So Scottsdale December 2021 by Richman Media Group

Our Top Picks For Gourmet Greatness

WWW.SOSCOTTSDALE.COM | RICHMAN MEDIA GROUP | DECEMBER 2021

Decadent Dishes and Drinks

offered at

$1,395,000

Troon Mountain Estates at Troon Village 11372 E La Junta Road, Scottsdale, AZ, 85255 3 Bed + Den | 3.5 Bath | 3,560 SQ FT | 3-Car Garage

offered at

$2,075,000

Troon Fairways at Troon Village 10481 E Quartz Rock Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 5 Bed | 5 Bath | 5,236 SQ FT | 3-Car Garage

offered at

$895,000

Whispering Ridge at Troon Village 24350 N Whispering Ridge Way #10, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 3 Bed | 2 Bath | 2,088 SQ FT | 2-Car Garage

602.320.8415 | Lucky@RussLyon.com View our luxury listings at LisaLucky.com

privately perfectly

LOCATED ELEVATED

Laura, Matt, and Lisa Lucky

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$2,750,000

Troon Ridge Estates III/IV 24059 N 113th Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 5 Bed + Office + Media + Exercise | 6 Bath | 7,360 SQ FT | 3-Car Garage

When it comes to the North Scottsdale lifestyle and area real estate, The Luckys are proud to be the eminent source for their clients. With 100s of millions of dollars in sales under their belts, The Luckys are honored to be reputed as the most proficient and skilled in the industry.

TOP 1% OF RUSS LYON | SOTHEBY’S AGENTS Since 2006 BEST SMALL TEAM AWARD BY SALES VOLUME America’s Best REAL Trends | 2021 HONORED AS A "TOP 250 AGENT" IN THE NATION Wall Street Journal | 2018

offered at

TOP WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE Women’s Council of Realtors | 2015 - Present

$1,750,000

Estates at Desert Crest 24724 N 119th Place, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 4 Bed + Den | 4 Bath | 3,797 SQ FT | 3-Car Garage

LISA LUCKY 602.320.8415 Lisa.Lucky@RussLyon.com

MATT LUCKY 480.390.0445 Matt.Lucky@RussLyon.com

LAURA LUCKY 480.390.5044 Laura.Lucky@RussLyon.com

SCULPT. REPAIR. RENEW. Customized — Advanced — Aesthetics Dr. Anna Mkrtchyan, Medical Director • Krista Kutac, President Dr. Martin A. Morse, Chief Medical Officer

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Luxury Listings from The Agency Arizona REAL ESTATE AT THEAGENCYRE.COM

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7001 N. SCOT TSDALE ROAD, SUITE 1040 SCOT TSDALE, AZ 85253

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CALL US NOW 602.957.9810 2200 E. Camelback Rd., Suite 221, Phoenix, AZ 85016 www.combslawgroup.com

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Michelle Macklin Realtor®

4551 E Desert Park Place corcoran.com

©2021 Corcoran Group LLC. All rights reserved. Corcoran® and the Corcoran Logo are registered service marks owned by Corcoran Group LLC. Corcoran Group LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each franchise is independently owned and operated.

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4551 E DESERT PARK PL, PARADISE VALLEY, AZ 85253

This Paradise Valley Mediterranean-inspired estate is situated at the top of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve and has the most breathtaking views of the valley. Featuring a heated indoor pool, wine cellar, elevator, 5 beds, 5 baths + an office, this home is exceptionally designed with no detail missed. Michelle Macklin: 480.226.4633

515 LOS ALTOS DR, WICKENBURG, AZ 85390 Custom built balcony is stunning and provides a massive space for enjoying the fire pit and views. Front yard and patio boast an outdoor kitchen. Low maintenance desert landscaping makes this a perfect winter home. RV 50 amp hook up as well as tons of parking for horse trailers and toys. Circle driveway makes it easy for pulling trailers in and out.

: 928.231.7657

DESERT MOUNTAIN

37200 N CAVE CREEK RD 1123, SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85262 The newest of 7 golf courses in a World Class Resort setting provides each Seven resident a multitude of choices – Desert-style top notch Golf Courses, 10 Lavish Private Restaurants, Tennis, Spa ,Fitness and private Hiking and Biking. Family Development has created Bespoke, Award-winning turnkey homes ranging in size from 2414 sf to 2716 sf, rewarding each resident with curated luxury finishes and materials.

Craig Young and Nathan Ottosen: 480.773.2183

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$1,150,000 TRILOGY AT WICKENBURG RANCH

3725 GOLD RIDGE RD, WICKENBURG, AZ 85390 Golf Course Retreat just minutes from Historic Downtown Wickenburg. Desired Orion Model in the exclusive Wickenburg Ranch Community providing a luxurious & active life-style! Open concept at it’s finest with the most gorgeous views and 12ft tall ceilings with custom beams! No expense spared with exquisite stone work and exterior ambiance lighting. Sammie Hone: 928.231.7657

$1,799,999 ARISSONA AT ROCKAWAY VALLEY

6030 E CIELO RUN N, CAVE CREEK, AZ 85331 The Grandon Group presents a one of a kind, move in ready horse property in beautiful cave creek! 3 bedroom 3 bath plus a den, pool, attached and detached garage, 5 stall mare motel with tile roof, fans, large stalls, big arena and a round pen! This property backs to state ground so you have trails out your back door. Stacey and Jason Grandon: 602.312.5610

CorcoranPlatinumLiving.com 480.794.1694

Sophisticated Elegance located in the heart of Scottsdale's Downtown Urban Arts District designed by Renowned Architect Will Bruder. This Modern and Stylish Residence also includes a private elevator and super private rooftop deck with kitchen BBQ area and unbelievable views in every direction. 2.5 car over sized garage with private gated entrance! S

: 480.353.0299

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JANUARY 22-30 | SCOTTSDALE 2019 FORD GT HERITAGE EDITION Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the 1968 and 1969 wins at Le Mans, this limited-edition GT features a Gulf Oil racing livery. Powered by a 647hp 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Less than 20 actual miles. NO RESERVE.

SELL YOUR COLLECTOR CAR WHERE THE BIDDERS ARE Over 200 World Records Broken In 2021 Contact a consignment specialist at Barrett-Jackson.com or 480.421.6694 Experience the Barrett-Jackson Auctions live exclusively on A+E Networks’ FYI and HISTORY channels.

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JANUARY 22-30 | SCOTTSDALE Advance Ticket Sales & Bidder Registration at Barrett-Jackson.com 2015 PORSCHE 918 SPYDER One of only 918 examples of Porsche’s hybrid hypercar produced. Powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine backed by a 7-speed PDK gearbox and two electric motors for a total power output of 887hp and 944 ft/lbs of torque. Has 309 actual miles. NO RESERVE.

MAKE 2022 THE YEAR YOU EXPERIENCE BARRETT-JACKSON AS A VIP PURCHASE YOUR VIP PACKAGE TODAY BARRETTJACKSONVIP.COM OR 844.528.3598 Experience the Barrett-Jackson Auctions live exclusively on A+E Networks’ FYI and HISTORY channels.

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SHOP THE QUARTER Eat. Shop. Play. Albion Fit Amazon Books Apple Bonobos Candle Chemistry Cheeky Chic Baby & Kids Culinary Dropout Design Within Reach DKNY Sport Dominick’s Steakhouse Drybar Eddie V’s Prime Seafood Fabletics Free People Galicia Fine Jewelers Gap gorjana Intermix Kendra Scott L’Occitane lululemon athletica Marine Layer Nambé PAIGE Parachute Paris Optique Peloton Pottery Barn Restoration Hardware Sephora Sorso Wine Room Suitsupply True Food Kitchen urbAna West Elm vineyard vines Warby Parker

NE Corner of Scottsdale Rd and Greenway Pkwy scottsdalequarter.com |

Contents Escape the real-world hustle by booking an appointment with your favorite Scottsdale color expert and master stylist, Rodney Gentry. Kick back and relax in Rodney’s private salon suite while he works magic on your hair, taking the utmost care with your beauty and your health. Look gorgeous and feel fabulous this spring!

For an appointment, please call 480.639.2000, or visit www.rodneygentry.com for more information.

ON THE COVER: Reserve, photo by Debby Wolvos.

Features 74 GOURMET GREATNESS Honoring excellence in all things epicurean

Make Your Hair Color Sparkle this Holiday Season with Color Specialist, Rodney Gentry

“This season, it’s all about blends and natural, warmer tones,” says Rodney Gentry, hair color expert and master stylist. “There is so much you can do with your hair to create just about any look you want.” There’s no surprise that Ombré is extremely popular this fall. It’s a hair coloring trend that doesn’t seem to be wavering; only changing by the season. This fall, the Ombré style uses warmer tones are blended for a subtle, more natural look. Another gorgeous blended color that’s hot this season is Mushroom Blonde. Mushroom Blonde is an ashy mix between blonde and brunette, creating an ashy, gray blonde with dark undertones—think of the color variety on the underside of a mushroom. “It’s excellent for weaving colored pieces around your face to create a subtle and natural change,” says Rodney. This color option is a great way for blondes to spend time on the darker side. Conversely, there is Mushroom Brown for the brunettes who want to go a little lighter, while creating a

multi-dimensional hair color. In this instance, the colors are subtle shades of brown and gray. Copper tones are all the rage as more and more people desire a look of red without the commitment and hassle of keeping up with red hair. Additionally, rooted gold tones are a favorite this season. There’s also a variety of feminine chestnuts and browns. “These colors tend to not fade as much so it’s more low-maintenance,” Rodney explains. For those pesky gray hairs, Rodney reveals that the key to gray coverage is to not cover it 100%. Instead, he prefers to use a neutral color on select pieces to make the grays look highlighted. This way, people don’t have to recolor as often. By doing this technique, it saves the condition of the hair since you’re not covering all of your roots as often. For those of us who lived through the 80’s, you may see familiar-looking accessories making a comeback. Fun-colored bobby pins, bows, and scrunchies are back in style, along with

toned-down versions of 80’s hair styles. “You get volume in the body of your hair, with tamer roots,” says Rodney. Rodney takes into account a person’s features, skin tones, and routine when he artistically crafts a new hairstyle. “”The right color will make the right hair cut. Texture with color is the way to go,” he says. Full-service designer and hair color specialist Rodney Gentry can be reached at Sachi Studios in Scottsdale, AZ. Call 480.639.2000 to make an appointment or visit www.rodneygentry.com for more information.

Full-service designer and hair color specialist Rodney Gentry can be reached at Sachi Studios in Scottsdale, AZ. Call 480.639.2000 to make an appointment or visit www.rodneygentry.com for more information. So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Contents Now 57 HOT TICKET Chihuly in the Desert

58 LOWDOWN News to know

62 DO Great upcoming events

64 CALENDAR Noteworthy events

68 OUT Local cookbooks

70 OUT Vibrant venues

72 CULTURE Casey Cheuvront Fine Art

Pulse 45 UP CLOSE A life of service with Nikki West

48 BEAT Jeff Menzer’s road to The Mick

50 BEAT Fresh fuel with Stacey Weber

52 HIS STYLE Meet Sheldon Wiley

54 HER STYLE Meet Cortnie Cozeck

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Pawsitive Vacation Pet Sitting

Contents Style

Exceeding Expectations

85 MUST-HAVE A hint of sparkle

86 ALLURE

Scottsdale Paradise Valley La Jolla

Gold getter

88 DWELL Sweet somethings

90 SHOP Check prints

92 SHOP Lug boots

94 FASHION Take the town

Luxe 103 INDULGE Royal sculptures

104 WHEELS 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer

106 WANT Los Poblanos inn and farm

108 HAUTE PROPERTY Hillside opulence

110 PLACES Paso Robles

We Redefine Petsitting

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EnsureYour Divorce Grass Is Greener

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RoseLawGroup.com 480.505.3936 | 7144 E Stetson Drive, Suite 300, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 | info@roselawgroup.com Administrative Law • Cannabis • Corporate • Cyberbullying • DUI • Elections • Employment • Equine • Family / Parenting Rights • Government Relations / Lobbying • Homeowners Associations • Immigration • Internet fraud • Land Use • Litigation • Medical Cannabis • Online Defamation / Cyber-Reputation Management • Real Estate Transactions • Real Property Appeals • Renewable Energy • Sports Law • Tax/Tax Liens • Water / Environmental • Zoning

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Contents

Dr. Stevens, Dr. Keding , Dr. Reckell, Dr. MCCutcheon

• Thorough Eyecare • Finest Eyewear • Superior Service

COVID Safety in Place

• Precision Exams • Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases • All Makes of Contacts - Including Bifocal, Keratoconus & Scleral

Taste 112 DRINK Special sips

113 DISH Rib-eye steak at Talavera

• Designer Eyewear - Over 1,000 Styles

114 CHEERS

• New, Improved Dry Eye Treatments

The Craftsman’s Arizona Sunset

• Provider for Medicare, VSP, United Healthcare, Eyemed, Avesis, Spectera Vision, Cigna, BlueCross/BlueShield, Healthnet, Davis

115 CUISINE In the kitchen with Dushyant Singh of Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows

116 FOOD FILES Creamy and dreamy

118 DINING GUIDE Restaurants to know

The Rest 34 TELL Editor’s note

120 SEEN SCOTTSDALE 8752 E. Shea (101 & Shea) 480-991-6432 MESA 555 N. Gilbert, Suite 101 (Gilbert & University) 480-827-9184

Who went where and what happened

130 NEW IN TOWN Buddha’s Ritual

Animal print is always in style. My Sister’s Closet and its family of brands has given over $1 million to the Arizona Humane Society to help save homeless pets last year. Where would you rather consign and shop?

Contents This year saw a resurgence in the art of dining out. People were sick of takeout and home cooking, craving the flavors and experiences they had when experts were at the helm of the kitchen and mixing things up behind the bar. Though, unfortunately, many closures happened during the pandemic, a great amount of restaurants and bars survived the fallout and quite a few new spots have opened since. The local food and beverage scene has slowly been built back up, and we’re so excited to shine a light on the Valley’s innovators and creators that continue to contribute with our fourth annual food and beverage issue. Reserve – seen on our cover this year – along with 25 other honorees make up our Gourmet Greatness feature (page 74), highlighting the best in dishes, drinks, dreamers and directors leading the desert dining scene statewide. Dig into the rest of our issue, which is sure to make you hungry and thirsty. Highlights include creamy dishes (page 116), cocktails worth the splurge on a grand night out (page 112), cookbooks by local food and beverage experts (page 68), and fabulous venues for parties of all types (page 70). We also introduce you to a few local people who have made an impact on what we eat and drink, including a CEO of a local pizza chain (page 45), the co-owner of a cool new bar (page 52), and someone to trust when selecting wines at your favorite neighborhood joint (page 48), among others. For those looking to embark on a culinary adventure out of state, we have the scoop on the farm-to-fork experience that is Los Poblanos in Albuquerque (page 106), and the lowdown on all there is to see, do, drink and eat in the up-and-coming wine destination of Paso Robles (page 110). Wherever this month takes you, we hope you go into the next year with a full stomach and a happy heart. See you in 2022!

All my best, Gabby Leighton Editor-in-Chief gabby@richmanmediagroup.com Connect with us! Facebook: @soscottsdalemagazine Instagram: @so_scottsdale_magazine

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Kathleen Prokopow

Sally Cashman

Tonja Howard

As we reach the end of 2021, we want to express our gratitude to YOU…our clients, colleagues, friends & families who entrusted us with your life transitions this year.

Happy Holidays from our Homes to Yours!

cashmanpartners.com @cashmanpartnersaz

602.339.2680

@cashmanpartners

Publisher Bill Richman

Vice President of Operations Stacey Richman

Editor-in-Chief Gabby Leighton

Creative Director Lalo Reyes

Editorial Staff Adrienne Kalehuawehe

Contributing Writers Alison Bailin Batz, Mandy Holmes, Kaylor Jones, Elizabeth Liberatore, Neyda Melina, Jim Prueter

Photographers Claudia Johnstone, Beverly Shumway, Debby Wolvos, David Apeji

Advertising Coordinator Stacey Richman stacey@richmanmediagroup.com

Advertising bill@richmanmediagroup.com 480.229.3122

Online www.soscottsdale.com

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Unique locations, unrivaled lifestyles. For a lifestyle inspired by your potential, there is only Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.

russlyon.com/6312369 © 2019 Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. All rights reserved. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the equal opportunity act.

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Holiday Events Experience the most wonderful time of the year at Scottsdale Quarter. Enjoy free weekend entertainment and celebrate the magic of the season at our signature holiday events. Create lasting memories and capture the moment with a Santa photo, listen to carolers sing, and gather your friends and family for feel-good holiday movies in The Quad with appearances from your favorite characters.

