So Scottsdale June 2020

U & Improved’s Jodi Low and five other local women share their lives as CEO and Mom

VIRTUAL VOCATIONS

Take art, music, cooking and gardening classes from the comfort of home

GOURMET TO GO Kits for a five-star meal

WWW.SOSCOTTSDALE.COM | RICHMAN MEDIA GROUP | JUNE 2020

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Extraordinary Silverleaf Upper Canyon Estate

Modern Mediterranean in Silverleaf’s Upper Canyon

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Majestic mountain backdrop, down valley views. Ten patios and outdoor living spaces, two offices, and attached guest residence.

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$8,700,000 / 11,045 SQ FT / 5 BR / 8 BA

$2,000,000 / 5,407 SQ FT / 5 BR / 6 BA

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Impressive Pinnacle Peak Vista Desirable Desert Highlands Estate on Expansive Lot Hillside Villa Estate

Sought After DC Ranch Haciendas Cortille Ranch Home

Boasts panoramic mountain and city views with stunning sunsets. Ensuite bedrooms plus large game room upstairs.

Nestled on Pinnacle Peak mountain.

Panoramic city and mountain views. Floor to ceiling pocket glass doors/windows.

Separate entry two room guest residence.

Resort style backyard with mountain views.

Charming location facing community park.

$1,700,000 / 5,377 SQ FT / 5 BR / 5.5 BA

$1,500,000 / 4,811 SQ FT / 4 BR / 4 BA

$1,450,000 / 4,006 SQ FT / 4 BR / 3.5 BA

ALLAN MACDONALD 480-220-9724 Allan@ForeAZHomes.com

ALLAN MACDONALD 480-220-9724 Allan@ForeAZHomes.com

ALLAN MACDONALD 480-220-9724 Allan@ForeAZHomes.com

Chic Urban Living in Kierland Plaza Lofts

Adjacent to Four Seasons Resort and Troon Golf

Expansive Views in Desirable Pinnacle Pointe

Coveted Keirland Main Street exposure with spectacular city light and Camelback Mountain views. Spacious loft design.

Desirable Pinnacle Point first level townhome backs to natural desert open area. Private scenic mountain views.

Prestige location adjacent to Four Seasons resort, minutes from Troon golf club. Boasts scenic mountain views.

$1,150,000 / 2,054 SQ FT / 2 BR / 2.5 BA

$675,000 / 2,379 SQ FT / 3 BR / 3 BA

$657,500 / 2,379 SQ FT / 3 BR / 3 BA

Allan MacDonald 480-220-9724 Allan@ForeAZHomes.com

ALLAN MACDONALD 480-220-9724 Allan@ForeAZHomes.com

ALLAN MACDONALD 480-220-9724 Allan@ForeAZHomes.com

Resort Style Living in Paradise Valley Farms

Equestrian Facility on 20 acres! Views from Every Window!!

3 barns with 70 stalls total and a large

Inviting estate boasts superb quality throughout. Casita, 6 car garage. Perfect for entertaining.

covered arena. Completely gated with majestic mountain views. Great location close to Westworld.

This timeless estate sits on one of the best lots in Estancia with golf fairways on either side and panoramic views.

$4,995,000 / 5 BR / 7 BA

$4,000,000 / 6,183 SQ FT / 8 BR / 8.5 BA

$3,895,000 / 5,779 SQ FT / 4 BR / 4.5 BA

LORI FINNERTY 480-586-1700 Lori.Finnerty@russlyon.com

JOSIE PAKULA 480-223-3633 josiepakula@gmail.com

JOSIE PAKULA 480-223-3633 josiepakula@gmail.com

Understated Elegance with Fantastic Views

Spanish Mediterranean in DC Ranch Country Club

Custom Estate in Cactus Acres

FULLY remodeled home exudes Timeless Appeal. Located on 2.4 acres in a gated community with abundant mountain views.

Charming home built for entertaining, offers a chef’s kitchen, game room, wine cellar, a guest house and mountain views.

Mountain views, Spanish inspired with detached 2B/2.5B guest home, 4 garagesone w/HVAC & workout room, two offices & 42,721 acre lot.

$2,500,000 / 6155 SQ FT / 4 BR / 4.5 BA

$2,500,000 / 5663 SQ FT / 6 BR / 5.5 BA

$2,375,000 / 7,407 SQ FT / 6 BR / 6.5 BA

CINDY METZ 602-803-2293 cindy.metz@russlyon.com

CINDY METZ 602-803-2293 cindy.metz@russlyon.com

TERRY BROCK 602-799-0261 Terry@TerryBrock.net

Golf Course Lot in Guard Gated Glenn Moor

Spectacular Views in Ancala Country Club

Contemporary, Showcase on 2.6 acres, Private, gated Carefree

Pinnacle Peak views from every room.

2 bedroom guest house with kitchen, dining area and living room.

Contemporary GEM on Golf Course w/Guest House, FOUR Car Garage, Heated Pool/Spa, and PRIVACY!!!

Panoramic Mountain ranges, inspiring Sunsets! Stunning Modern Architecture, Heated Lap Pool & Spa, Collector Garage.

$1,750,000 / 5025 SQ FT / 5 BR / 5 BA

$1,740,000 / 5800 SQ FT / 4 BR / 4.5 BA

$ 1,675,000 / 5,216 SQ FT / 4 BR / 4.5 BA

PAT SCHECKNER 480-628-9482 Pat.Scheckner@russlyon.com

GABI BECKER 602-502-1328 Gabi@GetScottsdale.com

DEBBIE OMUNDSON 480-375-1522 Debbie@CarefreeProperty.com

Spectacular Silverleaf Upper Canyon Sanctuary

Your Dream Home in Desert Highlands!

New Construction in North Scottsdale!

Luxurious finishes throughout. Exceptional Sunsets and Pristine Mountain Views, FOUR Car Garage, 2 Acre Private Lot.

One of the best lots with Pinnacle Peak, city lights & desert views. Indoor/outdoor living, roof deck, pocketing doors, 1,000 wine cellar.

Single Story brand new home — move-in ready! Office, Bonus Room, Heated pool, spa, 4 car garage

$3,150,000 / 5667 SQ FT / 4 BR / 4.5 BA

$2,995,000 / 6,500 SQ FT / 4 BR / 5.5 BA

$2,950,000 / 5204 SQ FT / 4 BR /4.5 BA

CINDY METZ 602-803-2293 cindy.metz@russlyon.com

HILLARY GURLEY 602.463.3359 Hillary.Gurley@russlyon.com

TRACEY GRAY 602-980-2243 tracey.gray@russlyon.com

Troon North Golf Course & Waterfront Lot

Move In Ready Updated Desert Mountain Transitional

Private Retreat on 12 acre Hilltop, near everything Carefree!

FULLY REBUILT Contemporary w/ResortStyle Amenities and FOREVER VIEWS in N. Scottsdale!

Very private sunset & mountain views. 1130 SF guest house with full kitchen, private entrance & separate garage.

Huge Great room welcomes mountain ranges inside. Exclusive, guarded, Carefree Ranch Homesteads, North Scottsdale.

$2,049,000 / 4392 SQ FT / 4 BR / 4.5 BA

$2,000,000 / 5500 SQ FT / 4/5 BR / 5.5 BA

$1,795,000 / 4750 SQ FT / 4 BR / 4.5 BA

BARBARA LANE 480-242-3880 Barbara@BarbaraLane.net

PAT SCHECKNER 480-628-9482 Pat.Scheckner@russlyon.com

DEBBIE OMUNDSON 480-375-1522 Debbie@CarefreeProperty.com

Close to Completion Contemporary Gem

Ultimate Resort Living in Sought After Sienna Canyon

Family Friendly Bright and Sunny Stonebrook 2

Located in the heart of Scottsdale’s historic Southwest Village. Endless views, Ultra luxe materials throughout.

SINGLE LEVEL! Quiet cul-de-sac, breathtaking mountain views, stainless steel appliances, swim-up pool bar, water features.

Resort style living and beautiful sunsets, Family friendly neighborhood, master bed & bath downstairs off pool, tastefully designed.

$1,295,000 / 3506 SQ FT / 5 BR / 5 BA

$699,000 / 2738 SQ FT / 4 BR / 2.5 BA

$519,000 / 2208 SQ FT / 4 BR / 2.5 BA

PAT CARLETON 602-885-2404 Pat.Carleton@RussLyon.com

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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 summer!

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

ON THE COVER: Jodi Low. Photo by Claudia Johnstone.

Features 40 MOMPRENEURS U & Improved’s Jodi Low and five other local women share their lives as CEO and Mom

The Perm is Back and Why You May Actually Want One with Color Specialist, Rodney Gentry

Move over perms of the past! The newest hair trend coming out of Europe and New York City is fun, different, and complements all hair types.

