The Hot Sheet

St.Patrick’s Day Celebrations

March 16, 2010 · Leave a Comment

Okay, the big day is tomorrow and we’ve got your down-and-dirty list of the best pubs, bars and restaurants to hit in and around Phoenix.

Padre Murphy’s:

Doors open at 10am. This is a great place in Glendale to meet and get the Irish bar experience, but they go all out for St. Patty’s. A 16,000 sq-foot venue hosts the bands, Irish dancing, face painters, clowns, and of course leprechauns give something to do at every turn. Plenty of parking available. Padre Murphy’s, 4338 W. Bell Road, Glendale. www.padremurphys.com.

Rosie McCaffrey’s:

“Rosie’s” (as it’s referred to by the locals) is always great for live music, a real cozy Irish feeling and liveliness. And they’re opening early at 6 a.m. – serving breakfast from 7 – 10 a.m., with a live broadcast from Beth and Friends as well. From 11 a.m. to midnight, there’ll be Irish dancers, bagpipers, and bands The Walkabouts, The Waters, and 60 Degrees North will be playing through the day. No cover before noon. www.rosiemccaffreys.com

Turf Bar / Seamus McCaffrey’s:

Seamus McCaffrey’s pub is no stranger to loyal Phoenicians who frequent this already-wonderful bar. But to double the fun, the owners have now opened The Turf Irish Restaurant just a few blocks away. For the Irish holiday, they’ll have five bands playing and Irish fare from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m . And they make bar hopping easy – a trolley will run between the two. www.seamusmccaffreys.com

The Rose & Crown Pub:

Another staple in downtown, this pub will have a 13,000 square foot Irish festival, with a beer garden and full bar, all at Heritage Square. Live bands August Red, PLinko, and the Coin Operated Boys will play, with Irish food abounding. Sure to be a traditional party and it’s free to get in. Open from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Ultimate Block Party

Four bars are celebrating in the streets of Scottsdale, where one admission gets you into the party. Acme, Dos Gringos, Whitehouse and Upper Deck will have five DJs, and Hairforce, a local rock band will perform. Starts at 6 p.m. at 4209 N. Craftsman Court. www.scottsdaleultimateblockparty.com.

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Megan Finnerty’s Dream Night

March 5, 2010 · 1 Comment

On a night not so long ago, we had a blazing fun time shooting Megan Finnerty’s Dream Night. You might know her as @122degrees on Twitter, but she’s better known as the nightlife editor at The Arizona Republic and one of Phoenix’s best gals for going out.

For these videos, we really do let our hosts pick their favorite places, and Megan’s list was so much fun. I could go on, but I’ll let you watch for yourself.

UPDATE: check out the behind the scenes photos on our Flickr page: http://bit.ly/ai8UnC

→ 1 CommentCategories: Scottsdale · Video · VisitPhoenix · central phoenix · downtown phoenix · food · nightlife · places to go · things to do

Joya Spa at Montelucia

March 3, 2010 · Leave a Comment

As mentioned previously on this blog, I’m a girl who loves going to the spa. I do it most often when I’m on vacation or if girlfriends are visiting, but every now and again I’ll hit a spa on my own right here in Phoenix. I’m not afraid to admit that I like my “me time.” I recently ventured out to Joya Spa at the Montelucia. I can’t take full credit for the idea since by husband encouraged it with a generous gift certificate (insert: “Awww!”).

They offer lots of options for massages, body treatments, facials, etc. But after perusing their site, I settled on their 80-minute Joyambrosia Signature Massage. Well, if I do say so myself, that was a brilliant decision. Of course, I’m now hooked on the longer massage. I’m pretty sure I can never go back to a 50-minute treatment. Oh, I almost forgot – I also added in paraffin treatments for my hands and feet. Tres magnifique!

Aside from the amazing massage, Joya Spa is a beautiful place. It redefines pampering and relaxation. You can’t help but feel like a princess with the Moroccan decor – rich, deep colors, comfy furniture and pillows everywhere!