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Pulse

U P C L O S E / B E AT / H I S S T Y L E / H E R S T Y L E

BY KAYLOR JONES / PHOTOS BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE

A LIFE OF SERVICE

Nikki West, CEO of NYPD Pizza, takes every opportunity to give back to the community

For Nikki West, leadership is all about servitude – and finding new ways to push herself in everything she does. “There’s definitely a theme in my life – I can’t turn down a challenge, and I suck at saying no,” says West, who declined a management position at her first job at a sandwich shop, only to

join the management team at her next job at just 16 years old. When it was time for college, West decided to pursue a career in teaching, earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting and organizational psychology and a master’s in elementary education. While waiting tables at Hillstone, an upscale, family-owned

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Pulse UP CLOSE She spent the next three weeks volunteering with the Red Cross in Baton Rouge, where a fellow volunteer expressed interest in her background. “He said he was the CEO of Aramark, and he’d love to talk to me about a position. But they only had one available – in Phoenix, Arizona.” That moment of serendipity resulted in West joining Aramark, which provides facilities, food and uniform services to a variety of industries. Within two months, she was in charge of six states. But she missed working hands-on in restaurants, so when a recruiter friend recommended Arizona-based chain NYPD Pizza, West decided to see what all the fuss was about. “I walked out of my first NYPD in under 12 minutes and told my friend he’d lost his mind. There were little leaguers running around like mad people in there! Keep in mind, I come from Hillstone – they don’t even offer booster seats!” But he convinced her to give it another shot, and during her next visit, West fell in love with the welcoming environment and exceptional service, as well as NYPD’s deep-rooted dedication to the community.

Raising Dough

chain formerly known as Houston’s, West learned that the restaurant industry wouldn’t let go of her so easily. “They would always ask if I had any aspirations to go into management, and I thought they were crazy. I would never do that!” West says. But after comparing salaries and speaking with Hillstone about the position, West’s “no” once again became a “yes,” and she joined their leadership team upon graduation. “When I interviewed for the server position, I said something I still say to this day – ‘I love making magic.’ In the restaurant industry, people trust us with their memories, time with their loved ones, their graduations and proposals. We get to make magic hundreds of times a day.”

A Nationwide Impact While working with Hillstone, West lived in 13 cities in 13 years. “It quickly taught me to be adaptable – not insincere or disingenuous, but able to tweak my leadership style to fit my team’s needs rather than expecting them to tweak themselves for me.” In 2005, West and her husband at the time decided to settle down in Arizona. With no equivalent positions open with Hillstone, she decided it was time to leave the nest. On the way to Phoenix, West visited family in Texas. “That was the day before Hurricane Katrina hit. The next day, refugees started coming in, and I looked around and thought, ‘I don’t have a job, I can do something.’”

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

West joined NYPD in 2007, was promoted to vice president of operations within six months, and after becoming part-owner – and having twins in 2012 – was asked if she’d like to be CEO. Her response? “Absolutely not!” “I have to be in the restaurants, seeing people happy. CEOs don’t necessarily get to do that, and they sometimes make decisions on behalf of others without all of the information and perspectives they really need. I didn’t want to be one of those CEOs.” After West’s team helped her realize she wouldn’t be happy letting anyone else run her baby, she accepted the position in 2014 – with conditions. Her title would be chief experience officer, and she would spend two days in the office every week, and the other three to four in the restaurants with guests and employees, known at NYPD as “internal guests.” The title is a reminder – they don’t work for West, West works for them. Today, West and her team look for every opportunity to serve the community. In addition to NYPD’s Dough Raisers – which has raised over $65,000 for local charities – one such opportunity came when a former employee phoned West from her new job, saying that someone had stolen money meant to buy Christmas presents for foster children. Within two days, there was a box in every NYPD location. That year, they collected 1,200 toys. Six years later, their holiday toy drive, #everykiddeserves, is still going strong. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, guests can bring a new toy worth $10 or more into any location in exchange for a coupon for a free 8-inch pizza. This year, the goal is to break their record of 2,100 toys. To this day, West is a firm believer that a fulfilling life is rooted in service. “I just want to get up every day and be better than I was yesterday, and help others be better than they were yesterday. You have to always do the right thing, and do it for the right reasons.” Learn more at www.aznypdpizza.com.

HEALTH

Varicose Veins: Beyond the Surface BY GREER BANKS

ven when we do our best to ignore it, our bodies are subtly changing over the years. But not every symptom can be chalked up to aging. If you notice a feeling of heaviness in your legs; fatigue or aching in your leg muscles; swelling, skin discoloration, or soreness; wounds that don’t heal; or leg cramps at night, you may have Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI). CVI is a progressive problem which can lead to serious complications if left untreated. A common symptom of CVI is varicose veins. Symptoms like varicose veins or heavy legs are easily treatable and a warning that your circulatory system is not working properly and needs to be addressed sooner rather than later. “After you live with these symptoms for a while, you just accept that this is the way your legs feel. But that shouldn’t be the case,” says Dr. Jeffrey Braxton, Director of Venous Intervention at CiC Vein Center. These symptoms can have an impact on every day living, and many find themselves limiting their activities.

“Vein disease is surprisingly common, affecting about a third of us, but the good news is, it’s manageable,” says Braxton, who is board certified in venous and lymphatic medicine. “Vein treatments have really advanced, they are less invasive and more effective than in the past.”

“Vein treatments have really advanced, they are less invasive and more effective than in the past.” Diagnosis involves a painless ultrasound exam to show if the valve in the vein is allowing blood to leak, or flow back into the veins or blocking it all together. If the valves are weak or damaged, one of several minimally invasive in-office treatments can be done. Innovative techniques not only help to improve the condition, but the appearance improves too. There are a variety of

options, and your doctor will guide you as to which one is best for your condition. Each type of treatment results with the vein shutting down and disappearing. “The body eventually absorbs the closed vein,” explains Braxton. “Your body has plenty of veins and there is no cause for concern when unhealthy veins are eliminated.” After the vein disappears, your body reroutes the blood to healthier veins improving flow in the leg. Most people notice a significant improvement within days. “I want people to know that they shouldn’t have to make adjustments to their life, like not going out as often or spending less time doing the things they enjoy,” says Braxton. “The sooner you’re seen, the better your chances are for reducing or avoiding serious complications.” Dr. Jeffrey Braxton is the Director of Venous Intervention at CiC Vein Center. He is board certified in venous and lymphatic medicine. He can be reached at cicvein.com or 480-775-8460.

Pulse BEAT

CORK DORK

An early life in farming, theater and social work led Jeff Menzer to wine, Scottsdale and The Mick Brasserie BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE

The seeds for Jeff Menzer’s love of wine were first planted in the Wisconsin farming community of Sheboygan, where he grew up. “On our farm, I saw firsthand that what you put into something – effort, care, attention – is what you get back,” Menzer says. Those seeds grew stronger thanks to a series of moments in Menzer’s teen years. “I learned I loved caring for people after doing so for my dad after an accident; discovered performing arts after a wrestling injury sidelined my sports career; and found a culinary mentor in a chef while working a summer job at a country club,” Menzer says. And while that summer job led Menzer to work in restaurants to pay his way through college, it would be a long, winding road before choosing the hospitality route as his ultimate path. Given his life experiences until that point, that winding road would lead him to social work, the launch of his own theater troupe, massage therapy school, and a handful of auditions on Broadway before bringing him back to restaurants for good in 1997. “I was living in Boston and took a position at the newly opened Mistral, which would quickly be named a ‘Top 25 New Restaurants in America’ by Esquire,” says Menzer, who took particular interest in the wine program. Over the next 20 years, at Mistral and a handful of other acclaimed venues, Menzer immersed himself in the study of wine, eventually earning the nickname “Cork Dork” along with a certified wine educator designation. He was even Rod Stewart’s personal server when the rock icon would visit Mistral. “My wife and I talked about moving to Scottsdale for years,” Menzer says. “In 2015, she was hit by a truck while biking, and ultimately we decided when she recovered, we would make the cross-country trek.” Once here in 2017, Menzer earned positions at The Camby and Maple & Ash before joining The Mick Brasserie in 2020. “I was drawn to this team because they are fearless when it comes to ingredients, pairings and flavors,” Menzer says. “They are putting in the work to get something really special back.” Since joining, Menzer has doubled the venue’s wine portfolio, launched weekly pairing dinners and has plans for large-scale events in 2022.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

STRAIGHT TALK: BUYING A CAR THE SMART WAY Shahe Koulloukian — Mazvo Auto Car Care Center

THERE’S NO DOUBT that car prices are at an all-time high, thanks to the pandemic’s domino effects. According to KBB, in June 2021, the average transaction price for a brand new car was over $42,000. Used car prices also reached a record high average of over $25,000, paired with an average of 68,000 miles on the vehicle. This crazy rise in price is a combination of influences, from semiconductor (chip) shortages to low interest rates and high credit scores. While experts paint a picture of being at the mercy of your local auto dealer, there are numerous ways to go about car shopping — not only to be a sensible car owner, but also get the best value. It really boils down to understanding the difference between emotional purchases over sensible ones. We asked an expert for advice: Shahe Koulloukian, owner of Mazvo Auto Car Care Center. Here’s what he had to say. FUNCTIONALITY FIRST Always buy on functionality! Yes, the sunroof and step sides are awesome looking, but put functionality first. THINK AHEAD Do the research and find the resale value of your preferred vehicle. If the vehicle doesn’t have a strong demand for resale, what will you do if you get into a collision and the vehicle is totaled? DO THE MATH It’s simple to buy intelligently once you’ve gotten past all the emotional “wants”. Call your insurance company and ask how much coverage will cost. Remember to factor in tax, title, licensing, and doc fees if you’re buying from

a dealership; a $10K budget is really $7K-$8K. Make a provision in your budget. None of these costs will apply if you’re buying from a private seller. DO YOUR PART Whether purchasing from a private party or dealership, do the following: • Drive the vehicle on the highway at speeds of 60-70mph to listen, feel and recognize anything abnormal. • Get a Carfax report; they aren’t that expensive. If you’re buying from a dealership, they will provide you one for free anytime you ask for it.

• Have your trusted auto repair shop perform a thorough buyer’s inspection of the vehicle before you buy it. A buyer’s inspection will go through the vehicle from bumper to bumper and advise you of anything needed now and coming soon. From brakes to tires to body damage, you will know it all before you buy it. Buying a car right now can be difficult and costly; if you can put it off, do. If you must buy a car, think of possibilities outside of your local car dealership, including internet platforms such as Facebook Marketplace, Carvana, and Vroom.

Mazvo Auto Car Care Center / 4610 North 7th Street, Phoenix / 602.248.8711 or www.mazvo.com

Pulse BEAT

FRESH FUEL

Stacey Weber makes healthy, high-end comfort food accessible to all

BY KAYLOR JONES / PHOTO BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE

Private chef Stacey Weber is on a mission to make wholesome food available to everyone. Weber got her first taste of the culinary industry while working as a server in college, where she thrived in the fast-paced environment. Deciding she didn’t want to be limited to the front of the house, Weber, a talented home cook, devoted herself to her craft, reading everything that she could, cooking for friends and writing recipes for them. “I knew there was a need for this. People want home-cooked meals that they don’t have to cook. And with hard work, creativity and a little ‘fake-it-till-youmake-it,’ I knew I could make it work.” And she was on the nose – what started as private chef services in 2007 has since blossomed into EAT by Stacey Weber (www.eatbystaceyweber. com), which offers catering, personal chef services and prepared meals that can be ordered online weekly. Nutrient-dense dishes like the veggie pot pie and chicken and rice enchiladas are the stars of Weber’s seasonal menus, which feature delicious, high-quality meals that are more budget-friendly than hiring a private chef, but just as convenient. Weber traces much of her culinary inspiration to the six years she served as the executive chef of the Arizona Cardinals. “When I started out, many of my clients – including local athletes like Larry Fitzgerald and Patrick Peterson – were on very regimented diets,” says Weber, whose food eventually earned the attention of the owner of the Arizona Cardinals. “When he heard my philosophy – that food can heal, and eating well can improve performance – he decided to bring me on board.” The lessons Weber learned with the organization continue to influence her cooking, including her holiday menu, which features traditional and Southwestinspired dishes that can be preordered for Christmas and New Year’s Eve. “It was all about taking the food they love – pasta, chicken strips, french fries – and making it healthier, elevating those approachable comfort foods, and seeing people come together around food.”

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

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Pulse HIS STYLE

THE PERFECT MIX

Sheldon Wiley’s wardrobe is anything but basic thanks to his confident styling

BY MANDY HOLMES / PHOTO BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY

Much like his take on cocktails, Guinness World Record-holding mixologist Sheldon Wiley keeps his style simple yet fresh. The owner of 36 Below and Becky hard seltzer draws inspiration from legend James Dean. To compliment his preferred uniform of blue jeans and a white T-shirt, Wiley finds subtle ways to highlight his mood, whether he’s sporting a crisp pair of white shoes, a scarf, a cool jacket or styling his pompadour hairstyle and full beard to the nines. “My hair and beard mean straight up business,” he says. “I know not everybody can pull it off and it stands out. For any public appearance I want people to know that I brought my A-game and it’s not what you wear but how you wear it!” Personal grooming isn’t the only thing that plays into Wiley’s style – his many tattoos contribute to his stylish self-expression. And whether he accessorizes with a watch or necklace, or keeps it classic, it’s clear Wiley knows what it means to strike the perfect balance, both in cocktails and in fashion. “A mezcal Negroni is the cocktail most similar to my style,” he says. “The combination of bitter and sweet with a dose of smoke is both an aperitif and a digestif and describes me to a T.”

What are your favorite brands? Levi’s 511 jeans. Tried and true. They’re skinny yet they don’t hug my body in a constricting fashion. I also like plain white scoop T-shirts from H&M. What is your shoe of choice? Converse Chuck Taylors, Nike Air Force 1 shoes and Vans. I love the Adidas Ultraboost for working out. And, by the way, they have to be white. You recently moved back from New York. How does living in Arizona influence your style? When I’m in New York, the temperature and vibe itself sets the tone as a foundation for how you dress. I don’t do the shorts and flip-flops thing like I used to as a kid in Arizona but I will represent some light joggers and keep my layers to a minimum. Arizona is much more simplistic due to its year-round temperature.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

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Pulse HER STYLE

TIMELESS SPIRIT

Cortnie Cozeck keeps things classic with feminine, elegant pieces

BY MANDY HOLMES / PHOTO BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY

As the assistant director of operations for Barter & Shake Creative Hospitality – which includes trendy spots Century Grand and UnderTow – Cozeck likes her fashion and her cocktails one way: classic. “They’re classics for a reason. Brands like Chanel, Burberry and Dior continue to stand the test of time,” she says. “There’s something special about a woman who can make a statement with refined style.” Although much of Cozeck’s wardrobe has been influenced by her San Diego upbringing, she often finds herself combining laid-back beach vibes with boots and leather, a nod to her time spent living in San Francisco. “Here in Phoenix, I have the best of both worlds,” she says. Continually choosing fashion over function, the shoe lover has a thing for sky-high heels. Cozeck pairs them with jeans, shorts, dresses, slacks, or a bathing suit and advises to always have a versatile black pump on hand. “I’ve been known to throw on my favorite tweed Chanel boots just to walk around the house,” she says. “They make me feel fabulous no matter what type of day I’m having!”

Which cocktail best describes your sense of style? A bijou. It’s a pre-Prohibition classic cocktail named after the French word for “jewel.” Gin being the diamond, vermouth the ruby, and green Chartreuse the emerld. At first, the amber-colored cocktail looks simple but after your first sip, you’ll discover that this flavor profile is deliberate and packs a punch – similar to how understated elegance can turn heads. How do you feel about accessories? I’ve always been a fan of having a few timeless pieces that can translate from day to night. Whether it’s a gorgeous pair of jeweled hoop earrings or your favorite watch, it’s the icing on the cake. What trend are you loving right now? The mini skirt trend, especially one with textured fabric like suede or tweed! I also love a neutral color pallet of black, white, camel, or olive.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

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Now

L O W D O W N / D O / C A L E N D A R / O U T / C U LT U R E

BY GABBY LEIGHTON

Dale Chihuly will make a vibrant return to the Valley with his stunning new exhibition at two iconic local venues, Desert Botanical Garden and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West. Chihuly in the Desert, beginning Dec. 3, will combine art, architecture and nature for masterpieces that stun from day to night with color, light and form. The American artist, who is noted for revolutionizing the studio glass movement, will exhibit never-before-seen large-scale installations nestled among Desert Botanical Garden’s impressive collection of desert plants as well as inside the venue’s Dorrance Hall gallery. At Taliesin West, the pieces will be on display inside the building, on the lawns, floating on the water, and emerging from the desert itself. Chihuly in the Desert will be on display through June 19, 2022. Prices and times vary. www.chihulyinthedesert.org. So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Now LOWDOWN

HOME SWEET HOME

FIZZY FUN

Tempe-based Chaco Flaco recently launched three canned cocktails statewide at local retailers, including Total Wine & More and AJ’s Fine Foods. The new flavorful, ready-to-drink canned cocktails are made with all-natural ingredients, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, and are gluten-free and dairyfree without high fructose syrup. The 12-ounce drinks are available in Strawberry Daiquiri, Vodka Berry Mule, and Mango Margarita. The brand has already taken home multiple accolades at The Sip Awards, The Bartender Spirits Awards and the Nightclub and Bar Show 2021. The bubbles are also available at select local bars and restaurants. www.chacoflaco. com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Home is where the sweets are thanks to the new Wild Rye Baking Co. The online baking company – launched by Sarah Chisholm, local resident and former executive pastry chef of St. Francis and Phoenix Public Market Cafe – serves up re-imagined cake, frosting and pancake mixes for home

bakers. The gourmet yet accessible mixes include cake flavors like vanilla, pink velvet, olive oil and chocolate in classic, vegan or gluten-free recipes. Frosting flavors range from coconut macha to peanut butter coffee and the gluten-free almond four pancake mix is a must-try. www.wildryebaking.com.