If you’re old enough to remember the tight, frizzy perms of the 80’s and 90’s, you may cringe when you hear that perms are making a comeback.

But Rodney Gentry, hair color expert and master stylist, assures us the new perm is worth the buzz.

“No one has done perms since the 1990’s, but the new perm style is completely different,” he says. “These aren’t the tight perms of years past.

Instead, it’s a softer, more modern approach to add volume and movement to your hair.”

Perms are so new, in fact, that not many hair stylists even offer it. Staying ahead of the game, Rodney Gentry is excited to offer texture waves to his clients.

Sometimes referred to as a textured wave or body wave, today’s perms look marvelous with all hair types. “Perms are great for fine hair because there’s

less heat damage. It will also make fine hair look and feel fuller. It’s exciting to see how the perm transforms a person’s hair and, really, their whole look,” says Rodney.

“We use foam rollers for less heat damage. The new formulas are much gentler but every bit as strong, leaving the hair softer and less damaged,” he continues. And if you still have nightmares about the unmistakable odor, never fear! Today’s formulas don’t have that strong chemical-ly smell that forever marked the 90’s. With today’s curls, there’s less upkeep, leaving more time to show off your gorgeous hair.

The loose, natural curls are achieved with varying sizes of perm rods. By using larger rods, Rodney creates a loose, soft bend in the hair. And the rods are not set in perfect rows like they once were, offering more than one finished look—anywhere from the big, corkscrew curls to looser, beachier waves.

“It’s no longer a one-size-fits-all approach in a world where individuality

Hair color specialist Rodney Gentry is located in a private studio at Sachi Studios, 10201 N. Scottsdale Rd., Suite 10, Scottsdale, AZ 85258. For an appointment, please call 480.639.2000, or visit www.rodneygentry.com for more information.

matters. You can choose to have really defined curls or just a bit more movement and wave,” Rodney explains. “There are techniques where it can be straighter in the top half with the bend in the hair starting at mid-length and ends.”

Rodney suggests people put aside the image of the stiff curls from decades past. “Today’s perms allow your curls to move in the wind for a beautiful, natural look.”

Schedule your appointment with Rodney Gentry at Sachi Studios 480.639.2000 or visit www.rodneygentry.com.

Contents Now 47 HOT TICKET At-home art classes

48 LOWDOWN Specials, news and virtual experiences to bring a dose of happiness and lend a helping hand

56 OUT Farm-fresh produce boxes

58 CULTURE Artist Shanna Israel

Pulse 29 UP CLOSE Jennifer Rio Ruddle on becoming Mrs. Arizona 2020 and how she’s giving hope to those battling cancer

32 BEAT Rebecca DeVaney provides wine workshops for everyone

34 BEAT Sabrin Abunaib realized her American dream through education and dedication

36 HIS STYLE Meet Nico Samaras

38 HER STYLE Meet Lauren Tyler Smith

16

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

We’re Not Clothed, We’re Open!

All Stores Now Open*

Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm Saturday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Sunday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm *We have a sanitizing station at the front door and ask that everyone wear a face mask.

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Contents Style 61 MUST-HAVE Trendy timepiece

62 ALLURE Candy colors

64 DWELL Get organized

66 SHOP Groovy garments

67 SHOP Oversized handbags

68 FASHION Suit up

Luxe 77 INDULGE Colorful lighting

78 WHEELS 2020 Porsche Taycan Turbo

80 HAUTE Mountain manor

82 PLACES Arizona’s award-winning hospitality hot spots

18

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

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Contents

The Rest 22 TELL Editor’s note

98 NEW IN TOWN Cook & Craft

Taste 86 DRINK Burst of botanicals

87 DISH Chicken pesto at North Italia

88 CHEERS The Green Fairy at Sushi Roku

89 CUISINE In the kitchen with Christine Skaggs of Mastro’s City Hall

90 FOOD FILES Sweet starts

92 DINING GUIDE Restaurants to know

20

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

THE FINEST IN LUXURY RESALE HERMÈS CHANEL LOUIS VUITTON GUCCI PRADA CELINE DOLCE & GABBANA DIOR VALENTINO TOM FORD SAINT LAURENT JIMMY CHOO FENDI GIVENCHY BALMAIN VERSACE ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

SHOP / CONSIGN DESIGNER ITEMS FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME tbcconsignment.com

Contents

TELL

Well, it’s been a while – two months to be exact. You may have noticed So Scottsdale’s absence from your home or around town this last month. That’s because due to circumstances surrounding COVID-19, we actually did not print our May issue.

Like so many businesses, our team had to make some difficult decisions and pivot our plans over the last two months. And now, we are so happy and grateful to be back in action providing content that will encourage, educate and inspire you, especially during this time.

Wherever this finds you as we head into the halfway point of 2020, I hope you and your loved ones are safe and healthy. For me, the last few months have been spent sheltered in place having lots of quality time with my rescue dog, Hope, and working on some creative projects (you can learn more about one of them, my book, on page 83!).

Of course, I have also been working with our team in preparation to bring you this issue, which, if you’ve been a reader for a while, will look a lot different than our usual June magazine. June always marks our annual “man issue” – where the cover features a man and all content is geared toward men – and this issue is noticeably different.

While our May issue didn’t print, the content for it was already completed by our writers and photographers and edited by me. So, the content planned for May – including our mompreneur feature and the related cover that always coincides with Mother’s Day – is what you will now read here, with updates made as needed for anything timely.

Over the last few months, I’ve been amazed to see how local businesses have made modifications to stay afloat and help the community they serve in the process, whether that’s through giving back or providing entertainment or education in some way. So, I’m very excited to showcase some of these heartfelt innovations in this issue.

You can read about local farms and eateries packing up produce boxes to go (page 56) and where to get take-home meal kits (pages 48 and 52), so your kitchen can be healthily stocked. For at-home entertainment, take a virtual museum tour (page 54) or classes in painting (page 47), cooking (page 54), gardening (page 54), or jazz (page 54). There are also restaurants committed to helping and honoring our health care hereos (page 50) that you can visit and share with the people in your life who are on the frontlines.

With Arizona opening back up, there are now places to dine out should you choose to do so. As such, we’ve created an extended dining guide that includes over 50 places open for dine-in service (page 92) and most of our other food-focused articles – Taste, Cuisine, Food Files, and New in Town – feature restaurants open for dine-in as well. Most eateries still offer takeout, curbside pickup and/or delivery, too, but please call ahead to verify any restaurant’s offerings.

I think this pandemic has been a collective time of learning, growth and reflection as well as a practice in being kind to oneself and to others. All of our lives look different than usual, and it’s certainly been challenging.

Through it all, my goal as an editor is to use the platform of this publication to serve as a light in an otherwise dark time, a light that can be a source of entertainment and escapism as well as a resource for all the good that is happening – because despite everything, there is good all around us in our community!

From myself and all of us here at So Scottsdale, thanks for reading and please stay well.

Until next month, Chelsea Young Editor-in-Chief chelsea@richmanmediagroup.com Instagram: @young_chelsea Connect with us!

Facebook: @soscottsdalemagazine Instagram: @so_scottsdale_magazine

22

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

Publisher Bill Richman

Vice President of Operations Stacey Richman

Editor-in-Chief Chelsea Young

Creative Director Anthony Cox

Editorial Assistants Kyla Hansen and Kaylor Jones

Contributing Writers Alison Bailin Batz, Mandy Holmes, Kaylor Jones, Gabby Leighton, Shoshana Leon, Neyda Melina, Jim Prueter

Photographers Claudia Johnstone, James Patrick, Beverly Shumway

Advertising Art Director Lalo Reyes

Advertising Coordinator Stacey Richman stacey@richmanmediagroup.com

Contact Us Editorial chelsea@richmanmediagroup.com

Advertising bill@richmanmediagroup.com 480.229.3122

Online www.soscottsdale.com

P: 480.229.3122 10632 N. Scottsdale Road Suite B-215 Scottsdale, AZ 85254 © 2020, RICHMAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

24

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

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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

STANDING STRONG

Jennifer Rio Ruddle on becoming Mrs. Arizona 2020 and how she’s giving hope to those battling cancer

In 2017, Jennifer Rio Ruddle was diagnosed with stage IV colorectal cancer (CRC) at the age of 41.

“I was young, fit and healthy. I had no history of CRC in my family and no risk factors,” Ruddle says.

She was told she needed emergency surgery and

chemotherapy. She was given an 11% chance of survival.

“I don’t think there is an adequate way to describe how hearing those things changes every aspect of your life,” she says.

“To say I was shocked, devastated and overwhelmed is an understatement.”

