro Inspired Menu  

For the Chef’s Table, enjoy a one-of-a-kind 6-course menu featuring flavors of Mayakoba curated by Chef Miguel Gomez and Executive Chef Sammy D. $140++ per person. Optional Wine Pairing: $60++ per person.

View Event →
Phoenix Pizza Festival
Nov
16
to Nov 17

Phoenix Pizza Festival

Credit: Zee Peralta

The 9th Annual Phoenix Pizza Fest takes place at Hance Park in Downtown Phoenix as attendees are invited to eat their weight in pizza, bring a blanket for the lawn, and chill out in front of the live music stage. Approximately 7,000 pizza lovers will have access to 15 to 20 pizza makers, dessert food trucks, related food vendors, a festival with lawn games, and a kid’s craft zone. Pizza makers will serve affordable slices, full pies, and everything in between. 

Date & Time: Saturday 11 am to 6 pm; Sunday 11 am to 4 pm
Location: 1202 N. 3rd St., Phoenix, AZ 85004
Tickets: $16 entry – online purchase only – kids 5 and under are free
Tickets & more information: www.phoenix.pizza

View Event →
Amore Soiree – Tulum Meets the Desert
Nov
9
4:00 PM16:00

Amore Soiree – Tulum Meets the Desert

The team behind the Salt & Lime Fiesta announces a new festival – Amore Soiree – Tulum Meets the Desert. Attendees will indulge in exclusive tequila tastings while immersing themselves in the electrifying sounds of Afrobeat House music by Shimza, OVEOUS and Pasta Rada. Beer, seltzers and mixed cocktails will also be provided and vendors like Santo and Los Olivos will offer tacos, tapas, and other delicious food.
VIP Phoneless: $49 (includes 8 tequila tastings and 5 food tickets)
VIP: $99 (includes 8 tequila tastings and 5 food tickets)
Amore Club package: $199, (includes VIP perks, access to the lounge area around the DJ booth, all-you-can-eat buffet, an exclusive cocktail menu and 4pre-paid drinks)

This event is for ages 21 and older. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit amoresoiree.com.

View Event →
Franus Wine Dinner at Ember
Oct
30
6:30 PM18:30

Franus Wine Dinner at Ember

  • Ember at We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join Ember at Wekopa Casino Resort for a special wine dinner featuring guest speaker Peter
Dinner at 7:00PM (reception at 6:30PM), featuring a 5 Course Dining Menu and Wine Pairings.
$225 per person +tax & gratuity. Contact Ember Events at 480-789-5323 for reservations.

View Event →
Kierland Fine Arts & Wine Festival
Oct
26
to Oct 27

Kierland Fine Arts & Wine Festival

Taking place from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday, October 26 and Sunday, October 27, 2024, at Kierland Commons shopping center in North Scottsdale, Arizona, this annual event will offer guests a delightful fusion of curated fine art and award-winning Arizona wine all set against the backdrop of Kierland’s renowned upscale ambiance. TICKETS HERE

View Event →
Taco Fest
Oct
19
11:00 AM11:00

Taco Fest

Rain or shine: TACO FEST is celebrating the culture around tacos and taco makers. During this two-day event, experience hundreds of taco creations, along with tequila and mezcal tasting, local bands, DJs, live artists, and so much more. Although tacos and drinks cost extra once inside the festival, GA ($15) or VIP ($100) tickets must be purchased. Agave Show tickets are separate. *TICKETS WILL NOT BE SOLD AT THE GATE* Saturday: 11-7 pm. Sunday: 11-6 pm. https://www.tacofestaz.com/

View Event →
Sanctuary Camelback Mountain’s Wine & Stargazing Dinner
Oct
17
6:30 PM18:30

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain’s Wine & Stargazing Dinner

Join Executive Chef Gregory James and Sanctuary Camelback for an exclusive Chateau d'Esclans Wine and Stargazing Dinner. Open to locals and guests alike, the carefully curated tasting menu will feature elements’ new signature items, including Tomato Tart with Lobster and Ricotta, Wood Grilled Koji Marinated Sea Bass, Baby Colorado Lamb, and more, all paired with the finest rosé as we welcome the crisp Arizona fall. As the night unfolds, guests will immerse in the beauty of the stars accompanied by live music with a full moon stargazing experience. Price: $225 pp. 6:30pm Reception | 7:00pm Dinner. Booking linkhere Additional detailshere

View Event →
Agave Wars at Gila River Resort & Casino - Santan Mountain
Oct
15
5:00 PM17:00

Agave Wars at Gila River Resort & Casino - Santan Mountain

  • Gila River Resort & Casino - Santan Mountain (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the Gila River Resort & Casino - Santan Mountain for the second annual Agave Wars. On Tuesday, October 15, The Valley’s best bartenders will be shaking and mixing their cocktail creations for the coveted title of “Cocktail Champion.” Free to Attend | 21+ Event. Tacos & Craft Cocktails Available for Purchase.