Joya Spa
4949 E. Lincoln Drive
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
www.joyaspa.com

→ Leave a CommentCategories: Melissa · Spa · VisitPhoenix · things to do

After the Open: What to Do

February 26, 2010 · Leave a Comment

We are right in the middle of the Waste Management Phoenix Open week, of course with the big signature weekend to come tomorrow and Sunday. The Open is up at the TPC in Scottsdale, and is definitely known for being the rowdiest, loudest, most energetic crowds on the Tour. All that energy has to go somewhere once you’ve left the gates, and if the Bird’s Nest isn’t your thing, here are our suggestions for what to do and where to go in the North Scottsdale/Phoenix area:

WHERE TO EAT

Skip the chain restaurants and head to these local gems up north:

Zinc Bistro: At Kierland Commons, just a little more than a mile away from the TPC, you can find Chef Matt Carter whipping up his French specialties. It’s delicious and you can eat on the patio, on the side or tucked away in a back courtyard, to absorb the perfect weather. Whatever you do, get the molten cake – just make sure to order in advance.

North, Greene House: North (and Bar North) and The Greene House are all brain children of you-guessed-it, Sam Fox, and both are at Kierland Commons. If you haven’t tried The Greene House, prepare to be wowed. The atmosphere and food are fresh as can be, laid back but sophisticated at the same time.

The Compound: Live Music + Grill: The creators of the McDowell Mountain Music Festival have set up shop – err, restaurant – at the Scottsdale & 101. But this is no ordinary grill, of course there’s live music to be had nearly every night. Great place to go to relax after the Open.

El Encanto: You’re already up north, so head a few more miles up and visit El Encanto, one of Phoenix’s oldest (and most delicious) Mexican restaurants. You’ll be surprised, too, by the lake surrounded by trees, with swans floating around -it’s what they’re known for. That, and the year-after-year award-winning margaritas.

White Chocolate Grill: Oddly, not every dish is made with white chocolate. A disappointment to some chocoholics like me, until I tasted the oh-so-fresh American fare. It’s reminiscent of a Houston’s-type restaurant, with the classy dark wood, really expertly cooked food, but the WCG as we call it has a killer bar and atmosphere. Get there early.

NIGHTLIFE

You’ve seen some golf, now you’re full from one of the restaurants above, and you want to go out. Here’s where to do it:

Devil’s Martini North: The sister to the original location in Old Town Scottsdale, Devil’s North – as it’s called – is the primary dance club/bar/lounge in North Scottsdale. It always has the best DJs (before you go, you can even request music on their web site), stiff drinks, and what’s widely known as the best looking crowd in town. Don’t be fashionably late this weekend – go early to save yourself time in line.

Stone Rose Lounge: This swanky place is at the swanky Fairmont Scottsdale, literally right behind the Open, which means you won’t have to find a DD to get there. There will be live music and drinks with a bite, but this isn’t the place to go to dance. This is the place to go if you want to relax on the patio or watch the action around the bar.

Armitage: Just a couple miles north of the Open is DC Ranch, and Armitage is the oh-so-popular wine bar you’ve gotta try. There’s a long wine list for the sophisticated type, and a spirit list for the rest of us that really is full of spirit with creative concoctions. It’s really cozy with oversized chairs and couches, but it’s quaint so don’t wait too long to get your spot.

→ Leave a CommentCategories: Scottsdale · VisitPhoenix · events · north phoenix · sports · things to do
Tagged: pheonix open, phoenix open, restaurants for phoenix open, waste management phoenix open

My Florist

February 16, 2010 · Leave a Comment

You’re probably wondering why I’m writing about the gal who does my flower arrangements for holidays and hostess gifts, but I’m not (and you wouldn’t be the first to think that).

My Florist is one of the best lunch and dinner spots in Phoenix, specifically the downtown area, because of its bright, art deco decor as much as is dive-right-in meals. Matter of fact, their salads cannot be beat, in my opinion, because above being tasty, super fresh and creative, they actually keep you full. Adding steak or chicken helps, but really, it’s a meal. I highly recommend The Asparagus (asparagus, ), the Crab Cake Salad (crab cakes, ), and the Port Poached Pear and Gorgonzola (the mentioned ingredients with ) if you have a salad sweet tooth.

