Uptown Magazine December 2018

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Contents
Pulse
15 UP CLOSE
Adriana Ochoa creates a
family legacy with Los
Taquitos
ON THE COVER: Tortellini with swiss chard, mushrooms, and winter squash from
Geordie’s at Wrigley Mansion, styled by Anna Shchekin, photo by Debby Wolvos,
www.dw-photography.net.
Features
42 AND THE AWARD GOES TO…
40 people and places shaping the Valley’s food and
beverage scene
60 VA-VA-VINTAGE
Chic fashions from a different era
18 BEAT
Eric Ramierz: the man
behind the menus
20 BEAT
Justin Arellano mixes
things up at The Camby
22 HIS STYLE
Meet Joshua Thompson
24 HER STYLE
Meet Hayden Wolven
26 NOTICED
Fashionable women
spotted at events
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Contents
Burgers.
Beer.
Sports.
Style
57 MUST-HAVE
Chanel No. 5
58 SHOP
Party on
59 SHOP
Cold-weather wonders
66 ALLURE
Stocking stuffers
67 DWELL
Glam slam
Now
29 HOT TICKET
The Nutcracker
30 LOWDOWN
News to know
34 DO
Great upcoming events
36 CALENDAR
Noteworthy events
38 OUT
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Taste
73 DISH
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74 DRINK
Swanky sippers
76 CHEERS
Berry White at Across
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77 CUISINE
In the kitchen with Matt
Taylor, executive chef of
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78 FOOD FILES
Southern comfort
The Rest
10 TELL
Editor’s note
80 SEEN
Who went where and what
happened
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I’m not sure I would necessarily call myself a “foodie”
but I sure do love the F&B world. Anytime a new restaurant
or bar pops up in the Valley, I go online, research
it and check my calendar to see when I can make my
way over. I definitely have my oldie-but-goody favorites
around town, but I also really enjoy trying new places.
This month, were all about food and beverage in
our first annual F&B issue. Can you tell by the looks of
our cover? It’s an innovative pasta dish from Geordie’s
at the Wrigley Mansion. As you can imagine, it’s been
one of my favorite issues to put together. On page 42
is the piece de resistance – 40 people and places that
have helped make the Valley food scene what it is today.
From wine programs and local breweries to top chefs,
perfect patios and innovative eateries, we’re naming our
top picks in 14 different categories.
We’re also featuring a few behind-the-scenes
people including the chef who creates all of Upward
Projects’ menus (pg. 18), the man behind La Grande
Orange’s sweet treats (pg. 22), and a brand manager at
Fox Restaurant Concepts (pg. 24).
We’re also spotlighting indulgent Southern dishes
on page 78 and luxe wine/liquor bottles on page 74.
We’re also showcasing some locally sourced products
that can be found on Phoenix restaurant menus (pg. 38)
Outside of the F&B treats, the holidays are at the
forefront. Stocking stuffers go glam on page 66, we
have holiday party fashions on page 58, and get the
lowdown on this year’s Arizona Ballet presentation of
The Nutcracker on page 29. Dig in!
Best,
Gabby Leighton
Editor-in-Chief
gabby@richmanmediagroup.com
Find our magazine on Facebook!
10 Uptown December '18

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Stacey Richman
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Anthony Cox
Contributing Writers
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Photography
David Apeji, Jenelle Bonifield, Elizabeth Marie, Claudia Johnstone,
Mark Morgan, Beverly Shumway, Debby Wolvos
Advertising Art Director
Lalo Reyes
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Stacey Richman
stacey@richmanmediagroup.com
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© 2018, RICHMAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
12 Uptown December '18

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Pulse
UP CLOSE / BEAT / HIS STYLE / HER STYLE / NOTICED
BY BRITTANY MARONEY / PHOTOS BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE
SEASONED SUCCESS
Adriana Ochoa shares how family recipes have built a Los Taquitos empire
At the heart of Los Taquitos’ success story is a love for family,
friends and food from home. It flavors every inch of their four
locations and has created a bond between seven siblings, with
cooking in their blood. And it’s what their raving fans return for,
week after week.
The story of Los Taquitos dates back more than 25 years,
when the parents of the Ochoa siblings used family recipes
to prepare small homemade tacos, serving them from a small
hand-drawn cart. After moving from Mexico to California, they
eventually relocated to Phoenix where they decided to put down
Uptown December '18 15

Pulse
UP CLOSE
roots and open a small restaurant.
Years later, with guidance from their mother and inspiration
from the memory of their father, the five sisters and two brothers
have borrowed on those traditions and are building their own
restaurant empire in Los Taquitos.
Adriana Ochoa and her siblings opened the first location of
Los Taquitos in Ahwatukee in 2000. The space was a previous
florist shop that can only be described as tiny.
“I suppose you could compare the excitement of opening
that first restaurant as how you feel when you move into your own
place,” says Adriana Ochoa, oldest sister and head of the Ochoa
family business. “We had worked in our parents’ restaurant as
kids, but now we'd be running our own. We laugh about how
we opened. The day came that everything was ready and we
basically said ‘okay, we're open now.’ The only difference was the
door was unlocked and my brother fired up the grill. I don't know
if we got more than a few people, but we were thankful.”
Since that day, Los Taquitos has been serving up familyinspired
dishes like delicious street-style tacos, burritos, ceviche,
pozole, chilaquiles and other Mexican favorites. From their
marinades to the use of spices, each recipe is followed just as it
was years ago in order to deliver simple, authentic, great-tasting
food.
Yet, their success was not always certain. Like most
restaurant operators, they faced stiff competition, high operating
costs and seasonal shifts in visitors. In 2008, the economy
crashed and Los Taquitos seemed on the verge of closure. That’s
when they received a phone call from Food Network that would
change their luck.
“One of our customers contacted the show and told them
[Food Network] about us. We didn't know about it until the
production company contacted us,” Ochoa says
After a serious vetting by producers, Guy Fieri appeared to
shoot episode 61 of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives for the Food
Network, called Mex to the Max. The Ochoa sisters blew him
away with their energy and use of cola and condensed milk when
marinating their street tacos. Show host Fieri was head over
heels for the carnitas street taco, calling it "killer” and claiming it
was “one of the best he’d ever had.”
“Guy [Fieri] and the production crew were really nice and a
lot of fun,” Adriana reflects. “It was two days of cameras, bright
lights, lots of cooking and a restaurant packed with people, all
while we remained open. Guy had a lot of energy and was fun
to be around; you could see that he takes cooking and food
seriously.”
Fieri remains a lifelong fan and recently returned to shoot
an additional episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives at Los
Taquitos, picking them as one of his favorite restaurants in
Arizona. The episode is set to air in 2019 on the Food Network.
Thanks to the show and their incredible recipes, Ochoa and
her siblings have seen their business grow. Three of her sisters
each operate one of the four locations in Phoenix, Chandler and
at the Phoenix Airport, and they recently opened a fifth location
on 32nd Street and Arcadia (her brother Rafael is the builder).
It’s no secret that this family is proud of what they do. Proud
of their recipes, their craft and the joy that their food provides.
“We work hard and take pride in cooking and preparing
delicious, authentic food,” Ochoa says. “We really are a true,
family-owned restaurant obsessed with cooking and serving
great-tasting dishes. Having people come to your restaurant to
eat your food is such a privilege, so we want to honor that as
best we can.”
16 Uptown December '18

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Pulse
BEAT
ONWARD AND UPWARD
Eric Ramirez is bringing the good vibes to a menu near you
BY MANDY HOLMES / PHOTO BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE
Have you ever wondered who is behind your favorite
menu items at your go-to restaurants? If those eateries
include Postino WineCafe, Joyride Taco House,
Federal Pizza, Windsor or Churn, it’s Eric Ramirez.
As the culinary director for local restaurant group,
Upward Projects, Ramirez develops original and innovate
dishes alongside the restaurant’s talented chefs,
which is right up the Arizona Culinary Institute grad’s
alley.
Originally from Texas, Ramirez has called Arizona
home for 15 years. After more than a decade spent in
the kitchens at well-established restaurants throughout
town, Ramirez joined the Upward Projects family and
hasn’t looked back. Thanks to an impressive executive
team, cool concepts, killer menus, and good vibes all
around, he knew it was the perfect fit for him.
“[I love the feeling of] Creating something out of
nothing, and for that something to make people feel
good, that’s amazing! That’s why we do what we do,”
he says.
Recently Ramirez and his team rolled out the first
major revisions to the Postino menu, adding a new
section called “Snacky Things” that includes shareable
plates like Blistered Shishito Peppers, Crispy
Cauliflower, and Meatballs with Goat Cheese.
“Postino is as unique as they come. It’s an amazing
concept and we get to grow it in some of the coolest
communities that we love being part of. It’s time
everyone knows who we are,” Ramirez says.
Ramirez is currently adding seasonal updates to
the Windsor and Federal Pizza menus and working to
bring Postino to more people on a daily basis. In 2019,
the Postino menu will receive another revamp and
Joyride Taco customers will see new offerings.
Ramirez relies on encouragement from his wife,
friends and peers to experiment and explore his creativity
in his career.
“I look for inspiration in everything from reading
books and social media, to going to new cities and
new restaurants, and all the great food shows out
there,” he says.
When he’s not reinvigorating menus, Ramirez
enjoys exploring the great state of Arizona and chasing
his golf ball around one of the many Valley golf
courses.
18 Uptown December '18

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Pulse
BEAT
BAR BRAWLER
Justin Arellano mixes his way to victory in competition and at The Camby
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE
Justin Arellano is smooth, but his career is thanks to
actual smoothies.
“After growing up in the Valley, I moved to New
York City at 21, where I took a job managing a Jamba
Juice,” Arellano says. “One of my regulars liked my
speed, efficiency, and demeanor, so he recruited me to
his coffee roasting company, La Colombe. One of my
regulars there recruited me into the bar business.”
That regular worked for Milk and Honey, one of
the world’s preeminent cocktail consultancies during
the 2000s.
“Talk about trial by fire,” says Arellano, who trained
for the next five years at Milk and Honey hot spots The
Ship, Tribeca Grand Hotel and Little Branch.
But then, while out at a friend’s bar one night in
2015, something unexpected happened.
“I locked eyes with a woman at the bar, and fell in
love,” Arellano recalls. “And while New York is amazing,
we decided to move back to Arizona to be near family
and to start one of our own.”
In 2017, the couple moved to the Valley and got
married in Sedona. At the same time, Arellano took a
bartending position at The Camby hotel. Earlier this
year, he was promoted to lead mixologist.
“Trial by fire again. I was promoted two weeks
before we launched a new dinner menu, which meant I
had 14 days to dream up a new cocktail menu to pair
with it,” Arellano says.
He also took on another challenge: Bar Brawl.
“Bar Brawl is an annual cocktail competition at
Jade Bar where bartenders from across the region
compete in Chopped-like rounds, getting mystery
ingredients seconds before they are challenged to
use them to make something mind blowing,” Arellano
explains.
Though it was his first time, Arellano won! And his
winning cocktail was a doozy.
“I infused Campari with coffee in a nod to my
NYC roots, and then took it and the ingredients for a
negroni and ran them through a Japanese coffee maker
filled with hibiscus to infuse the floral flavors into it,” he
says.
But, despite this seemingly high-concept cocktail,
Arellano is a proponent of making drinks that are
accessible to all, something he strives to do at The
Camby nightly.
20 Uptown December '18

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Pulse
HIS STYLE
THE SWEET SPOT
Chef Joshua Thompson has the recipe for a balanced look
BY BRITTANY MARONEY / PHOTO BY MARK MORGAN
The day is just dawning and chef Joshua
Thompson is already buttoned up in a crisp
chef coat, elbows deep in flour, creating
the newest batch of laminated viennoiserie
baked goods. Next up, a custom gelato.
As the director of operations at La
Grande Orange Bake Shop, Thompson’s
chef whites are more than just a uniform,
they are a snapshot of his personality and
a window into his personal sense of style.
Whether in jeans and a T-shirt or his work
attire, Thompson appreciates clean lines
and crisp tailoring.
From the kitchen to the streets, you’ll
find Thompson dressed in Massimo Dutti
with matching New Balance sneakers,
a leather wrist cuff and a dab of John
Varvatos when he’s headed out at night.
Thompson’s laid-back style and innate
confidence has made him a perfect fit for
LGO’s sweeter concepts. In addition to
recipe development and implementation,
he manages the profit and loss statement,
sales and logistics for their wholesale division,
and quality check on retail products.
“I knew that I could grow this company,
while growing with it. I was and I am
still able to make a personal impact with my
ideas and see them come to fruition.”
Favorite accessory: I finally broke down and
bought a smart watch; the new Galaxy. I was
afraid that I would be too attached to my phone
but it’s actually been helpful.
What is your No. 1 piece of style
advice? Find something that fits you and your
personality. You need to be comfortable in yourself
and what you wear. Your sense of style can
change, just like what you want for dessert. It
doesn’t always have to be the same thing.
What do you love about Phoenix? I have
been here for about 12 years and I have seen
lots of changes with new stores and great
restaurant concepts coming forward.
22 Uptown December '18