View Event →
World Cup Wine Dinner at The Mick: Spain vs Mexico
Oct
14
6:00 PM18:00

World Cup Wine Dinner at The Mick: Spain vs Mexico

Join The Mick for "The World Cup of Wine," a thrilling event where wines from different countries compete in a series of tastings, from quarterfinals to the grand finale. Enjoy a four-course dinner accompanied by eight exceptional wine pairings. Take part in blind tastings and vote to help pick the winning country in "The World Cup of Wine." *Events start at 6 PM, and all guests will be welcomed with a glass of bubbles. Cost: $229 pp, tax and gratuity included.. For tickets, visit THIS LINK.

View Event →
Tomaso Maggiore Culinary Arts Foundation Legacy Gala
Oct
12
4:30 PM16:30

Tomaso Maggiore Culinary Arts Foundation Legacy Gala

  • The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Tomaso Maggiore Culinary Arts Foundation (TMCAF) is proud to introduce its inaugural Legacy Gala, with the mission to provide cultural immersion and educational opportunities for aspiring chefs in Arizona. The gala, which will celebrate and honor Chef Tomaso Maggiore’s passion for cultural and culinary heritage, is set to take place at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in Scottsdale on Saturday, October 12, 2024. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available. Cocktail reception at 4:30 PM, followed by dinner at 6:00 PM and an exciting live auction at 8:00 PM. Dancing and music to follow!For more information on TMCAF and to purchase tickets, visit www.tomasomaggiorecaf.com.

View Event →
World Cup Wine Dinner at The Mick: Germany vs Italy
Oct
7
6:00 PM18:00

World Cup Wine Dinner at The Mick: Germany vs Italy

Join The Mick for "The World Cup of Wine," a thrilling event where wines from different countries compete in a series of tastings, from quarterfinals to the grand finale. Enjoy a four-course dinner accompanied by eight exceptional wine pairings. Take part in blind tastings and vote to help pick the winning country in "The World Cup of Wine." *Events start at 6 PM, and all guests will be welcomed with a glass of bubbles. Cost: $199 pp, tax and gratuity included.. For tickets, visit THIS LINK.

View Event →
Taste of Mentorship Dinner at Kembara
Oct
6
6:00 PM18:00

Taste of Mentorship Dinner at Kembara

Join Chef Angelo Sosa and Kembara for the inaugural Taste of Mentorship—a new guest chef collaboration series celebrating the importance of mentorship in the culinary world. Each of the seven courses will showcase a fusion of Asian flavors, crafted by renowned chefs and their mentees. Our first dinner highlights the culinary mastery of Chef Taylor Stark, from Denver’s Michelin-starred and Michelin Green Star restaurant, The Wolf's Tailor. $120 pp + optional $85 pp beverage pairing. Reservations HERE.

View Event →
Euro Summer Wine Series: Escape to Spain at The Market by Jennifer's
Sep
19
7:00 PM19:00

Euro Summer Wine Series: Escape to Spain at The Market by Jennifer's

The wine dinner series takes place at The Market By Jennifer's on Thursdays through September from 7 to 9 pm.This limited-time summer wine series features a four-course tasting menu available in addition to the regular menu. 

 Pricing: $60 per person for four-course wine dinner (excluding gratuity and taxes). To book reservations: Call (602) 626-5050 or visit www.themarketbyjennifer.com


View Event →
World Cup Wine Dinner at The Mick: Australia vs Mexico
Sep
16
to Sep 17

World Cup Wine Dinner at The Mick: Australia vs Mexico

Join The Mick for "The World Cup of Wine," a thrilling event where wines from different countries compete in a series of tastings, from quarterfinals to the grand finale. Enjoy a four-course dinner accompanied by eight exceptional wine pairings. Take part in blind tastings and vote to help pick the winning country in "The World Cup of Wine." *Events start at 6 PM, and all guests will be welcomed with a glass of bubbles. Cost: $199 pp, tax and gratuity included.. For tickets, visit THIS LINK.