SELF-CARE SIMPLIFIED

SkinCeuticals recently opened its first Scottsdale location, SkinCeuticals SkinLab by Maffi Plastic Surgery. Located at Scottsdale Quarter, the skin care destination offers state-of-theart, doctor-validated services as well as a retail shop and makeup finishing station. The simple menu includes an expert skin care consultation and three hour-long signature treatments, including an LED Micropeel and Phyto treatment using red light therapy, a restoring HydraFacial Micropeel, and a microneedling service to firm skin. The location also offers aesthetic services, such as injectables and lasers. www.skinceuticals.com or www.skinlabmaffi.com.

LUXE LIVING

PHOTO BY PHIL JOHNSON

Now LOWDOWN

WINE DOWN

Tucked into the canyons of the McDowell Mountains, ICON at Silverleaf is an enclave of luxury condominiums now for sale. Situated within the gates of Silverleaf at DC Ranch, the complex, currently being built, will include eight four-story buildings of three single-story floor plans, ranging from 2,752 to 6,288 square feet, with up to four bedrooms and 4 1/2 baths. The modern layouts will include open floor plans, mountain views, and covered parking garages with semiprivate elevators. ICON is manned by gate-guarded security, and community members have access to a resort-style pool and spa, hiking trails, community parks and the Silverleaf Club. Those interested in ultimate opulence will especially like the penthouse model, in which owners have the option to finish their rooftops with their own private pool and outdoor living space – a first for the state of Arizona. www.iconsilverleaf.com.

Leave your wine selection to the experts with Postino WineCafe’s new Postino Wine Cult. The subscription-based wine club is a statewide program in which members receive a stylish box filled with four wines quarterly. The box is curated by Brent Karlicek, beverage director of Postino. In addition to the box, members will also receive exclusive perks and monthly hookups, including branded Wine Cult merchandise, a complimentary bottle from Postino’s regular menu, exclusive access to small-batch wines, first tastes of the new seasonal by the glass wines, and 20% off bottles to-go. Those who join the Postino Wine Cult before the end of 2021 will automatically be designated as a founding member, dubbed “The Cru,” receiving even more perks. $60 monthly; $220 yearly. www.postinowinecafe.com.

FESTIVE FIESTA

Salt and Lime Mexican Grill is getting in the holiday spirit by transforming into the Feliz Navidad Cantina this season. The Scottsdale restaurant introduced the Christmas pop-up last year and is bringing it back for 2021, running through early January 2022. Diners can expect floor-to-ceiling holiday decorations, a festive food and beverage menu, employees in full costume, and weekly appearances from Santa and the Grinch. There will be classic holiday movies played throughout the restaurant as well as daily specials with holiday-themed dishes and signature cocktails. In the spirit of giving, the restaurant has also partnered with Maag Toy Foundation for an on-site holiday toy drive. www.saltandlimeaz.com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

When you think of cooking outdoors, warm summer nights and an industrial looking gas-powered grill might come to mind, but for Arizonans who can grill all throughout the year, there is now an option that is both chic and social thanks to Arteflame. Paradise Valley residents, Jennifer and Michiel Schuitemaker created the Arteflame- a beautiful functioning grill that doubles as an art piece and plancha (or flat) cooktop. Jennifer’s love of cooking is what inspired Michiel to design the Arteflame- a product that is completely American made- an important factor to the Schuitemakers when it comes to manufacturing. Designed to fill a need, Michiel longed for a stylish but purposeful grill that didn’t require him to turn his back on his guests. “The Arteflame makes the act of grilling a social experience for all ages that results in delicious food and a gathering hotspot in your backyard,” Michiel shares. With no supply chain issues thanks to Arteflame’s American roots, customers are able to celebrate what the grill is designed for: family, friends, and food. Whether you prefer grilling quick-cooking foods like steaks and burgers or more specialized dishes like wood fired pizzas and rotisserie chicken- the Arteflame has an accessory to ensure its versatility fits your tastebuds. Kids can even get involved thanks to the ease and ample cooking area. Like many outdoor sculptures, Arteflame is designed as a useful piece of art made from Corten steel- the only kind of steel that can be heated up and cooled down without losing its strength or visual appeal. In fact, when exposed to outdoor elements, the grill’s aesthetic takes on different patterns creating an organic look. The stunning open fire concept can be fueled by charcoal and wood thanks to the steel spun bowl that will withstand ultra-high temperatures. Hardwoods such as hickory, oak, maple, and fruit woods such as peach, cherry and apple have an aromatic air and can be used to add different flavors to your cooking similarly to how salt and pepper enhance the taste. Since there is no gas involved, the Arteflame avoids the smell and taste of gas that often gets interjected into traditional grilled food. In 2022, new sizes and colors including the highly anticipated BLACK LABEL Edition Arteflame will debut with the same quality to last a lifetime. And outdoor cooking and entertaining aren’t the only things that the Schuitemakers are passionate about. “We are excited to move back to Paradise Valley for the privilege to help build and support a community that is so special to us,” Jennifer says. The couple supports the Heard Museum, CCAP, and Desert Botanical Gardens just to name a few favored organizations that focus on empowering the next generation and preserving the beauty of the Valley. www.arteflame.com

Now DO

GREAT EVENTS THIS MONTH BY ELIZABETH LIBERATORE

Holiday Lights Through Jan. 2, 2022, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park All aboard for a holly, jolly adventure! Through Jan. 2, 2022, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park will be hosting Holiday Lights, a fun-filled experience for everyone in the family. Passengers of the Paradise and Pacific Railroad will ride around the park, which is a winter wonderland of holiday lights and displays. After the ride, take a spin on the historic Charros Carousel or warm up with a cup of hot cocoa from Hartley’s General Store. Don’t forget to take a photo with Santa before you leave! 6-9:30 p.m. $15. www.therailroadpark.com. The Nutcracker Dec. 10-24, Symphony Hall Be whisked away into a world of wonder and awe with Ib Andersen’s The Nutcracker, now in its 36th year at Ballet Arizona. The Phoenix Symphony will masterfully perform Tchaikovsky’s score live as Ballet Arizona dancers effortlessly leap and pirouette across the stage. The Nutcracker follows the story of a young girl named Clara who embarks on a wintry journey full of mischievous characters and sugar plums. From elaborate props to ornate costumes and captivating music and choreography, there’s more than one reason why people keep coming back to watch this holiday classic year after year. Times vary. Tickets start at $25. www.balletaz.org. Festival of Trees Holiday Gala Dec. 11, Arizona Biltmore Start the holidays off right with the Festival of Trees Holiday Gala. Over the past 22 years, the gala has helped fulfill Arizona Burn Foundation’s mission to improve the quality of life for burn survivors and their families in Arizona while promoting burn prevention and fire safety advocacy and education through fundraising. While supporting a critical cause and organization, event attendees will enjoy a seated dinner, program, live entertainment, dancing, and auctions. Those who want to celebrate from home will be able to tune into the event digitally. 5 p.m. $500. www.azburn.org. Board of Visitors Fashion Show Luncheon Dec. 11, JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa Fashionistas, mark your calendars because this is an event you won’t want to miss. The Board of Visitors (BOV) Fashion Show Luncheon is a long-standing holiday tradition, now in its 68th year. Attendees will enjoy a delicious lunch followed by a fashion show highlighting the latest winter trends. The show’s models will include the BOV’s Flower Girls and grandchildren of BOV members. Event proceeds will support nonprofits in the greater Phoenix community that serve the healthcare needs of women, children, and the elderly. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Luncheon, $200; premium seats, $350. www.boardofvisitors.org. 12 Bars of Christmas Bar Crawl Dec. 11, Old Town Scottsdale What do you call a flock of Phoenicians dressed up in holiday onesies, Santa suits, ugly sweaters, and elf costumes running from bar to bar in Old Town Scottsdale? The 12 Bars of Christmas Bar Crawl, of course! Participants 21 and over will receive a map of participating bars, including El Hefe, Riot House, and more, and will get to stop by any bar at their leisure throughout the day. A 16-ounce color-changing Santa stadium cup, wristbands for entry and drink and food specials plus a Santa hat will be included with registration. Noon-8 p.m. $10-$14. www.xmasbarcrawl.com. Phoenix Festival of the Arts Dec. 11-12, Margaret T. Hance Park Celebrate a decade of art, music, food, and community this month at the Phoenix Festival of Arts. More than 100 art vendors, from ceramics to jewelry to metal sculptures, will be in attendance, selling unique, locally-made gifts for everyone on your holiday list. After a day of shopping, enjoy food and beverages from local food trucks, Hensley Beverage Company, and Dos Cabezas WineWorks. Other event highlights include live music, artist demonstrations, a family zone with fun activities, interactive art, and opportunities to participate in the Phoenix Mural Project. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. www.phoenixfestivalofthearts.org.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

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Now CALENDAR

SCOTTSDAZZLE

Through Dec. 31, Old Town Scottsdale The City of Scottsdale’s popular holiday extravaganza invites locals to celebrate all month long with a variety of festive and fun activities. Seasonal decor and sparkling lights will set the scene for an impressive lineup of events to remember. Some highlights include: a nativity scene and Miracle of Roses pageant at Old Adobe Mission, whiskey tastings, arts and crafts events, yoga classes, the Gold Palette ArtWalk, and scavenger hunts. A full schedule of events with times and prices can be found online. www.scottsdazzle.com.

BY GABBY LEIGHTON

Holiday Light Experience Through Jan. 1, 2022, Salt Fiver Fields The unique drive-through holiday light show for families will dazzle drivers with nearly 5 million lights along a 1.2-mile path. Santa will be greeting visitors at his village, new this year, where attendees can purchase hot chocolate, beverages, snacks and handcrafted gifts. The holiday light theatre, featuring festive lights presented on a large screen, will also debut this year. 6-9 p.m. daily. General admission, $35. www.holidaylightexperience.com.

Shop it Forward Through Dec. 15, Scottsdale Fashion Square Arizona’s iconic mall’s celebration of giving will conclude this month. Shoppers are encouraged to log their receipts from any Scottsdale Fashion Square retailer and restaurant to earn points for the six participating nonprofit partners, including Fresh Start Women’s Foundation and Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children. As part

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

of the festivities, shoppers should check out artist Diane Rogers’ free art installation, Decades of Influence, which is on display in the luxury wing this month. Free. www.fashionsquare.com. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Through Dec. 24, Herberger Theater Center Produced for the first time in this region, this classic story will

captivate audiences of all ages with musical numbers, familiar characters and a heartwarming story of finding acceptance for who you are. Put on by Childsplay, the TV special has been adapted for theater by Robert Penola, with music and lyrics by Johnny Marks. Audience members will be singing along as the iconic Rudolph saves the day with his very shiny nose. Times vary. Starting at $13. www. childsplayaz.org.

Christmas at the Princess Through Jan. 2, 2022, Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Step into a festive wonderland with this 12th annual event. Reminiscent of your favorite holiday movie, this year’s spectacular will feature all the best loved attractions from Christmases past – including Desert Ice, Lagoon Lights and Princess Express Train – as well as new traditions. Exciting additions include The Village, Twinkle Town, The Lodge, and A Christmas Wish. The Village includes s’mores, the ice maze, an Alpine skate trail, and a four-lane ice slide. Twinkle Town, another highlight, will showcase a smaller version of the ice slide, a carousel and swings. Don’t miss the VIP igloos, multiple fire pits and holiday lights throughout the resort’s property. Times vary. Starting at $18. www.fairmontscottsdaleprincess.com. World of Illumination Through Jan. 2, 2022, Tempe Diablo Stadium Get comfy in the car and head on a trek down Reindeer Road, a milelong journey of lights and music. The drive-thru experience will include over 350 themed installations and 2 million lights, all synchronized to music. The experience will take drivers to the

North Pole through mountainous terrain, glacial peaks and northern ice caves and forests, ending at Santa’s Workshop. Each ticket, which must be purchased in advance online, includes admission for the entire car. Times vary. Weekdays, $39; weekends, $49. www.worldofillumination.com. CitySkate Through Jan. 5, 2022, Patriot’s Park After a hiatus in 2020, the real outdoor ice-skating rink in the heart of Downtown Phoenix is back. Holiday revelers are invited to lace up their skates and hit the ice for this festive event. Skaters can enjoy freshly surfaced ice, twinkling holiday lights and merry decor, in line with this year’s theme of Skate Under the Stars. Tickets include skate rental and 90 minutes of time on the rink. Guests who bring their own skates will receive $2 off ticket pricing. Through Dec. 16, 5-11 p.m.; Through Jan. 5, 3-11 p.m. $18. www.cityskatephx.com. The Art of Our Photography Through Jan. 16, 2022, Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West The art of photography and painting have collided in this new exhibit, which is a collaboration between the Old Town Scottsdalelocated Western museum and Arizona Highways magazine. The collection on view features the work of 10 artists who were chosen by the magazine. Each artist was tasked with selecting one of the photos published in the magazine and asked to interpret that photo into their own painted masterpiece. Each painting will be sold by the individual artists through their websites, and at least half of the sale proceeds will go to the charity of the artist’s choice. Times vary. $20. www.scottsdalemuseumwest.org. Christmas Movies at The Quarter Dec. 10 & 17, Scottsdale Quarter This annual event invites locals to enjoy a movie – or two – under the stars for a fun, family night out. Attendees are invited to bring their chairs and blankets to cozy up for a festive, classic feature film. On Dec. 10, Elf starring Will Farrell will play, while Dec. 17 will welcome Jim Carey’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Bonus: Expect some surprise character appearances. 6 p.m. Free. www.scottsdalequarter.com. Luminarias Holiday Market Dec. 10, Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows In the spirit of shopping local, this

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

second annual event will showcase the work of 22 Valley artisans. The evening will feature a variety of apparel, home decor, jewelry, and art to find the perfect holiday gift for family and friends. Set among 500 beautiful luminaries, The evening holiday market will take place outdoors surrounded by 500 beautiful luminaries, and guests can enjoy live music by Joel Dalton. Some vendors include Arizona Love, Barrel & Bloom, Bella Society Jewelry, Citizen Hd, and Jill Jules Brand. Light food and drinks will be available for purchase. 5-8 p.m. Free. www. andazscottsdale.com. Family Fun Holiday Fair and Marketplace Dec. 12, Arizona Boardwalk at Talking Stick Located in the courtyard of the center that houses Butterfly Wonderland, OdySea Aquarium, Pangaea Land of the Dinosaurs and more, this outdoor event will blend holiday festivities with the desert. The whole family will enjoy live holiday entertainment and games on center stage, with the opportunity to visit with Santa Claus. Addition highlights will include bounce houses, slides, obstacle courses, face painting and special guests. Local vendors will be on-site so parents can make a list and check it twice after buying holiday gifts for their loved ones. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. www. azboardwalk.com. Scottsdale Philharmonic Holiday Concert Dec. 12, Virginia G. Piper Theater Get in the spirit of the season with this year’s presentation of classical music with holiday flair. The professional symphony orchestra will present a variety of eight traditional tunes, including The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire) by Robert Well & Mel Torme, Hallelujah Chorus by Handel, and White Christmas by Berlin. 4 p.m. $15. www.scottsdalearts.org. Christmas at the Plaza Dec. 18, Uptown Plaza The revitalized central Phoenix shopping center will serve as a holiday destination for shoppers and locals alike during this celebration. The event will feature hot cocoa and apple cider from AJ’s, in addition to holiday crafts for kids in the courtyard. Other highlights for the day will include Dickens Carolers walking throughout the plaza singing holiday favorites as well as a 12-foot Santa photo op. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. www.uptownplazaphx.com.

FANDUEL FANFEST

Dec. 11, WestWorld of Scottsdale Sports, music and fun collide at this festival, headlined by Gryffin and Nelly. Attendees will want to look out for NFL legends in the all-star appearances interactive Q&A session. Additional highlights include games with prizes and free bets on celebrities and fans squaring off in live challenges. Head to the beer garden to relax with a brew and enjoy cuisine from food trucks. 1-8 p.m. Free. www.fanduel.com.

