The Hot Sheet

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

→ 1 CommentCategories: VisitPhoenix

The Parlor Pizzeria

January 19, 2010 · Leave a Comment

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

→ Leave a CommentCategories: Melissa · VisitPhoenix · central phoenix · dinner · food · lunch

Majerle’s

January 14, 2010 · Leave a Comment

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

→ Leave a CommentCategories: Kelley · dinner · downtown phoenix · food · happy hour · lunch · nightlife

Mayor Phil Gordon’s Phoenix Dream Day

January 8, 2010 · Leave a Comment

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.

→ Leave a CommentCategories: VisitPhoenix

Cibo

January 5, 2010 · Leave a 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.

Cibo
603 North 5th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85003
(602) 441-2697

www.cibophoenix.com

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

Fiesta Bowl Events

December 22, 2009 · Comments Off

Ah, the TCU Horned Frogs versus the Boise State Broncos. Their impressive undefeated seasons have led them to each other in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl, and it’s sure to be a great rematch of the Poinsettia Bowl last year, where TCU beat the Broncos 17-16. This year’s game is on January 4, but there are events starting on Dec. 31. (And in case you can’t make it to the game, watch it on Fox at 6 p.m. MST.)

The tickets to the big game are sold out, but here are the best events leading up to the big game:

Fiesta Bowl Block Party
Tempe has the biggest NYE bash, all on Tempe Town Lake and through the streets around Mill Avenue. The Doobie Brothers are headlining this year’s events, but the full lineup starts playing at 5pm. There are also stages throughout the area with all sorts of entertainment. The parking is better the early you go, of course, so if you’re going to go, get there early.

Mill Avenue District – Tempe, AZ
Thursday, December 31, 2009
5:00 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.

Tickets: Discount Tickets at Fry’s Food Stores – $15.00 (and buy three discount tickets and you will receive a fourth ticket for FREE. General Admission & Gate Tickets – $20.00

See more details.

21st Annual Insight Bowl

Minnesota and Iowa State will play to win the 21st Annual Insight Bowl on New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31 at 6 p.m. EST. It’s the perfect warm-up to the Fiesta Bowl, and will be broadcast on NFL Network in case you can’t make it to the game. If you go, stick around afterwards on the streets of Tempe for the Fiesta Bowl Block Party.

See more details.

39th Annual Fort McDowell Fiesta Bowl Parade

11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 2

The Fort McDowell Fiesta Bowl Parade is one of the most anticipated events by Phoenix locals and the visiting fans. Tons of bands, vibrant floats, huge helium balloons, equestrian units and all the makings of an amazing parade. Spectators line the two-mile parade route in central Phoenix to see the parade, so get there early to get a good parking (and standing) spot, but it’s worth it.

See more details and a parade map.

College Football’s Biggest Party

Noon, Monday, January 4, Glendale Youth Sports Complex

Thousands of fans tailgate together for the “ultimate tailgating experience.” It’s like a huge pep-rally, with bands, cheer squads, games, and food booths.

See more details.

32nd Annual Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Fiesta Bowl National Band Championship

Preliminaries
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Location: University of Phoenix Stadium
City: Glendale, AZ
Date: Friday, January 1, 2010

Finals
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: University of Phoenix Stadium
City: Glendale, AZ
Date: Friday, January 1, 2010

One of the longest Fiesta Bowl traditions, the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Fiesta Bowl National Band Championship presented by University of Phoenix, is one of the most prestigious high school marching band competitions in the USA. The country’s best bands each give a 10-minute show, for the judges as well as the crowd. The top bands from the preliminary competition are invited to compete for the coveted Grand Master’s Trophy in the event finals.

See more details and which bands are competing.

Comments OffCategories: Kelley · VisitPhoenix · events · nightlife · places to go · things to do

New Year’s Eve Events

December 17, 2009 · Comments Off

So New Year’s Eve is only a couple weeks away, and with the distractions of the holidays, you’ve completely forgotten to make plans.

Not to worry.

Here are our top pics for the best events around town:

Noon Year’s Eve at the Phoenix Zoo
Start off the day in the sun – and snow – at the 10th annual event at the zoo. Families will love the tons of snow (including special area just for toddlers), snowball target areas, music, games and prizes with Radio Disney, and a special cider toast at noon.

9 a.m. – noon on December 31. See more details.

Mill Avenue District – Tempe, AZ
Thursday, December 31, 2009
5:00 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.

Tickets: Discount Tickets at Fry’s Food Stores – $15.00 (and buy three discount tickets and you will receive a fourth ticket for FREE. General Admission & Gate Tickets – $20.00

See more details.

4th Annual Westgate Rocks New Year’s Eve
This might be the most diverse event in town, because it includes two of our most entertaining bands, Rock Lobster and Metalhead, the mechanical bull at Saddle Ranch, the bars, restaurants, and dueling pianos (at The Shout! House), and get this – a midnight wedding. The couple met at this event last year, and now you can crash their wedding. To really get the party going right, start the night off at the Coyotes game adjacent to the plaza.