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

29

Pulse UP CLOSE Ruddle began treatment in 2018 and has been fighting ever since. “Twelve months of chemotherapy, 30 rounds of radiation, and four abdominal surgeries – during the course of that year, I spent a total of 25 days in the hospital and lost 20 pounds,” she says.

But Ruddle wanted to do more than fight. “As an actress and former pageant girl, I knew I had a unique ability to use my experience, to take this horrible thing that happened to me and turn it into a positive opportunity to spread awareness and education,” she says.

Channeling her acting experience in everything from independent films to commercials along with her past participation in Miss Teen Arizona pageants, Ruddle ran for Mrs. Arizona 2020 on the platform of early onset CRC prevention and awareness – and won.

“It was completely surreal! Going from thinking I wasn’t going to see my next birthday to representing our state on a national level was a dream come true,” Ruddle says. “I’m still amazed when I think about the fact that two years ago, I couldn’t walk 10 feet. Now I’m walking red carpets.”

Championing Change Ruddle is grateful for the chance to use her platform to advocate for early onset CRC patients and survivors. In 2019, she was elected to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance’s Never Too Young Advisory Board, through which she’s been able to share her experience at conferences, summits and other events.

“I often heard that I didn’t look like a ‘typical cancer patient.’ I didn’t lose my hair, I gained back the weight I had lost, and I was still fairly active. But people don’t see the scars from my abdominal surgeries. They don’t see the neuropathy and nerve pain I experience from the chemo. And they don’t see the anxiety I still battle every day,” Ruddle says. “I’ve learned that I’m not an anomaly – early onset CRC is on the rise. I set out to really change the face of colorectal cancer and show people that this disease doesn’t discriminate when it comes to age, race or gender.”

After more than two years of chemo, Ruddle is no longer showing signs or symptoms of CRC but is still being closely monitored.

“I’m not completely out of the woods, but I’m still here, and I’m still fighting,” she says. “It can be extremely hard to talk about certain aspects of this disease. Some of it is embarrassing, scary and painful. But by telling my story, I try to give hope, inspiration and strength back to others.”

Ruddle’s journey has not only allowed her to make a difference through advocacy, but it has taught her more about herself. “After four abdominal surgeries, I never thought I’d bare my stomach again, let alone in a bikini on stage during a national competition. I didn’t want people to see my scars or to look at me differently. But I’m alive because of those scars, so it was important to me to show them and represent the early onset CRC community,” she says.

“I worked so hard. I trained with my aunt – a personal trainer and former Olympic athlete – in the gym five to six days a week.

30

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

I was so proud to walk out on that stage and show off what my body had been through and how far I had come.”

Through it all, Ruddle has drawn endless inspiration from the people around her, including her husband and the people she’s met through the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.

“I’m inspired by those who are going through or have gone through what I have, the people who have shared their stories with me, and the people who have reached out to me and thanked me for sharing my story,” Ruddle says.

It’s these people that Ruddle says are among the most compassionate, supportive, selfless and strong individuals she’s ever met – part of the reason that if she could choose to go back, she wouldn’t change a thing about these last few years.

“There have been numerous setbacks and miracles during my cancer journey. People I thought would be there for me weren’t, and others I didn’t expect helped in incredible ways,” Ruddle says. “At the end of the day, every high and low has led me to where I am today, and I like where I’m at and who I am.”

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A GRAPE EDUCATION Rebecca DeVaney provides wine workshops for everyone

BY KAYLOR JONES / PHOTO BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE

Rebecca DeVaney’s love of wine grew from her passion for seeing the world.

“The more I traveled in life and experienced different cultures and terroirs, the deeper my appreciation for wine and spirits grew,” she says.

DeVaney’s background as a bar owner and lobbyist for the liquor industry – including focusing on matters that, in light of COVID-19, pose a threat to the hospitality industry – got her started on an educational path with the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), a globally recognized organization that provides courses and qualifications in wine and spirits. She is also a member of the Society of Wine Educators, the Wine Scholar Guild, and the Guild of Sommeliers.

“When the opportunity arose to assume the Arizona and Baja Mexico territory as a WSET program provider, I leaped at the chance,” says DeVaney, who serves as the owner and founder of The Somm School (www.spiritsomm.com), which provides wine and spirits certification programs, as a WSET satellite location, for anyone who shares DeVaney’s passion.

“Educating both wine professionals and enthusiasts is equally rewarding,” DeVaney says. “With students in the industry, I have the opportunity to watch careers flourish. It’s also exciting to help broaden enthusiasts’ knowledge of wine, lead them through tastings, and help them discover new favorites.”

In addition to WSET Level 1 and 2 qualifications, DeVaney offers workshops such as decoding French, Italian and Spanish wines and wine and cheese pairings.

DeVaney also uses The Somm School as a way to give back to the community. “Since opening, The Somm School has given one scholarship per WSET program to hospitality workers who could not otherwise afford the education,” she says. “This will be a great continued benefit to those whose jobs are affected by the current state of the world.”

DeVaney, who also prides herself on making a difference in other parts of the world, is at work on a charitable endeavor in which a Madeira wine certification program will benefit an existing charity in Portugal.

“Educating others on the world of wine and spirits gives students a glimpse into the places of origin and generations of people in cultures producing these beverages,” DeVaney says. “Plus, I’m a nerd. Ask me about the yeast strain saccharomyces cerevisiae – if you have an hour or two to spare!”

32

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

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Pulse BEAT

BANK ON HER

Sabrin Abunaib realized her American dream through education and dedication

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE

As a vice president and senior relationship manager at WaFd Bank, a lion’s share of Sabrin Abunaib’s job is spent listening to people’s stories and providing resources to help them reach their goals.

However, the story of Abunaib’s own life is well worth a read, too.

“I was born in Sudan. I am the youngest of 20 children, 14 of whom are full siblings and five of whom are half siblings,” Abunaib says, who lost her father at 2.

Upon his passing, her mother committed to raising her 15 children and Abunaib’s five half siblings with the help of her oldest son. Among her mother’s biggest goals was for one of her daughters to complete her education – a rarity in Sudan during that time.

“I graduated high school and was in my second year of college when I met Nadir Ali through friends in 1994,” she says. “Though Sudanese, he was just visiting as he worked in Los Angeles at the time.”

They fell for each other fast, so much so that Abunaib agreed to marry him and move to the United States in 1995.

“There was one condition. Once settled, we promised my mother – and I promised myself – I would re-enroll in school and earn a degree,” Abunaib says.

“To his credit, my husband took this promise as seriously as I did, and with his support within my first two years in America I learned English, had our first child, and began community college.”

Over the next 25-plus years, she not only completed community college, but also earned a bachelor’s degree and an MBA. She then had her second child, relocated to Arizona and began her career in banking.

Though she started as a teller, Abunaib quickly moved up the ranks at multiple banks including Chase and Wells Fargo before landing an executive position with WaFd Bank’s commercial division last year, where she is currently overseeing more than $20 million in Arizona projects.

Beyond that, Abunaib and WaFd are also helping small businesses recover from the havoc wreaked by COVID-19.

“Through our COVID-19 loan programs, we’ve already helped provide over $85 million in funds to help nearly 900 Arizona businesses. We’ve also been able to donate $80,000 to nonprofits in recent weeks,” Abunaib says. “I have my American dream, and we want others to continue seeking theirs.”

34

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

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Pulse HIS STYLE

FORM & FUNCTION

Nico Samaras’ entrepreneurial lifestyle is the center of his fashion choices

BY MANDY HOLMES / PHOTO BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY

From vintage cars to freshly roasted coffee, Fourtillfour owner Nico Samaras dresses for days spent roasting beans and bringing the community together.

Taking cues from his active lifestyle – he does jiujitsu every day and often takes to the desert to off-road or hike – the avid adventurer combines his passion for craft coffee, minimal design, and vintage Euro autos into his style.

“I’m influenced by cars, architecture and by ’50s style icons like Steve McQueen and Paul Newman, whose legendary style somehow still works today,” Samaras says.

Often spotted in minimalistic attire comprised of neutral colors or black and white, the entrepreneur relies on fundamental pieces from Double RL and athleisure wear, notably Lululemon pants.

“The brands I like are really solid on the basics and usually have been able to stay relevant for many years,” he says. “I also love Taylor Stitch shirts, outerwear, denim and basics. They’re built for the long haul.”

Samaras’ personal style centers around form and function – rather than trends – and he gravitates toward clothing that doesn’t often fall into modern fashion.

The Scottsdale native loves heritage pieces and incorporating brands that tell stories.

“My signature look has always been about basics and timeless, well-fitting clothes,” he says.

How do you transition your look from work to nighttime? My outfits are pretty interchangeable; I like simple pieces that work well all day and into the evening. For nighttime, I’ll add a stylish watch.