Generation Paper: Fast Fashion of the 1960s Dec. 18, Phoenix Art Museum Attention fashion lovers! This new exhibit will allow audiences to explore the trend of paper garments from 1966 to 1968 by designers and manufacturers such as Mars of Asheville, Scott Paper Company, The Disposables, Sterling Paper Fashions, Hallmark Inc., and more. The exhibition, which will be on display through July 17, 2022, will showcase more than 80 rare garments and accessories made from paper, plastic, laminate, and other nonwoven textiles. Though a whimsical era, the exhibit will also open dialogue on the environmental impact of these paper garments. General admission, $23. Times vary. www.phxart.org.

Winter Solstice Dec. 21, Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North The holidays can be a joyful, yet stressful, season. To let go of negativity and reflect before the beginning of 2022, the luxurious North Scottsdale resort will invite guests for a night of meditation, sound healing and intention setting led by instructor Renée Colby. The event will take place on the winter solstice, otherwise known as the longest night of the year. After class, guests will enjoy complimentary wassail, a hot mulled cider drink perfect for toasting holiday cheer. Guests are encouraged to bring their own yoga mats. 5 p.m. $25. www.fourseasons.com/ scottsdale.

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GET COOKING Recipes and more abound in reads from local food and beverage experts

Step up your at-home kitchen game with these local cookbooks that explore a wide range of cuisine and drinks from some of the most recognized chefs and food personalities in the Valley.

BY MANDY HOLMES

Peace, Love, and Pasta Chef Scott Conant, one of the most well-known names in Italian cooking, has returned home to create Peace, Love and Pasta, his most personal cookbook yet. Now 35 years into a renowned career, with restaurants across the country and frequent national TV appearances, Conant’s new cookbook features foods from his childhood that he now makes for his loved ones as an adult. Readers can expect simple, easy-to-follow Italian recipes made with fresh and flavorful ingredients. www.scottconant.com. Phoenix Cooks Arizona Culinary Hall of Fame writer Christina Barrueta recently released Phoenix Cooks as an ode to the local talented chefs, restauranteurs and cocktail gurus. The book is composed of 98 recipes, some of which can be seen on her award-winning @writeonrubee Instagram account. Favorites include the Chicago Beef at Hush Public House, the eggplant salad at Glai Baan, and the Korean fried chicken tacos at CRUjiente Tacos. Readers can also mix up cocktails like the Lemongrass Swizzle from Clever Koi, or bake sweet treats such as the famous cheesecake with rosemary caramel from Tarbell’s. www.writeonrubee.com The Arizona Beer Book Attention, beer lovers! The Arizona Beer Book is a hardcover, coffee table-style book featuring 37 Arizona breweries alongside one of their beers. With beautiful photos, this book is a true snapshot of Arizona's craft beer producers, providing a refreshing look at the history, business and fun of beer in the state. The book highlights breweries from all corners of the state, from Kingman to Flagstaff, down into the central valley, and all the way to southern Arizona, including Tucson. www.thearizonabeerbook.com. Bianco Chris Bianco single-handedly revolutionized pizza in Arizona and reveals the methods that lead to the perfect crust, the sweetest tomato sauce, the creamiest mozzarella, and the most expertly balanced flavor combinations in his cookbook, Bianco: Pizza, Pasta, and Other Food I Like. The James Beard award-winning chef illuminates the fundamentals of pizza making, from the basics to his cooking philosophy. The text features recipes for his signature pies as well as strategies and techniques for translating chef’s methods to the home kitchen. www.pizzeriabianco.com. More Than A Meal Brimming with beautiful photos and recipes from some of Arizona’s most prized chefs, More Than A Meal is, above all, for a good cause. Featuring dishes from the chefs behind The Joy Bus Diner, Fox Restaurant Concepts, Rusconi's American Kitchen, Virtù, and The Gladly – to name a few – this cookbook is the culmination of years of dreams, hard work, and local collaboration. All of the proceeds benefit The Joy Bus’ #MoreThanAMeal Delivery Program, which works to provide homebound cancer patients with fresh, healthful chef-inspired meals delivered by a friendly face. morethanameal.funraise.org.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

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VIBRANT VENUES

Special spaces to celebrate life’s precious moments From small moments to big moments and all the others in between, life is meant to be celebrated! Scottsdale is full of diverse venues, including these unique concepts offering one-of-a-kind experiences for your event guests.

BY MANDY HOLMES

The Clayton House Fitting both small groups and large crowds, The Clayton House blends historical character with modern day sophistication. Keeping the original frame, vaulted ceiling, exposed beams, and expansive windows, this previously abandoned postal storage warehouse can be customized to fit any aesthetic. In 2017, the family-owned venue was renovated into a wedding and event space with three distinct areas, capable of hosting corporate gatherings, weddings and celebratory social soirees for up to 250 guests. www.theclaytonhouse.com. Mini Social This multiuse event venue, reminiscent of an oversized inviting living room, sits in the center of charming Old Town Scottsdale. The airy 2,700-square-foot space serves as a flexible canvas for functions of up to 50 people. Guests can decorate according to their style preference for events such as baby showers, birthday parties, corporate trainings, small weddings, and photoshoots. Those renting the space can make use of the venue’s provided tables, chairs, comfy lounge areas, full kitchen and giant island. www.minisocialaz.com. G Collection The focal point of G Collection entertainment and dining venue is a world-class classic automobile collection highlighting one-of-a-kind European, handmade, Zagato bodied cars. The Lounge has large flat-screen TVs, a state-ofthe-art sound system, seating for 50, and a full DJ booth. The Game Room features interactive games such as air hockey, pingpong, shuffleboard, and classic video games. The Barn houses original, unrestored cars next to a fun Beer Can Collection. A large indoor-outdoor space is also available and the venue’s preferred caterer is Creative Hands Cuisine. www. gcollectioncars.com. Volanti Volanti Restaurant and Lounge is located on the second floor of the Aviation Business Center at Scottsdale Airport overlooking the the runways and McDowell Mountain Preserve. From weddings to corporate events, the restaurant and venue has a full-service team with a production warehouse, kitchen and logistics for gatherings of all sizes. Boasting 4,000 square feet of privately owned event space, the open and modern concept offers spectacular views of the airfield, giving guests a unique perspective they won’t find anywhere else in the Valley. www.volantiscottsdale.com. Penske Racing Museum Boasting both casual to elegant options, Penske Racing Museum offers an impressive venue for all types of private events. The showcase of cars, trophies, and racing memorabilia highlight one of the most successful dynasties in all of sports and serve as a backdrop for car enthusiasts. On the second floor, guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor spaces thanks to the completely collapsible glass wall. As the exclusive caterer for the venue, M Culinary Concepts works with hosts on their dream menus. www.penskeautomall.com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

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Now CULTURE

NATURAL INSTINCTS Casey Cheuvront’s paintings are inspired by the places she loves most

BY GABBY LEIGHTON

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Casey Cheuvront’s first art show involved a bottle of nail polish and a wall in her home. “One of my earliest memories is painting in bright glossy red on a pure white surface,” she says. “Unfortunately, my mother was not happy that I had used her favorite nail polish to create my first art show at about 2 1/2 feet high on the living room wall.” Her taste has surely matured since then and today she is the owner of Casey Cheuvront Fine Art. Though her degree is not in art, Cheuvront studied drawing and ceramics, printmaking, and painting in California at a local community college and at Cal State Fullerton. In more recent years, she’s taken workshops and online courses. “I strive to be a lifetime learner, and spend a certain amount of time daily reading and viewing art and art related things,” she says. Cheuvront’s first career was in corporate America, but her love for art took over and she’s never looked back. “At any given time, I would find ways to bring some form of creativity into daily life,” she says. “After leaving corporate America I discovered that my love of art crossed over with my extrovert tendencies to make me a fairly decent instructor.” Cheuvront best describes herself as an “impressionist realist,” working mostly in oils from her studio or in the field. “The reason I work primarily in oils is because I find the medium seductive,” she says. “Oils will let you accomplish a lot of things that other paints will not, they don't change color like acrylics or watercolors, and they allow you to change your mind.” Her inspiration primarily comes from nature, an ideal instilled in her because of her years spent tramping through the woods with her father, who was a hunter and a bowman. “[Nature is] still where I feel most at home. I have been a hang glider pilot, a mountain biker, a backpacker, a scuba diver, and of course a hiker,” she says. “I have always felt that we need a connection with the real world, and that we are incomplete without it.” Some of her most popular works are those of the natural world, including her depictions of ravens, clouds, and landscapes. She has a line of modern works as well as a midnight kitchen series painted right from her kitchen late into the night. Her favorite pieces – including two raven works, an abstract painting and another depicting an onion – are deeply personal, reminding her of those closest to her, and will likely never leave her studio. Cheuvront has shown her work at Mountain Oyster Club Art show in Tucson for three years, and placed at the recent Sedona Arts Center Plein Air Festival. She is showing at the Phippen Museum, the Sedona Arts Center and recently completed a commission installed at Cavasson Scottsdale. Cheuvront’s work is also on display at The Finer Arts Gallery in Cave Creek and her pieces can be purchased on her website, www.caseycheuvront.com.

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Honoring excellence in all things epicurean As the food and beverage industry across the Valley continues to rebuild after the devastating effects of COVID-19, we are proud to shine a light on the innovative and inspired restaurants and experts in wining and dining. Through it all, the honorees in our fourth annual list of epicurean excellence have shown grit and determination to deliver the best in flavor, experience and service. Dig into our takes on the people and places that continue to put Scottsdale on the culinary map.

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

PHOTO BY DEBBY WOLVOS

Overall EXCELLENCE RESERVE In 2017, the award-winning Café Monarch restaurant moved from its home in South Scottsdale to a larger space across the street. The prior 1,200-square-foot space was then re-imagined into Reserve and opened last year. Inspired by Café Monarch owner Gustavo Lewkowicz’s travels through Spain, the ultra-fine dining concept offers a 12- to 14-course tasting menu limited to just 40 guests a night. Once diners arrive, they are seated in the courtyard for a dinner under the stars, beginning with an amuse-bouche. Though the menu changes seasonally, typical featured ingredients include everything from king crab and lobster to Miyazaki Japanese Mishima Wagyu steak. Each course is presented tableside like a work of art, meant to elicit a visual and aromatic response long before anything touches the guests’ lips. Night caps are available in the lounge after dinner. www.reserveoldtown.com.

CHRISTOPHER’S AT WRIGLEY MANSION James Beard award-winning chef Christopher Gross, the 2016 Scottsdale Culinary Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award winner for his contributions to the Arizona epicurean community, dreams big. This is more than apparent from his free-standing glass restaurant, complete with 180-degree city views, a retractable roof and an open gourmet kitchen. Opened amid COVID-19 after several years in the making and with the eyes of chefs, press and diners around the country watching, Christopher’s at Wrigley Mansion had to live up to a lot of hype. Instead, it exceeded even the loftiest expectations with its eightcourse tasting menu boasting whimsical plates featuring Wagyu beer, caviar, truffles and foie gras. The restaurant also offers bistro lunch offerings and “Christopher’s Classics,” a menu available several days of the week starring Gross’ most beloved and awarded dishes from the past 40 years. www.wrigleymansion.com. So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Supreme SOMMS CHRISTOPHER MARSHBURN Christopher Marshburn, a Level 2 Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers serving as the general manager, sommelier and beverage director of Bourbon & Bones, hand-selects the 300 bottles that are in the local steakhouse’s wine portfolio at any given time, including more than 100 varietals available by the glass and the only 3-liter bottles of 3Liter bottle of ZD Abacus in the state. An avid traveler to several wine regions domestically and internationally, Marshburn was among the first sommeliers in Arizona to obtain several coveted labels in the market, notably Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, which only produces 5,000 bottles per year and allots nine directly to him. He is also famous within the industry for his ability to speak to someone and within 60 seconds pinpoint their wine style and preferences with a nearly perfect success rate. www.bourbonandbonesaz.com.

LAURA BRUNO Laura Bruno, sommelier of Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa, first cut her teeth in hospitality as a chef, notably in the kitchens of Michelin-rated eateries The Modern and Prune in New York City, before turning to the study of wine, eventually earning both a bachelor’s degree in wine and beverage and a master’s degree in wine from the acclaimed Culinary Institute of America at Hyde Park. Bruno, who also has as Level 2 Certified Sommelier designation and a Certified Sake Advisor designation from the Sake School of America, spent several years at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale Troon North before she moved to Sanctuary. Today she is focused on expanding the hotel’s wine list by 250 labels, offering a thoughtful representation of wines from across the globe, as well as varieties from popular stateside regions. www.sanctuaryoncamelback.com.

JASON CABALLERO It was while working at Olive & Ivy in the mid-2000s – where he had the chance to mentor under a Level 3 Advanced Sommelier – that Jason Caballero decided to make it his life’s work. Today Caballero is an Advanced Sommelier himself in the midst of working toward the Level 4 Advanced designation – the highest ranking in the world and one almost no one currently working in Arizona holds. As the wine director of Maple & Ash, Caballero leads the restaurant’s wine program, which includes 4,500 bottles and 650 labels at any given time. Under his leadership, the restaurant has earned the Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence annually since opening in 2019. Caballero also serves on the GuildSomm board of directors where he mentors others in the industry. www.mapleandash.com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Italian STALLIONS

FAT OX Best described as a delicate and refined interpretation of bold rural Italian flavors, Fat Ox exploded onto the local culinary scene in 2017 under the leadership of chef and restaurateur Matt Carter, acclaimed founder of Zinc Bistro and The Mission, and up-and-coming talent Rochelle Daniel. Given its contemporary focus, do not expect traditional chicken parmesan or lasagna here. Instead, delight in course after course of precisely prepared dishes with simple ingredients such as mushrooms, olive oil, anchovies, and capers as well as freshly made cheeses and homemade pastas. The cocktails are as authentic as the cuisine, especially the Italian aperitifs and digestifs as well as the offerings made with in-house barrel-aged spirits. www.ilovefatox.com.

MORA ITALIAN A modern osteria from the heart and mind of best-selling cookbook author and James Beard Award-winning celebrity chef Scott Conant, Mora is an Italian-inspired steakhouse with simple, fresh and flavorful ingredients that will transport you to the Mediterranean with every bite. The menu is a combination of Conant’s most beloved and lauded recipes, including his signature pasta al pomodoro and expertly crafted antipasti, as well as Neapolitan-style pizzas, Prime meats, elegant seafood dishes and rich, artfully plated desserts. If visiting for the first time or celebrating a special occasion, indulge in Giro d’Mora, which translates to “Tour of Mora” in English. The five-course menu features an ever-changing lineup of Conant’s favorite dishes, ensuring a little bit of everything for the whole table. www.moraitalian.com.

MARCELLINO RISTORANTE Entering Marcellino feels like entering a love story, an idea that rings true once hearing the history behind the restaurant. Founded by chef Marcellino Verzino, who was born and raised on a farm in the Campania region of Italy, and his wife Sima, an acclaimed singer who both performs at the restaurant and handles its operations, the couple pour their love for each other and authentic, handmade Italian fare into every inch of the dimly lit, dreamy eatery. Images from their wedding hang on the walls, and it is common to see them smiling at each other from across the room. Diners quickly echo the owners’ smiles when food and drinks begin arriving at the table. Every morsel, from Verzino’s infused pastas to his salmon sauteed with leeks and mushrooms, is a can’tmiss bite. www.marcellinoristorante.com. So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Northern EXPOSURE

LISA DAHL Lisa Dahl, chef-owner of Dahl Restaurant Group, is one of the country’s leading female chefs and restaurateurs and a pioneer of the culinary scene in Sedona. As executive chef and chief executive officer of the restaurant group that bears her name, she oversees multiple outstanding restaurants in the region, including Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante Italiano, Cucina Rustica, Pisa Lisa, Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill and Butterfly Burger, A Couture Burger Lounge. In addition to her own restaurant group, Dahl was also recently announced as the culinary director of Alchemy at the soon-to-open Ambiente hotel in Sedona, where she will offer a menu of her magic food in a custom Airstream that has been re-imagined into a culinary destination situated poolside at the heart of the rugged 3-acre property. www.dahlrestaurantgroup.com.

DARA WONG Flagstaff is notably known for Northern Arizona University and Snowbowl as well as Ponderosa Pines, mountains, fall colors, small-town charm and a general laid-back vibe. But gourmand greatness? Epic eats? Destination dining? Each of these will be top of mind after a visit to Shift Kitchen & Bar, where chef-owner Dara Wong is out to literally shift all diners thought they knew about Flagstaff and its food scene. Big flavors and locally sourced ingredients dominate the menu, which primarily offers small plates (do not miss the pickled French fries) to be shared and a handful of constantly changing inventive entrees and desserts – think leek-infused cappelletti and jalapeno cheesecake – as well as inventive cocktails and mocktails. www. shiftflg.com.

MICHELLE JURISIN For some, Old Town Cottonwood – a charming city sprinkled with wine tasting rooms, breweries and locally owned shops – is still flying under the radar. The vast majority of locals, however, are well aware of the Northern Arizona town, thanks in great part to Michelle Jurisin, chef-owner of The Haunted Group. The East Coast native trained in Venice and under James Beard Award winners before partnering with her husband Eric to open multiple acclaimed restaurants in the Cottonwood area, including Nic’s Italian Steak & Crab House, Pizzeria Bocce, Strada at Bocce, The Tavern Grill and Crema Café & Bar. She is also leading a culinary renaissance in nearby mountain town of Jerome, heading up The Clinkscale Hotel, Bar and Grill, Haunted Hamburger and Grapes Restaurant and Bar. www.thehauntedgroup.com.