If you can’t decide on one of the thirteen salads, there are just as many – and just as thoughtful – sandwich options. They do the Cafe Panini all kinds of right by balancing the elements perfectly (salami ). The Portobello (mushoroms), and the Chicken Salad is anything but ordinary.

One contributing factor to the distinctive tastes is the bread (and we all know the difference good bread can make). It’s from Willo Bread next door, named after the neighborhood it borders. These freshly baked breads and buns are perfect bookends on the sandwiches or really, an additional ingredient in their soups.

Now, if you go for dinner, you’ll find the same salad offerings, and more choices on the main entrees section. About half are seafood dishes, and the salmon and tuna are incredible. But I absolutely drool at the thought of the Honey Mustard Chicken Paillard. Incredibly delicious – you won’t be disappointed.

Another benefit of going for dinner is the live pianist to jazz up your night. Nicole Pesce plays Wednesday – Sunday nights, from 7 p.m. to midnight. (By the way, this is the perfect place to stop after catching a show at the Herberger or Orpheum.)

Obviously, I can’t rave enough about My Florist, but the secret is out – don’t be surprised to see Arizona leaders there – whether in political or corporate echelons. If you don’t take my recommendation, take their endorsement.

See more pics.

My Florist Cafe
534 W McDowell Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85003

→ Leave a CommentCategories: Kelley · dinner · downtown phoenix · lunch

Valentine’s Day Resort Deals

January 27, 2010 · 1 Comment

With Valentine’s Day just a few weeks away, and the what-to-get-my-significant-other stress is about to accumulate, we thought we’d help you out with some ideas. Yes, flowers, chocolates and perfume is nice, but you can’t beat a romantic experience. So we tapped our top local resorts for their packages and want to pass them along to you. (But if you really want to thank us, send the flowers and chocolates here.)

ARIZONA GRAND RESORT

“Romance Package & Poolside Dancing”
• Offering overnight in a suite and breakfast for two in the Lobby Grill
• Starting at $199 on Saturday, February 13
• Bottle of champagne, chocolate covered strawberries and rose pedal turndown included
• Upgrade to a villa with all other package amenities from $399
• “Island Nights” poolside dancing under the stars from 7pm-10pm on Saturday night
• Live music, dancing at Oasis pool and full bar. Free to all guests 21 and older
• Valentine’s Dinner at Lobby Grill offered Friday-Sunday at $39 per person
• Call (602) 438-9000 or visit www.arizonagrandresort.com and mention code: PROVAL

HERMOSA INN

“Hermosa Hideaway”
• $699 includes Two night stay for two in newly remodeled casita in Paradise Valley
• $100 dining credit towards LON’s, AAA Four Diamond restaurant
• Champagne & strawberry amenity delivered upon arrival
• Breakfast for two
• Call (602) 955-8614 for reservations or visit www.hermosainn.com

SHERATON WILD HORSE PASS RESORT & SPA

“All You Need is Love”
• Valentine’s menu at Five Star/Five Diamond Kai restaurant offered on February 13 and 14
• Five course dinner $150 per person, Seven course dinner $185 per person
• Complimentary Kids Club offered to Kai guests (up to 2 children per couple) ages 4-12
• $359 room package includes one night stay, breakfast for two, rose pedal turndown, champagne and chocolate covered strawberry amenity, $25 credit to Aji Spa and late check-out
• Three-course Valentine’s menu at Ko’Sin Saturday and Sunday at $65 per person
• For restaurant reservations only visit: www.opentable.com
• Call (602) 225-0100 or visit: www.wildhorsepassresort.com and mention code: LOVE2010

HOTEL VALLEY HO

“Won’t You Be My Valentine?”
• Guestrooms start at $229 Friday, Feb. 12-Sunday, Feb. 14
• Romance Package start at $320 and include half bottle of Veuve Clicquot, fruit amenity, turndown service, one in-room movie and breakfast for two at Café ZuZu
• Special one-day Valentine’s menus offered at Café ZuZu and Trader Vic’s
• Call (480) 248-2000 or visit www.hotelvalleyho.com