How does your career influence your style? I incorporate what I think is cool into Fourtillfour’s packaging, clothing and interior design. I also wear our T-shirts in my daily life.

Where do you shop? Patagonia for functional pieces and Persol for high-end accessories as well as a variety of stores for vintage items.

36

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

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Pulse HER STYLE

CLOSET CONFIDENTIAL Lauren Tyler Smith keeps her look simple yet chic

BY MANDY HOLMES / PHOTO BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY

With a closet full of custom designs and luxurious apparel and accessories, Lauren Tyler Smith follows the rule of one in and one out.

“If I’m adding to my closet, I need to be getting rid of something,” she says.

As the owner of Luxe Closets, Smith designs high-end, luxury closets – including conceptualizing the design and customizations as well as organization and wardrobe evaluation – and believes functional design and excellent craftsmanship should match the quality of the items that reside inside.

Smith’s style can best be described as timeless. Dark flare jeans, wedge sandals, monochromatic-paired shirts and pants, and a well-tailored blazer are wardrobe staples for the chic closet designer. Living in Arizona, her signature look consists of a classic pair of white skinny jeans and a breezy, white button-down blouse.

Influenced by her mother’s ability to keep her wardrobe minimal and classy, Smith chooses simplicity over busy patterns.

“I love black and white – pairing black and white, white on white, and black on black,” Smith says. “Conceptually it feels like it shouldn’t work, but when you match the fabrics, cuts and styles, everything just seems to come together.”

Currently, Smith favors Lunya’s washable silk loungewear for its comfortable, feminine pieces that still make her feel like she got dressed – even during a stint of quarantine.

Tell us your No. 1 style tip. My mother used to say “classy not trashy,” and I use that line today. Dress appropriately for events and keep your audience in mind.

What will we see you in on weekends?

On weekends, I’m more likely to be found by the pool rather than my desk, so an oversized Eric Javits hat and a Pucci swimsuit are my staples!

What stands out about your closet? The lighting. I love great lighting!

38

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

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BY KAYLOR JONES

Being a mother and a business owner are both full-time jobs, and now more than ever given the current climate of our world, moms across the Valley are working around-the-clock to raise their children and run their companies. Meet six local moms who exemplify dedication and drive, each having paved a path in her respective industry while juggling the demands of parenting. Discover what motivates them to succeed and how each hopes to inspire greatness in both the community and their own homes.

40

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

JODI LOW

FOUNDER & CEO, U & IMPROVED Jodi Low has devoted her life to helping people recognize their greatness and achieve big goals. As the founder and CEO of leadership and development company U & Improved (www.uandimproved.com), Low offers on-site experiential corporate training and two-day immersion-style classes specifically designed to help people realize their true potential while overcoming limiting beliefs and barriers to communication. She works with individuals, small businesses and Fortune 500 companies, and has made her mark on clients like Wells Fargo, CVS and Valley of the Sun United Way. Low started her business after experiencing a sudden divorce almost 12 years ago. “I did some deep soul-searching during that painful time to figure out what I was meant to learn from the experience, what my gifts are, and what I’m most passionate about,” she says. “The answer came to me rather quickly – I love people. Seeing people truly inspired to do their best work, personally and professionally, inspires me every day.”

As a single mom, Low works tirelessly to serve as a great example to her daughters, Alexandra, 15, and Iliana,12.

“From the very first moments of my divorce, I knew my new title wasn’t going to just be Mom or CEO – it had to become ‘role model.’ I knew I needed to carefully choose how I show up for them every day so they would have a solid rock to lean on and gain strength from,” Low says.

Part of this has been involving her girls in U & Improved events since they were young. “They have literally grown up seeing, hearing and feeling the conviction that comes from people choosing to live big, bold, passion-filled lives.”

Low believes that an abundant mindset is the key to success, and that focusing on how to serve others is the best way to meet one’s own needs – truths she champions as both a business owner and a mother.

“I want my kids to truly know that they can be, do and have anything they want in this world as long as they work hard, believe in themselves, and are kind and compassionate toward themselves and others.”

PHOTO BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE So Scottsdale! June ‘20

41

SHAYNA WEIR & MICHELLE TURNER OWNERS, AQUATIC-N-WRITING REHAB

Owners of Aquatic-N-Writing Rehab (www.anwrehab.com) Shayna Weir and Michelle Turner serve the needs of children every day. In 2011, the two therapists – Weir is an occupational therapist and Turner is a physical therapist – started their business, which provides in-home occupational, physical and speech therapy for children 3 and up in Arizona, to bridge a gap they noticed in the industry.

“Many of the families of the children we provided therapy to in a school setting expressed a lack of providers available to them for home services,” Weir says. “To me, the best part of owning this business is being able to do something good for others by providing essential therapy services to as many children as possible.”

As practitioners of child-centered physical and occupational therapy, with an emphasis in handwriting therapy, which improves fine motor control, and aquatic therapy, Weir and Turner also draw motivation from their own children. “My 11-yearold daughter, Jai, is the reason I wake up in the morning, go to my full-time job, and run a business,” Turner says. “My vision is for her to see her mom working hard and do the same.”

Weir says the potential she sees in her daughter, Kaylyn, 5, encourages her to put what she recommends for other families into practice on a daily basis. “I strive to be a good role model while building a future for us,” she says. “I hope I inspire her to find something she’s passionate about and have the confidence to follow her journey.”

The pair also stresses the importance of patience and persistence in both owning a business and raising kids. “I’d tell any other moms wanting to start a business to never give up,” Turner says.

With no previous business experience, it took several years for Weir and Turner to get their company off the ground. Weir advises, “Take it one step at a time and don’t feel as though you need to jump in all at once – start small and build upon what you already have. I hope to pass these same lessons of diligence, hard work, planning and passion on to my little girl.”

PHOTO BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE

42

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

LORY PARSON

CREATOR, TO HAVE + TO HOST For Lory Parson, the creator of To Have + To Host (www.tohavetohost.com), entertaining is everything.

“It all started with sharing my love and passion for entertaining,” she says. “I’ve loved hosting family and friends ever since high school. Now that I have a family of my own, my husband, kids and I find special ways to incorporate entertaining as part of our family traditions.”

One such tradition, Grandma Dinner Night, kick-started Parson’s transition from an expert entertainer to an entrepreneur. In 2017, after constantly being asked about the recipes and table settings she used for their weekly three-generation dinner parties, she created an Instagram account to share photos with her friends. That same Instagram now has more than 16,000 followers.

Parson has evolved from a humble blog owner to a content creator for major brands including Sur La Table, Lenox, West Elm and Riedel.

“I partner with brands aligned with my focus of bringing back the art of entertaining at home,” says Parson, noting that she advises on a variety of entertainment topics including dinnerware, florals, home decor, party inspiration and tabletop styling.

But she didn’t get there on her own.

“The most valuable lesson I have learned since starting To Have + To Host is to surround yourself with people who believe in you and support you,” Parson says. “That support system makes all the difference.”

Her mom, husband and three kids – Cooper, 18; Caroline, 17; and John Ross, 15 – have been her biggest cheerleaders since day one. “My kids have all been supportive and inspirational in their own ways,” she says. “One is constantly giving me ideas for different shoots and party themes, one loves when I throw parties for her and her friends, and the other named his fantasy football team after my company!”

Parson, armed with the encouragement of her family and the goal of making everyone feel at home, is grateful for the chance to do what she loves every day.

“There’s nothing more intimate and personal than being invited into someone’s home, and no better joy than having guests leave with a full stomach, heart and soul.”

PHOTO BY JAMES PATRICK So Scottsdale! June ‘20

43

ALEXIS BROWN

OWNER, SWEET LIFE BY LEX As the owner of Sweet Life by Lex (www. sweetlifebylex.com), Alexis Brown creates artful, no-bake desserts like cake pops, Oreos, and pretzel sticks – all dipped in chocolate and available in a variety flavors, colors and themes. She also creates candy buffets and custom desserts for events.

And all of her treats support an even sweeter cause – autism awareness.

“As the mother of two autistic boys, I’m honored to use my craft as a way to donate a portion of proceeds to partnering foundations in the Valley,” she says. “When you shop with Sweet Life by Lex, you get to make your life – and the life of a child with autism – that much sweeter.”

Brody and Grahm, Brown’s 10-yearold identical twins, have been her driving force as she made the career switch from a dental hygienist to owning her own business in 2017.

“I created something out of nothing.

And because of these two amazing boys, I have become a better person,” she says.

“I continue to be fascinated by them, to learn from them, and to be challenged as their mom to support them as they become amazing little men.”