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Pulse
HER STYLE
BUILDING A BRAND
Hayden Wolven maintains a style strategy for herself and one of the biggest restaurant groups in town
BY MANDY HOLMES / PHOTO BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE
Hayden Wolven doesn’t necessarily
follow trends – she prefers setting her own.
As a brand manager at Fox Restaurant
Concepts (FRC), Wolven stocks her wardrobe
with affordable, ever-changing looks
that can keep up with her career in the
constantly evolving restaurant industry.
In addition to her stylish family, the
food-loving fashionista finds inspiration
around every corner within her job.
“From the design and decor in our
restaurants to the fashion-forward employees,
I am so lucky I get to work in an environment
where I am surrounded by great
style,” she says.
Wolven credits her time working at
Culinary Dropout, her first position within
the company, to impacting her personal
style most where she learned expressing
individuality through personal style is a celebrated
part of the FRC brand.
Although her love for camouflage and
leopard print will never go out of style,
Wolven is committed to keeping the majority
of her looks clean and minimalistic. With
a passion for graphic tees and the perfect
fitting pair of jeans, she loves to shop at
Manor at Uptown Plaza and stores like Zara
and H&M for basics.
What is your most prized possession in
your closet? A pair of long gold earrings that
have a midcentury modern vibe that belonged
to my grammy. She passed away last year and I
wear them often to keep her with me, and keep
her style alive.
How does living in Arizona influence
your style? I didn’t realize how much a
region influences one’s style until moving away
from Arizona [briefly to Chicago], not only the
weather but the colors of the desert landscape
cause me to lean into burnt oranges, mustard
yellows, and army green (because cacti).
What is your No. 1 style tip? Wear what
makes you happy, don’t dress for anyone but
yourself.
24 Uptown December '18

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Pulse
NOTICED
THE PARTY IN THE GARDEN
Phoenix Art Museum hosted its annual fall gala celebrating 60 years in the Valley
BY ELIZABETH MARIE
Aimee Josette Diane Halle Marina Moric
Anabel Konwiser Cathy Dickey and Erika Dickey Stephanie Lake
26 Uptown December '18

Pulse
NOTICED
NIGHT OF GOLD
The 49th annual event, held at Arizona Biltmore, featured live music, dancing and an auction
benefiting Honorhealth’s community programs
BY DAVID APEJI
Kristin Melodic and Blair Melodic Debbie Solomon and Brenda Rittenhorn Sophia Low
Debbie Nicholson and Kristi Crozier Elizabeth Purcell Linda French and Tira Bhakta
Uptown December '18 27

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cost you a dime.
www.bgcs.org/taxcredit
10533 E. Lakeview Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
(480) 344-5520 | info@bgcs.org

Now
LOWDOWN / DO / CALENDAR / EVENT / OUT / CULTURE
BY GABBY LEIGHTON / PHOTO BY ALEXANDER IZILIAEV
The magical visions of graceful sugarplum fairies, larger-than-life mice and marching soldiers synonymous with The Nutcracker are
brought to life by Ballet Arizona’s annual rendition of the story this month. Over 150 performers donning innovative costumes (more than
260 total!) will tell the quintessential adventurous holiday tale at Symphony Hall. While Ballet Arizona’s nationally acclaimed dancers
execute choreography by the company’s artistic director, Ib Andersen, The Phoenix Symphony will perform Tchaikovsky’s famous score
live. The classic show captures the festive spirit of the season as an unforgettable event for all ages. Dec. 13-24.
Times and prices vary. www.balletaz.org.
Uptown December '18 29

Now
LOWDOWN
FAMILY, FOOD & FICTION
Growing up in the kitchen of his family-owned restaurant group taught
Someburros president and first-time author Tim Vasquez a lifetime of lessons,
and he’s found a new way to share them with his new children’s book, The Taco
Stand. The fictional story follows a family’s matriarch, Isabel, who’s cooked-withlove
Mexican food catches the eye of a would-be investor who offers to transform
her life with a major business opportunity. Isabel must weigh the importance
of family and fortune, and between continuing her humble way of cooking
for her community, or jumping headfirst into the world of big business alongside
the investor. Vasquez’s own aunt, Linda Kay Ost, illustrated the 40-page book
and a portion of the proceeds from book sales will benefit students at Frank
Elementary School in Guadalupe, where the Vasquez family has deep roots.
www.thetacostandbook.com.
GO OVER THE EDGE
The thrilling Special Olympics event is back
as participants have the unique opportunity
to rappel off of a 27-story skyscraper
in Downtown Phoenix. Funds from the
pledge-based fundraiser will go to support
16,000 athletes across the state. The event
will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on
Dec. 13. www.specialolympicsarizona.org.
GET IN THE SPIRIT
This month, celebrate the holiday season at Uptown
Plaza every Saturday before Christmas. From 10
a.m. to 1 p.m. each week in December, guests
can take pictures with Santa and hand off the giftwrapping
hassle to the plaza’s pros. The photo opp
with Santa and gift-wrapping are complimentary with
proof of $50 or more in purchases at Uptown Plaza.
There will also be hot cocoa and apple cider to sip
while shopping, provided by Elly’s Brunch & Café.
Guests can also opt to donate $10 to the Salvation
Army’s Christmas Angels for a photo with Santa.
www.uptownplazaphx.com.
30 Uptown December '18

Now
LOWDOWN
TASTE THE MUSIC
It all started with a conversation on Twitter.
Zia Records and Arizona Wilderness
Brewing Co. have teamed up to release
“Self-Titled,” the first installment in their
vinyl-influenced craft beer collaboration
series dubbed “33 1/3.” Inspired by
classic debut albums, the brew features
locally-sourced ingredients, including Grain
R&D Black Barley and Sinagua Malt. The
beer can be found locally at the Wandering
Tortoise. www.ziarecords.com or www.
azwbeer.com.
SWING INTO THE HOLIDAYS
Ballet Theatre of Phoenix, along with guests from Convergence Ballet company,
presents a unique version of a classic holiday tale – The Nutcracker
Swing. Featuring The Duke Ellington Nutcracker Suite and set to the original
Tchaikovsky score, this innovative approach will pair traditional holiday music with
modern, tap, jazz and swing dancing. The family-friendly performance will be held
at Madison Center for the Arts, Dec. 15 (2 p.m. and 7 p.m.) and 16 (2 p.m.).
www.ballettheatreofphx.org or www.convergenceballet.org.
PROSE CELEBRATES YOU
Prose, the healthy and beautiful nail boutique
located in Phoenix, Scottsdale and Arcadia
(opening January 2019), is excited to celebrate
their one-year anniversary and are offering all their
guests complimentary glitter topcoats through
December 31, 2018. Prose was founded with
a vision to help everyone give their hands and
feet the love and attention they deserve through
thoughtful, healthy and beautiful mani and pedi
services and carefully curated products. Guests
visiting Prose for the first time can get their first
mani and pedi for $50. www.myprose.com.
32 Uptown December '18

A PLACE MADE FOR
friends and family.
Owners Kim and Greg invite you to their family owned
and operated neighborhood Italian restaurant!
FINE DINING WITH
A WELCOMING
ATMOSPHERE FOR
OVER 16 YEARS
MAKE NEW
FRIENDS
AT OUR
FRIENDLY BAR
LIVE SOFT
MUSIC FROM
JIMMY, PLAYING
THURS-SAT NIGHTS
HAPPY HOUR
MON-FRI
4PM-6PM
BEAUTIFUL TREE
LINED PATIO
OVERLOOKING THE
PHOENIX MOUNTAIN
PRESERVE
Call us on your way home for take-out, also specializing in holiday parties.
COME ON IN, WE CAN’T WAIT TO MEET YOU!
602.381.3159 // 3159 E. LINCOLN DRIVE . PHOENIX, AZ 85016 // WWW.LAMOREITALIANRESTAURANT.COM

Now
DO
GREAT UPCOMING EVENTS
BY ELIZABETH LIBERATORE
Holiday Prelude XXXIII
Dec. 7, JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn
When Phoenix Theatre Guild and Phoenix Youth Symphony pair up, magic happens.
Holiday Prelude, now in its 33rd year, is nothing shy of magical. This annual fundraiser
is Phoenix Youth Symphony’s biggest of the year. Guests will enjoy a pre-spring
2019 fashion show by Escada, a luncheon, prize drawings and holiday boutique
shopping. Purchase one-of-a-kind treasures for everyone on your shopping list from
over 20 holiday vendors. This festive celebration raises funds for both organizations
hosting. 10 a.m. Fashion show tickets, $90-$125. www.phoenixyouthsymphony.org.
White Christmas Gala
Dec. 8, Arizona Biltmore
Dreaming of a white Christmas? So is Ryan House. Join them for their holiday signature
event, a White Christmas Gala. Held in The Gold Room of Arizona Biltmore, this
elegant soiree celebrates the organization for providing unparalleled care for children
and families navigating life-limiting or end-of-life journeys. Guests will enjoy a gourmet
dinner and festive dancing to the musical White Christmas written by Irving Berlin.
Gentleman are encouraged to tap into their inner Bing Crosby and don a white
dinner jacket or tuxedo. Ladies, wear an evening gown that would make Grace Kelly
proud. 6:30 p.m. $500. www.ryanhouse.org.
Phoestivus
Dec. 13 and 20, Phoenix Public Market
Phoestivus is inspired by the famous Christmas markets in Germany (called
Weihnachtsmarkt) and Seinfeld’s Festivus, a parody and secular holiday celebrated
in the show. Phoestivus returns to Phoenix Public Market, offering shoppers locally
grown and produced gifts from more than 130 local vendors. Running the gamut is
everything from prepared foods to jewelry to homemade holiday decorations. There
will be a Phoestivus Ale (brewed by Phoenix Ale Brewery) on order as well as other
fun happenings, like Phoestivus Reindeer (baby goats all dolled up) and a hipster
Santa. 5-10 p.m. Free. www.phxpublicmarket.com.
19th Annual Spirit of Community Leadership Awards Luncheon
Dec. 14, Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia
Scottsdale Leadership is all about developing community leaders, and the Valley is full of
them! The Spirit of Community Leadership Awards Luncheon is a celebration that honors
and recognizes the accomplishments of effective community leaders, both young and
established. This year, Diane Cusack, Suzanna Walden-Wells and Adway Gopakumar
will be the afternoon’s honorees. Attendees – over 400 are expected this year – will
enjoy a luncheon, reception and raffle. 11 a.m. $110. www.scottsdaleleadership.org.
53rd Annual Desert Ball
Dec. 22, The Phoenician Resort
Desert Foundation Auxiliary (DFA) 53rd annual Desert Ball is a celebration of family
and friends, and it’s a tradition that gives back to the community. DFA will proudly
present a group of 19 debutantes to the Phoenix community this month. Attendees
will enjoy everything from a cocktail hour to a presentation to plenty of dancing to
commemorate the newly inducted debts. Proceeds from the 53rd Annual Desert Ball
will benefit two local nonprofits, For the Love of Travis and Kids in Focus. 6:30 p.m.
$400. www.desertfoundationauxiliary.org.
New Year’s Eve Gala
Dec. 31, Arizona Biltmore
Back by popular demand is the Phoenix Symphony’s extravagant New Year’s Eve Gala.
Guests will ring in 2019 with music by The JJs Band, enjoy a cocktail reception, threecourse
dinner and the opportunity to dance into the New Year with the full Phoenix
Symphony orchestra. There will be other surprises sprinkled throughout the night,
including a Champagne toast when the clock strikes midnight, decadent desserts and
more. Proceeds from the celebration support the Symphony's education and community
and health and wellness programs. 8 p.m. $500. www.phoenixsymphony.org
34 Uptown December '18

H E R M È S
C H A N E L
L O U I S V U I T T O N
G U C C I
P R A D A
C E L I N E
D O L C E & G A B B A N A
D I O R
V A L E N T I N O
T O M F O R D
P R A D A
S A I N T L A U R E N T
J I M M Y C H O O
F E N D I
G I V E N C H Y
B A L M A I N
V E R S A C E
A L E X A N D E R M C Q U E E N
T H E F I N E S T I N L U X U R Y R E S A L E
SHOP / CONSIGN:
TBCCONSIGNMENT.COM
6137 N SCOTTSDALE RD #106, SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85250

Now
CALENDAR
CIRQUE HOLIDAY
SPECTACULAR
Dec. 7-9, Phoenix Symphony Hall
Troupe Vertigo will dazzle yet again with a return to The Phoenix Symphony for an all-new holiday
show. The LA cirque troupe will amaze with their gravity-defying acts 40 feet above the
stage, with moves set to festive, season favorites like White Christmas and Deck the Halls.
Expect to see contortionists, jugglers, aerialists, strong men and more in a show that is sure
take your breath away and leave you filled with holiday cheer. Show times and ticket prices
vary. www.phoenixsymphony.org.
BY BRITTANY MARONEY
Grande Museum Auxiliary Indian
Market. Visitors can try their hand
at traditional skills like archery,
atlatl spear throwing, community
painting, beading, and pottery.
Tony Duncan, five-time world
hoop dancing champion will teach
visitors of all ages how to hoop
dance while Violet Duncan, former
Miss Indian World and author, will
be storytelling. 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. $10
general admission; $5, Museum
Members with ID, American
Indians with tribal ID, active duty
and retired service members;
Children 12 and under are free.
www.pueblogrande.org.
An Irish Christmas
Dec. 5, Orpheum Theatre
The noble traditions of the
Emerald Isle take the stage and
are reenacted with Irish dancers
Caterina Coyne (principal dancer,
Riverdance), world champion
dancer Tyler Schwartz and Connor
Reider (principal dancer Celtic
Fyre, St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland,
The Chieftains), as well as members
of the Kerry Dance Troupe,
The Kerry Voice Squad and
the Kerry Traditional Orchestra.
Celebrate the great tradition of
butter-making, chase the wren on
St. Stephen’s Day, draw down the
half door for spectacular dance,
enjoy superb music-making and
singing of Christmas carols in an
unforgettable Irish night! 7 p.m.
Ticket prices vary. www.phoenix.
ticketforce.com.
Phoenix Festival of the Arts
Dec. 7-9, Margaret T. Hance Park
The Phoenix art scene comes alive
at the annual Phoenix Festival of
the Arts. Enjoy live entertainment,
comedians, art demonstrations, and
more! The Phoenix Mural Project,
a hands-on community art project
organized by acclaimed local muralist,
Hugo Medina, is a signature
component of the festival. Fun, free,
family activities include face painting,
the teen art show and sale,
and lots of fun with Phoenix Youth
Circus Arts. Beer and wine will be
available, sponsored by Hensley
Beverage Company. Noon-5 p.m.,
Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday
and Sunday. Free. www.phoenixfestivalofthearts.org.
Pueblo Grande Museum
Auxiliary Indian Market
Dec. 8 & 9, Pueblo Grande
Museum Auxiliary
Rich traditions and modern-day artists
converge at the annual Pueblo
World Bazaar Phx
Dec. 8, 19th Ave and
Camelback Park and Ride
World Bazaar PHX returns with
more culture, cuisine and community
than ever! With over 50
different vendors selling food,
art, and homemade goods from
around the world, it’s a perfect day
for holiday shopping. Enjoy live
music and dance performances
from countries around the globe.
Explore dozens of vendors and get
lost in the various stalls featuring
a plethora of unique items, including
African beadwork, dresses,
scarves, jewelry, baskets, Middle
Eastern women’s fashion and
jewelry, and craft goods. This family-friendly
event is great for all ages
and backgrounds. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Free. www.rescue.org.
Jim Gaffigan Quality Time
Tour
Dec. 8, Comerica Theatre
Everyone’s favorite “funny dad”
lands in Phoenix to regale us
with stories of fatherhood, family
observations, laziness and, of
course, food. This hilarious comedian,
actor, writer and producer is
known for being a “clean” comic,
using little profanity in his routines
36 Uptown December '18