View Event →
World Cup Wine Dinners at The Mick Brasserie: Portgual vs Spain
Sep
9
6:00 PM18:00

World Cup Wine Dinners at The Mick Brasserie: Portgual vs Spain

Join The Mick for "The World Cup of Wine," a thrilling event where wines from different countries compete in a series of tastings, from quarterfinals to the grand finale. Enjoy a four-course dinner accompanied by eight exceptional wine pairings. Take part in blind tastings and vote to help pick the winning country in "The World Cup of Wine." *Events start at 6 PM, and all guests will be welcomed with a glass of bubbles. Cost: $199 pp, tax and gratuity included.. For tickets, visit THIS LINK.

View Event →
Euro Summer Wine Series: Escape to Spain at The Market by Jennifer's
Sep
5
7:00 PM19:00

Euro Summer Wine Series: Escape to Spain at The Market by Jennifer's

The wine dinner series will take place at The Market By Jennifer's every Thursday through September from 7 to 9 pm.This limited-time summer wine series features a four-course tasting menu available in addition to the regular menu. 

 Pricing: $60 per person for four-course wine dinner (excluding gratuity and taxes). To book reservations: Call (602) 626-5050 or visit www.themarketbyjennifer.com

View Event →
POSTPONED:  Artisan Palate Series at Sheraton Phoenix Downtown
Sep
3
5:30 PM17:30

POSTPONED: Artisan Palate Series at Sheraton Phoenix Downtown

On November 3, the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown and Bentley Gallery debut the Artisan Palate Series. Executive Chef John Marchetti and world-renowned artist Andrés Anza invite guests to embark on a journey of the senses through a private exhbit iof Anza’s work and a five-course dining experience.

Begin with a cocktail reception at Bentley Gallery for a viewing of Anza’s exhibit, immediately followed by a five-course dinner. Dishes will include “Cinco de Uno” featuring multiple bites on edible spoons, a seafood course that evokes Anza’s exhibit “De Adentro Hacia Afuera la Marea,” “Alce y Zanahoria Amorfa,” integrating Pinon, Elk, Mole and Huckleberry, and a dessert course with an Anzai ceramic mold. Cocktails and wines native to the Coahuila and Zacatecas Regions of Mexico, Anza’s home region, will also be paired alongside each course.  Cost: $200 pp. Link: Reservations on OpenTable.

View Event →
Taste of Morocco at Weft & Warp
Sep
3
5:00 PM17:00

Taste of Morocco at Weft & Warp

‍Taste of Morocco: Immerse yourself in the culture and flavors from the Mediterranean coast every Tuesday night at Weft & Warp Art Bar + Kitchen at Andaz Scottsdale. Served family style, you’ll enjoy three handcrafted dishes all infused with flavors of Morocco, paired with a bottle of Moroccan Syrah wine. Price: To reserve your spot, click THIS LINK.

View Event →
Labor Day Weekend at Andaz Scottsdale
Aug
31
to Sep 1

Labor Day Weekend at Andaz Scottsdale

On Saturday, August 31 and Sunday, September 1, Andaz Scottsdale’s Turquoise Pool will host a bracketed Cornhole contest with a taqueria station and $50 margarita pitchers to those who want to cool off poolside. Sunday attendees can take advantage of a -196 Suntory vodka seltzer tasting with a DJ and poolside tunes from 12-5pm. Non-resort guests can access the party by purchasing a day pass on ResortPass

Andaz Scottsdale is offering the Sonoran Summer staycation special to overnight guests. The longer the stay, the more you will save, with a discounted 15% on stays of 3 nights, and 20% to 4 night stays as well, in addition to other packages that are perfect for locals

View Event →
Euro Summer Wine Series: Escape to France at The Market by Jennifer's
Aug
29
7:00 PM19:00

Euro Summer Wine Series: Escape to France at The Market by Jennifer's

The wine dinner series will take place at The Market By Jennifer's every Thursday in July and August from 7 to 9 pm.This limited-time summer wine series features a four-course tasting menu available in addition to the regular menu. Taste French wines made in Corsica, Rhône Valley, the Languedoc region of Southern France, and more paired with French-inspired courses complementing the tasting notes. 

 Pricing: $60 per person for four-course wine dinner (excluding gratuity and taxes). To book reservations: Call (602) 626-5050 or visit www.themarketbyjennifer.com

View Event →
Taste of Morocco at Weft & Warp
Aug
27
5:00 PM17:00

Taste of Morocco at Weft & Warp

‍Taste of Morocco: Immerse yourself in the culture and flavors from the Mediterranean coast every Tuesday night at Weft & Warp Art Bar + Kitchen at Andaz Scottsdale. Served family style, you’ll enjoy three handcrafted dishes all infused with flavors of Morocco, paired with a bottle of Moroccan Syrah wine. Price: To reserve your spot, click THIS LINK.

View Event →