Desert DISTILLERIES

TEQUILA CORCEL The tagline of this brand – which currently includes Blanco, Reposado, Añejo and Extra Añejo tequilas harvested from seven-year-old Blue Agave in the Guadalajara region of Mexico – is “enjoy wildly.” Perhaps that is because the story of its founding is as wild as it comes. The Mexican-born family who launched Tequila Corcel initially set out to bring a pomegranate-based liqueur from their home state of Colima to Arizona. But through a series of incidents, including one brother having a stroke and another winning the lottery, the two youngest siblings decided to move forward with tequila instead. Each varietal is distinct, with the Reposado gaining its flavor profile after aging in American oak barrels for six months, the Añejo for 16 months and the Extra Añejo for three years. www.corceltequila.com.

GRAND CANYON BREWING & DISTILLERY Headquartered in historic downtown Williams and now with a second location in Flagstaff, Grand Canyon Brewing & Distillery made a name for itself over the past decade by crafting more than a dozen types of beer – ranging from American pilsners and IPAs to prickly pear-infused ales and pumpkin porters – each year. In 2017, the brewery entered the craft spirits market, releasing a vodka, rum, gin and whisky. Today, the distillery creates both traditional and more unique-flavored spirits, notably Orange Blossom, a vodka made using navel oranges and actual orange blossoms; and Cinnamon Fire Thundersnow, a whiskey infused with vanilla, habaneros and cinnamon sticks. Earlier this year, Grand Canyon also introduced a line of canned vodka soda, tonic and mule drinks. www. grandcanyonbrewery.com.

WHISKEY DEL BAC Kentucky has its bourbon. Scotland has its scotch. And now Arizona has its own iteration of whiskey thanks to Whiskey Del Bac. The brand was born after a Tucson furniture designer decided to try his hand at using Arizona mesquite to make a libation. He malted barley over mesquite wood, achieving what the brand now proudly calls a “mesquited, not peated” flavor profile. Today, Del Bac offers four varietals across Arizona, including Classic, which has a delightful sweet caramel and oak finish; Old Pueblo, which has notes desert campfire and dried ancho chili; Dorado, which has a complex, layered nose of tobacco and chocolate; and Distiller's Cut, an annual limited-edition, cask strength offering made by blending the brand’s Classic and Dorado varieties, finished in a specialty barrel. www. whiskeydelbac.com. So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Sensational SEAFOOD

PHOTO BY J MARTIN HARRIS

NOBU The story behind Nobu sounds like the plot of a movie. It even features Robert De Niro. It starts in 1950s Japan when, at just 7, Nobuyuki “Nobu” Matsuhisa lost his father to a car crash. He helped his family by working in a restaurant in his early teens, eventually serving as a live-in apprentice for a sushi bar. Matsuhisa made his way statewide in the 1970s, eventually opening a restaurant and earning a fan in De Niro. The two, along with partners, opened the first Nobu in New York in 1993, promptly earning a James Beard Award. In 2020, the now-global brand opened a palatial location in Scottsdale, featuring the restaurant’s all-time signature seafood and sushi dishes as well as more experimental fare. www.noburestaurants.com.

OCEAN 44 The members of the Mastro family – founders of Mastro's Steakhouse, Ocean Club and City Hall and current proprietors of Steak 44, Dominick’s and Ocean 44 – are maestros when it comes to fine dining and see-and-be-scene concepts in the Valley and beyond. This love letter to chef-sourced, high-grade sustainably sourced and exquisitely prepared seafood is housed in a commanding 12,000-square-foot space boasting an elaborate glass expo kitchen, raw bar, expansive cocktail bar and multiple vibrant dining rooms meant to make guests feel as if they are dining on the coast. The menu reads like an encyclopedia of delicacies from the deep, including lobster, oysters, crab, branzino, seabass, scallops and mussels from the most coveted regions in the world, with both traditional preparations and more creative takes on classics. www.ocean44.com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

BUCK & RIDER Since opening in 2015, Buck & Rider has prided itself on flying its fish in daily, sourcing it directly from respected, responsible farmers and fishing boats across the East, West and Gulf Coasts, and delivering it to guest’s plates the same day. The raw bar at Buck is quickly becoming that of legend, setting the standard for freshness in the Valley. The restaurant’s chefs handpick the oysters, and source the wild-caught shrimp directly from the Sea of Cortez, also known as “the aquarium of the world.” Beyond the raw bar, the seared sushi grade ahi tuna, blue crab and Hollander and de Köning mussels are of particular note. While currently only open in Arcadia, Buck & Rider will open a second location in North Scottsdale in 2022. www.buckandrider.com.

PHOTO BY GRACE STUFKOSKY

Top TRENDSETTERS

VIRTÙ HONEST CRAFT Upon its opening in 2013, Virtù – helmed by chef Gio Osso – was quickly named among the best new restaurants in America by Esquire. But its acclaimed inventive fare is not solely what makes Virtù a trendsetter. In sports, a coach’s legacy is often determined by his or her “coaching tree,” meaning the number of people he or she has mentored to similar greatness. Osso’s culinary version of a coaching tree is a big one, including training Benjamin Graham of Citizen Public House and James Beard-nominated Samantha Sanz of The Sanctuary when each were getting their starts. Osso is accomplishing his goal – creating beautifully composed symphonies of sights, scents and tastes through food – not only with his menus, but all those inspired by his leadership in kitchens across Arizona. www.virtuhonestcraft.com.

CENTURY GRAND It is appropriate that this experiential cocktail destination has the word “grand” in its name. The concept takes the idea of going big or going home to another level, offering three completely different adventures in alcohol consumption within its four walls. First, there is Platform 18, a high-concept mixology bar set in a historic Presidential Pullman-inspired train car that takes guests through the Rocky Mountains via visual effects and sounds. Then, there is Grey Hen Rx, an apothecary-themed bar with experimental nonalcoholic spirits and boozy classics as well as sorbets and ice creams. Finally, earlier this year Century welcomed UnderTow inside. The iconic Tiki concept, formerly under Sip Coffee & Beer next door, makes guest feel like they are drinking in the hull of ship with its own set of special effects. www.centurygrandphx.com.

LON’S AT THE HERMOSA INN Given Scottsdale’s weather, patio dining is a way of life for about nine months of the year. However, sunshine alone cannot make a good patio. Setting the standard for outdoor dining in Arizona for decades, the often duplicated but never replicated patio at LON’s at the Hermosa Inn is nestled into a colorful, resplendent garden with breathtaking vistas of the lush desert and Camelback Mountain. The space itself boasts five massive wood-burning fireplaces, plush couches, scattered dining tables – many under mature towering trees – and trickling water features to add to the sense of place. While others come and go, LON’s continues to be the perfect gathering place for a leisurely lunch, weekend brunch or dinner with a menu featuring globally-inspired Arizona fare. www.lons.com. So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Organic OPERATIONS

THE FARM AT SOUTH MOUNTAIN The Farm, which includes Morning Glory Café, The Farm Kitchen and Quiessence, takes farm-to-table dining to a whole other level thanks to Soil & Seed Garden. The organic garden on property provides seasonal specialty vegetables, herbs and edible flowers to the three on-site restaurants year-round. At Morning Glory, expect them to be incorporated into seasonal omelets and fresh baked goods for breakfast and brunch. At the Kitchen, walk up to the counter and order a picnic basket with delicious sandwiches, fresh soups and seasonal salads. Finally, at fine dining Quiessence, guests enjoy their choice of a three-, four- or five-course tasting menu featuring dishes made with the freshest items from the week's harvest as well as cheeses, artisan breads, handcrafted pastas and responsibly farmed beef, chicken and seafood. www.thefarmatsouthmountain.com.

FNB Helmed by 2019 James Beard Best Chef of the Southwest Award winner Charleen Badman, FnB’s ever-changing lineup of dishes showcases the best in locally grown vegetables from across Arizona. Veggies, in fact, take center stage on her menus, prominent in nearly every dish Badman dreams up. Ingredients often include heirloom tomatoes with beluga lentils, quark, sweet onions, Calabrian peppers and basil or eggplant with harissa-tomato vinaigrette and wheat berry tabbouleh. Many dishes also have a touch of Asian or Indian flair as well, reflecting some of the flavors that Badman enjoys eating herself. Additionally, FnB boasts the first Arizona-only wine program and Badman is founder of Blue Watermelon, a Slow Food Phoenix coalition of local chefs and activists focused on improving school lunches. www.fnbrestaurant.com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

TRUE FOOD KITCHEN In 2008, True Food Kitchen was founded by renowned physician and doctor of integrative medicine Dr. Andrew Weil based on his philosophy that food should make people feel better, not worse. As a result, the restaurant’s menu is focused on offering nutrient-dense staples and responsibly sourced proteins as well as superfoods. Every single ingredient on True Food Kitchen’s menu comes from partnerships with growers expressly committed to the same core values and a high level of food integrity. All ingredients used in any given dish are also tied to a resulting feeling. For example, dark leafy greens, citrus and butternut squash are incorporated for their energy boosting effects. Similarly, cacao, mushrooms and avocados provide balance, and nuts and olive oil are used to amplify focus. www.truefoodkitchen.com.

Mentee to MASTER

FOREST HAMRICK Forest Hamrick grew up just miles from the Mexican border cooking hybrid Mexican-American meals with his mother and grandmother for family and friends. After studying psychology and then nursing in college, he finally started cooking professionally, eventually ending up in Arizona for culinary school. He was in on the ground floor of La Hacienda, starting in 2003 and working hand-in-hand with mentor and celebrity chef Richard Sandoval to showcase traditional yet upscale Mexican cuisine for the past 18 years. A key contributor when the restaurant was renovated a few years ago, today Hamrick is the chef de cuisine of La Hacienda, developing menus and often traveling to Mexico and South America with Sandoval and other chefs to get inspiration for new dishes. www.scottsdaleprincess.com.

ZACHARY RIDDELL In 2019, after working for chef-owner Matt Carter for nearly a decade, Zachary Riddell was named by Carter himself as the executive chef of both the Kierland Commons and Old Town Scottsdale locations of The Mission. A graduate of The Culinary Institute of America at Hyde Park, The Mission and Carter opened Riddell’s heart, mind and palate to the cuisine of South America when he started with the restaurant right after school in 2010. He worked his way up from line cook to chef to chef de cuisine before earning the role as Carter’s right hand, falling in love with combining traditional ingredients with classic French techniques while earning unofficial graduate degrees in chili peppers, spices and Scottsdale along the way. www. themissionaz.com.

ADRIAN DE LEON Adrian De Leon began his culinary education locally at Arizona Culinary Institute before working his way up the career ladder. He’s well-versed in all areas of the kitchen as he started as a dishwasher then worked to earn the titles of prep, cook, line, cook and lead cook. He began as the sous chef of Tarbell’s in 2012, then once again earned his next titles of chef de cuisine and executive chef. De Leon now currently serves as the culinary director of Tarbell Hospitality, a position he has held for four years. In his current role, De Leon is responsible for all menu creation, kitchen management, budget planning, product ordering, and filling any position needed to ensure kitchen operations run smoothly. In addition to Tarbell’s (the restaurant), the hospitality group also owns The Wine Bar and The Wine Store. www.tarbells.com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Signature EXPERIENCES · Desert Ice Skating Rink with VIP Fireside Experience · Four-Story Musical Tree & Animated Light Show · Photos with Santa

Gather family & friends N OV 1 6

JAN 2

· 6 Million Holiday Lights · Magical Holiday Characters · Two Princess Express Trains · Winterland: Life-Size Snow Globe, Seasonal Cocktails and Fire Pits

Join us as the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess transforms into a spectacular holiday wonderland for the twelfth annual celebration of Christmas at the Princess!

· Twinkle Town

NEW FOR 2021! · The Village: Frosty’s Ferris Wheel, Snow Mountain Ice Slide, Ice Maze, Alpine Skate Trail, S’Moresland and More · Nativity Garden: Celebrate the Reason for the Season with a 10-Minute Program · A Christmas Wish: Send Your Wish into the World with our Whimsical Christmas Wish Paper

for admission & festival information visit: SCOT TSDALEPRI NCES S .COM/CH RI STMAS | 480. 58 5 . 4848

Style

A L L U R E / D W E L L / S H O P / FA S H I O N

BY GABBY LEIGHTON

Whether headed to a holiday party or out for a romantic date night, add a little sparkle to your ensemble with the Reversible VLogo Crystal-Embellished Belt by Valentino Garavani. A black or ivory leather belt – depending on which you’re feeling that day – acts as the canvas, while the iconic Valentino logo steals the show, displaying a rainbow of sparkles. The belt matches virtually any outfit, with a colorblocked pattern of red, pink, blue, gold, purple and green crystals. The accessory is made in Italy. $2,050 at Saks Fifth Avenue, www.saksfifthavenue.com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘20

Style ALLURE

BY NEYDA MELINA

GOLD GETTER

Sparkle and shine in metallic makeup this holiday season

Gel eyeliner pencil, Nars, $24 at Saks Fifth Avenue, www. saksfifthavenue.com. Highlighter stick, Jane Iredale, $38 at Citrine, www. citrinenaturalskin.com. Powder gel eyeshadow, Shiseido, $22 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com Illuminating power, Hourglass Cosmetics, $40 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com. Shimmery lipstick, Gucci, $46 at Sephora, www. sephora.com. Nonstick lip gloss, Chanel, $32 at Nordstrom.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Permanent Make-up

& BEYOND Microblading

BEYOND MICROBLADING As a permanent make up technician and trainer for nearly 30 years I’ve seen many trends come and go. These days one of the first things I hear from people inquiring about services is “I don’t want tattooed eyebrows. I want the soft powdery look that you did for my friend.” This is when I educate the public on the truth about permanent make up and the truth is it’s all tattoo. Years ago when permanent make up was just a fledgling industry in this country many of us worked in the offices of plastic surgeons. We called the procedure micro pigment implantation. Then different techniques were marketed using trade words like soft tap, and recently microblading has been all the rage. Known as the “queen of conservative” My specialty is custom blending colors for each person. Shape, color, technique and science are what create the artistry for beautifully natural eyebrows. Eyelash enhancements. Due to the lockdown most people have lost their eyelash extensions. This is the perfect time to touch up permanent eyeliner before reapplying lashes. I love to create a rich smokey looking lash line rather than a harsh eyeliner look. Safety first. Due to the intimate nature of these procedures safety has always been at the very top of the list. Hospital grade disinfectants are used on surfaces between clients and most importantly all instruments are new, sterile and disposable. Yea! With your safety in mind I will be wearing a mask through your procedure and if you like I will happily provide you with one as well. Because my studio is completely private you need not worry about ever encountering a crowded salon environment.

Contact Rachell Hall at 480.368.9239 8075 E. Morgan Trail, Suite 2 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 (Off Hayden, between Mountain View and Shea)

Visit her websites: RachellHall.com BeautyBeyondBreastCancer.com

Style DWELL

BY NEYDA MELINA

SWEET SOMETHINGS Delightful ways to dish up dessert

Gold platter, $195 at Aerin, www.aerin. com. Silver baroque pie server, Wallace Silversmiths, $140 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com. Tartan dessert plate, Juliska, $34 at Saks Fifth Avenue, www.saksfifthavenue. com. Iridescent trifle bowl, Godinger, $49.99 at Nordstrom, www.nordstrom.com Scalloped tiered stand, Monique Lhuillier, $69.50 at Pottery Barn, www. potterybarn.com. Gold crystal cake stand, Anna New York, $695 at Nordstrom.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

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ANDREW BLOOM Senior Partner | REALTOR®

Keller Williams Northeast Realty 7702 E Doubletree Rd Suite 300 Scottsdale AZ 85258 Each Keller Williams Office is Independently Owned and Operated

Style SHOP

BY NEYDA MELINA

CHECK LIST Stand out in tartan and plaid prints

Woven bucket hat, $12.99 at H&M, www. hm.com. Long-sleeved dress, $128 at J.Crew, www. jcrew.com. Knitted leather handbag, Burberry, $1,390 at Nordstrom, www.nordstrom.com. A-line skirt, Akris Punto, $495 at Saks Fifth Avenue, www. saksfifthavenue.com. Slip-on loafers, Bougeotte, $730 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com. Flannel buttondown, $88 at Madewell, www. madewell.com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

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MONDAY - SATURDAY 10AM - 5PM 4 8 0.6 5 9.2 9 6 4

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Style SHOP

BY NEYDA MELINA

A LUG UP

The chunky sole boots trending this winter

Green suede laceup, $298 at J.Crew, www.jcrew.com. Taupe mid-calf rubber, $49.99 at H&M, www.hm.com. Cheetah print lace-up, $69.95 at Chinese Laundry, www.chineselaundry. com. Silver heeled laceup, Moncler, $780 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com. Red tall rubber, Ganni, $285 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com. White suede platform, Puma, $100 at Saks Fifth Avenue, www. saksfifthavenue.com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

BY GABBY LEIGHTON / PHOTOS BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE / STYLING BY STACEY RICHMAN HAIR AND MAKEUP BY HALEY STANT / MODEL: FORD/RBA / LOCATION: STK STEAKHOUSE

TAKE THE TOWN Glam getups for a night out

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

VEST: Taupe faux fur, Chloe, $325.95. NECKLACE: Silver mesh necktie, Tiffany & Co., $2,395.95. SKIRT: Black patent leather mini, Yves Saint Laurent, $1,395.95. SHOES: Tan over-the-knee heeled boots, Stuart Weitzman, $525.95. All from To Be Continued, www. tbcconsignment.com.