For Brown, part of being a mom is setting a strong example, which she accomplishes in part through her position as a board member for the Gentry Foundation for Autism.

“The boys see me working hard every year to raise money for the foundation, scholarships and our annual gala,” she says.

“They want to be a part of giving back now, and it has motivated them to want to learn more about autism – and learn that it’s OK for them to be exactly who they are.”

At the heart of it all, Brown hopes to teach her boys three core values.

“Gratitude – express it daily to yourself and the people in your life. Be kind, and always look at that as a sign of strength. Respect others and yourself, and know that respect is a two-way street that should lay the foundation for any relationship you ever have.”

PHOTO BY JAMES PATRICK

44

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

RACHEL HUDGENS

OWNER, TWENTY6 DESIGNS As the owner and creative mind behind apparel company Twenty6 Designs (www. twenty6designs.com), Rachel Hudgens works to light up the lives of others, including her own family.

Her career as a freelance artist for weddings, restaurants and events – she even created signs for Trader Joe’s – blossomed into a full-fledged clothing company almost overnight. When the Super Bowl came to Arizona in 2015, Hudgens looked for a T-shirt to show her Phoenix pride but couldn’t find anything that suited her style.

“So I had my own handwritten design screen-printed onto a blank T-shirt from Target,” says Hudgens, who was invited to sell her designs at Phoenix Public Market during Super Bowl weekend after posting a photo of them online.

“Having no business name, I made my own business cards using cardboard dividers from wine boxes,” she says. “Fast forward to today, and my homegrown brand is now sold locally at La Grande Orange, Modernique, Mae & Marie, and across the nation!”

As a mother of four, Hudgens has been inspired to plant seeds of love for her kids: Mac, 23; Jax, 20; Joel, 16; and Juliet, 14. With styles featuring fun, inspirational words and phrases, Hudgens designed her line – which is comprised of adult and youth T-shirts, sweatshirts, pants, hats, stickers and totes – with her children in mind and the goal of bringing happiness to others.

In Hudgens’ own life, equilibrium is one of the keys to happiness, and she notes that maintaining it can be an exercise in grace.

“Giving a healthy dose of grace to ourselves is just as essential as giving it to those we are surrounded by. I find it easier to balance my emotions and responsibilities when grace is on the daily menu – and some days require multiple servings!”

Hudgens hopes that her journey can reflect on her children’s growth.

“The best part of owning a business is the freedom to take risks – it’s given me wings,” she says. “Kids need to be given the freedom to try new things and learn it’s OK to fail. We all find out who we are and what we’re made of through this process.”

PHOTO BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE So Scottsdale! June ‘20

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

BY GABBY LEIGHTON / PHOTO COURTESY OF CARRIE CURRAN ART STUDIOS

Unleash your inner Van Gogh with Carrie Curran Art Studios’ live virtual art classes. Taking place Thursdays from 4 to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 1 to 3 p.m. through the end of August, the interactive Zoom sessions present step-by-step guidance of a featured watercolor painting of the day. This month, expect lots of summery options like beachscapes, vibrant florals, and colorful cacti. Brilliant Blooms, shown here, will be the featured painting on Saturday, June 13. Attendees may use their own supplies or add on a take-home supply kit ($35), which can be picked up curbside at the Scottsdale studio. Each class is $35 per painter, with discounts available for two or more painters. Register, purchase a kit, and find a list of supplies online. www.carriecurranart.com.

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

47

Now LOWDOWN

BY CHELSEA YOUNG

SCOTTSDALE STRONG

Specials, news and virtual experiences to bring a dose of happiness and lend a helping hand

SIMMER DOWN

As a response to recent restaurant closures, Cory Oppold, well-known as the executive chef of Atlas Bistro, created a way to eat gourmet at home with his easy-tomake Simmer Down meal kits. They are delivered in sealed pouches and most are cooked by simmering in water for 15 minutes or less.

Offerings include appetizers, desserts and entrees that can all be simmered as well as options like an A5 wagyu rib-eye cap that need to be cooked.

The menu has products from local favorites including Chula Seafood, Noble Bread, and McClendon’s Select. There are detailed directions online so all you have to do is simmer (or cook), plate and enjoy! Orders and delivery can be can be scheduled online. www. simmerdownmeals. com.

48

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

AT-HOME ITALIAN

For an Italian smorgasbord from the comfort of home, The Sicilian Baker (www.thesicilianbaker.com) has you covered with its new grab-and-go market. Brimming with gourmet goodies from its sister eatery next door, The

Sicilian Butcher (www.thesicilianbutcher.com), the market has items such as fresh handmade pasta and Italian bread, olive oil, Italian meats like salami, pasta sauces, cheese, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted coffee beans, and premade

family meals such as meatballs and lasagna. Guests can shop in-store or call ahead for takeout or curbside pickup. Should you choose to get your Italian fix by dining in the restaurant, The Sicilian Butcher is offering $1 Negronis (yes, really!).

SPIRTS & SANITIZER

Blue Clover Distillery continues to offer hand sanitizer using its handcrafted spirits. It’s available in five-gallon buckets, 16- and 32-ounce bottles, and 4-ounce spray bottles at $1.50 per ounce (bulk pricing is available upon request). Pick it up Tuesday through Sunday at the outdoor retail window from 4 to 8 p.m. And while there, you can also stock up on spirits to go with the distillery’s small-batch gin and vodka ($26 each) as well as bloody mary kits and mixers including tonic and soda water. Vodka flavors include regular, grapefruit, lemon and strawberry. www.bluecloverdistillery.com.

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Now LOWDOWN

TOKEN OF THANKS PHOTO COURTESY OF RNR GASTROPUB

AT THE AMERICANO

To toast its reopening, The Americano has some new offerings, including a $2 Stimulus cocktail featuring herbaceous St. George Absinthe with lime and refreshing cucumber water – served with a (fake) $100 bill, no less. Other new highlights include additional cocktails, an Angus beef burger, and a buttermilk chicken sandwich.

Even sweeter? The Americano is offering a 20% discount to both health care workers (Tuesday through Sunday through June) and restaurant industry employees (Sunday and Tuesday all summer). To redeem, just show proof of ID or workplace. Prefer to eat at home? The Americano also has curbside, delivery and to-go food and cocktails. www.theamericanorestaurant.com.

If you’re a health care worker or first responder, you can head to RnR Gastropub in Old Town Scottsdale for a free cheeseburger with a choice of salad or chips as a token of gratitude for your sacrifice and service during the COVID-19 pandemic. RnR is open for both dine-in service and takeout.

Simply show your medical ID to get the complimentary meal. This gesture of gratitude from RnR’s parent company Evening Entertainment Group (EEG) follows on the heels of another one of its concepts, Casa Amigos, which donated meals to local hospital workers throughout the Valley during EEG’s temporary closures in recent months. www.rnrscottsdale.com.

COFFEE FIX

This month, Press Coffee is moving to a larger location at Scottsdale Quarter, where it will offer dine-in and to-go services in a space that’s double the size of its current home.

From June 11 to 13, Press will sell $1 coffees with 100% of proceeds donated to ProtectAZ, a local nonprofit supporting increased testing and distribution of medical supplies to combat the coronavirus. To further help, Press also has the option to add a cup of coffee for a health care professional to online and app orders. All donations will be matched by Press and delivered weekly. www.presscoffee.com.

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MUSIC & WINE

Arizona-based rock band The Black Moods has partnered with Su Vino Winery on an all-new red wine named after their single, Bella Donna. True to its rock ‘n’ roll roots, the Bella Donna wine has smooth moves with ripe black currant and cherry that gently ebbs into a warm oak groove. The hearty red wine has a hint of pepper and spice with soft tannins and an elegant finish, and it’s out just in time for the band’s second album, Sunshine, which debuted last month. Bella Donna is available on the winery’s website for $25 and can be shipped or picked up. www.suvinowineryaz.com.

Achieve the Perfect Body Shape

You can lose inches with just 1 session! Body Revive is the latest cutting-edge technology for fat removal and skin tightening.

There’s a quicker recovery time and less pain compared to other contouring technologies, and the results are seen immediately.

“The faster recovery time, less pain, and the dramatic results are why Body Revive is generations ahead of Cool Sculpting and other similar technologies,” April explains. This technology visibly changes your skin texture and shape as well as dramatically removing fat. Body Revive is the #1 skin tightening technology for a bikini-ready body!

ARE YOU

BIKINI BODY READY? Bikini Season is right around the corner and there’s no better time than now to book your appointment at Scottsdale’s premier salon and medspa! With all the beauty experts under one roof, The Hills Beauty Lounge Day & Med Spa is the place for all things beauty.