and bringing a fresh take on humor
to the stage. 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
$61. www.livenation.com.
The Mini-Magic Flute Family
Day
Dec. 8, Arizona Opera
Join Arizona Opera for family fun
in Phoenix! This is a great way to
explore opera and make family
memories that will last a lifetime.
Don’t miss this beautiful adaptation
of the Magic Flute, when the
Queen of the Night persuades a
prince to rescue her daughter from
captivity under the evil high priest.
Share your love of music, enjoy
story time, and other fun activities
with the Phoenix Opera! 11 a.m.
Free, registration required. www.
azopera.org.
The Board of Visitors 65th
Annual Fashion Show
Luncheon
Dec. 8, J.W. Marriott Camelback
Inn Resort & Spa
Fashion, festivities and fundraising
collide at the 65th annual Fashion
Show Luncheon. Hosted at J.W.
Marriott Camelback Inn Resort &
Spa, this annual luncheon brings
together family and friends who
support the Board of Visitors
and its many missions. Fashions
from Dillard’s, appearances by
the Flower Girls, and professional
models, are showcased in this
classic holiday season event. 11
am. Individual tickets, $150. www.
boardofvisitors.org.
17th Annual Christmas
Pudding
Dec. 8, Celebrity Theatre
Hometown hero, Alice Cooper,
will be burning down the house
with special guests, Johnny Depp
and Joe Perry at this annual
fundraiser that raises money for
Alice Cooper’s passion project for
teens. Cooper’s twist on American
Idol, this event has contestants
complete with performances
and live musical acts. It’s a night
packed with surprise performances
and guest appearances. After all,
the proof will be in the pudding. 7
pm. Tickets start at $120. www.
celebritytheatre.com.
ALT AZ 93.3 Ugly Sweater
Party
Dec. 10 & 11, The Van Buren
Bust out your ugliest sweater and
get ready to jam for two days at
the historic Van Buren. ALT AZ and
Modelo Especial present The Ugly
Sweater Holiday Party, featuring
Young the Giant, Barns Courtney
and more. New shows are being
announced daily and its perfect
excuse to dress to impress. 5-10
p.m. Ticket prices vary. www.
altaz933.com.
NEAL
BRENNAN
HERE WE
GO TOUR
Dec. 15, Stand Up Live
Funny man Neal Brennan lights up the stage
of Downtown Phoenix’s Stand Up Live,
brandishing his own unique comedy style.
The writer, director, and comedian is best
known as the co-creator of Chappelle’s
Show, for which he received three Emmy
nominations. Known as “one of the funniest
people on Twitter,” Brennan is sure to leave
you cracking up and walking away with hilarious
sound bites that only he can deliver. 7
pm. $25. www.phoenix.standuplive.com.
Phoenix Ballet’s The
Nutcracker
Dec. 14-16 & 20-23, Orpheum
Theatre
The Nutcracker is undoubtedly the
most popular story of the season.
Let the classically trained dancers
of the Phoenix Ballet awe you
with their skills, while they dance
alongside renowned students who
have brought home top awards
and honors at major competitions
including Youth America
Grand Prix, the World Ballet
Competition and the International
Dance Competition. Danced to
Tchaikovsky’s famous score, it’s a
performance to cherish. Times vary.
$25-$85. www.phoenixballet.org.
Childsplay Presents: Ella
Enchanted The Musical
Dec. 15-30, The Herberger
Theater Center
Based on the book by Gail Carson
Levine, this is Cinderella with a
twist. The charming musical (with
music by Deborah Wicks La Puma)
follows Ella, a princess who is
given the “gift” of obedience at
birth. In true fairy tale fashion, the
strong-willed protagonist must
defeat her evil stepmother along
with a hungry ogre and the troublesome
curse to find her own voice
and rescue herself for a happily
ever after ending. Want to get an
insider look at the show? There will
be a backstage tour available for
purchase following the Dec. 29 4
p.m. performance. Times vary. $12-
$30. www.childsplayaz.org.
Frances Smith Cohen’s Snow
Queen
Dec. 15-16, Herberger Theatre
Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s
classic wintery fairy tale and set to
Prokofiev’s lush score, Center Dance
Ensemble brings the wicked Snow
Queen to life. Families will delight in
the mystical world of sprites, gypsies
and ice maidens, while young Gerda
seeks to rescue Kai from the evil
crystal palace. Take a break from The
Nutcracker for this holiday favorite.
Times vary by day. $28 adults; $23
seniors; $14 students. www.herbergertheater.org.
Arizona National Livestock
Show
Dec. 26-30, Arizona State
Fairgrounds
For over 70 years, the Annual
Arizona National Livestock Show
at the Arizona State Fairgrounds
has showcased the creme de la
creme of horse flesh and livestock.
Enjoy livestock shows, the Cowboy
Classics Western Art & Gear show,
a live working ranch horse competition,
the ever-popular Chuck Wagon
Cook Off, and a Farm Experience
interactive area for children, great
for all ages. Times vary. $10 parking.
www.anls.org.
Symphony and Chill: The
Music of the Flatscreen
Dec. 28-30, Phoenix Symphony
Hall
Get off the couch and enjoy the
haunting music from some of your
favorite television shows, in a completely
new way. Hear the thrilling
scores from hit shows and films
like Lost, Downton Abbey, Batman,
Superman, The Adventures of
Robin Hood, X-Men: The Last
Stand and many more of your favorites
performed live by The Phoenix
Symphony. Friday and Saturday,
7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. $25-
$103. www.phoenixsymphony.org.
Desert Financial Fiesta Bowl
Parade Presented by Cheez-it
Dec. 29, Central Phoenix
The Desert Financial Fiesta Bowl
Parade will showcase a pageantry
of brilliantly colored floats, giant
balloons, equestrian units, charitable
groups, local celebrities and
marching bands that will make their
way down the 2-mile route through
central Phoenix. Arizona Cardinals
president Michael Bidwell has
been named grand marshal of the
parade and the Fiesta Bowl has
invited teachers from across the
city to march in the festivities as a
show of unity. 10 am. Free. www.
fiestabowl.org.
Uptown December '18 37

Now
OUT
FARM TO
TABLE
Local products featured on Phoenix
restaurant menus
Locally sourced food and beverages aren’t solely available at
farmers markets anymore. Some of the Valley’s most established
restaurants are embracing the farm-to-table concept by featuring
local products on their menus.
BY MANDY HOLMES
Sphinx Date Co.
For more than 60 years Sphinx Date Ranch has
been providing dates, nuts and local artisan
products for some of the Valley’s most delicious
dishes and gourmet restaurants. If you didn’t
know that the folks at Sphinx Date Co. produce
fresh, locally sourced dates that are popular
nationwide, you’re in for a treat! Grab a Date
Bar from the bakery case at La Grande Orange,
a scoop of pistachio gelato at The Grateful
Spoon or visit the Compass Arizona Grill at the
top of the Hyatt Regency Downtown for a naturally
sweet taste grown in the state of Arizona.
www.sphinxdateranch.com.
Iconic Cocktail Co.
Made in small batches and focused on flavor,
the masterminds behind Iconic Cocktail Co.
never use artificial ingredients so it’s no wonder
just one ounce of an Iconic Mixer is the perfect
amount to sweeten your spirit, sparkling water,
tea or coffee. The signature and seasonal
mixers including Ginga Syrup, Spiced Honey,
and Cranberry Thyme can be found in popular
concoctions at Valley spots including Windsor,
Provision Coffee, Clever Koi Central, and The
Covenant. www.iconiccocktail.com.
Schreiner’s Fine Sausage
Founded in 1955, family-owned Schreiner’s Fine
Sausage has been a Phoenix staple thanks to the
signature red and white landmark that customers
keep coming back to for generations. With
over 60 varieties of sausage to choose from,
Schreiner’s sausage can be found in the gumbo
at Frasher’s Smokehouse, and on the menus at
Matt’s Big Breakfast and Chicago Hamburger
Company. www.schreinerssausage.com.
Crow’s Dairy
Crow's Dairy is a fifth-generation, family-owned
and -operated dairy farm that produces farmstead
artisan dairy products including their popular
goat cheese. In 2008, after more than 30
years of milking cows, the Crow Family began
milking their first herd of Nubian dairy goats and
haven’t looked back. Small but mighty, Crow’s
Dairy goat cheese can be found at more than
70 restaurants and resorts in town including
Steak 44, Tarbell’s, Beckett’s Table, and famed
Pizzeria Bianco. www.crowsdairy.com.
Chula Seafood
Fresh fish, anyone? Established in San Diego,
California, in 2009, Chula Seafood is a family-run
fishery that purveys high-quality, fresh
fish from the Pacific Coast straight to the
Arizona desert. The boat, Chula, specializes in
harpoon-caught and deep-set buoy swordfish
in addition to species off the California Coast.
In August of 2015, Chula began delivering
fresh-caught fish straight from the boat to the
Chula Seafood Fish Market and some of the
Valley’s most established restaurants including
Crujiente Tacos, The Henry, Culinary Dropout
Phoenix, Gallo Blanco, The Collins, La Grande
Orange, Chelsea’s Kitchen, and Farm and Craft
Uptown. www.chulaseafood.com.
38 Uptown December '18

TO BUY, OR NOT TO BUY: IMPORTANT
THINGS YOU “AUTO” KNOW
OWNER OF MAZVO AUTO CARE, SHAHE KOULLOUKIAN, OFFERS HIS EXPERTISE
ON WHETHER IT’S TIME FOR A NEW CAR.
the season when your thoughts turn to new things
– like when a luxury sedan sidles up next to you at a
‘Tis
stoplight and you yearn for that new car smell. It’s even
more tempting when your mechanic says your older vehicle needs
repairs. But while your automotive longing may be temporarily
cured by trotting down to the dealership with your checkbook, it
may actually be a bad financial move in the long run.
For advice on repair and maintenance of vehicles, there’s no
better resource than Shahe Koulloukian, owner of Mazvo Auto Car
Care Center. And his advice starts with three little words when it
comes to new-vehicle envy: get over it.
“Sure, your current ride may be loaded with dings and pushing
8 years old, but that doesn’t mean you should start over,” Shahe
points out. “Cars built in the past decade are more reliable than
ever, and a few unexpected repairs are not reason enough to get
rid of it.”
Whether or not you hang onto your current car depends on a
lot more than just whether it runs. Your car may operate well, but
rust or collision damage can make it structurally unsound. The only
older cars worth keeping are the ones that are reliable and safe, and
Shahe ought to know: he and Mazvo’s staff of ASE-certified technicians
have been keeping them that way for over two decades.
Before you buy, Shahe advises, do this:
Audit your repair bills. Add up all your repair receipts for the
past three years, then divide by 36 months. If you’re averaging under
$150.00 a month and your car is only a few years old, hanging
on to it will free you from a new cycle of monthly payments, and
save a bundle in insurance, taxes, and other expenses – primarily
depreciation, since the average is 20% the first year and 10%
each year after that. “If your mechanic is spending more time with
your car than you do and your repair bills are close to new-car payments,
it’s probably time to trade up,” says Shahe.
Keep finances in check. Know your budget and stick to it. Call
your insurance company; ask how much more a new car would
cost monthly in comparison to your existing coverage. Some consumers
have liability coverage, or lower parameters to save on insurance
premiums. With a new car purchase, you don’t have that
luxury – the bank won’t approve your loan without full coverage.
Buy on functionality, not emotion. Yes, the bells and whistles
sound great, but are they necessary? Average out yearly mileage,
and how many passengers you regularly transport. It can be easy
to be “upsold” when shopping for a new car, but owning a 6-8 passenger
4x4 vehicle wouldn’t make much sense if you’re the only
person in the vehicle every day and you never go off-roading.
Research resale value. What if you were in a collision and the
vehicle got totaled, or after a few years you need to get out of it
for some reason? If it doesn’t have a great resale value, the payoff
won’t be what you think. Cars are not investments – they depreciate
the moment you drive off the lot – but you’d at least like to get
back a good portion of the money you spent. Buying a vehicle with
strong resale value is more important than buying what’s popular.
To purchase or not to purchase? There’s a lot to consider. But
if you decide to repair your current vehicle, at least where to have
it done is a no-brainer.
Mazvo Auto Care Center | 4610 North 7th Street, Phoenix | 602-248-8711 or www.mazvo.com