JACKET: Multicolor sequined bomber, Gucci, $3,895.95. PANTS: Black leather, Ralph Lauren, $169.95. HANDBAG: Soda can clutch, Ambush, $2,495.95. SHOES: Black heeled booties, Yves Saint Laurent, $395.95. All from To Be Continued, www. tbcconsignment.com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

DRESS: Off-white sleeveless with beaded fringe, Stella McCartney, $525.95. RING: Blue oval, $125.95. SHOES: Clear and silver beaded slingbacks, Manolo Blahnik, $175.95. All from To Be Continued, www. tbcconsignment.com.

EARRINGS: Goldplated tube, Malene Birger, $75.95. DRESS: Green satin wrap midi, Balenciaga, $1,425.95. HANDBAG: Purple embossed velvet baguette, Fendi, $2,075.95. SHOES: Black strappy embellished heels, Gucci, $665.95. All from To Be Continued, www.tbcconsignment. com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

NECKLACE: Black velvet logo choker, Christian Dior, $395.95. HANDBAG: Black micro crossbody, Boyy, $245.95. DRESS: Multicolor geometric T-shirt maxi, Paco Rabanne, $255.95. SHOES: Black flat sandals, Fendi, $445.95. All from To Be Continued, www.tbcconsignment. com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

NECKLACE: Gold with stones, Chanel, $2,895.95. DRESS: Red flounce sleeveless, Daniela Corte, $175.95. SHOES: Black pointed-toe suede pompom pumps, Christian Louboutin, $495.95. All from To Be Continued, www. tbcconsignment.com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

JACKET: Blue leather moto, Alexander McQueen, $995.95. TOP: Black with white piping, Rudi Gernreich, $360. SKIRT: Black tiered wrap, Chanel, $2,550.95. HANDBAG: Black leather with studs, Valentino, $1,825. SHOES: Black and red zipper booties, Yves Saint Laurent, $295.95. All from To Be Continued, www. tbcconsignment.com.

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DRESS: Blue oneshoulder ruffled, Gucci, $1,995.95. HANDBAG: White crystal frog clutch, Judith Leiber, $1,695.95. BRACELET: Gold leaf cuff, $695.95. SHOES: Black and gold pointed toe booties, Christian Louboutin, $495.95. All from To Be Continued, www. tbcconsignment.com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

101

Luxe

W H E E L S / WA N T / H AU T E P R O P E R T Y / P L A C E S

BY GABBY LEIGHTON

Become the king (or queen) of home decor with the new Checkmate art collection by Berd Vay’e. Up to six times the size of a traditional chess piece set, this six-piece collection features sculptures of the royal chess court: The Pawn, Knight, Bishop, Rook, Queen of Parts (Queen), and the largest and most difficult to create at 18 inches tall, The Grand Master (King). The New York-based company is known for mastering items made from shatter-resistant Lucite and incorporating vintage watch components by hand. This particular collection mixes the complexities and strategies found behind both chess and the art of watchmaking. Each sculpture in the collection is sold individually. $7,500-$10,800. www.berdvaye.com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

103

Luxe WHEELS

2022 JEEP GRAND WAGONEER The rebirth of a premium luxury American icon BY JIM PRUETER

VITAL STATS: 2022 Grand Cherokee Series III

Much like the Ford Bronco and GM’s Hummer, Jeep has resurrected an old nameplate with the Grand Wagoneer. One might be surprised it’s a Jeep since the raised aluminum, two-piece, copperchino-accented “Wagoneer” is the only badging on the new, humungous SUV – the name “Jeep” appears nowhere on the vehicle. In many ways, the Wagoneer is similar to the original ‘60s to ‘90s luxury Wagoneer, with a killer, good-looking exterior style – but there’s no woody option, yet. Inside, however, is an abundance of meticulously handcrafted satin American walnut timbers. Cosseting seats are upholstered in thick, diamond print belted leather with contrasting stitching. Rich symphony-esq tones emanate from the 23-speaker McIntosh MX1375 Reference Entertainment system. Sound is delivered through advanced coups de grace technology, some of which have never been seen before, including up to 75 cumulative screen inches, with a passenger movie screen and a “relax mode” which features a crackling fireplace visible to all occupants when the vehicle is parked. The

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Wagoneer can even include almost 45 inches of rear seat entertainment display, including Amazon Fire TV. The Grand Wagoneer is powered by a big, melodious 6.4-liter 471-horsepower V-8, with 455 pound-feet of torque good for 10,000 pounds of towing capacity, delivered through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Even with its cylinder deactivation system, drivers will pay dearly at the pump with a combined city and highway rating of just 15 mpg. On the road, the Grand Wagoneer delivers an incredibly comfortable, relaxed, smooth, and serene ride. While it didn’t earn Jeep’s “Trail Rated” badge, the Wagoneer can be purchased with one of three available four-wheel drive offroad systems. Overall, the model – with inspiration from Wagoneer’s rich history – delivers a stage presence that bests the likes of its competition such as Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade, and easily equals top-tier luxury brands like Range Rover or the Mercedes-Maybach GLS, with a price tag to match.

Base price: $104,845 Price as tested: $111,845 Fuel economy: 13/18 mpg city/ highway Engine: 6.4-L V-8 Seating: 7-8 Fab features: Spacious, lavish interior Tour de force tech and driver assist features Impressive driving, handling and ride comfort

SCOTTSDALE’S PREMIERE TESTOSTERONE center for MEN CONFIDENCE • SEX DRIVE • ENERGY • WEIGHT LOSS • MUSCLE MASS • MOTIVATION

What Makes Us Elite?

Meet Carlos Suescun M.D. THE most INTERESTING DOCTOR in SCOTTSDALE Physician & Triathlete

Every single visit is with Dr. Suescun. At most hormone replacement centers, you will NEVER see a doctor. You also have direct access to Dr. Suescun via cell, text & email. There are no weekly visits required as with most hormone replacement centers. All medication is taken at home. We schedule your visits at your convenience including evenings and weekends. Membership with Elite includes body composition monitoring to achieve your individual goals. We follow your progress by analyzing & tracking your body fat percentage, muscle mass, weight etc. to track tangible results. All plans are completely individualized and doses of medication carefully adjusted for patients to meet their specific goals based on hormone levels and biochemical markers. We stress the importance of nutrition in reaching the ultimate level of fitness, strength, and health and therefore provide our clients with personalized nutritional advice along with exercise and fitness counseling. Our goal is to help you stay in the best shape of your life and to achieve optimum health.

STAY SEXY, my friends 480.626.1314

SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE 11000 N. SCOTTSDALE ROAD. SUITE 130 | SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85254 www.elitetestosteronereplacement.com

Luxe WANT

FUN ON THE FARM

The rural respite of Los Poblanos offers field-to-fork fine dining and lavender fields

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO COURTESY OF LOS POBLANOS

First inhabited by the Anasazi and then by Mexican settlers, Los Poblanos Inn and Organic Farm – located in a rural area just north of Albuquerque – has existed in various states for centuries. In the 1930s, however, a concerted effort was made to ensure the long-term preservation of the agricultural fields, formal gardens and the important New Mexican art and architecture from throughout its history thanks to famed architect John Gaw Meem, often nicknamed the “Father of Santa Fe Style.” With partners, Meem designed the remodel of the property that was so celebrated that it served as a cultural and political hub as well as a performing arts space for many years. By 1997, after many years of wear and tear, Los Poblanos found new life after being converted to a culinary and vacation destination, further protecting and preserving the land for a whole new generation. Today, Los Poblanos Ranch is anchored by a historic inn with 45 intimate, well-appointed rooms boasting wood and gas fireplaces, original artwork,

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carved ceiling beams, hardwood floors and antique Southwest furnishings. All bedrooms have luxurious bedding and feature lavender spa amenities made on the farm, and many rooms and suites offer outdoor living space as well as incredible views of the lotus pond, gardens, acequias and/ or the Sandia Mountains. There is a solarheated outdoor salt water swimming pool, a fitness room and a wellness yurt used for yoga and other exercise programs. Beyond these more traditional amenities, Los Poblanos sets itself apart with wellness and culinary offerings connected to its vast lavender fields and organic farm operations. The lavender fields, which provide a vibrant violet and aromatic backdrop as they bloom, are farmed using a steam distillation process on-site to extract essential oil and ensure absolute purity. The oil then goes into the inn’s artisan products, including body wash, fragrances, lotion and salves, which are available for purchase at the farm shop on property. The oil is also incorporated directly or used to make specialty products that are utilized during most massage and facial treatments at the newly opened Hacienda Spa at Los Poblanos. The inn’s food is anchored by Campo, a casual fine dining experience featuring field-to-fork dining. The center piece of the new open-concept kitchen is the impressive open fire hearth, allowing guests to see the flame cooking in progress. Every ingredient used is either sourced directly from the property, notably beans, tomatoes, eggplant, squash, stone fruits, and onions, or from fellow local farms and herdsmen along the Rio Grande. The property offers walking tours of the farm, as well as bird-watching tours, horticulture workshops and even hands-on gardening classes. Rates vary based on level of accommodations, date of stay and requested culinary and workshop enhancements. Learn more at www.lospoblanos.com.

RIDE

G Y A M G YO

S E S S A L C

A P S

RACQUET

SWIM

RUN

FITNESS

ESSENTIAL

If fitness was a pill... everyone would be taking it!

The Village has everything you need to transform your body and have fun doing it and living a healthy lifestyle is all about balance, so you don’t get burnt out or injured. We offer a variety of classes at different levels of intensity so you can vary your workouts and benefit from active recovery and cross-training. Mixing up your training by taking cardio, strength and flexibility classes helps you increase full-body fitness.

Get your complimentary

VIP

trial membership today

Luxe HAUTE PROPERTY

SPOTLIGHT: HILLSIDE OPULENCE BY GABBY LEIGHTON

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Private serenity and stunning views collide at this hillside home, located within a guard-gated community. The recently built custom residence, which boasts four bedrooms and 4 1/2 baths, sits on just over 2 acres. The 6,965-square-foot estate, surrounded by lush landscaping, combines traditional elegance and contemporary vision within its walls. The master craftmanship is apparent, from the exceptional tilework to the hand-laid natural stone waterfall that cascades down the hillside. Every room showcases sweeping views, from the city lights of the Valley to the iconic Camelback Mountain. Spaces foster seamless indoor-outdoor living for residents to take in all the surrounding sights have to offer. The great room is designed for gathering and entertaining, with 25-foot ceilings, a Himalayan fossil stone fireplace and a custom glass under lit bar. The kitchen would make any chef comfortable, with high-end appliances and an expansive geo-lux quartz waterfall island. Expansive walls of glass doors open to the magnificent outdoor living spaces from the formal dining and great room. The master suite has a spa-style bath, featuring marple countertops, double vanities, and a TV in the mirror. The space is rounded out with custom his and hers closets, both equipped with with electric clothes cabinets and built-in safes. Her closet also has a vanity with a makeup sink and TV in the custom mirror. Additional highlights include a theater, a gym, a three-floor elevator, and two garages with parking for six cars. The outdoor space features shaded outdoor dining and living terraces, complete with built in heaters, a misting system, an infinity-edge swimming pool, a heated spa, a sundeck and a fire pit. There’s also a putting green and a built-in barbeque 6850 N. 39th Place, Paradise Valley, Arizona, 85253. Listed for $6,995,000 with Jim and Marilyn Cavanaugh of the Cavanaugh Luxury Group at The Agency. Jim: 602.859.3287, jim.cavanaugh@theagencyre.com. Marilyn: 602.859.5999, mcavanugh@theagencyre. com.

Save the Date INSPIRATIONS 2022

Garden Party February

2022

Expect fabulous silent and live auctions, engaging raffles and an extraordinary experience with our cancer fighter models and their siblings! This uplifting and unique event is not just any fashion show, but rather a chance for you to celebrate survivorship with our families. Inspirations is a wonderful way to experience the warmth and community of Children’s Cancer Network!

CHILDRENSCANCERNETWORK.ORG/EVENTS Children’s Cancer Network is a Qualified Charitable Organization for the Arizona State Tax Credit. childrenscancernetwork.org

Luxe PLACES

HELLO, PASO!

Bountiful and beautiful Paso Robles offers endless room for roaming, relaxation and revelry

PHOTO COURTESY OF JUSTIN WINERY

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

Paso Robles is a wine country on the rise. Located between Los Angeles and San Francisco – just a short drive from San Luis Obispo – Paso Robles began as a wine region in earnest in the early 1980s. However, it was the well-received Saxum brand in 2010 followed by Wine Enthusiast naming it the Wine Region of the Year in 2013 that really brought acclaim to the area. In addition to wine, visitors can also revel in dozens of award-winning restaurants, resorts, inns and other attractions in between sips.

Drink Today throughout greater Paso Robles, there are more than 200 wineries and 40,000 vineyard acres, many with immersive tours and culinary experiences on property, producing at least 60 types of varietals. Tablas Creek, a pioneer in cultivating the Rhone-style wines for which Paso is becoming well known, is a great first stop. Its tree-lined patio offers reserved seated tastings with red, white and mixed flights as well as stunning views. Baileyana, a femaleled winery with cool-climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, should also be on any visitor’s list. There are tastings available both in its historic schoolhouse, which was built in 1909, as well as on its epic patio complete with bocce ball courts. Cheeky Chronic Cellars, playfully named because only the best – or “chronic” – grapes go into the brand’s wines, is similarly a blast with an outdoor tasting bar and corn hole setup across the expansive property, making wine tasting feel like a casual backyard bash. Those more into caves than games should consider Booker Vineyard & Winery. It sits along 100 acres of the western hills of Paso Robles and features a variety chambers within its caves of varying temperatures and size. Cave tours are followed by an elevator ride to a rooftop tasting experience that just opened in 2020. DAOU Vineyards is a popular choice for history buffs. This expansive winery teaches visitors the story of how one family’s perseverance over generations led two brothers to realize their American dream. The tasting room has regular flights and guests can add culinary enhancements, ranging from charcuterie and cheese plates to more exotic options, including clams and chorizo.

Dine Speaking of culinary pairings, Paso Robles’ vineyards excel in epicurean offerings. Adelaida Vineyards & Winery offers a food and wine program meant to take a deep dive into how food and wine complement and impact each other. It features a curated meal created by the nearby Patio Kitchen and signature wines to accompany each bite, all in an intimate setting within the VIP Library Room. Niner Wine Estates boasts a Chef’s Garden Tasting, which takes place in a private section of the property’s garden and – after a picturesque tour – guests are served a prix

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PHOTO COURTESY OF ADELAIDA VINEYARDS

fixe, three-course seasonal menu with remarkable estate wines. At cabernet sauvignon powerhouse Justin Vineyards & Winery, guests can enjoy a full-service restaurant overlooking the vineyards, offering lunch, dinner and brunch on the weekends with dishes featuring many ingredients from the vineyard’s 26 acres of orchards, vegetable gardens and edible flower fields. There are dining destinations beyond those available at the vineyards as well, notably Les Petites Canailles, a modern take on a French farm-to-table bistro specializing in local Central Coast California ingredients; and La Cosecha Bar and Restaurant, a chic eatery serving Spanish and Latin American dishes and top-shelf craft cocktails.

Stay In between Paso Robles adventures, take time to rest, relax and recharge at Allegretto Vineyard Resort. Spread across 20 acres, the Tuscan-style and dog-friendly resort features 171 guests rooms and suites, as well as on-site dining, lush gardens, a pool with luxury cabanas, a lavish spa complete with massages accompanied by prosecco and energy treatments, and its own wine tasting room with some of the finest regional wines, including Allegretto's own private label. The property also offers meditation, yoga, art tours, chef’s garden strolls, fire pits and photo opportunities with George, the property’s resident alpaca. Guests may even want to stroll to the on-site abbey, modeled after the rustic chapels of Europe and blending ancient symbols with contemporary artistry to bring a sense of harmony and peace. Learn more at www.pasowine.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALLEGRETTO VINEYARD RESORT

Though the wine and culinary experiences are epic, it is also worth budgeting some time for other types of exploration. During the day, stroll around the Paso Market Walk, a mixed-use marketplace with local purveyors ranging from coffee roasters and brewers to The Mercantile Paso, where shoppers will find unique gifts, special household relics and exceptional candles. Another great option, especially if traveling in a group, is to arrange a Camp Cass through Cass Winery. Billed as “adult summer camp,” and available to private groups year-round, Camp Cass offers a combination of experiences packaged together including olive oil pressing, beekeeping, scavenger hunts, archery, and horseback riding. In the evening, consider Sensorio, an immersive art destination that recently debuted a light installation in addition to its 15-acre outdoor exhibition. The new installation features 69 towers made from more than 17,000 wine bottles, illuminated with glowing optic fibers.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SENSORIO

See

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Taste DRINK

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

SPECIAL SIPS

Cocktails worth the splurge on a grand night out

Go ahead, live a little! Pamper your palate with one of these extra lavish libations to celebrate the end of the year.