FAIRMONT SCOTTSDALE

“Awakening Aphrodite”
• Overnight package starts at $375 per couple and includes aphrodisiac welcome amenity and breakfast in bed
• Available Friday, February 12 – Monday, February 15
• Additional resort offerings include “Latin Lovers” dinner at La Hacienda, $48 per person
• “Organic Temptations” dinner at LV Bistro, $38 per person
• “Cupid’s Caviar Crush” four-course dinner for two at Bourbon Steak, $149 per couple
• “Sensual Seafood” dinner at The Grill at TPC, $58 per person
• “Romantic Rituals” at the Willow Stream Spa starting at $399 per couple
• “Best Places to Kiss” suggestions around the resort
• Call (480) 585-4848 or visit www.fairmont.com/scottsdale

WESTIN KIERLAND RESORT & SPA

“Indulge Package”
• Overnight on Valentine’s, February 14, starting at $379 with this romance package including:
• Sparkling wine and strawberries for two
• Breakfast in bed
• 4pm late check-out (based upon availability)
• Learn the art of “Muddle Drink Making” at deseo from 5:30-6:30 p.m.
• “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes” Therapy offers three 25-min Valentine’s spa treatments for $169
• Call (800) 354-5892 or visit www.kierlandresort.com and mention code: RPKGWEB

ENCHANTMENT RESORT & Mii amo Spa

“Suite Romance Package”
• 2 or 3 nights at Enchantment Resort
• Romance gift upon arrival, $140 value – includes soothing CD, candle, massage book, body oil, body wash, bath soap, bath salts, and lotion
• One 60-minute spa service per person once during stay, or combined in our couples treatment room at Mii amo
• Dinner for 2 one night with either a bottle of house wine or house champagne, or pre-fix sumptuous Valentine’s Day dinner at Yavapai on Sunday, February 14
• Complimentary activities including medical expert’s relationship workshop, as well as chocolate cooking demonstration, sweetheart yoga, aura soma readings and star gazing
• Package includes $22 daily resort fee, all applicable taxes, 16% gratuity on spa services, and 18% gratuity on dinner
• Two-night packages start from $1,384, and three-night packages begin at $1,742.
• Call (800) 826-4180 or visit www.enchantmentresort.com

THE BOULDERS RESORT & SPA

“His & Hers Golf & Spa Getaway”
• Private Casita Accommodations
• Daily choice of one round of golf or $150 credit for Spa services (per adult)
• $25 per person food & beverage credit
• Unlimited Golden Door Spa and fitness facility access and fitness classes
• Package is $525/night (double occupancy) from February 5-April 11, 2010.
• Valentine’s menu offered at Latilla with champagne toast
• Private enhancements include Private Tee Box dining overlooking the fairway
• Private Mountain Top Dining via private helicopter (helipad on the resort grounds)
• 50-minute Chocolate and Champagne Facial for $129 at Golden Door Spa
• call (480) 488-9009 or visit www.TheBoulders.com

THE PHOENICIAN

“Valentine’s Weekend at Il Terrazzo”
• Savor the chef’s sumptuous tasting menu for $65 per person
• Offered Saturday, Feb. 13 or Sunday, Feb. 14, from 5pm – 10pm.
• Fancy a crispy black bass or tender New York steak & chocolate dessert buffet
• Call (480) 423-2530 for reservations or visit www.thephoenician.com

FOUR SEASONS RESORT SCOTTSDALE AT TROON NORTH

• Valentine’s Tasting Menus at Talavera and Crescent Moon
• Talavera’s Six Course Menu offered at $125 per person
• Crescent Moon’s Four Course menu offered at $55 per person
• Both include champagne toast, signed menu, red rose for ladies, take-away chocolates
• http://fourseasons.com/scottsdale

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The Parlor Pizzeria

January 19, 2010 · Comments Off

On the Phoenix dining scene less than a year, the Parlor Pizzeria has quickly become a favorite among locals. I had the good fortune of checking it out recently and loved the whole experience, from the warm, hip ambiance to the yummy pizzas and dessert. Even though it was December, we were able to sit in the outdoor area and be perfectly comfortable – the outdoor heater was more than enough to keep us cozy. It’s worth noting that the location of the restaurant is the former Salon de Venus, a beauty parlor (hence the name) that served Phoenix for more than 50 years. The bar stools are actually old beauty parlor chairs – very cool!