Now
EVENT
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT
Ignite hope by candlelight for the patients at Phoenix Children’s Hospital
BY GABBY LEIGHTON
IF YOU GO…
What:
Ignite Hope
When:
Dec. 8, 4 p.m.
Where:
Pre-party at North
High School, 1101
E. Thomas Road,
Phoenix; Program and
tree lighting at Phoenix
Children’s Hospital,
1919 E. Thomas
Road, Phoenix,
Tickets:
$40 for adults; $10
for children ages 4-12;
free for children 3 and
younger
Information:
www.pchignitehope.
com.
In its seventh year, Ignite Hope is back to
bring holiday season cheer to patients at
Phoenix Children’s Hospital.
While a record-breaking 3,000 participants
are expected to attend the event this
year, Ignite Hope started as a small show of
support by one of the patient’s families with
a couple hundred people.
“The Ignite Hope tradition began at
Phoenix Children’s when friends and family
of 15-year-old Katie Wagner, a patient who
was diagnosed with cancer, held a candlelight
vigil outside her hospital window,”
explains Steve Schnall, senior vice president
and chief development officer at Phoenix
Children’s Hospital Foundation. “While Katie
has since passed, the candlelight tradition
has lived on to brighten the lives of thousands
more patients.”
The event is now an opportunity to celebrate
all patients at the hospital. In addition
to the increase in partakers, the evening
has also evolved in many other ways. The
festivities will kick off at North High School
with a family-friendly pre-walk party prior
to the vigil held outside of the hospital.
Activities include face painting, superhero
appearances, music, refreshments and an
appearance from Santa himself.
At 5:30 p.m., a battery-operated candle
will be provided to participants 4 and older
for a 1.1-mile candlelit walk to Phoenix
Children’s Hospital, landing in the Phoenix
Children’s Parking lot.
In addition to Christ’s Church of the
Valley (CCV) playing a live set as walkers
arrive, patients will waive their own candles
from their rooms and witness thousands of
people flooding onto the hospital grounds.
Patients are welcome to come down and
participate and the program will also be
streamed on the TVs in each patient’s room.
Once arrived, there will be an inspirational
program (6 p.m.) led by Channel 12
News Anchor Paul Gerke. After the program,
the night will end with the lighting of
the hospital’s holiday tree.
“Ignite Hope is a chance for the community
to show patient families that they
are not alone during the holidays. The outpouring
of support is simply awe-inspiring,”
Schnall says.
Walkers are encouraged to bring a
new, unwrapped gift for patients who will be
hospitalized over the holidays. Participating
adults are asked to raise a minimum $100
to help the patients at the hospital.
40 Uptown December '18

STEM CELL
TREATMENT
FOR DIABETIC
NEUROPATHY
Dr. Richard Jacoby, DPM of
Extremity Health Center
THE DOCTORS AND staff at Extremity Health Centers offer a combined
40+ years of experience in podiatric medicine to residents
who live in and around the Phoenix and Scottsdale area. Under
the medical direction of podiatrist Richard P. Jacoby, DPM,
the practice provides diagnosis and treatment for stubborn,
chronic foot and ankle pain and comprehensive and successful
treatment of diabetic neuropathy.
After graduating from college, Dr. Jacoby attended
Villanova University before receiving his doctorate of podiatric
medicine at the Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine. He
has participated in and taught thousands of hours of Continuing
Medical Education over the past few decades. Additionally,
he is a past president of the Arizona Podiatry Association and
the Association of Extremity Nerve Surgeons and co-authored
the book “Sugar Crush: How to Reduce Inflammation, Reverse
Nerve Damage, and Reclaim Good Health,” correlating a
relationship between sugar and inflammation.
Extremity Health Center offers a variety of on-site
extremity diagnosis and medical services, including surgery
that are available for a wide range of issues, including foot and
heel pain, bunions, ankle fractures and sprains, varicose veins,
foot and ankle arthritis, diabetic foot, plantar fasciitis, toenail
fungus and peripheral neuropathy and neuroma.
Dr. Jacoby’s specialty is working with diabetic patients
and he has a proven formula to resolve diabetic neuropathy.
“What I’ve found is that the progression of most neuropathies
is aggressive, insidious and invasive throughout the body.”
“Stem cells from umbilical cord blood are the best
product out there today, especially for neuropathy,” says Dr.
Jacoby of the most effect treatment he uses. “
Stem cells are miraculous in that they actively seek out
inflammatory tissues and repair and restore tissue, tendon,
tissue, bone, nerve or muscle. Stem cells also work in the
repair of foot and ankle fractures and Achilles tendonitis.
“Stem cells are the biggest paradigm shift in medicine since
the germ theory and it’s absolutely true,” Dr. Jacoby explains
of stem cell use in diabetic neuropathy. “Patients will get off
their medicine, and in most cases will avoid surgery.”
Dr. Jacoby uses the Dellon procedure for decompressing
peripheral neuropathy. He has utilized the surgical procedure
successfully on thousands of patients and none of them have
needed a subsequent amputation. He says, “Dr. Dellon perfected
the Dellon technique and did the research back in the 80s. I
adopted his technique and trained with him 20 years ago.”
There have been 100,000 amputations annually due to
diabetic neuropathy since the implementation of the Dellon
procedure and Dr. Jacoby says that adds up to two million
avoidable amputations. “It’s a national disgrace,” he says. It
is his belief that the FDA pushes medications that don’t work,
which in turn, create situations where amputations are done.
The Dellon procedure utilizing stem cells could save thousands
of people from avoidable amputations.
“Stem cells are the fountain of youth and I’ve used them
myself for a severe herniated
disc,” finishes Dr. Jacoby. “I was
back playing tennis in three days
and haven’t needed another
injection since.”
EXTREMITY
HEALTH CENTER
UNIQUE MEDICAL SOLUTIONS
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT
EXTREMITY HEALTH CENTER,
CALL 480.300.5022.
7301 East 2nd Street, Suite 200 | Scottsdale, AZ. 85251 | www.extremityhealthcenters.com

MOST Artful
PHOTO BY DEBBY WOLVOS
PHOTO BY DEBBY WOLVOS
GEORDIE’S RESTAURANT
Craving our cover? It’s tortellini with Swiss
chard, mushrooms and winter squash
($24) from Geordie’s at the Wrigley
Mansion (head by chef Christopher Gross)
paired with Guigal Côtes du Rhône Rosé
from France (8/glass, 72/bottle). While making
the tortellini, chef Ashley Goddard, who
created the menu item, adds activated charcoal,
giving it the stark black color. In addition
to the roasted mushrooms and delicata
squash in the dish, it also features grilled
acorn, asparagus, pesto and pink Swiss
chard stems, which have been roasted, as
well as greens and edible flowers for
garnish. www.wrigleymansion.com.
40 places and people shaping the Valley’s food and beverage scene
The flourishing foodie scene is something to be celebrated, from innovative menus and new restaurants to inspired cocktails and top
chefs. In recent years, the Valley has truly become a feast of flavors, bursting with unique experiences and tasty temptations from dishes
to drinks. Dig into our takes on the people and places that are putting Phoenix and Scottsdale on the culinary map.
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
42 Uptown December '18

DOMINICK’S STEAKHOUSE
In 2012, Dominick’s Steakhouse opened
at Scottsdale Quarter. The ultra-luxe steak
and seafood venue boasts one of the most
popular and opulent bars in Arizona as well
as an open-air dining option on the roof,
complete with a reflecting pool that serves
as the centerpiece of the elevated space.
Here, everything is lavish and posh, from
the dark decor and the crystal chandeliers
to the prime-grade beef, twin lobster tails,
and creamy mashed potatoes. For those
looking to visit without breaking the bank,
Dominick’s offers a specialty bar menu from
4 to 6 p.m. daily with dishes from just $10
and cocktails and wine starting at $7.
www.dominickssteakhouse.com.
FNB
FnB, and its chef Charleen Badman, have
earned national acclaim for richly flavored
menus showcasing Arizona’s agricultural
community. Badman honed her skills at
Rancho Pinot, where she worked alongside
chefs Chris Bianco and Chrysa Robertson,
before moving to New York City to continue
her craft. By 2006, she was back in the
Valley and launched FnB, where she makes
locally grown vegetables shine, often with
globally inspired ingredients. Even carnivores
rave over her creations. The menus
change with the season, but are sure to pair
harmoniously with the ample wine menu featuring
many Arizona makers as well as other
rotating favorites. www.fnbrestaurant.com.
OVERALL Excellence
TOP TO BOTTOM: The bar at Domick's Steakhouse and a dish from FnB.
RESTAURANT PROGRESS
With less than 40 seats, Restaurant
Progress is technically small. But, the
Melrose District establishment has become
a big deal in the Valley. One of the most
lauded Phoenix eateries in years, Restaurant
Progress is headed by chef-owner TJ Culp,
who worked for Fox Restaurant Concepts
and at Zinc Bistro before becoming wellknown
when he launched a hyper-popular
series of pop-up dinners across the Valley.
Chef’s tastings and a la cart dishes are both
available on Culp’s refined American menu,
which is updated every four to six weeks. The
cocktail menu is similarly small by design,
with a focus on seasonal, spirit-forward libations.
www.restaurantprogress.com.
Uptown December '18 43

ROARING FORK
Known for its wood-fired rotisserie and
open-flame grill, Roaring Fork has one of
the best, most popular happy hours in
town. In the bar, saloon and on both patios
Sunday and Monday from 4 to 10 p.m.
and Tuesday through Saturday from 4 to 7
p.m., Roaring Fork pours up $5 specialty
cocktails as well as an impressive selection
of $5 wines by the glass. They also have a
robust menu of $6 soups and salads and
$8 to $10 appetizers that run the gamut
from guacamole and green chili pork to fish
tacos and flatbreads. www.roaringfork.com.
Happiest HOURS
EVO
Offered daily from 4 to 7 p.m., EVO’s
happy hour includes $7 red sangria as
well as $5 well spirits, select wines, and
both draft and bottled beers. But that’s
just the beginning. In fact, it’s the food that
really sets the happy hour apart. For $10
or less, nosh on items including bruschetta
boards, mushroom pizza, an Italian-inspired
burger, and fries two ways. In addition to
that, stop by on Monday and Wednesday
for a bonus deal during happy hour: The
purchase of a bottle of wine gets you a free
bruschetta board (Monday) and a free pizza
(Wednesday). www.evoscottsdale.com.
ABOVE AND LEFT:
A feast at Roaring
Fork and bruschetta
varieties at EVO.
ROKA AKOR
Roka Akor specializes in contemporary
robata (meaning “fireside”) Japanese cuisine
and features award-winning prime-cut steaks
and seafood along with sushi, sashimi and
tempura. During happy hour, offered from
4:30 to 7 p.m. daily in the bar and lounge,
get 30 percent off several wines by the
glass; 40 percent off specialty cocktails,
house sake, shochu, house cocktails, and
house martinis; and 50 percent off beers.
Sushi and several items made on the robata
grill are offered at deep discounts, and there
is even an omakase tasting menu where
guests can sample small bites of restaurant
specialties for $45. www.rokaakor.com.
44 Uptown December '18

Perfect PATIOS
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: El Chorro, Isabella's Kitchen,
and Olive & Ivy.
ISABELLA’S KITCHEN
Part of the public Grayhawk Golf Club,
this lunch, dinner and brunch hot spot is
for far more than just golfers. The patio
of this upscale-yet-rustic Italian-American
eatery and bar overlooks the immaculately
manicured 18th hole and offers dramatic
views of Camelback and Mummy mountains
in the distance. The outdoor terrace,
patio and multiple semi-private courtyards
have seating for more than 100 and even
offer rocking chairs to watch the sunset in
absolute comfort. The from-scratch kitchen
cooks up seaonally inspired takes on triedand-true
favorites such as pizza, pasta and
bruschetta. www.isabellaskitchen.com.
EL CHORRO
Nestled at the base of Camelback
Mountain, El Chorro’s patio is among the
most beloved in the Valley. Its legacy is just
as impressive as its view: It was originally
built as the Judson School for Girls in
1934 and was purchased and converted
into a restaurant and lodge in 1937. Every
meal here – there’s dinner nightly, Sunday
brunch, and happy hour Monday through
Saturday – is complete with a side of
Arizona heritage and charm. The patio,
which features a wraparound indoor-outdoor
bar, is flanked with cozy fire pits and
fireplaces as well desert views as far as the
eyes can see. www.elchorro.com.
OLIVE & IVY
Dining and drinking under the shady
trees along Olive & Ivy’s expansive
patio while gazing at the Scottsdale
Waterfront conjures the feeling of being
in the French Riviera, which serves as
the actual inspiration for the eatery. The
menu similarly reflects the vibe, offering
plentiful wine options and shareable small
plates with thoughtful touches. As the sun
sets, thousands of twinkling lights strung
between the trees light up the sky, making
the patio as romantic as it is lush. Insider
tip: Stroll along the waterfront, accessible
from the Olive & Ivy patio, just after dark.
www.olivenandivyrestaurant.com.
Uptown December '18 45