Versace on the Floor The Americano Think of this exquisitely crafted cocktail as drinkable art. It starts with vodka that has been infused with both serrano and Fresno chile peppers. The vodka is mixed with a coconut white balsamic and mesquite honey and then topped with a rich foam made from basil oil. It offers hot, sweet and savory notes in every luscious sip. $18. www. theamericanorestaurant.com. Dead Man’s Pocket Watch Platform 18 This stirred cocktail is made with 10-year aged whiskey as well as Giffard Fraise des Bois, Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale, Mattei Cap Corse Rouge, basil, soy sauce, cocoa nibs, Verjus Blanc, St. George Absinthe Verte, and Angostura bitters. On the palate, expect the strawberry and herbal basil to jump out first, followed by savory cocoa notes and a burst of umami from the soy sauce. $22. www.centurygrandphx.com. Grand Añejo Ocean Prime Phoenix Forgo the standard margarita for this elevated take featuring the coveted Avion Reserva 44 Extra Anejo. It is paired with glitter-infused Grand Marnier Cuvee du Centenaire 100 Year, a high-end liqueur invented in 1927 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the House of Marnier Lapostolle, and finished with freshly squeezed lime juice. $34. www.ocean-prime.com. Trust Fund Baby Tash A perfectly pink drink to match the vibrant decor of this restaurant and its ample views at sunset, this cocktail starts with Don Julio 1942 Tequila and prickly pear syrup. Jalapeno syrup, lime juice

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and a dash of specialty orange bitters complete the recipe, which is poured over a large branded ice cube in a rocks glass that has been rimmed with smoked salt. $42. www.talkingstickresort.com. The Very Important Pig Pigtails Those interested in both a drink and a show should opt for this cognac-based cocktail, which is smoked and served under a cloche to allow the gray vapors to impart added complexity and, when released, makes for an entrancing visual. It also features Cognac Park Mizunara, a rare variety from Japan, as well as limited-edition WhistlePig 18 Year Double Malt Rye, absinthe, and Peychaud Bitters. $55. www. pigtailscocktails.com. Boss Hog Manhattan Bourbon & Bones This opulent take on a Manhattan features the rare WhistlePig Boss Hog 14 Year Straight Rye Whiskey, bursting with oak and vanilla, followed by undertones of mint, caramel and baking spice. The simple recipe pairs the whiskey with a touch of WhistlePig Maple Syrup, Dolin Dry Vermouth and an orange peel garnish. $175. www.bourbonandbonesaz.com. Deflowered Beverly on Main This dark, chic bar offers a menu – aptly called Flexin’ – that features 10 signature cocktails priced from $50 to $500. A guest favorite, Deflowered brings together A. Hardy Rosebud Cognac, a 75-year-old 100% Grande Champagne Cognac, floral lavender syrup, Peychauds Bitters, and AZ Orange Sunshine Bitters in a glass with a Le Clandestine Absinthe rinse. Cheers! $450. www.beverlyonmain.com.

Taste

DRINK / CHEERS / CUISINE / FOOD FILES / DINING GUIDE

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY DEBBY WOLVOS

Talavera might be located at the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, but its cuisine will transport diners to a chic steakhouse in the heart of Spain or Latin America. As with many dishes across South America, Spain and Mexico, most menu items at Talavera are made for sharing, including the 30-Ounce Dry Aged Prime Ribeye ($120). The grass-fed rib-eye steak is sourced from Tasmania, known for its clean air and pampered animals, which results in exquisite marbling and decadent flavor. Each cut is dry aged for 28 to 40 days before being trimmed and seasoned. The briefly boiled meat is left to rest before its finished with crispy Maldon sea salt. The steak is plated with charred Mexican onions and Argentinian-inspired piquillo pepper chimichurri, which adds bright, herbaceous acidity. Talavera, 10600 E. Crescent Moon Drive, Scottsdale; 480.513.5085; www.talaverarestaurant.com. So Scottsdale! December ‘21

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Taste CHEERS

SWEET WITH HEAT The Craftsman pays spicy homage to Arizona’s iconic sunsets

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY DEBBY WOLVOS

What better way to enjoy the last few Arizona sunsets of the year than with an Arizona Sunset ($13) in your hand? Inspired by the actual sunsets that can be seen nightly from The Craftsman Cocktails and Kitchen’s west-facing patio, this signature offering starts with Cruz Reposado tequila. “At The Craftsman, we actually distill most of the spirits for our cocktails in-house,” says Steven Morin, managing partner of The Craftsman. “For our tequila-based cocktails, however, to ensure authenticity we turn to our partners at Cruz in Mexico, with whom our distiller has had a personal relationship for several years.” According to Morin, the reposado is aged in American oak whiskey barrels for six months, allowing the agave flavors to soften while imparting rich caramel and toasty vanilla notes along with a slight spice into the tequila. “We enhance these notes with the addition of orange and lime juices, and then temper all the bold flavors with a ginger syrup we make in-house daily in our kitchen,” Morin says. Grand Marnier is added to add a dash of sweetness and a hint of bitterness before the contents are shaken with ice and strained into a rocks glass. “We artfully rim the glass with Tajin, a colorful seasoning made from dried chile peppers, dehydrated lime and sea salt that acts to bring out the spicier notes in the tequila while enhancing its bold visual appeal.” Glowing with a vibrant yellow hue, and garnished with a dehydrated orange, the Arizona Sunset makes a dramatic first impression. Upon tasting, the heat comes through first, followed by sweet and tart flavors. The Craftsman Cocktails and Kitchen, 20469 N. Hayden Road Scottsdale; 480.401.1102; www.thecraftsmanaz.com.

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Taste CUISINE

CHEF CONVERSATIONS In the kitchen with Dushyant Singh of Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows Dushyant Singh is the executive chef of all culinary operations at Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, including Weft & Warp Art Bar + Kitchen, Turquoise Pool Bar, in-room dining and banquets.

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY DEBBY WOLVOS

Tell us about your menu at Weft + Warp. Since joining in fall 2021, I’ve worked with our talented team to create a menu bursting with exceptionally bold flavors and focused on globally inspired ingredients, especially my favorites from northern Italy, southern France and Spain. What drew you to Andaz? Even though the hotel and dining operations have been around for more than four years now, I still feel like it is a hidden gem, especially Weft & Warp. From the patio with sweeping views of Camelback Mountain to the chic interiors to – of course – the food, I love that I have the chance to introduce this little slice of heaven to so many people for the first time. How did you get your culinary start? I was born in New Delhi, India. After high school, I took a training course on hospitality, which included time in the kitchen. It was love at first dish; I found my calling. In 2002 at age 19, I made my way to the United States – first Kentucky and then New York to attend the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) at Hyde Park – to hone my skills. When did you move to Arizona? Upon graduating CIA in 2005, Hyatt Gainey Ranch recruited me. I worked there and then at Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass before earning my first executive chef position at the Westin in Chicago. After three frigid winters there, I made my way back via a culinary director role with The Camby, followed by a similar role at Blue Hound Kitchen + Cocktails. During COVID-19, I worked for Fox Restaurant Concepts before finding my new home at Andaz. Favorite and least favorite foods: I love Indian barbeque, especially kebobs. And no major dislikes, save for that time in Japan I tried pickled sparrow. I never need to do that again! What would readers be surprised to know about you? During COVID-19, in addition to Fox, I started a virtual Indian butcher shop, Meatwala. I would prep and season my favorite family recipes and then deliver them to customers to cook. Andaz Scottsdale, 6114 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; www.andazscottsdale.com; 480.368.1234.

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Taste FOOD FILES

CREAMY AND DREAMY Decadent dishes for December and beyond

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

Tortellini alla Panna

Crust Simply Italian This classic Italian dish features a rich Parmesan cream sauce that is a delicate blend of the finest Parmesan and Romano cheeses reduced with heavy cream and simmered with prosciutto and sauteed onions. The chef gently folds in wild mushrooms and fresh peas, creating an amazing creamy panna sauce that goes perfectly with the cheese-filled tortellini. $18. www.crustrestaurants.com.

Beckett’s Original Grilled Cheese Beckett’s Table This rich comfort food features fresh Asiago cheese bread that has been stuffed with fontina, manchego and white cheddar cheeses as well as crispy pancetta. The sandwich is then grilled and paired with a roasted red pepper soup that has been simmered for hours. $14. www.beckettstable.com.

Mac & Cheese Trio

STK Steakhouse Expect a twist on the traditional macaroni and cheese with this trio. Each variation is made with the same base: four-cheese Mornay sauce, pipette pasta and a three-cheese blend on top that creates a gratin when baked. One bowl has just the pasta and cheese while the second contains slow-roasted bacon, and the third has Atlantic lobster and lobster bisque. $39. www. stksteakhouse.com.

Ling’s Seafood Hot Pot

Ling’s Wok Shop A rich Thai treat, this dish features fresh jumbo shrimp, salmon, sea bass, and sweet scallops swimming in a mouthwatering sea of green curry-coconut broth. Sweet cherry tomatoes, cilantro and lime balance the richness, and the entire pot is poured over a bed of jasmine or brown rice. $21. www.lingswok.shop.

Squid Ink Tagliatelle Give yourself the gift of flavor this holiday season by taking a break from counting carbs and calories to indulge in some of the Valley’s creamiest and dreamiest delights, in the form of these delectable dishes.

Tomaso’s Squid ink is a delicacy used to add deep, dark dramatic color and extraordinary flavor to this fresh housemade tagliatelle. The pasta is served with San Marzano tomato sauce, extra-virgin olive oil, jumbo prawns, and scallops on the half shell. Cuttlefish ink brings out rich, briny flavors to perfectly complement the freshwater seafood added to this entree. $32. www.tomasos.com.

Oysters Rockefeller

Modern Oysterbar Chophouse Perfect as either an appetizer or a main dish, these briny beauties are baked on the half shell in increments of six with a heaping portion

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garlic, and cream. The sauce is mixed in front of guests’ eyes before its poured on the hot pasta. $21. www.theitaliandaughter.com.

Piccata di Vitello

Vicino’s Local Italian Loosely translated to “veal in a piquant and rich sauce,” this dish starts with thinly sliced and lightly floured crispy veal cutlets. The veal is then drenched in housemade white wine lemon butter sauce. The dish is topped with briny capers and paired with spaghettini, a refined take on spaghetti similar to angel hair pasta. $23. www.vicinositalian.com.

PHOTO BY CARRIE WILLIS

Truffled Mac & Cheese

Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour The combination of Parmesan and fontina cheeses, coupled with mascarpone cheese made from heavy cream and citric or tartaric acid as well as French mother sauce bechamel, takes this dish over the top. The sauce is paired with elbow macaroni, caramelized onions, chives, a Parmesan crisp, and wild mushrooms, served with toasted bread. $13. www.bitterandtwistedaz.com.

New England Clam Chowder of homemade creamed spinach, velvety hollandaise sauce and lardons, which are small cubes of the tastiest parts of bacon. They are browned in a broiler until the tops are slightly crispy and served tableside with lemon and bread to mop up the excess extravagant sauce. $24. www.modernoysterbarchophouse.com.

H ’61 Agnolotti

Hearth ‘61 This indulgent dinnertime delight features beautifully braised beef short rib encased in housemade agnolotti pasta. The base of the dish is a rich sauce made from natural au jus to create the ideal velvety base. A dash of breadcrumbs and thyme are added on top and a dollop of horseradish cream is served on the side, balancing the savory flavor of the sauce while adding texture. $32. www.mountainshadows.com.

The Capital Grill While Manhattan – also called red – clam chowder is made with a tomato base, New England – also called white – clam chowder is all about the cream. True to the classic preparation, The Capital Grill’s version is made with heavy cream, potatoes, onions, salt, pork, and perfectly cooked fresh harvested clams. The soup is topped with a blend of the restaurant’s spices, including chives and paprika, and served with oyster crackers. $13. www.thecapitalgrille.com.

Lobster Mashed Potatoes

Mastro’s Ocean Club This dish starts with 1 1/4 pounds of fresh Maine lobster out of the shell. It is chopped and sauteed in butter with charred scallions and Old Bay seasoning. The lobster is then spooned atop a generous portion of creamy, buttery garlic mashed potatoes. Finally, the dish is garnished with chopped parsley. $39. www.mastros.com.

Spaghetti Carbonara

The Italian Daughter Freshly made spaghetti, pancetta and English peas make up this signature dish. The secret to its succulent success is thanks to the tableside preparation. To ensure a fluffy and fabulous carbonara sauce, the chef comes to the table with the pasta and combines egg yolks with copious amounts of Grana Padano, herbs,

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Taste DINING GUIDE

KASAI JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE

Kasai offers innovative Asian fare, sushi and cocktails. Dishes include filet carpaccio, misoyaki black cod, char-grilled lamb chops and teppanyaki served with fire and flare. The menu also offers signature cocktails, a variety of sake and an extensive sushi selection. Happy hour offered daily from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Closed Monday. 14344 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.607.1114; www.kasaiscottsdale.com; $$-$$$ COMPILED BY GABBY LEIGHTON

Closed Sunday. 15040 N. Northsight Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.275.2811; www. kodosushisake.com; $$

Barbecue

LIBERTY STATION AMERICAN TAVERN & SMOKEHOUSE Open in 2016, Liberty Station serves smoked meats, comfort food, vintage cocktails and craft beer. The menu offers shareable plates including brisket loaded fries, tacos and green chile pork stew, as well as soups, burgers, sandwiches, seafood entrees and barbecue meat platters featuring brisket, ribs and pork. Two locations: Terravita and DC Ranch; www.libertystationtavern. com; $$ NAKED BBQ Naked BBQ focuses on rubbing and smoking meats so guests can customize their barbecue with a variety of homemade rubs, as well as sweet, spicy and mustard-based sauces. Meats are available by the pound, as a sandwich or on a platter with sides such as Carolina slaw, mac and cheese, beans and cornbread muffins. 10240 N. 90th St.; 480.912.2102; www.thenakedbbq. com; $-$$ PHAT TURTLE BBQ Phat Turtle BBQ is serving up Kansas City ‘que in the heart of Cave Creek, featuring all the KC favorites like baby back ribs, brisket, burnt ends and pulled pork with all the fixin’s! Phat Turtle has daily lunch and dinner specials and sells meat by the pound. 30845 N. Cave Creek Road; 602.527.3257; www.phatturtlebbq.com; $

Health Food

Asian

FLO’S For more than 20 years, Flo’s has been a staple of the Valley’s Asian restaurant scene for quick lunches, casual date nights and family dinners. Flo’s menu is composed of dishes inspired by cuisine from various regions across Asia. From teriyaki chicken to Singapore noodles and Mongolian beef to Thaistyle curries, there is something for everyone. Open daily from noon to 8 p.m. 15027 N. Thompson Pkwy, Scottsdale; 480.661.8883; www.madebyflo.com; $$ HIRO SUSHI Chef Hiro trained in Japan for over 25 years and brings his traditional Japanese cuisine to Scottsdale. Cozy up at the sushi bar where the chef greets guests with a warm towel and

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dine on delicate pieces of sashimi or any of the restaurant’s savory grilled entrees like the Saba Shioyaki (grilled mackerel). If unsure what to order, check out the daily specials board behind the sushi bar. The restaurant is small, so reservations are recommended for parties of five or more. 9393 N. 90th St., Scottsdale; 480.314.4215; www.hirosushiphx.com; $$ JADE PALACE Jade Palace is a family-run business that dates back three generations, when Grandfather Mei owned his first restaurant on the outskirts of Hong Kong. The Mei family opened their first Scottsdale location in 1996 with a menu combining Szechuan spices with fiery Cantonese cooking. All the Chinese takeout staples like kung pao chicken and beef with broccoli are

there to satisfy cravings while specialty entrees like sizzling sea bass are great for those who want to branch out from their usual order. Hours vary between the two locations in Scottsdale: Pinnacle Peak and East Shea; www. jadepalacescottsdale.com; $$ KODO SUSHI SAKE At the elegant and modern Kodo Sushi Sake, chef Yong Choi is looking to inspire by evolving Japanese cuisine with elements of traditional and fusion. The menu consists of familiar sushi rolls as well as more inventive dishes like the oasis roll where raw tuna, salmon, crab salad, avocado and radish are wrapped in cucumber and drizzled with spicy ponzu, eel sauce and spicy mayo. There is also a great selection of appetizers and noodles for those looking for a more well-done meal.