WaterDance Plaza, 7pm – 2 am . Thursday, December 31

Ticket prices: $10 in advance, $20 at the door, $30 package includes ticket to the Coyotes game. See more details.

Scottsdale’s Ultimate Block Party

Reel Big Fish headlines this event with live music, DJs, and partying through the streets of Old Town Scottsdale. The bars, nightclubs, lounges and restaurants will all be bustling. Other bands Metal Elvis, Letters to Lovers and Hairforce are the will be playing, but the best tip is to get a spot in one of the nearby clubs like Martini Ranch or the swanky W Hotel for a really good time.

See more details.

Downtown Hyatt Atrium Party
This has become a classic annual event in Phoenix – the Groove Merchants playing above all of downtown Phoenix at the Hyatt’s Atrium. The Cielo Jazz Lounge and the Compass Room are all in on the deal too – and an assortment of packages are available to come to party or stay the night too.

See more details.

NYE with the Phoenix Symphony
Talk about a sophisticated night out. You can get all gussied up and have a melodic intro to your New Year, in case all the rock bands and partying isn’t your thing. They’ll play favorites and some holiday tunes to start off 2010. As an added bonus, your ticket includes a complimentary glass of champagne.

See more details.

Comments OffCategories: VisitPhoenix · events · things to do

The Main Ingredient

December 10, 2009 · 2 Comments

It’s a changing of the guard of Phoenix proportions.

A good sign this morning

Lisa G’s Cafe and Wine Bar closed abruptly on Halloween, with owner Lisa Giungo citing a surprise offer on the place, and a much needed break, as the reason she closed the quaint, clean place so many of us loved. But that’s not to take away from the excitement of Matt Diamond starting his own place, simply called “The Main Ingredient,” he plans to focus on the craft-beer crowd and have approachable – but delicious – eats.

Matt’s track record is quite successful around town, with experience from Cowboy Ciao and Postino, but this is something entirely new. We’re excited to see his changes to the interior, which I suspect will be a little more cozy, and to taste his hand-picked brews.

The sign going up this morning is hope that it will open soon. We’ll be one of the first people in line, so check back for details.

→ 2 CommentsCategories: Kelley · central phoenix · dinner · downtown phoenix · new places

25 Degrees

November 24, 2009 · Comments Off

It’s like a bourgeois burger bar.

When CityNorth opened about a year ago in north Phoenix, it had upscale shopping, hip cutting-edge people moving into the loft spaces, and the anticipation of larger shops. But the most exciting things were all the new restaurants. One of the most exciting was 25 Degrees, an ultra-glam-vintage-modern burger bistro that mixes gourmet techniques into the best comfort food around.

They have four burgers that they’ve crafted brilliantly, ranging from their “number one” (caramelized onion, gorgonzola, crescenza, bacon), to the “number three” (mezzo secco jack, green chili, chipotle, avocado), and their “number four” with yellowfin tuna has sent people swooning.

But those daring to create their own are rewarded with the best-of-the-best choices in meat (sirloin, turkey, veggie), and their cheese selection is more extensive than most wine bars, and is from all over the world. Paired with one of their 14 homemade sauces, you really can’t go wrong.

I will mandate you to get their onion rings, though, which are hand battered and dipped and yes, there is a difference. My main problem when I go is deciding burger or non-burger, since their grilled three cheese sandwich or their fried egg sandwich really rocks my world.

For the beverages, a man from Chicago said it was the best Guinness milkshake he’s ever had anywhere. I was too glued to my chocolate malt to pull myself away. Another option is their PBR on-tap, a patron’s favorite.

All-in-all, it’s a must-go. (And a must-stuff-your-face.)

25 Degrees

5415 E High Street, #127
Phoenix, AZ 85054
(480) 502-1125

Comments OffCategories: Kelley · dinner · happy hour · nightlife · north phoenix

Royal [Coffee] at the Market

November 24, 2009 · Comments Off

Royal Coffee is already loved by many in the Phoenix area, but now they are much easier to get to, as their new space is adjacent to the (also new) Phoenix Public Market. It sets up the perfect sip-while-you-stroll atmosphere, and there is even open “meeting” space that connects the two.

Even though the dedicated space just for Royal is humble, they haven’t skipped on the eclectic but cozy feel, with art, cool lighting, and the friendly (and funny) bean-roasting bandit, Hayes (who happens to own the place). He’ll also advise you on the best of the munchies available, which include fresh-baked muffins, scones, etc. daily, and also granola that will blow your mind. So will the coffee, by the way.

It’s a great place to meet up, and you’ll know when you are nearby because of the scent wafting for blocks. They roast their beans outside, they say for temperature and space, but I say it’s brilliant marketing.

Check out Royal at their new location: 14 E. Pierce Street, Phoenix, AZ‎

(The entrance is on the west side of the building, behind the market.)