Most INNOVATIVE
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP:
Binkley's Restaurant, SumoMaya
Mexican-Asian Kitchen, The
Churchill exterior.
BINKLEY’S RESTAURANT
The one and only Kevin Binkley moved his
flagship Binkley’s Restaurant from Cave
Creek to Phoenix in 2016. With the move
came innovation unlike anything the Valley
has ever seen. Today, Binkley’s offers a 3
1/2-hour, multicourse dining experience
each night. He locally sources as many
items as possible, including many from his
wife’s own garden. Most of the ingredients,
in fact, were growing in a garden or
swimming in the ocean within 48 hours of
landing on your plate. Binkley also invites
his guests to join him in the kitchen to
watch as he preps courses, or even just
to chat. At the end of the night, he sends
guests home with goody bags, to boot.
www.binkleysrestaurant.com.
SUMOMAYA MEXICAN-
ASIAN KITCHEN
Unique in both its striking decor and its
fusion of Mexican and Asian flavors ranging
from tacos and ceviche to wok dishes and
a full sushi bar, SumoMaya is a multi-year
winner of OpenTable’s “Top 100 Hot
Spot Restaurants” in the U.S. The vibrant
atmosphere features a towering tree as
a centerpiece, an open kitchen, floor-toceiling
windows, and a partially enclosed
patio for year-round enjoyment. All of these
set a backdrop to the creative cuisine that’s
meant to be a communal experience – the
chefs recommend choosing three to five
dishes to share. Be sure to try the craft
cocktails and the bottomless brunch on
weekends. www.sumomaya.com.
THE CHURCHILL
The Churchill is a marketplace made of
repurposed shipping containers. Yes,
really! The laid-back concept alone is
innovative, as are each of its 10 tenants.
Within it, food and drink options
include The Brill Line, a craft brewery;
The Pobrecito, a cocktail concept; Freak
Brothers Pizza; Sauvage, a wine store;
Foxy Fruit, a smoothie and acai bowl
shop; Provecho, a central Mexico-themed
eatery; and Breadwinner, a sandwich
concept by the team behind EVO. At
the heart of it all is a 9,000-square-foot
courtyard. A bonus: Each business at The
Churchill is committed to devoting time
each month to local community service
efforts. www.thechurchillphx.com.
46 Uptown December '18

J&G STEAKHOUSE
The Phoenician’s J&G Steakhouse, a
2018 Wine Spectator “Best of Award of
Excellence” winner, reopened in September
after a three-month-long refresh and revitalization.
But fear not, the wine program
was not only maintained, but enhanced.
The menu has 450 selections and more
than 3,000 bottles. The offerings especially
excel in pairing varietals from California and
Burgundy, France, with the restaurant's
award-winning menu, which was developed
by lauded chef de cuisine Jacques Qualin.
If you’re a first-timer, opt for the five-course
chef’s tasting menu with sommelier-chosen
wine pairings. You certainly won’t be sorry.
www.jgsteakhousescottsdale.com.
LON’S AT THE
HERMOSA INN
Lon’s features nearly 700 selections on its
wine list and is a 2018 Wine Spectator
“Best of Award of Excellence” winner. The
diverse selection is a perfect mix of small,
sought-after boutique winery offerings with
limited-production and well-known favorites
from across the globe. The price points are
similarly diverse, with budget-friendly options
as well as those worth a splurge on a special
occasion. The 6,000-bottle inventory is
housed in three separate climate-controlled
rooms, one of which is an underground
functioning wine cellar. Lon’s even offers the
chance for guests to dine in the subterranean
wine cellar. www.hermosainn.com.
WINE Program
TOP TO BOTTOM:
Wine poured at
J&G Steakhouse
at The Phoenician,
underground wine
cellar at Lon's at The
Hermosa Inn, and
Jaime's Wine Bar at
Wrigley Mansion.
WRIGLEY MANSION
With 900 different varietals and more
than 6,000 bottles in-house, the Wrigley
Mansion – including Geordie’s Bar and
Lounge, Jaime’s Wine Bar, and Geordie’s
Restaurant – boasts the largest wine selection
in Arizona. It is a 2018 Wine Spectator
“Best of Award of Excellence” winner that
goes beyond offering wine by the glass or
bottle, but also offers an actual wine membership.
At $75 per year, the membership
includes significant discounts on wine at all
venues on property as well as complimentary
Champagne during Sunday brunch. Plus,
members have access to privately arranged
tours and tastings with partners in Napa and
Sonoma. www.wrigleymansion.com.
Uptown December '18 47

DIFFERENT POINTE OF VIEW
Located 1,800 feet above the city at the
Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort, Different
Pointe of View is the longest consecutively
awarded AAA Four Diamond restaurant in
the Valley. Beyond the incomparable views,
chef Anthony DeMuro serves up romance
nightly with his modern take on high-end
American cuisine. If you’re seeking something
extra special, book the Insider’s View
Dinner, which is offered monthly and limited
to 12 guests. During the evening, guests
can snuggle up to watch DeMuro cook a
four- to six-course tasting menu paired with
wine – and accompanied by a story from its
winemaker, who joins the group for dinner.
www.tapatiocliffshilton.com.
Romantic RENDEZVOUS
TOP TO BOTTOM: Different Pointe of View at Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort
and the patio at Elements at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa.
QUIESSENCE AT THE FARM
Set in an actual farmhouse at The Farm at
South Mountain, Quiessence is surrounded
by a beautiful patio and trees for alfresco
dining, complete with candlelight that sets
the mood for the evening. To indulge in the
ultimate night of romance, a reservation for
the signature Brick Oven experience is a
must. This eight-course chef’s tasting – like
all food at the restaurant – features true
farm-to-table cuisine and is situated at an
exclusive table with only one reservation
per evening. A private arbor with dreamy
curtains sets the scene for any special
occasion, whether you are on a first date,
celebrating an anniversary, or proposing to
your future fiancee. www.qatthefarm.com.
ELEMENTS
Elements restaurant is the heart of Sanctuary
on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa’s
food and beverage operations, offering farmfresh
American cuisine with Asian accents.
Executive chef Beau MacMillan’s local
ingredients are procured from a network of
artisans and organic farmers to ensure that
menus change monthly to reflect seasonal
harvests. Food presentation is as compelling
as the beautiful landscape that surrounds diners
through floor-to-ceiling windows on three
sides of the restaurant and large skylights to
view the stars. Slide-away glass walls open
to an intimate dining patio, which provides
the perfect place to cozy up to your special
someone. www.sanctuaryoncamelback.com.
48 Uptown December '18

Killer COCKTAILS
CLOCKWISE
FROM TOP: Honor
Amongst Thieves,
Bitter & Twisted
Cocktail Parlour, and
Fat Ox.
BITTER & TWISTED
COCKTAIL PARLOUR
The legendary Bitter & Twisted is not
your average cocktail haunt. This year
alone, Tales of the Cocktail – which are
the awards that honor the world’s top
bars, bartenders, spirit and beverage
writers, and cocktail experts – named
the bar among the top “High Volume
Cocktail Bars in the United States” and
its menu as one of the “Top 10 Best
Cocktail Menus in the World.” They also
just released their newest mixology menu
featuring 32 pages of often-cheeky craft
cocktail creations. While the previous
offerings were focused on fairy tales, this
menu took inspiration from the darker,
more sinister sides to those stories.
www.bitterandtwistedaz.com.
HONOR AMONGST
THIEVES
Accessible through a “secret” door at
Stock & Stable or a separate entrance
upstairs behind the 7th Street restaurant,
Honor Amongst Thieves tempts with
a sultry, speakeasy vibe complete with
dim lights, wood accents and plush
booths lining the space. The drink menu
itself, which often has new additions, is
accessible to cocktail novices as well as
seasoned sippers and is divided into four
main categories: Single Cube, Served
Up, Served on the Rocks, and Crushed
Ice. On its menu, note it says, “We have
secret neat stuff” at the bottom. Ask
about it to uncover (and sample) their
coveted collection of wines and spirits.
www.honoraz.com.
FAT OX
This restaurant created by locally loved
chef Matt Carter is quickly becoming
as known for its hand-curated, seasonal
cocktails as it is for its regional Italian
cuisine. A chief reason: They barrel-age
their spirits in-house. The aging process,
a minimum of six weeks inside charred
oak barrels, has an especially profound
impact on their vermouth, bourbon and
whiskey, bringing out complexities and
subtle flavors over time. These spirits are
expertly used in many of the cocktails,
each of which has an Italian influence.
Cocktails range from $12 to $17, but
imbibers in the know visit during apertivo
time (aka happy hour) from 4:30 to 6:30
p.m. daily for specially priced beer, wine
and cocktails. www.ilovefatox.com.
Uptown December '18 49

Top CHEFS
PHOTO BY DEBBY WOLVOS
LEFT TO RIGHT: Executive chef Sara Garrant of Bourbon Steak at the
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess and chef Gio Osso of Virtu Honest Craft.
PHOTO BY DEBBY WOLVOS
SARA GARRANT
Sara Garrant serves as the executive chef
of Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak at the
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, providing
fine cuts of beef, poultry and fish, all slowpoached
in butter and grilled over mesquite
wood. A native of Alaska, she grew
up cooking fresh salmon brought in daily
by local fishermen, then honed her talents
at Le Cordon Bleu in Ottawa, Ontario,
before training at the award-winning Noca
in Phoenix. She began working with the
Mina Group in 2013, eventually moving to
Miami Beach to join his acclaimed Michael
Mina 74 at Fontainebleau in 2015 before
making her way back to Bourbon Steak in
2017. www.scottsdaleprincess.com.
GIO OSSO
When Gio Osso opened Virtu Honest
Craft in 2013, Esquire magazine named
it among the best new restaurants in
the U.S. By 2014, the James Beard
Foundation had similarly nominated it as
among the best new restaurants in the
country. Osso earned his cooking stripes
on the East Coast before coming to the
Valley in 2002, notably working with HMS
Host to bring some of Arizona’s best
restaurants to Sky Harbor Airport before
opening Virtu. Osso’s vision is to transform
his progressive, Mediterranean-inspired
cuisine into – as he says himself – a
beautifully composed symphony of sights,
scents and tastes. And he is succeeding
over and over again with his artfully crafted
dishes. www.virtuscottsdale.com.
CORY OPPOLD
Growing up on a dairy farm in the
Midwest, Cory Oppold lived the farm-totable
life quite literally. Though he initially
moved to Phoenix after high school to
pursue a career in architecture, after a few
fine dining experiences he was inspired
to instead study the culinary arts. Oppold
was named executive chef of Atlas Bistro
in 2014, where he not only dreams up a
seasonal menu based on the concept that
“food is art,” but a multicourse one that
has a strong focus on vegetables. In fact,
though he cooks up innovative takes on
fine meats and seafood, veggies are often
the colorful stars of Oppold’s visually stunning
plates. www.atlasbistrobyob.com.
50 Uptown December '18

SANTAN BREWING
COMPANY
More than 10 years ago, SanTan Brewing
Company opened its doors in Chandler’s
historic downtown district, just in time for
the recession to ravage Arizona. Yet not only
did the brewery survive, it thrived, driving the
Arizona beer industry forward. This summer,
SanTan opened a 7,000-square-foot location
in Uptown featuring flagship menu items, a
massive patio, and, of course, beer. Among
the brews are the hugely popular Devil’s
Ale, HopShock IPA, Gordo Stout and Mr.
Pineapple, as well as seasonal offerings
including Sex Panther (available now
through January) and Oktoberfest Lager.
www.santanbrewing.com.
HUSS BREWING CO.
Founded in Tempe in 2013 by a husbandand-wife
team (Jeff and Leah Huss), Huss
Brewing Co. opened a taproom in Uptown
in 2017. It offers both Huss and Papago
beers (they acquired fellow local brewery
Papago in 2016), including Scottsdale
Blonde and Orange Blossom, two of the
most popular craft beers ever sold in
Arizona. Thanks to Leah, who is a culinary
school alum, the small bites menu stands
up to the beers, and they also give the
option to order heavier items from nearby
restaurants including Lou Malnati’s and
Shake Shack. www.hussbrewing.com.
Hoppin’ BREWERIES
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: SanTan Brewing Company, Huss Brewing Co.,
and McFate Brewing Co.
MCFATE BREWING CO.
McFate, which has two locations – the
actual brewery in South Scottsdale and the
original Tap + Barrel in North Scottsdale –
is the result of one man getting sick of suits
and ties. In 2010, owner Steve McFate left
his job in corporate America and headed to
Denver to study craft brewing. By 2012, he
made his way back to the Valley to focus
on small-batch beers and opened his namesake
concept. This time of year, don’t miss
his seasonal Candy Bar Milk Stout. It’s the
closest thing to a “dessert beer” perhaps
ever produced, and it’s brewed with cacao
nibs, vanilla bean, roasted peanuts and sea
salt. www.mcfatebrewing.com.
Uptown December '18 51

SNOOZE
Snooze serves up eclectic twists on
American breakfast classics, including
everything from breakfast potpies and
corned beef hash to quinoa porridge and
breakfast tacos. The “Art of Hollandaise”
section of the menu, offering six types
of Benedicts or the option to mix and
match two Benedict flavors, is a homerun.
Similarly spectacular is the “Sweet Utopia”
section with 10-plus pancake and French
toast flavors as well as a pancake flight.
The cocktail menu has over 20 cocktails,
including twists on mimosas, bloody marys,
and coffee plus local and regional beer
selections. www.snoozeeatery.com.
MORNING Indulgences
TOP TO BOTTOM: Breakfast potpie at Snooze and cajeta flapjacks at Otro Cafe.
OTRO CAFE
Tucked into a nondescript strip mall on 7th
Street, Otro Cafe is truly one of Phoenix’s
hidden culinary gems. It’s owned by chef
Doug Robson, who also founded the hip
Gallo Blanco in Downtown Phoenix. Born
in Mexico to parents of French, Vietnamese
and English descent, he explores bright
flavors from across the globe, especially
Mexico. Tamales and chilaquiles are offered
in several styles, and there are at least half
a dozen dishes with spicy chorizo. Frequent
diners know to always order the fluffy flapjacks
– they make a great shareable side
or even dessert. Their brunch is so popular,
they actually offer it daily until 4 p.m. to
keep up with demand. www.otrocafe.com.
RICHARDSON’S
For 30 years, Richardson’s has brought the
flavors of New Mexico to the Valley, especially
at brunch. Offered daily, Richardson’s
brunch is tailor-made for spice lovers with
its jalapeno hollandaise and both red and
green chile sauces offered with nearly every
dish. The carne adovada and eggs and the
carne adovada Benedict, both riffs on their
ultra-popular carne adovada dinner entree,
have the some of the most tender, flavorful
pork you’ve ever tasted. Oh, and every day
until 6 p.m., mimosas are just $6 each.
A final wow: The Southwestern-inspired
covered patio added in recent years makes
for a beautiful backdrop at breakfast … or
otherwise. www.richardsonsnm.com.
52 Uptown December '18