Healthy from the Inside Out

As the seasons change, so do our bodies. Our immune systems especially take a hit, which is why The Hills offers several immune support options to help us feel our best. “Vitamin B shots are especially popular this time of year to give the body that added boost to fight off any lingering illness or the ‘winter blahs,’” says owner and Master Aesthetician, April Martinez.

All about Hair

Add flare to your hair with cut and color services to brighten your summer look. At The Hills, you can expect only the absolute best, with master level stylists and trained experts in blondes. The Salon also carries a wide variety of hair extension colors. “Mermaid hair extensions are all the rage right now! They’re kid friendly as well, making it a fun mom and daughter date,” April says.

And it’s not too late to take advantage of the special presummer hair detox! Call The Hills Salon to find out more.

Let Your Natural Beauty Radiate

It’s only natural that you want to wear less makeup in the summer months. Which is why it’s important to have a good skin care regime designed specifically for your skin needs. The Hills Spa is a full-service medspa with medical-grade skin care options and highly trained aestheticians to help you shine.

Let the experts at The Hills bring your beauty to its full potential with this lightweight and long-lasting makeup! Glo Skin Beauty is a mineral makeup line that helps revive your skin, while giving it an extra healthy glow. Glo Beauty makeup is antioxidant rich and actually improves skin health.

Unique to You

Now is the time to start preparing for bikini season and what better way to do that than with a luxurious and individualized beauty experience? Try our beauty advising program to help you navigate your options and maximize your beauty budget while you relax and let your worries melt away at the Valley’s most revolutionary beauty destination, The Hills Beauty Lounge Day & Med Spa. For a complete list of services offered and to book your appointment, visit The Hills Beauty Lounge Day & Med Spa at www.thehillsexperience.com or call 480.585.3787.

Now LOWDOWN

PHOTO BY NADINE ALLEN

ROLL WITH IT

NEW DIGS

While Marcellino’s Ristorante was closed for more than a month, chef Marcellino Verzino didn’t slow down, instead working on a remodeling project originally planned for summer. The dining room has been expanded to include what was once a private room (and can still be used as such), which also allows for better social distancing, while striking new decor includes a 6-foot waterfall window overlooking the patio. The restaurant is open nightly for dinner only; seating is limited and reservations are required.

There is also takeout, including 20% off bottles of wine and beer, with curbside pickup available by calling 480.990.9500. To celebrate dads on Father’s Day, the eatery will have extended hours from noon to 9 p.m. with a full menu and chef’s specials as well as complimentary housemade tiramisu for Dad. www.marcellinoristorante.com.

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Sushi Roku is giving you all the tools you need to become your own sushi chef from home. An all-new Roll-Your-Own Sushi Pack is a kit with all the fixings available in two different sizes via curbside pickup or delivery on Postmates.

The Hand Roll Pack ($120) makes 25 to 30 hand rolls that serve four

or more people, while the Mini Hand Roll Pack ($65) makes 12 to 14 hand rolls and is perfect for two to four people. Both packs come with illustrated, step-by-step instructions and all the fixings including soy paper, seaweed, sushi rice, accoutrements, and five types of

seafood. Pair it with your choice of five signature cocktails like a yuzu margarita, available in 8or 16-ounce mason jars (equivalent to two or four cocktails, respectively). Single cocktail, $12 or $20; mix and match three cocktails, $30 or $50. www.sushiroku.com.

GOURMET GROCERIES

French-inspired eatery Zinqué has reopened its dining room while continuing to offer takeout, plus an all-new option: curbside pickup for select grocery items. Perfect for those who prefer to eat their meals at home or who want to skip the grocery store, Zinqué’s pop-up market includes whole roasted chicken with three vegetable sides, organic eggs, avocados, dried pasta, brown rice, salami, burrata and Époisses de Bourgogne cheeses, and fresh produce. To top it off, all wine bottles are 50% off, and a selection of fine spirits are available by the bottle. Orders can be placed online. www.lezinque.com.

Now LOWDOWN

JAZZ IT UP WINE 101

LDV Winery is bringing food and wine pairings to your home with its “From the LDV Winery Vineyard Kitchen” Facebook Live series. On June 4 and 11 at 4 p.m., the LDV owners will host this free dinner demo with wine and pairing tips featuring items like chicken and veggie kabobs and New York steak with select LDV wines. Viewers can join in (recipes are provided on Facebook prior to each event), but cooking along isn’t required. Participants can simply sip wine and enjoy some virtual socialization. The series’ entire selection of wines is available for a 10% discount and can be picked up curbside at the Old Town tasting room or delivered. www.ldvwinery.com.

The Nash, an educational and performance venue near Downtown Phoenix, is bringing the joy of jazz right to you with virtual workshops and lectures.

Its annual summer workshop series will be held via Zoom for musicians of all backgrounds and skill sets on topics like bebop and jazz composition.

Instructed by professional jazz musicians including Lewis Nash, Dmitri Matheny and Pam Morita, most workshops are $150. The Nash will also continue its Get Jazz Smart online classes via Zoom, exploring bossa nova, modal jazz and fusion. Led by Jeff Libman, a clinical assistant professor of jazz studies at Arizona State University, classes are $25 per household. Learn more and register online. www.thenash.org.

Even though museums remain closed, you can still take your creativity for a spin through Phoenix Art Museum’s virtual events and exhibitions.

From the comfort of home, explore the India: Fashion’s Muse exhibit and get a virtual preview of an upcoming exhibit, Teresita Fernández: Elemental. First Friday will take place online June 5 at 6 p.m. via the museum’s YouTube channel and Facebook page, and other events include mindfulness sessions, guided mediation, and mixed media workshops for teens. All events are free; some require registration. www.phxart.org.

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So Scottsdale! June ‘20

PHOTO COURTESY OF TERESITA FERNÁNDEZ AND LEHMANN MAUPIN

ADMIRE ART

GREEN THUMB

The Urban Farm, a Phoenix-based company led by 40-year urban farming pro Greg Peterson, is providing free, virtual classes on gardening and growing your own food to help people take control of their health and food supply during this time of uncertainty. The live classes – with topics like berry gardening and edible landscaping – take place Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5 p.m. and are available to replay for 48 hours. Sign up online and you’ll get an email with how to access the classes.

There is also a paid option ($97) that provides lifetime access to all courses (there are more than 50!). www.urbanfarm.org.

This includes sex hormone balance, cortisol and stress management, insulin and blood sugar control, vitamin and mineral nutritional deficiencies, gut and digestion repair, and advanced thyroid diagnosis and treatment.

“Approximately 88 million American adults—more than 1 in 3—have prediabetes. Of those with prediabetes, more than 80% don’t know they have it,” Dr. Bosch explains. “We seek to begin interventions and treatment for prediabetes, helping patients lose weight, improve their energy and mental capacity, and prevent moving into the more challenging to treat diabetes.”

Additionally, The Hormone Zone provides a unique medication that works on the emotional centers of the brain to help control appetite, without the problems of other stimulant type medications.

Summer Weight Loss Strategies The Hormone Zone is here to help you lose weight and keep it off!

Doctors Cristina Romero-Bosch and John A. Robinson are the husbandand-wife team behind The Hormone Zone, a boutique medical practice.

These board-certified naturopathic doctors have over 30 years of combined experience in hormone replacement therapy, age-management medicine, sexual wellness, and unique weight loss therapies.

So, what’s the first step to losing weight this summer? “Get excited!” says Dr. Robinson. “This is an opportunity to get motivated and really make a meaningful change.”

BIKINI BODY READY The Hormone Zone is all about change. Their innovative and comprehensive approach allows you to achieve your optimal self and your optimal weight.

“The focus is on balancing and optimizing your hormones, including the metabolism-boosting

testosterone. Metabolism is also balanced through thyroid function, insulin and blood sugar control, stress management, and guidance towards graceful aging,” Dr. Robinson says.

“We objectively measure many things and keep close track of progress, which will be obvious to our patients. But we also measure success based on the emotional improvements of patients demonstrated in their self-confidence and new-found zest for life. This is one of our hallmarks at The Hormone Zone,” says Dr. Bosch.

LOSE THE WEIGHT AND KEEP IT OFF “We build a relationship with our patients by spending time to discover what exactly a patient wants and needs in regard to their relationship with food and health,” Dr. Bosch says.

The entire team at The Hormone Zone is dedicated to delivering only the best in customer experience.

And that starts with validation and understanding your unique situation and personal health journey.

“We believe that what gets measured gets accomplished. We measure advanced body composition and blood biomarkers of health to know what your body needs. And we provide accountability with an ongoing relationship and strategy adjustments based on your personal needs,” Dr. Robinson explains.

The result? Living in your optimal body!

TREATING THE CAUSE “The Hormone Zone’s weight loss program is different from other weight loss programs in that our comprehensive approach includes treating the root causes of weight gain as we age,” Dr. Robinson says.