They have plenty of options to get you started including an amazing meat and cheese selection, soup and salads. They do offer more than pizza for an entree but since it was our first visit, we decided to go straight for the good stuff. The table shared a variety of pizzas: the Funghi, Margherita, Pepperoni and a Make-Your-Own (chicken, sundried tomatoes and onions).

Chicken/Tomato/Onion

Funghi

Margherita

Of course, we couldn’t pass up dessert (or dolci, as they call it). We couldn’t even decide on just one, so we shared three…yes, three…and all were delicious: Chewy Caramel Sundae, Tiramasu and last, but definitely not least, Zeppole, these warm Ricotta fritters rolled in cinnamon sugar and served with seasonal dipping sauces.
Y-U-M-M-Y!

Zeppole

Chewy Caramel Sundae

Your mouth is probably watering at this point so go give it a try.

The Parlor Pizzeria

1916 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix

www.theparlor.us

Comments OffCategories: Melissa · VisitPhoenix · central phoenix · dinner · food · lunch

Majerle’s

January 14, 2010 · Comments Off

Majerle’s has been a staple of downtown Phoenix for years, particularly on game nights for the Arizona Diamondbacks or Phoenix Suns. Both teams play just around the corner from this sports bar hub, and with the brick walls, numerous television screens and renowned wings, it fits the bill for the quintessential pre-game or post-game festivities.

When Majerle’s opened in 1992, all of the Phoenix area was infatuated with Dan Majerle’s success on the court for the Suns, he was the good, clean guy – almost like Opie. Everyone loved Dan Majerle, so why wouldn’t you love his new place? The food was (and is) great, atmosphere fun (complete with the “Back Room” for extra space, packed when the Suns are on a roll), and it was just what Phoenix needed.

Now 18 years later, it’s still full of suits for lunch and happy hour, fans for dinner and drinks. Just like any other hometown staple, they have a specialty. Burgers. Their burgers are huge, juicy, not too greasy, and all-around hit the spot. Their wings are also amazing, and many of the locals will tell you to go for the chili pepper garlic over the regular buffalo style.

Stop in when you’re in downtown, and if it’s a game night, you just might see some players there for a cool down.

Majerle’s
24 North 2nd Street
Phoenix, AZ‎
(602) 253-9004‎

Comments OffCategories: Kelley · dinner · downtown phoenix · food · happy hour · lunch · nightlife

Mayor Phil Gordon’s Phoenix Dream Day

January 8, 2010 · Comments Off

We’ve asked local know-it-all’s like Mark Tarbell, Angela Johnson and Kathy Cano-Murillo to show us what they would do in Phoenix on their perfect “dream” day.

But who better to ask than the Mayor of Phoenix himself, Phil Gordon, who took office in 2004. People around town know he’s a jogger and a coffee lover, so this is the time to find out his favorite spots, as well as his favorite pizza spot.

Comments OffCategories: VisitPhoenix

Cibo

January 5, 2010 · 1 Comment

Naples is in Phoenix. Oh, yod didn’t know? Yes – well – a little piece of Naples, anyway, which can be found at Cibo.

Cibo is a historic home turned restaurant in downtown Phoenix that is an absolute favorite of locals. It has a front patio with fountains, shaded by trees strung with white lights that really makes it magical, especially at dusk. But the interior of the “home” is just as cozy. The bar and wood burning pizza oven are right in the entry, and you can dine in one of the quaint rooms.

As great as the ambiance is, it’s the food that keeps everyone coming back. At lunch, it’s the Italian sandwiches and salads that will steal your heart. I recommend the Spek, a hot sandwich with spek (smoked prosciutto), sliced tomatoes and smoked mozzarella. Get a friend to get the salads and try ‘em both – delightful. For dinner, though, keep the salad idea and add at least one pizza. The crust is crispy and bubbly, the mozzarella is smooth, creamy and fresh, and the herbs are straight out of the garden.

The owners, Karen and Tony Martingilio, took care to keep everything authentic Italian infused with local flavors, and you’ll notice the details, like the wine list, the dessert, and the overall personality of the staff.

One of the bonus perks of Cibo is that there is rarely a wait, but if there is, you won’t mind lounging on the front patio.