Reimagined RESTAURANTS
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The bar at La Hacienda by
Richard Sandoval, steamed clams at Bar Pesce, and the
interior of The Macintosh.
LA HACIENDA BY
RICHARD SANDOVAL
La Hacienda by Richard Sandoval at the
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess unveiled an
impressive multimillion-dollar facelift, not
to mention a new cocktail program and
dinner menu, in September. The update
includes an expanded bar and lounge,
the addition of both indoor and outdoor
lounge seating featuring fixtures directly
from Mexico, a new tequila display, and
an artistic agave wall. To help develop
new features on the menu, executive chef
Forest Hamrick and Sandoval traveled
to the hottest restaurants across Mexico
over the past year and brought back
some inspired recipes. The cocktails,
which include 21 new options plus extensive
tequila-tasting flights, are similarly
spectacular. www.scottsdaleprincess.com.
BAR PESCE
In October, chef and restaurateur Cullen
Campbell transformed his award-winning
Crudo into Bar Pesce. Visually, the re-envisioned
restaurant includes contemporary
lighting and striking, gold-hued wallpaper,
and the addition of a partition wall to add
variation to the main dining room. There
is also now an on-site wine cellar and
a menu of 10 all-new creatively crafted
cocktails. Of course, the most sweeping
changes are to the menu, which now
combines the twists on modern Italian
cuisine that Crudo was famous for, plus
exciting new dishes inspired by Japan,
Vietnam and South America. Don't miss
the fan-favorite crispy pig ears, the crab
mi roll with lobster roe aioli, or the squid
ink risotto with crab, chilies and uni (yes,
sea urchin). www.barpesce.com.
THE MACINTOSH
As of October, The Macintosh replaced
Grassroots Kitchen & Tap in Phoenix’s
Town & Country shopping center at 20th
Street and Camelback Road. Originally
opened in 2014, the initial restaurant was
a spinoff of Common Ground Culinary’s
Grassroots concept in Scottsdale, which
continues to operate. The new venue
pairs bold, brassy and energetic decor
with a hearty yet approachable menu of
modern comfort classics with distinct
Southern influences — and nothing is over
$24. The central bar was redesigned to
feature soaring library shelves brimming
with more than 30 different whiskeys;
20-plus domestic beers; and a smaller,
more refined domestic wine program,
accented with cocktails barrel-aged
in-house. www.themacintoshaz.com.
Uptown December '18 53

LEFT TO RIGHT: The exterior of Roland's
Cafe Market Bar and the fish tacos at Blue
Clover Distillery.
Rookies OF THE YEAR
PARMA ITALIAN ROOTS
Only open since September, Parma is
already making waves across Arizona’s
culinary community. Helmed by 28-yearold
chef Chris Gentile, Parma offers
ultra-flavorful, West Coast-influenced
Italian cuisine among a comfortable yet
chic ambiance. Think elevated pizza, daily
handmade pasta, and charcuterie as well
as hearty main courses with rich sauces
and savory sides. The drink menu has
an Italian vibe as well, with eight crafted
cocktails for $12 each, as well as beers
and wines, some imported directly from
Italy. The restaurant has been on such a
roll, it extended its hours and is now open
for lunch daily and brunch on the weekends
in addition to dinner nightly. Two
musts? The fresh-baked bread and the
gnocchi. www.parmaitalianaz.com.
ROLAND’S CAFE
MARKET BAR
In April, Arizona culinary icon Chris
Bianco partnered with Nadia Holguin and
Armando Hernandez of Tacos Chiwas
fame to open Roland’s, which is housed in
a 101-year-old historic building oozing with
character. Inspired by ingredients used
in northern Mexico – especially from the
state of Chihuahua – and the “simple is
best” mantra Bianco has lived by his entire
career, the menu is basic, but the flavors
are anything but. You’ll find a steak sandwich
that resembles a torta but made with
bread by Pane Bianco, enchiladas, and a
selection of desserts including scrumptious
ice cream cookie sandwiches. Roland’s
offers all-day dining; a coffee bar; a bar
featuring craft cocktails, beer and wine;
and to-go options like takeout burritos.
www.rolandsphx.com.
BLUE CLOVER DISTILLERY
Blue Clover opened in February and
launched its first run of housemade
vodka in March, with plans to expand
to other spirits in 2019. Guests who
visit can watch the distillation process
firsthand thanks to a floor-to-ceiling wall,
all the while being treated to American
and New Mexico-inspired dishes and
drinks. Food options include a green
chile cheeseburger, chorizo poutine, fish
tacos, and the Southwest-infused house
flatbread, which uses jalapenos, cilantro
and green chile crema for a spicy finish.
The bar itself, which boasts Blue Clover’s
own spirits plus a full cocktail, beer and
wine list, has a very industrial feel and an
inside-outside concept with retractable
garage doors and a massive, buzzy patio.
www.bluecloverdistillery.com.
54 Uptown December '18

STEAK 44
Restaurants developed by the Mastro
family always cause a scene. But the scene
at Steak 44 — even four years after its
acclaimed opening — is something out of
a movie. Both the bar and dining room are
prime spots for people-watching from open
to close, and it is only getting better very
soon. In 2019, Steak 44 will complete a
million-dollar expansion to add a new dining
bar, state-of-the-art butcher shop, and
another intimate dining room. In total, the
expansion will add another 2,000 square
feet and 80 seats to keep up with demand.
www.steak44.com.
HILLSTONE
There are power lunches, and then there
are lunches at Hillstone. On any given day,
both well-heeled members of the community
and industry titans from across the
Valley gather at this upscale eatery to drink,
dine and likely make major business deals.
The open kitchen, the patio, and the massive
bar (bigger than most restaurants in
town on its own) add to the electricity buzzing
throughout the sophisticated space.
The menu is meant to impress, featuring
everything from sushi rolls to USDA prime
steak. Hillstone transforms into more of a
date night spot for dinner, but with similarly
well-to-do clientele. www.hillstone.com.
SEE & Be Seen
TOP TO BOTTOM: Sharing food at The Henry and the popular patio at Hillstone.
THE HENRY
Follow the arrow to The Henry any time of
day, quite literally – there is an arrow just
outside the door that makes the perfect
meeting spot. From morning until night, The
Henry is a place where people meet and
greet, gossip and gab, or even work. A truly
versatile concept, guests can grab coffee
to go on their way into the office, stop in for
a lunch meeting or happy hour with friends,
and then have dinner with the family. The
Henry also buzzes with a flurry of morningtime
activity during weekend brunch. It’s
the kind of place where the baristas and
bar staff know you by name, and you’re
always bound to run into a familiar face.
www.thehenryrestaurant.com.
Uptown December '18 55

Style
SHOP / FASHION / ALLURE / DWELL
BY CHELSEA YOUNG
A classic fragrance – and one that is a longtime staple for many – has been reimagined with holiday spirit. For the first time ever and
for a limited time only, Chanel No. 5 meets Coco Chanel’s favorite color. Packaged in a captivating ruby red bottle, this is a timeless
collectible for loyal Chanel wearers or any fragrance aficionado. Chanel No. 5, which debuted on May 5, 1921, remains one of the bestselling
perfumes in the world, made famous in part by Marilyn Monroe. The iconic essence was created by perfume designer Ernest Beaux
with instructions from Chanel herself to craft a symphony of smells, where each component works together as a composition. True to
her request, it became the world’s first abstract fragrance with a floral bouquet of rose, jasmine and lily enhanced by citrus notes and a
sensual base of vanilla and amber. The 3.4-ounce eau de parfum is made in France. $160 at Saks Fifth Avenue, www.saksfifthavenue.com.
Uptown December '18 57

Style
SHOP
BY NEYDA MELINA
PARTY ON
Festive essentials to celebrate the season in style
Velvet jumpsuit,
Each x Other, $950
at Lyst, www.lyst.com.
Emery scoop-back
dress, Dress the
Population, $275 at
Dillard’s, www.dillards.
com.
Sequined cropped
biker jacket, Nour
Hammour, $1,890 at
Neiman Marcus, www.
neimanmarcus.com.
Cluster drop stone
necklace, $118 at
J.Crew, www.jcrew.
com.
Rectangle crystal
clutch, Judith Leiber,
$1,895 at Saks
Fith Avenue, www.
saksfifthavenue.com.
Glitter pumps,
Gucci $1,200 at
Bloomingdale’s, www.
bloomingdales.com.
58 Uptown December '18

BY NEYDA MELINA
Style
SHOP
ALL ABOUT OUTERWEAR
Cold-weather wonders for every occasion
Reversible faux
leather/suede with
draped lapels,
BB Dakota, $95 at
Nordstrom, www.
nordstrom.com.
Embroidered
jacquard with fur
trim, Cinq a Sept
$1,295 at ModeSens,
www.modesens.com.
Mixed tartan trench,
Burberry, $2,490 at
Saks Fifth Avenue,
www.saksfifthavenue.
com.
Pink metallic puffer,
Moncler, $1,595 at
Neiman Marcus, www.
neimanmarcus.com.
Cropped leather
with knit and
shearling accents,
$2,700 at Acne
Studios, www.
acnestudios.com.
Sherpa with
toggles, $350 at
J.Crew, www.jcrew.
com.
Uptown December '18 59

VA-VA-
VINTAGE
Multicolor jumpsuit,
Futura Couture of
New York, $225.
From Fashion by
Robert Black,
480.664.7770.
BY CHELSEA YOUNG /
PHOTOS BY CLAUDIA
JOHNSTONE /
HAIR BY DEBORA
CAPALDI, PUCCI
SALON; 480.443.3030
/ MAKEUP BY LEAH
WESSEL, PUCCI
SALON; 480.443.3030
/ STYLING: STACEY
RICHMAN / MODEL:
FORD/RBA /
LOCATION: THE
NORMAN LYKES
HOUSE, DESIGNED
BY FRANK LLOYD
WRIGHT. LISTED
WITH THE AGENCY;
602.690.2188 (JACK
LUCIANO) OR
480.5601744 (RAUL
SIQUEIROS); WWW.
THEAGENCYRE.COM
60 Uptown December '18

Mint green dress, Lillie
Rubin, $225. From
Fashion by Robert
Black, 480.664.7770.
Uptown December '18 61

Velvet paisley dress,
Donald Brooks,
$475. From Fashion
by Robert Black,
480.664.7770.
Metallic sequin
dress with matching
overcoat, Les Wilk,
$750. From Fashion
by Robert Black,
480.664.7770.
62 Uptown December '18

Silver tinsel minidress,
Young Edwardian,
$175. From Fashion
by Robert Black,
480.664.7770.
Uptown December '18 63

64 Uptown December '18
Mustard dress with
oversized sleeves,
Jr. Theme New York,
$175. From Fashion
by Robert Black,
480.664.7770.

Black fringe dress,
Ferman O’Grady,
$225. From Fashion
by Robert Black,
480.664.7770.
Cream fringe dress,
Lilli Diamond, $275.
From Fashion by
Robert Black,
480.664.7770.
Uptown December '18 65

Style
ALLURE
BY JALIA PETTIS
TINY TREASURES
’Tis the season for splendid stocking stuffers
Mini three-piece
eye set, Laura
Mercier, $35 at
Macy’s, www.macys.
com.
Lip stain and
gloss kit, $49 at
Jane Iredale, www.
janeiredale.com.
Cloudberry and
lychee blossom
bath bombs, Being
by Sanctuary Spa,
$15 at Ulta, www.ulta.
com.
Hand and cuticle
cream set,
Philosophy, $28 at
Beauty Bridge, www.
beautybridge.com.
Blender, cleanser
and storage kit,
Beauty Blender, $40
at Beauty Bridge,
www.beautybridge.
com.
Men’s Age
Defender grooming
set, Kiehl’s, $68 at
Nordstrom, www.
nordstrom.com.
66 Uptown December '18

BY NEYDA MELINA
Style
DWELL
GLAM SLAM
Give your space the gift of glitz
Framed handcrafted
artwork with gold
leaf, RFA Fine Art,
$1,540 at Neiman
Marcus, www.
neimanmarcus.com.
Mirrored dining
table, John-Richard
Collection, $5,329 at
Neiman Marcus.
Faux fur pillow,
Ugg, $65 at Dillard’s,
www.dillards.com.
Wood and brass
credenza, $6,500 at
Jonathan Adler, www.
jonathanadler.com.
Four-tier cookie
stand, Anthropologie,
$158 at Nordstrom,
www.nordstrom.com.
Purple crescentshaped
sofa, $3,940
at Mitchell Gold +
Bob Williams, www.
mgbwhome.com.
Uptown December '18 67

Luxe
HAUTE PROPERTY / PLACES / WHEELS / WANT
BY CHELSEA YOUNG
There’s nothing like the scent of freshly brewed coffee to wake you up. The Barisiuer Coffee & Tea Alarm Clock, created by British
industrial designer Joshua Renouf, does just that – and you won’t even have to leave the comfort of your bed to take your first sip.
Encouraging the experience of a nostalgic morning ritual, the innovative clock brews steaming cups of coffee or tea while gently waking
you. The striking piece features borosilicate glassware and a Scandinavian-inspired white and rubberwood finish with sophisticated
technology, including an induction coil that boils water in just four minutes and a centralized milk vessel that keeps creamer chilled. A
retro digital display, which dims in low light, shows the time and lets you set both brewing and alarm schedules. Coffee or tea can be
stored in a sealed drawer that also holds an included stainless-steel spoon. $445 at Nordstrom, www.nordstrom.com.
Uptown December '18 69