GOODBYE EXTRA POUNDS! “Too many weight loss programs sacrifice muscle, which is the reason metabolism gets damaged and leads to rebound weight (fat) gain. However, at The Hormone Zone we see steady, ongoing weight loss of 2-3 pounds per week—while maintaining or gaining muscle. This is the key to long term success and keeping the weight off once you lose it,” Dr. Bosch says.

By allowing The Hormone Zone to aid you with your weight loss, not only will you lose the pounds, but you’ll gaining valuable insight specific to YOUR body that will keep the scale from creeping back up.

Contact The Hormone Zone at 480.338.8070 or www.hormonezone.com, 9377 East Bell Road, Suite 361, Scottsdale, 85260.

THE SEX DOCS: Dr. John A. Robinson & Dr. Cristina Romero-Bosch

Now OUT

FARM FRESH

Produce boxes bringing the harvest to your home

With companies across the Valley in need of support now more than ever, this summer is the perfect time to shop small for your groceries. Both farms and restaurants are offering specials on fresh produce boxes for pickup or delivery so that you can keep your kitchen well-stocked without having to navigate a crowded store – and support a number of local business in the process.

BY KAYLOR JONES

McClendon’s Select Offered twice each week and available in three sizes, McClendon’s Select Grab and Go Produce Boxes feature a veritable bounty of fresh finds. In addition to fruits and vegetables, some options include specialties like herbed goat cheese and Noble Bread. On Saturdays, reserved boxes are available at the Uptown and Old Town Scottsdale farmers markets.

Pickup time at all locations is from 7 to 10 a.m.

Reserve boxes and pickup locations online. $50-$90. www.mcclendonsselect.com.

Singh Meadows Farmers Market Based in Tempe, this locally sourced farmers market offers curbside pickup for its colorful produce baskets. To order and request a pickup day, comment on the Singh Meadows’ weekly Facebook post for each basket. Previous boxes have included collard greens, grapefruit and purple potatoes. Items like baked goods, local honey and pepper jelly can also be added. And with curbside shopping, customers stay in their vehicles while employees gather their groceries.

Basket pickup and curbside shopping is available Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. $55. www.farmersmarkettempe.com.

The Churchill This Phoenix hot spot is now offering a CSA Farm Box subscription, partnering with Valley farms to provide customers with hand-selected produce and local farms with critical funds. Plus, customers can also donate a farm box to St. Mary’s Food Bank or opt for the Chef’s Box subscription to get recipes and ingredients curated by the chef of the week, with proceeds supporting out-of-work restaurant staff. Information about the boxes is posted online every Tuesday, with orders due on Sunday. Pickup is available from 4 to 7 p.m. at The Churchill the following Friday. $20-$40. www.thechurchillphx.com.

Steadfast Farm This two-acre market farm in Mesa uses organic practices and offers weekly Veggie Boxes. Each box is harvested to order and brimming with farmer-selected produce that varies based on what looks best in the field that week. Boxes are occasionally supplemented with items from other local farms to support more Arizona businesses. Optional add-ons include a dozen eggs and a bouquet of flowers. Orders are due two days in advance on the farm’s website, with several pickup times and locations to choose from in Arcadia, Central Phoenix, and Downtown Phoenix. $25+. www.steadfast-farm.com.

Modern Market Eatery Reap the benefits of this Scottsdale eatery’s supply chain with grocery boxes of fresh produce, meat and prepared food. Options include the re-Fresh Box, with up to 10 meals’ worth of fruits and veggies; the Petite re-Fresh Box, a smaller version fit for four to five meals; the Grill Box, which includes eight to 10 portions of grass-fed steak, mac and cheese fixings, bread and asparagus; and the Basic Box, complete with raw chicken, eggs, milk, bread, coffee, veggies, and toilet paper. Order online or via Modern Market’s app for curbside pickup or same-day delivery. $25-$80. www.modernmarket.com.

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The Time is Now

LISA ROBERTS HELPS YOU NAVIGATE THE HOT HOUSING MARKET

Despite recent events, the Scottsdale area luxury real estate market is still very much a competitive market. With multiple offers on the table, homes are selling quickly.

Whether you are in the market to buy or sell your home, you want someone on your side to help with one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. That person is Lisa Roberts.

"I live and breathe real estate, and do whatever it takes to represent my clients," Lisa says. "I am involved in the real estate business daily. I uphold my values and integrity during every transaction I enter into."

"Helping clients with one of the most important financial decisions is something I do not take lightly. To me, a big hug and a thank you is what makes my job rewarding,” Lisa says.

Her work ethic and dedication to her clients are what makes Lisa among the top 100 of more than 75,000 licensed agents in the state. She is a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS) and Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), some of the highest credentials available to real estate agents.

“There is no slowdown in today’s market of people purchasing homes,” Lisa explains. In fact, current data shows that the real estate market is actually going up despite the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the leading market stats provider to the residential real estate industry, Showing-

Time, there was a 40% slowdown of showings at the beginning of the crisis—March 11 to April 2. However, as of May, house showings are back up by 40%.

And current trends point to a continuing rise in the housing market. “If you’ve been thinking about selling your home, now is the time to list it. For buyers, don’t wait. There is no COVID-19 discount anymore; it is still very much a sellers’ market,” Lisa says.

Another current real estate trend shows an increase in vacation rental properties for sale. “With no renters due to COVID-19, owners are now selling,” Lisa explains. “People are buying these vacation properties as their primary residences. It is an interesting trend that may lead to a lack of vacation rentals in the future.”

Not only are Arizonians buying luxury properties, but people from other states are gravitating toward the Valley of the Sun. Title companies are reporting that 50% of all closings in the Valley in the last three weeks are out-of-staters moving here.

“This is an excellent time to list your house due to a shortage on the market,” Lisa says. And she can help you do just that!

Contact Lisa Roberts at 480.232.3291 or lisa@lisaroberts.com.

Now CULTURE

TALES OF TRIUMPH

Shanna Israel creates art that shares inspiring stories and gives back

BY HEATHER LYNN HORVAT / PHOTO BY KARLIE COLLEEN

PHOTO BY MICHAEL FRANCO

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Splitting her time between Scottsdale and Los Angeles, mixed media artist Shanna Israel has designed art pieces for Madonna, Steven Tyler, Neiman Marcus and Jamie Foxx, and has had work shown at Phoenix Art Museum.

Israel has always been creative, working in genres from graphic design and paint to crafts and wearable art. “My mother is very creative and embraced my spirit 100%. She’s the reason I don’t see creative barriers,” she says.

Many of her pieces include designer vintage materials such as Chanel flowers, a Versace medusa, and a Louis Vuitton locket.

However, contracting West Nile virus in her mid-20s forced Israel to stop art as she became allergic to many of the materials.

Then, after a near-fatal car accident, Israel vowed to her sister, “When I’m recovered from this – which I will be – I’m going to live my life like I’ve never lived it before.”

Now, Israel is combining her own health journey and her artistic expertise to forge a new road for creative health solutions, and her latest endeavors share human stories of triumph over adversity.

“After going through such personal hardships, the only thing that brought me joy was helping other people. When I got back to my art it became my therapy, and I wanted it to be the same for others as well,” she says.

These struggles have inspired Israel’s latest project that showcases people’s stories through art. After interviewing someone to understand how they’ve triumphed over adversity, Israel uses actual materials from their journey – like unused syringes for their medicine or their favorite quote – to create a unique 3D art piece.

“I change the page from looking at something difficult to seeing something beautiful,” Israel says. These pieces can be found on her website (www.artxshanna.com), along with a GoFundMe page for those who wish to donate. A portion of the proceeds from each piece sold is also donated to a cause selected by the person the artwork is about.

“I’ve always been amazed at how something starts out as an idea and then can influence an entire culture and society,” Israel says. “I love the depth of a story or a person. The culmination of life truly inspires me. I respond to creative, smart and fearless spirits.”

Recently, Israel launched Art Fun Parties, where she leads creative activities online. Additionally, she’s working on a children’s book series to promote more tolerance, and she is also helping establish a children’s hospice center in Brazil.

“It’s tough trying to be creative when going through medical journeys. If you don’t feel well or are fighting for your life, art can get lost,” Israel says. “However, art can help a person focus on something other than themselves. It’s important to get out of your head at times when going through illness. Art can be the best therapy.”