FLOWER CHILD Part of Fox Restaurant Concepts, Flower Child’s menu offers the opportunity to mix and match a variety of fresh vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins offered as salads, bowls and wraps with several vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. Wash it all down with a seasonal lemonade, which always proves refreshing. In North Scottsdale and at Desert Ridge; www. iamaflowerchild.com; $$ KALEIDOSCOPE In addition to its popular juice cleanses, Kaleidoscope also offers cold-pressed juices; smoothies, like the strawberry shortcake and the peachy clean; glutenfree brownies and cookies; illuminating waters; and coffee drinks. Three Scottsdale locations; www.kaleidoscope. love; $-$$ NEKTER JUICE BAR This healthy, fast-casual juice bar serves made-to-order cold-pressed juices, smoothies and acai bowls. Nekter also offers vegan ice cream, chia parfaits

and pre-packaged juice cleanses as a grab-and-go option. Order online or via the eatery’s app to skip the line anytime. Seven Scottsdale locations. www. nekterjuicebar.com; $ ORIGINAL CHOPSHOP Produce-packed juices, protein shakes and healthful bowls and sandwiches can all be found at Original Chopshop. This quick-service restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, is committed to offering tasty fuel for the body by using fresh, whole ingredients, as well as guiltless baked goods for a deliciously sweet treat to end your meal. The menu includes vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, soyfree and lactose-free items. Three nearby locations: Old Town Scottsdale, The Promenade and Paradise Village Gateway ; www.originalchopshop.com; $$

Italian

THE AMERICANO Pomo Restaurant Group’s upscale Italian steakhouse opened in North Scottsdale in early 2020. Start your meal with chilled shellfish, octopus fritto, or a wagyu meatball followed by housemade pasta, and meat and seafood from the wood-burning grill. Options include Niman Ranch pork, prime beef filet, and Faroe Island salmon. Selections from the extensive cocktail menu include Versace on the Floor with chili-infused vodka, coconut and white balsamic and Sofia with Aperol, Italian gin and prosecco. Private dining areas are available. 17797 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.573.0001; www. theamericanorestaurant.com; $$-$$$ THE SICILIAN BUTCHER Developed by the Maggiore family who owns several Valley restaurants, including The Sicilian Butcher next door and The Sicilian Baker, this Italian sweet shop is best known for its buildyour-own cannoli bar, along with delicious coffee and espresso drinks, Italian pastries, savory sandwiches and gelato. 15530 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix; 602.612.5590; www.thesicilianbaker. com; $-$$ TUTTI SANTI BY NINA Take a journey to Italy through recipes by chef Nina Vincent that have enamored the Valley for more than 20 years. Tutti Santi is a cozy, neighborhood Italian restaurant with a white table cloth fine dining atmosphere and unpretentious service. Tutti Santi takes pride in its fresh pastas and classic Italian flavors. The homemade raviolis are filled with a creamy ricotta cheese and spinach blend and the pasta itself is pressed thin so as to not take away from the richness of the filling. Tutti Santi’s menu offers Nina’s original

recipes for other Italian classics such as the mozzarella caprese which features slices of fresh homemade mozzarella with tomatoes, basil and olive oil, and calamari fritti, as well as four different specials every evening. Happy hour offered Monday through Thursday from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. 6339 E. Greenway Road, Scottsdale; 480.951.3775; www. tuttisantiristorante.com; $$

smoked ham and jalapeno hollandaise – or their signature Cubano sandwich served with chipotle aioli at lunch. From the bar, pick a unique rum punch or sangria to complement your meal. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. At The Scott Resort & Spa, 4925 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.424.6095; www.thecanalclubaz. com; $$

UNCLE SAL’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & BAR As rich in taste as it is in tradition, Uncle Sal’s is a local family-owned and -operated establishment that has been open more than 30 years. They serve traditional Italian cuisine with fresh seafood and hand-cut steaks in a casual setting. Standout menu items include veal cuts served nearly a dozen different ways, a variety of pastas, and house specialties like the rack of lamb marsala. Lunch served Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dinner served nightly starting at 4 p.m. 3370 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.990.2533; www. unclesalsaz.com; $$

CARNITAS WAY The owners of Los Sombreros recently launched Carnitas Way, a ghost kitchen concept offering healthy and hearty California-style Mexican food. All food is prepared at Los Sombreros locations and is available for pickup or delivery. Diners can choose from a selection of burritos, which can also be ordered as bowls, made with fresh ingredients. Vegetarian options are available. Pick up available at Los Sombreros. www. carnitasway.com; $

VIC & OLA’S TAVERN ITALIANA This newer addition to Market Street in North Scottsdale offers an intimate space with upscale Italian cuisine. Appetizers include meatballs, zucchini pizza and arincine. The selection of fresh pasta includes butternut squash ravioli, carbonara and salmon tortelloni. Entrees include veal osso buco and branzino al marsala. For craft cocktails, sip away on a White Negroni, an Orange Ola with Orangecello and Aperol, and the Little Bambino with lemon gin, Sicilian ginger marmalade and rose lemonade. 20775 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale; 480.513.2048; www. vicandolas.com; $$$

Latin/Mexican

TAPAS PAPAS FRITA A gem in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, Tapas Papa Frita is the real deal in Spanish and Latin cuisine, ideal for a celebration with flamenco flare. Order some tapas to share with friends and family, and don’t miss the hearty De Bogavante paella, a San Sebastian favorite full of lobster and shrimp. Enjoy live music and a flamenco show every Friday and Saturday night. 7114 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale; 480.699.5004; www.tapaspapafrita. com; $$$ THE CANAL CLUB The Canal Club brings Cuban flair to the heart of Scottsdale, offering a fusion of American and Cuban cuisine and inspiring craft cocktails among the colors and comforts of a 1930s Havana aesthetic. Get island fever with the morning-time Caribbean Benedict – layered with plantains, poached eggs,

DESEO Located inside The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, Deseo is an upscale modern Latin restaurant. Its menu showcases the bold and unique flavors of Latin American cuisine with fresh ceviche and enticing South American-inspired sauces and sides. Deseo has also been recognized for its extensive list of South American wines. For a special culinary experience, it is suggested to make a reservation for one of the 12 best seats in the house at “The Rail,” a bar top where guests can overlook the open kitchen while chefs prepare ceviche and desserts. Happy hour served at the Muddle Bar from 5:30 to 7 p.m. nightly. 6902 E. Greenway Pkwy., Scottsdale; 480.624.1202; www.kierlandresort.com; $$$-$$$$ CIEN AGAVES This cantina is home to a collection of more than 100 tequilas with flights ideal for sampling, as well as margaritas and sangria. The food menu includes housemade guacamole, nachos, quesadillas, tacos from chicken tinga to island shrimp, and fajitas. Two locations: Old Town Scottsdale and North Scottsdale; www.cienagaves.com; $$

Wine Bars/Lounges

BITTERS COCKTAIL BAR & FOOD Inside ASU’s Scottsdale Innovation Center is Bitters Bar, a gastropub and cocktail lounge. The full bar boasts handcrafted, creatively named cocktails made with fresh ingredients like the mezcal-based The Bitter Truth and the bourbon-based Bitter Happiness. They also offer rotating microbrews and wine. From the tapas menu, snack on craft popcorn flavors and short rib tacos. Happy hour Tuesday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. Closed

Sunday and Monday. At ASU SkySong, 1455 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.550.5088; www.bittersbar.com; $$ SCAPEGOAT BEER AND WINE When your group has beer and wine drinkers, Scapegoat Beer and Wine can play the mediator. Scapegoat rotates its taps and seasonal wine list to ensure there is always something new for guests to try. But don’t overlook the gourmet tapas menu items such as The G.O.A.T., which is Parisian ham with three cheeses baked between local bread; and the gruyere cheese puffs. No reservations accepted. 7150 E. 5th Ave., Scottsdale; 480.292.7605; www. scapegoatbar.com; $$ THE SCOTCH LIBRARY Scotch aficionados from far and wide come to the The Scotch Library, home to one of the largest collections of scotch in the Southwest. The library provides both seasoned Scotch drinkers and those new to the golden liquor with more than 300 different whisky labels poured by Scotch Library Ambassadors, who are experts in the areas of single malt and blend whiskies from Scotland. On Fridays at 6 p.m. join them for An Evening of Scotches, a tasting and learning event featuring three selections of Scotch whisky. Advanced reservations required for this weekly event. At The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, 6902 E. Greenway Pkwy., Scottsdale; 480.624.1202; www.kierlandresort.com; $$-$$$$ BEVERLY ON MAIN The Beverly on Main is an intimate and upscale cocktail lounge in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. Let its bartenders craft you a stiff classic martini or try one of its seasonal cocktails. The kitchen offers gastropub fare like deviled eggs, French dip sliders, burgers, flatbreads and more. Vegan, gluten-free and keto options available. Happy hour every day from 4 to 8 p.m. as well as Friday and Saturday from midnight to 2 a.m.. 7018 E. Main St., Scottsdale; 480.889.5580; www.beverlyonmain.com; $$ SORSO WINE ROOM Sorso Wine Room is a sampler’s paradise a wall of wine taps allowing guests to try a variety of wines. Wine is also available by the glass or bottle, and there’s even a selection of beer. The food menu includes bruschetta, salads, sandwiches and charcuterie boards. Happy hour offered daily from 3 to 6 p.m. and all day on Wednesday. At Scottsdale Quarter, 15323 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.951.4344; www.sorsowineroom. com; $$

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

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Seen EVENTS

LIMITLESS POTENTIAL

Hosted at Omni Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Montelucia by Girls on the Run, this daytime event featured brunch, cocktails and a keynote speech given by New York Times bestselling author Kate Parker. Guests also enjoyed a silent auction and goodie bags.

Reena Gosalia and Reena Bhushan

BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY

Kelly Phillips and Lucy Tornas

Diana and Mike Policky

Carrie Heightsman and Ellen Brown

Donna Mason and Melissa Mason

Renee Stanbery and Kristin Kendall

Allycyn Jacobs and Julie Wilson

Jessica Ballard and Mandy Neumeyer

Leslie Perry and Courtney Patterson

Shelby Weiss and Sarah O’Keefe

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So Scottsdale! December ‘21

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Seen EVENTS

BENTLEY SCOTTSDALE POLO CHAMPIONSHIPS

The annual outdoor polo event returned to WestWorld of Scottsdale for its 10th year, bringing fun, fashion, horses, and philanthropy with it. Attendees enjoyed a designer fashion show, polo matches, a car show and fun VIP areas.

Ruby Romero and Jasmine Glaspie

BY DAVID APEJI

Nicole Ketchmark and Micaela Cook

Jennifer Moser and Oscar De Las Salas

Lauren Strand and Marissa Molton

Jacky James and Ruby Holguin

Abby Patricy and Haley Betts

Annabel Nido and Enrique Larios

Kristin Rueck and Betsy Steele

Jessica Whitlock and Alisa Nelson

Renee Ford and Deirdre McTeggart

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We bring the bar. We bring the bartenders. You bring the fun!

Jason Oneal and Ami Asodji

We love making your bar the hit of the party!

• Champagne Bar Kyra Cooper and Emily Diab

• Speciality Drinks • Craft Cocktails • Classic Beer & Wine • Soft Drinks

Cindy Lubis and Jane Lee

Luna: 480.297.6760 Luna@letsgetipsy.com Mike: 312.237.1789 Mike@letsgetipsy.com

FIND US ON

Let’s get this party started! Rileigh Hill and Treldy Domingo

www.letsgetipsy.com

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Seen EVENTS

EVENING TO PAWS

Arizona Animal Welfare League’s annual gala was held at Omni Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Montelucia, where attendees celebrated the nonprofit’s golden anniversary with live and silent auctions, craft cocktails, dinner, and live entertainment, with proceeds going to support the no-kill shelter.

Garrick Goose and Joanna O’Neal

BY DAVID APEJI

Deb Fisher and Leslie Farrell

BJ and Deb Dienes

Jason Kutner and Hallie Kutner

Kevin and Heather Woodhurst

Cindy and Chris Gort

Dana and Daniel Prepas

Karyn Johnson and Catie Richman

Maria Brewer and Larry Maurer

Thomas Onak and Darylyn Moore

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So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Stacy Northcutt and Lance Stafko

Marney Bilodeau and Andrea Pederson

Robert and Carolyn Denny

Libby and Chris Zukowski

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

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Seen EVENTS

COMPASSION WITH FASHION

This Arizona Humane Society event took place at Camelback Inn Resort and Spa. Guests enjoyed a silent and live auction, a designer fashion show, and a gourmet lunch, with the option to adopt adorable pets.

Sabrina Rocke and Alfredo Martinez

BY DAVID APEJI

Sela Dragan and Melany Berger

Stephanie Galban and Michele Cortez

James and Mandy Holmes

Kristyna Hernandez and Nicole Denton

Belinda Luna and Sunny Dunlavy

Don Rumer-Rivera and Angie Lewis

Ryan and Cara Cameron

Matthew Maasberg and Vittoria Horne

Linda Williams and Joanie Davis

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Heather Young and Laurie Nelson

CLIENT COMMISSIONED ONE-OF-A-KIND PIECES

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Merry Christmas Everyone!

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@pmforhair www.patrickmeredith.com Tiffany Krause and Lena Spotleson

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

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Seen EVENTS

A NIGHT OF PAWSIBILITIES

Paradise Garden at Arizona Biltmore set the scene for this evening benefiting Gabriel’s Angels, a nonprofit dedicated to inspiring confidence, compassion and best behaviors in at-risk children through pet therapy. Attendees enjoyed a cocktail reception and raffle, followed by dinner, programming, a live auction and entertainment.

Jennifer and Matt Bennett

BY DAVID APEJI

Jared Houston and Emily James

Leli Pearson and Lilliana Pearson

Julie Anderson and Quinn Anderson

Andria Sacero and Jane Legacy

Katharine Grier and Tim Radovich

Sarah Hansen and Tony Bruno

Shani McKee and Mel Carr

Elizabeth Glicksman and Isabel Baez

Tami Butcher and Shelby Tuttle

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So Scottsdale! December ‘21

Michelle Martonicz

Karen Johnson

Charles and Scotty Lowry

Visit soscottsdale.com for our latest issue. Zybrena Porter

So Scottsdale! December ‘21

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End NEW IN TOWN

FOOD, FASHION, FUSION

Buddha’s Ritual offers a fun environment to eat, drink and shop at SOHO Scottsdale

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

Over the summer, SOHO Scottsdale, which opened as the first live/work community of its kind in North Scottsdale, unveiled its Phase II luxury townhomes, penthouses and lofts. With 8,000 square feet of retail space, it was designed for people on the go. Though already home to a salon, art gallery and golf training center, in late November the doors opened to the property’s first restaurant: Buddha’s Ritual. The restaurant is the brainchild of Freddy Nguyen, a proud Asian-American and local entrepreneur beloved for his creative vision in partnership with The Maggiore Group as well as other projects, in collaboration with fellow local business leader Scott and Melissa McIntire, owners of The Lola at Westgate and The Ainsworth in Phoenix, and local radio host “Joey Boy” Rodriguez. The 2,700-square-foot Asian-American fusion restaurant makes a statement upon approach thanks to a massive pink door welcoming guests. Once inside, the visuals keep coming, starting with a floor-to-ceiling mural of a pink Buddha in a teal jungle meant to depict both an actual jungle as well as to represent the urban jungle outside, a fact known thanks to hidden sneakers in

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the forest and the Buddha’s fashion and accessories. The pink Buddha visual carries through the entire venue with custom wallpaper, and there is a retail shop with themed merchandise, ranging from logoed hats to streetwear fashions. There are also pops of pink throughout, both via the bright seating as well as through multiple light-up walls inside – there is even a pink draft beer tower. Beyond this, there is an expansive patio, accessible via garage doors open as weather permits to allow for an indoor-outdoor vibe most days of the year. While a fire pit and lawn games in addition to regular seating dot the outdoor area, a large bar acts as the centerpiece of the indoor part of the venue. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week, each menu is just as bold as the restaurant’s aesthetic, with a fabulous fusion of Asian and American dishes. Notable standouts include the kimchi-stuffed grilled cheese sandwich; a deconstructed banh mi plate; and brick oven pizzas featuring both more traditional ingredients as well as Asian-inspired toppings, including sprouts, egg and seasoned proteins. There are also whimsical offerings tied to neither American nor Asian cultures, notably croffles, the chef’s playful mashup of a croissant and a waffle. The cocktail program features more than a dozen signature offerings, including The Happy Buddha, a combination of plantbased protein Strawberry Mylk, Kettle One Botanical Grapefruit, fresh strawberries and grapefruit slices; as well as The Fashionable Buddha, a spin on an old fashioned with specialty Japanese whiskey. Buddha’s Ritual is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Happy Hour is offered Monday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Buddha’s Ritual, 16580 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale; www.buddhasritual.com; 480.687.0298.

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