Luxe
HAUTE PROPERTY
SPOTLIGHT:
ARCADIA
SOPHISTICATION
BY GABBY LEIGHTON
This five-bedroom, 5 1/2-bathroom
home is located in the heard of the Arcadia
neighborhood. The custom-built estate was
originally constructed in 2015 by Santorini
Homes and later renovated by Vista
General. The two-story property is impressive
from first glance with clean lines, manicured
greens and meticulous attention to
detail, from the brick accents to the careful
placing of the window awnings. The home,
which has a three-car garage, also boasts a
fire pit on the front patio.
The sophistication continues inside the
almost-7,000-square-foot space with custom
millwork and wide-planked, white oak
floors. Throughout you’ll find wainscoting,
subtle, stylish wallpaper, fashionable lighting
fixtures and accents to make each room
a unique showpiece.
The great room is bright and airy with
built-in shelving around a custom French
limestone fireplace. The white and gray
entertainer’s kitchen is equipped with Sub
Zero/Wolf appliances, hand-crafted stone
and tile, and ample storage. There are two
different dining areas – one for more casual
meals and the other for formal affairs.
The master suite, which also has a
fireplace, is spacious with a second-story
patio. The en suite is dramatic, with a
shower as its centerpiece. Double sinks
and a built-in storage cabinet occupy the
rest of the space.
The remaining bedrooms and bathrooms
in the dwelling follow suit, with
unique wall colors and patterns, wainscoting
and the same clean vibe found
throughout. The spacious laundry room is
as chic as the rest of the house, with ample
storage, a farmhouse-style sink and a mudroom
area right outside the door.
The exterior, delivering Camelback
Mountain views, boasts a spacious
713-square-foot newly built pool house
with a kitchen and living room area. There
is also a rectangular pool and spa, built-in
barbecue, and extensive covered patio.
4615 N. Royal Palm Circle, Phoenix,
AZ 85018. Listed for $3,995,000 with
Rebecca Clayton and Lara Broadrick
of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International
realty; 602.799.8229 and 602.628.7332
respectively; Rebecca.Clayton@russlyon.
com and Lara.Broadrick@russlyon.com.
70 Uptown December '18

Luxe
WHEELS
2019 BMW X2
Introducing the German automaker’s newest luxury subcompact crossover
BY JIM PRUETER
The newest auto in BMW’s lengthy lineup
of luxury crossovers is the compact X2. It’s
essentially a sportier, funkier, sleeker, and slightly
less roomy version of Beemer’s X1 subcompact
crossover.
Joining the wildly popular entry-level luxury
crossover segment, the X2 offers the versatility of a
hatchback with available all-wheel drive, an impressive-looking
cabin, and performance that results
in a near-perfect vehicle to satisfy even the most
inflated car ownership expectations.
In the interest of a fully immersive “Ultimate
Driving Machine” experience, the X2 is powered
by a 2.0-liter, turbo inline, four-cylinder engine with
228 horsepower connected to an eight-speed
automatic transmission. That combination delivers
an impressive response with a satisfying sonorous
– even a bit raunchy – engine sound. The truth is,
you can quickly wind the engine to redline, reaching
60 mph in just 6.3 seconds.
There are two models: the all-wheel drive
xDrive28i (tested here) and the front-wheel drive
sDrive28i. Exterior features include eye-catching
alloy wheels, LED rear lights and headlights, and
inverted kidney grilles.
The interior is definitely small, especially in the
rear seat, where legroom is nearly nonexistent if
the driver is on the tall side. Cargo space is even
tighter than it is in the more upright X1 sibling. The
sloping roofline presents an attractive and sporty
exterior design but results in small side windows.
The window on the rear liftgate is tiny and severely
compromises rearward visibility. While drivers
would surely welcome a blind spot warning system
and rear cross-traffic alert, surprisingly, these features
aren’t available.
Most operating controls are handled via
buttons and knobs on the center stack, with some
redundant controls on the steering wheel. BMW’s
touch-screen iDrive infotainment and navigation
system is user-friendly.
Regarding the ride, it’s on the stiff side and
may be too firm for some. Road noise is more
than evident on rough road surfaces, and there is
noticeable wind noise at highway speeds.
Even with its shortcomings, the X2 is stylish,
fun and easy to drive, and it comes with the cachet
of the large BMW logos on the front, sides and
rear of the car that stoke owners’ devotion and
ardor.
VITAL STATS
Base price: $38,400
Price as tested:
$50,920
Engine: 2.0-L turbo
inline four-cylinder
Horsepower: 228
Fuel economy:
21/31 mpg city/
highway
Seating: 5
Fab features:
Easy to use tech
features
Nimble, confident
handling
Upscale interior
Uptown December '18 71

THE COLLINS SMALL BATCH KITCHEN
3160 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix
www.thecollinsaz.com
L’AMORE ITALIAN RESTAURANT
3159 E. Lincoln Drive, Phoenix
www.lamoreitalianrestaurant.com
THE MACINTOSH
2119 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix
www.themacintoshaz.com
Christopher Collins, chef/owner of the Valley-based Common
Ground Culinary, has reconceptualized both of his Phoenix restaurants
to integrate each into the culture of their respective neighborhoods.
The Collins Small Batch Kitchen has replaced the former
Twisted Grove Parlor + Bar and the former Grassroots Kitchen &
Tap is now The Macintosh.
At The Collins Small Batch Kitchen, they will feature a compact
menu that incorporates favorites dishes from all across Common
Ground Culinary restaurants with the addition of a rotating menu of
4 to 8 specials daily that are limited in quantity. This way, they focus
on whatever is fresh and in season. They are open 7 days a week,
Monday-Wednesday, 11am-9pm, Thursday-Friday, 11am-10pm,
Saturday 10am-10pm, Sunday, 10am-9pm. And join them on the
weekend for can’t-miss brunch and a daily Social Hour.
The Macintosh is a bold and energetic concept with a hearty
yet approachable menu of modernized comfort food. Their dining
room boasts a 21-foot, 22-seat community table perfect for hosting
beer- or whisky-paired dinners. Although The Macintosh has kept
Grassroots staples like the shrimp grits and braised short rib on
their menu, they have also added new items like mason jar burrata
and fried green tomato po’boy and slow smoked beef ribs to the list.
Happy Hour is Monday through Friday from 2 to 6 p.m. and a fantastic
brunch menu is served every Saturday and Sunday.
L’Amore Restaurant is a family owned and operated neighborhood
Italian restaurant located in the heart of Phoenix. They
offer fine Italian dining with a warm family atmosphere. Their
wide-ranging menu boasts one of the best cioppino in town.
They fresh make their soups from scrotch in house as well as
their handmade pastas. The aroma from the fresh baked bread is
captivating and are a great accompaniment to sop up the sauces
from the linguini with clams or hearty spaghetti Bolognese.
Classic entrees like veal saltimbuca and chicken marsala are a
reliable dinner choice or choose from the ever changing daily
fresh fish entrée or homemade ravioli that evening. They also have
a wine list that would pair nicely with any dish on the menu and
complement any palate.
In addition, L’Amore is a lovely venue for a romantic and
intimate evening out. There is live soft music on Thursday through
Saturday nights by local musician Jimmy. Guests can enjoy entertainment
in the beautiful tree lined patio over looking the Phoenix
Mountain Preserves. If you’re thinking of a holiday party set up
an appointment to speak to them about catering. They are open
for lunch Monday through Friday starting at 11 a.m. and dinner
nightly and Saturday at 5 p.m. and closed on Sunday. Cocktail
hour is Mondary through Friday from 4:00 to 6 p.m.

Taste
DRINK / CHEERS / CUISINE / FOOD FILES / DINING GUIDE
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY JENELLE BONIFIELD
In Latin, Greco de Maris translates to “Greek of the Sea.” At Original Gravity, Greco de Maris ($18) translates to “mouth-wateringly
delicious.” A new Mediterranean-inspired dish on the menu, chef Derek Upton starts by seasoning salmon and cooking it in skillet with
locally sourced herbs, garlic, thyme and olive oil. Once up to temperature, he adds a white miso honey glaze he’s made with
Twisted Infusion Farms local honey to the top and brulees it to order. The sweet and savory salmon is then placed on top of a bed
of sauteed garlic, crispy chickpeas, oregano and sage that have been drizzled with tangy tzatziki made with Greek yogurt, Persian
cucumbers and Meyer lemons. It’s garnished with herbs, pea tendrils and radishes for added texture. Original Gravity,
4700 N. 12th St., Phoenix; 602.583.7628; www.ogphx.com.
Uptown December '18 73

Taste DRINK BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
SWANKY SIPPERS
Seasonal spirits that double as pretty presents
Seeking something special to gift this holiday season? Here
are some of our favorite high-end, limited-edition, and/or newly
released brands and bottles to give (and maybe get for yourself) to
make this festive time of year a little brighter and much merrier.
Hennessy X.O Festive Pack
The Original X.O Cognac, created exclusively for the Hennessy
family, is aged up to 30 years, which provides a rich, refined yet
still powerful tasting experience. This limited-edition set contains a
bottle of Hennessy X.O and two Thomas Bastide glasses. $190.
www.hennessy.com.
2013 J. Bookwalter Chapter 6
The Bookwalter family has been making wine for 12 generations
from its vineyards in Richland, Washington. Each of the winery’s
award-winning vintages is named for parts in a story – their family
story. Chapter 6 is their most powerful cabernet, drawing you in
with the flavors of black fruits, jam and fine oak. Chapter 6 is sixth
in the line of these popular vintages, which began with Chapter 1
in 2002. $100. www.bookwalterwines.com.
Belvedere X Láolú Limited Edition
Artist Láolú Senbanjo, who is best known for his collaboration with
Beyoncé on the record-breaking video album Lemonade, partnered
with Belvedere on this special-edition offering. The unique pattern
is Senbanjo’s interpretation of the beauty, nuance and complexity
of the liquid within the bottle. $30. www.belvederevodka.com.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Artist Series
For its Chateau Ste. Michelle Artist Series wines, winemaker
Bob Bertheau crafts exceptional Bordeaux-style blends of unique
power and character. Each vintage’s label honors world-class
artisans such as Dale Chihuly, Alden Mason and Andre Petterson.
The 2015 vintage produced incredibly ripe, rich and concentrated
red wines contrasted with sophisticated layers and complexity.
$65. www.ste-michelle.com.
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Port Ellen
Johnnie Walker master blender Dr. Jim Beveridge created this
series of special releases. The newest release is Johnnie Walker
Blue Label Ghost and Rare Port Ellen, which brings together eight
treasured whiskies of no less than 20 years of age. At its heart is
Port Ellen, which closed in 1983 and is one of Scotland’s most
sought-after malts. $399. www.johnniewalker.com.
74 Uptown December '18

21 Grams
The 21 Grams brand is an artistic collaboration between Waters
Winery in Washington and artist Makoto Fujimura to reflect the
inspiration of the soul in creating fine wine and fine art. Only 100
cases of these wines are made each year, with the 2012 cabernet
sauvignon available now. The label changes with each vintage
and showcases Fujimura’s modern abstract art using the ancient
Japanese technique of Nihonga. The winery donates proceeds
from each bottle sale to the International Arts Movement, a nonprofit
created by Fujimura. $125. www.trwines.com.
2015 Chalk Hill W.P. Foley II Cabernet Sauvignon
Named for the Chalk Hill Estate proprietor William P. Foley and
only available since mid-November, this deep, intense showstopper
is made with the best barrels from the vineyard’s highest-rated
cabernet sauvignon, malbec, and petit verdot blocks. It was made
by Foley himself to capture the heart and soul of his stunning
property and of Sonoma itself. $160 www.chalkhill.com.
Game of Thrones Single Malt Collection
In anticipation of the hit HBO show’s final season, Diageo
has launched a Game of Thrones Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Collection. Popular single malts, such as Oban and Lagavulin, will
take on new names for one of the main families – or houses – in
the series, including House Stark, House Lannister and House
Targaryen. There is also one in honor of the series’ famed Night’s
Watch, which has served as its own “house” of sorts since the
show’s inception $30-$75. www.diageo.com.
J Vineyards Sparkling Essentials
Since 1986, J Vineyards & Winery has developed a reputation
as one of the top sparkling and varietal wine producers in the
United States. Each year, the winery offers the chance to purchase
a “Sparkling Essentials” pack featuring three of their sleek,
award-winning bubbles: Cuvée, Brut Rosé, and the 2014 Vintage
Blanc de Noirs. $165. www.jwine.com.
Camus Borderies XO
Produced in limited quantities, Camus Borderies XO offers a rare,
exquisite tasting experience. Amazingly aromatic, the bottle was
designed to look much like that of perfume. The center label is
made from copper as a nod to the copper stills used to create the
cognac, and the stopper is crafted from wood to reflect the oak
casks where the cognac is aged. $199. www.camus.fr.
Coppola Storytellers
There are six wines in this collection, each revealing stories that
have influenced Francis Ford Coppola and his family throughout
many generations. For example, I Mille, which means “in each
thousand” in Italian and is a petite sirah in honor of Coppola’s
great-grandfather Francesco Pennino who, with 999 other men,
undertook a dangerous sea expedition that led to the unification of
Sicily. $25-$120. www.francisfordcoppolawinery.com.
Uptown December '18 75

Taste
FOOD FILES
SOUTHERN COMFORT
Dig into indulgent, down-home dishes
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
Crispy Hot Fried Chicken Sliders
PNPK Craft Sliders + Wine Bar
As the Texas-born owner’s favorite menu item,
you know this Southern take on a slider is a
must. The breading is much like Nashville hot
chicken, made with cayenne pepper, brown
sugar, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, and
salt. Once fried, the chicken is sandwiched
between a traditional or gluten-free bun – or
lettuce wrap – and is topped with a dill pickle,
coleslaw and spicy aioli. Two for $11, four for
$20, or six for $29. www.pnpkaz.com.
Shrimp, Sausage & Super
Creamy Local Grits
Beckett’s Table
Indulgent yet gluten-free, this entree features
grits topped with spicy shrimp, hearty sausage,
smoked onions, oven-dried tomatoes, braised
greens, and a mustard-tomato jus. There is also
an appetizer version with all the same goodness,
just half the size. $25 (or $13 for the
appetizer). www.beckettstable.com.
There’s home cooking, and then there’s Southern home cooking. Bursting
with butter, cream and carbs, Southern dishes are some of the most flavorful
and fabulous around. And thanks to many local chefs, tasting true soul food
classics is easier than ever. Here are some of the most delicious dishes
reflecting the comforts that only the South can provide.
Crispy Chicken Biscuit
The Macintosh
These may sound simple, but they’re so amazingly
good that they sell out every night. The
kitchen bakes its own Southern-inspired
biscuits for this dish daily, which are married
with a crispy piece of mouthwatering fried
chicken and then topped with mustard-honey
sauce and local pickles. They serve a little extra
sauce on the side for those who like to dip, too.
$5. www.themacintoshaz.com.
Fried Green Tomatoes
Southern Rail
While there are plenty of crave-worthy Southern
options at this Central Phoenix hot spot, the
fried green tomatoes really shine. The tomatoes,
grown locally at Abby Lee Farms, are marinated
in pickling liquid and then breaded with panko
breadcrumbs, cornmeal and Cajun seasoning
before being fried to order. They’re served with
a creamy housemade pimento cheese. $11.
www.southernrailaz.com.
Blue Crab Hushpuppies
High & Rye
Like Southern Rail, High & Rye specializes in all
things Southern, creamy, spicy and spectacular.
For something off the beaten path, try the blue
crab hushpuppies, which are corn fritters made
with lump blue crab meat and served with a
zesty Creole aioli and house-pickled peppers.
$13.50. www.highandryeaz.com.
76 Uptown December '18

Chicken Pot Pie
Pig & Pickle
This artistic, modern twist on a savory favorite
is an intoxicatingly flavorful blend of crispy
fried chicken, vegetables and potatoes smothered
in rich, creamy gravy – much like the filling
that makes up a traditional potpie. Rather than
being served in a pastry shell, this version is
topped with crisp, flaky, golden sheets of puff
pastry. $23. www.pigandpickle.com.
Hoe Cakes
The Larder + The Delta
Hoe cakes are a Southern take on cornbread
that get their name from being cooked on an
iron pan called a hoe. These are amped up in a
big way with king trumpet mushrooms, salami,
corn, cured egg yolks, and a striking black
garlic jus. $11. www.thelarderandthedelta.com.
Ribs
Texaz Grill
This homestyle steakhouse features two varieties
of ribs: beef back ribs on Tuesday night and
pork spareribs on Sunday night. Both are slowsmoked
over pecan wood and slathered with
homemade barbecue sauce. The ribs are paired
with a pickle spear, sliced onion, a salad, choice
of potatoes, and white bread to sop it all up.
Beef, $19; pork, $15. www.texazgrill.com.
Butterscotch Pecan Pie
Twisted Grove
Pecans are the obvious star here. This
award-winning pie combines butterscotch
custard filling with candied pecans in a graham
cracker crust. It’s topped with whipped cream
and more candied pecans. For the holidays,
order a whole pie until Dec. 22 at Sweet
Provisions (Twisted Grove’s sister concept
just a short walk away) for $24. A slice at the
restaurant is $8. www.twistedgrove.com.
Southern Fried Chicken
Bobby-Q
Just like Mom used to make – or, perhaps, just
like you wish Mom used to make. Two boneless
chicken breasts are breaded and fried,
then covered with creamy gravy. A heaping
portion of mashed potatoes are standard, and
we recommend the mac and cheese as your
second side. $17.50. www.bobbyq.net.
Smoked Babe on a Bun
Proof at Four Seasons Scottsdale
Slow-cooked for five hours, pork is piled high
with Carolina-style barbecue sauce, coleslaw
and red onions. It’s layered on a soft pretzel bun
with a side of housemade potato chips, more
coleslaw, or mixed greens. You can also sub the
side for hand-cut fries or sweet onion rings for
$2 more. $18. www.proofcanteen.com.
No. 3: Lo-Lo’s
Lo-Lo’s Chicken & Waffles
Founder Larry “Lo-Lo” White has been
perfecting scratch-made soul food for more
than a decade. He’s even developed his own
waffle mix, seasoning salt, maple syrup, and hot
sauce. Opt for a classic: option No. 3 on their
“Hood Classics” menu, which is three pieces of
Southern-style chicken served with two golden
waffles. $15. www.loloschickenandwaffles.com.
Catfish Po’ Boy
Switch
Mississippi and Alabama produce the most
catfish in the United States. It’s no surprise,
then, that it’s a regional favorite, especially
blackened or crusted with cornmeal and fried.
At Switch, you can get your catfish po’ boy
either way topped with housemade tartar
sauce, lettuce and tomato. It’s served on a soft
white roll. $13. www.switchofarizona.com.
Uptown December '18 77

Taste
CHEERS
BERRY GOOD BERRY WHITE
Across the Pond’s signature sipper is both pretty and powerful
Newly opened in October, Across the
Pond is a 35-seat bar from the team behind
Clever Koi. The cheeky, modern locale
is located just across the walkway – or
“pond” – from Clever Koi, in fact. Across
the Pond offers traditional Japanese sushi,
imported Japanese whiskies, beer, wine
and a menu of 10 ever-changing craft cocktails
as well as 10 classic cocktails from
Clever Koi.
And while all worth a taste, Across the
Pond’s Berry White ($12) is a can’t-miss
offering.
“It starts with Momokawa Nigori Sake,
unfiltered sake from Oregon that was the
first ever to be certified organic. It boasts
a rich, creamy taste with distinct tropical
and citrus notes,” says Joshua James, both
the co-founder of Across the Pond and the
reigning Arizona Cocktail Weekend Last
Slinger Standing bartending champion.
He then adds Giffard Orgeat,
almond-flavored syrup, for some sweetness.
“Next is the Jelinek Amaro, an aperitif
from the Czech Republic that has a hefty
dose of bitterness,” James says. “But here
is the kicker: we sous vide the Amaro with
raspberries, blueberries and blackberries,
adding balance and depth without artificial
sweetness.”
Finally, James adds lime and yuzu
juices – both enhancing the tropical notes
of the sake – and shakes then strains the
mixture into a footed goblet with crushed
ice, garnishing with mint and a dehydrated
lime.
“It’s almost like a Tiki cocktail in that
it is spirit-forward and meant to dilute as
the ice melts,” James explains. “By the time
you’re done, you’ve got bright tropical and
berry coming through, making you want
number two.”
Across the Pond, located at 4236
N. Central Ave., Phoenix; 602.296.5629;
www.acrossthepondphx.com.
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY JENELLE BONIFIELD
78 Uptown December '18

Taste
CUISINE
CHEF CONVERSATIONS
In the kitchen with Matthew Taylor, executive chef of Mora Italian
A native of Calgary, Alberta, Matthew Taylor moved to Arizona during high school and started his culinary career at the young age of
15. Since then, he has worked alongside nationally recognized chefs in top restaurants around the Valley and country. Taylor has always
found his way back to his adopted home of Phoenix and is now the executive chef of Mora Italian.
BY GABBY LEIGHTON / PHOTO BY MARK MORGAN
When did you know you wanted to be
a chef? My fascination with the kitchen began
when I was working as a dishwasher, but my
passion was ignited while attending the EVIT
culinary program here in Mesa. I owe a lot to
chef Michael Turcotte and the other instructors
there for realizing my potential as cook and
turning a love of food into a viable career path.
What about the Arizona food scene has
kept you coming back? Honestly, the people.
I have found and kept so many lifelong relationships
(including meeting my wife Melissa)
from being a part of restaurants here.
To you, food is: Sharing and giving. A
selfless experience that crosses borders and
cultures, and a catalyst for memories you might
not have otherwise.
If you weren’t a chef, you’d probably
be… A marine biologist or archeologist. I have
always been fascinated with work related to
evolutionary studies, and the opportunity to
spend a lot of time outdoors and have nature
as part of my office.
When you’re not cooking, where would
we find you? Outdoors or spending time in
small town Arizona. We love our getaways up
to Jerome, Prescott and down to Bisbee, or on
the ocean whenever possible.
What food is your guilty pleasure? Ice
cream and pecan pie. I’ve been known to put a
whole pie down in one evening only to pay the
sugar coma price tag later, but it’s worth it.
Favorite food memory: A meal when I
dined solo at Cochon while working in New
Orleans. It was 2006, the restaurant had
recently opened, and the city was slowly
coming back to life after [Hurricane] Katrina.
Despite all the devastation there was a definite
energy of hope and celebration in the air. That
meal and restaurant at that time seemed to
be a culinary precursor to all the wonderfully
prideful cooking that was to come as everyone
rebuilt.
Favorite food to cook: I really enjoy making
pâtes and terrines. I have a soft spot for classic
and often laborious preparations.
5651 N. 7th St., Phoenix; 602.795.9943;
www.moraitalian.com.
Uptown December '18 79

Seen
EVENTS
OLD BAGS LUNCHEON
Homeward Bound’s annual fundraiser, held at the Arizona Biltmore, featured
an auction of hundreds of designer handbags and a luncheon, with proceeds
benefiting the organization’s mission.
BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY
Candy Somers and Carole Downs
Robin Macy
Crystal Chestnut
Mara Schantz and Dina Firnstahl
Ginger Clayton
Alison Rose and Meg Perish
Britney Amato
Erin Eisel and Jennifer Eisel
Amanda Garmany and Amanda Spicola
Patty Sapp and Roseann Dunteman
80 Uptown December '18

OFF THE
RECORD
Country recording artist Russell
Dickerson performed live at this
exclusive party, held at Earnhardt
Lexus’ show room, benefitting Phoenix
Children’s Hospital Foundation.
BY DAVID APEJI
Barry Goodrich and Kara Goodrich
Cassie Smith and Erin Regan
Mandi Cantor and Moira Hogan
Allison Gloyd and Kate Keyt
Shannon Ackley and Sheri Sender
Toast This Grand Life
happy hour
mon-fri 3-6pm
Scottsdale Waterfront 480.751.2200
OliveIvyRM
Uptown December '18 81

End
NEW IN TOWN
A NEW TWIST
Twisted Grove transforms into The Collins
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
Last summer, fourth generation restaurateur
Christopher Collins, whose father is
Wally Collins of the popular Wally’s Pub ‘n
Grill, opened Twisted Grove Parlor + Bar
in the Biltmore Plaza Shopping Center.
Collins brought the concept, a spinoff of the
Twisted Grove restaurant already operating
in Scottsdale, to the area as a way of getting
back to his roots, quite literally.
“I was born and raised in Arcadia. In
fact, I used to skateboard in the very parking
lot where I opened Twisted Grove Arcadia,”
Collins says. “My vision was to become a
part of the neighborhood, and after a year,
we decided to reimagine this Twisted Grove
as something unique, something all its own.”
Enter The Collins Small Batch Kitchen.
The all-new look at The Collins Small
Batch Kitchen has fresh, bold yellow shade
canopies and verdant landscaping, including
several large Swan Hill olive trees added to
the outdoor dining patios overlooking 32nd
Street. Stepping inside, guests are enveloped
in plush, Parisian bistro-style decor,
including a retro-modern toile wallpaper,
bold “Fjord blue” bar and dining room chairs,
plus soft yellow and creamy white accents
that complement the existing red brick and
black-colored booths.
“Adding to the intimate appeal, the
central dining room booths now feature cozy
captain’s chair seating and window pane-like
patterned, frosted glass dividers, allowing
each table to feel like they have the section
to themselves,” Collins says.
The menu features several favorite
dishes from across all of the Common
Ground Culinary restaurants, including the
popular charred Brussels sprouts, Wonder
Salad and the Arcadia Club, among others.
It also features an ever-changing menu of
daily specials, sometimes up to eight a night.
“Offered in limited quantities, these
specials will be dreamt up daily with whatever’s
fresh, exciting with no restrictions on the
style or type of cuisine,” Collins explains.
As with Twisted Grove, which is still
open in Scottsdale, The Collins offers both
a can’t-miss weekend brunch and a daily
Social Hour.
Brunch includes everything from avocado
toast and oatmeal to Croque Madame
and French toast. Beyond traditional mimosas
and bloody marys, the brunch cocktail
menu has beer-infused mimosas using Four
Peaks Sunbru, John Dalys (boozy versions
of Arnold Palmers) and a concoction called
the Twisted Julius, which has vanilla vodka,
Bailey’s Irish Cream and – wait for it –
orange juice!
During Social Hour, their version of
happy hour 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily and all
day Mondays, there are deep discounts on
beer, wine, cocktails and eight of their most
popular menu items.
The Collins also has an expanded
selection of unique spirits and craft beers
as well as a broader wine program that
Twisted Grove did, plus a revamped cocktail
menu broken down into three categories:
Refreshing, Direct and Mocktail (aka alcohol-free).
The Collins is open Monday from 11
a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesday to Friday from 11
a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10
p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The Collins Small Batch Kitchen, 3160
E. Camelback Road, Phoenix; 602.730-
3533; www.thecollinsaz.com.
82 Uptown December '18

RX F SPORT
NXFSPORT
ESFSPORT
ENDS JANUARY 2
LEXUS
On Camelback
800 East Camelback Road Phoenix AZ 85014 | 480-990-7000
EarnhardtLexus.com