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UPDATE YOUR LOOK, IMPROVE YOUR IMAGE! New York Trained Custom Clothier Opens Arcadia Location Q. Contrary, a local custom clothier, recently opened its first retail location in Arcadia. New York trained designer, Mary Zarob, owner of Q. Contrary, assists men and women with styling and creating a wardrobe of business and casual clothes that fit better, allowing customers to achieve their best look in today’s fashions. Q. Contrary offers custom made and ready made suits, jackets, slacks, and shirts. In addition to tailored clothing and alterations, Q. Contrary offers a line of Travis Mathew golf attire and men’s accessories. With the opening of Q. Contrary’s Arcadia location at 3188 East Indian School Road, the latest spring fabrics have also arrived. Visit the store or call 602-301-6987 to update your wardrobe for the new season.

‘I studied men’s fashion at FIT in NYC and designed for Macy’s and Calvin Klein Jeans.

Over the past 15 years, I have studied many successful men to fully understand what it takes to be more effective in business. What I have found is it all starts with how you present and feel about yourself.

If you need to update your look, improve your image, or find clothes that fit, contact me. I bring my keen eye for fashion and design skills to create the right look for you and your lifestyle. Let me help you take your business to the next level.’

3188 East Indian School Road 602-301-6987 • www.qcontrary.com @qcontrary.mary

Style

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

BY KAYLOR JONES

The Vintage Web Bangle Watch from Gucci is the epitome of a stylish timepiece to help keep your life on schedule and on trend.

The classy mother-of-pearl dial is set against sleek rectangular plexiglass, while the striped resin bangle adds a bit of shine with sparkling amber gems. A sapphire crystal face protects the three-hand Swiss quartz movement. Add that to a convenient hook-and-bar closure and this bold accessory serves as a fashionable addition to any look, whether you’re at hanging at home or dashing out to grab a quick dinner. $1,050 at Nordstrom, www.nordstrom.com.

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

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Style ALLURE

BY NEYDA MELINA

CANDY COLORS Sweeten up your summer with subtle shades

Light-reflecting pearl highlighter, Too Faced, $36 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com.

Lipglass in oyster girl lip gloss, MAC Cosmetics, $17.50 at Nordstrom.

Liquid-gel eyeliner in gold getter, Marc Jacobs, $13.50 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com.

Mint green eye shadow stick, $29 at Laura Mercier, www. lauramercier.com.

Finishing and setting powder in mousseline pastel, Givenchy, $58 at Neiman Marcus.

Rainbow highlighter, Ciate London, $32 at Sephora, www. sephora.com.

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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, or visit her websites: www.classicbeautymagazine.com, www.breastcancerandbeauty.com, and www.beeinvolved.org.

Style DWELL

BY NEYDA MELINA

GET ORGANIZED Clever solutions to declutter your home

Chalkboard, corkboard and letter bin system, $79 at Pottery Barn, www.potterybarn.com.

Metal wire basket, $9.99 at H&M, www. hm.com.

Single watch winder with storage, Wolf, $565 at Saks Fifth Avenue, www.saksfifthavenue. com.

Floral tin recipe box, Rifle Paper Co., $34 at Nordstrom, www.nordstrom.com.

Striped acrylic bar cart, Peroni x Jonathan Adler, $1,450 at Jonathan Adler, www. jonathanalder.com.

Mini eyewear case, Oyobox, $185 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com.

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So Scottsdale! June ‘20

Driving on the course, fun.

Driving to the cleaners, not so fun.

Specializing in premier quality dry cleaning and professional wet cleaning, with complimentary pick up and delivery to your home or office for your convenience.

We pride ourselves on focusing on high quality pressing, being tough on stains, but eco friendly, using only organic, non toxic, dry cleaning solvents and professional wet cleaning. Your garments will last longer and look exquisite!

CONVENIENT LOCATIONS SW CORNER SCOTTSDALE RD & LINCOLN AJ’S COMPLEX SE CORNER SCOTTSDALE RD & DOUBLETREE SPROUTS COMPLEX NW CORNER TATUM & SHEA (DRIVE-THRU) WHOLE FOODS COMPLEX

480.951.2206 We offer same day service at any location before 9:00 am Monday through Friday.

Monday-Friday: 7 am-7 pm Saturday: 9 am-5 pm Sunday Closed for maintenance

Sign-Up Online at OrganicCleanersAZ.com

Style SHOP

BY NEYDA MELINA

FAR-OUT FASHION Get a little groovy with retro-inspired prints

Floral silk dress, La DoubleJ, $555 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com.

Button-front shirt with dandelions, $78 at Madewell, www.madewell.com.

Floral maxi skirt, Dodo Bar Or, $172.20 at Saks Fifth Avenue, www.saksfifthavenue. com.

Tote bag, Emilio Pucci, $825 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com.

Tie-dye platform sandals, Jimmy Choo, $618.75 at Nordstrom.

Floral silk shorts, Aerin x Blazé Milano, $670 at Aerin, www. aerin.com.

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So Scottsdale! June ‘20

BY NEYDA MELINA

Style

SHOP

THINK BIG

Flip the script with oversized handbags

Floral canvas tote, Gucci, $1,980 at Saks Fifth Avenue, www.saksfifthavenue. com.

Tan mixed leather tote, $345 at Johnny Was, www.johnnywas. com.

Light blue leather pouch, Bottega Veneta, $2,700 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com.

Red transparent logo tote, Valentino Garavani, $1,295 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com.

Straw tote with tassels, $34.99 at H&M, www.hm.com.

Pink raised logo clutch, Fendi, $890 at Nordstrom.

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

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Soak up the summer in chic swimwear

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So Scottsdale! June ‘20

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

69

TOP: Lexi bralette in psycho red, $120. BOTTOM: Lisa tango in psycho red, $120.

Both from Beach Bunny Swimwear, www.beachbunnyswimwear.com.

TOP: Nadia triangle in black, $145. BOTTOM: Lexi tango in black, $140.

Both from Beach Bunny Swimwear, www.beachbunnyswimwear.com.

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TOP: Indy triangle in tiger, $95. BOTTOM: Indy tango in tiger, $105.

Both from Beach Bunny Swimwear, www.beachbunnyswimwear.com.

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

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TOP: Sierra triangle in Tortuga, $145. BOTTOM: Sierra skimpy in Tortuga, $265.

Both from Beach Bunny Swimwear, www.beachbunnyswimwear.com.

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TOP: Sheer addiction triangle in black, $115. BOTTOM: Sheer addiction high-waist in black, $130.

Both from Beach Bunny Swimwear, www.beachbunnyswimwear.com.

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

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TOP: Bailey crop in white, $115. BOTTOM: Chrissy micro tango in white, $95.

Both from Beach Bunny Swimwear, www.beachbunnyswimwear.com.

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TOP: Karter bralette in leopard, $145. BOTTOM: Aria skimpy in leopard, $95.

Both from Beach Bunny Swimwear, www.beachbunnyswimwear.com.

So Scottsdale! June ‘20

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Rightsizing Done Right

STRESS-FREE MOVING WITH GET YOUR MOVE ON Not only does Get Your Move On offer easy and affordable storage and moving solutions but the team delivers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Whether a loved one has passed away, or you are packing up a secondary home here, or it is simply time to downsize—or rightsize—and cannot take all of your possessions with you, Get Your Move On provides that extra level of patience and attention to detail ensuring a smooth process.

Over 1 million people downsize every year, and it is no small task. “We call this rightsizing. We have perfected our project management to give our clients a stress-free experience,” says owner, Derek Greene.

With the huge wave of baby boomers downsizing, Get Your Move On has developed special accommodations to help with everything from packing, storage, donations, and sales of valuables and estate. In fact, Get Your Move On is the preferred moving vendor of many of the area’s Continued Care Retirement Communities (CCRC).

“We understand how emotional this can be for our clients. We’re with them every step of the way to manage the move and find the right resources,” Derek says.

Get Your Move On provides an expert level of project management resources from the estate sale to fine art to automobiles.

Derek and his team even work with Realtors to pack belongings and stage a home. “We figure out how to manage these resources so that our clients don’t have to worry. We have vetted all of our resources and built long term relationships with many estate sellers, art dealers, and more.”

Derek and his team are committed to providing their clients with a Pampered Moving Process, including those with a tight deadline. “We walk our clients through the process for a quick move so that they can focus on what’s important. Along with

that, we help those who are downsizing to understand that it’s more cost-effective to donate items versus pack and store them,” Derek explains.

Get Your Move On is a local Phoenix family-owned moving and storage company that has been around for 15 years. They are highly experienced in fine art, wine, and automobiles. And their 60,000 square foot climate-control warehouse allows clients to safely store possessions and valuables.

“Downsizing and rightsizing is a battle, and people should know there’s help out there. We take this difficult and emotional process and turn it into an efficient and economically beneficial move for you,” says Derek.

For more information or to receive a free estimate please call 480.695.6621 or visit www.getyourmoveonllc.com

Luxe

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

BY KAYLOR JONES

The Globo Five-Light Chandelier from Jonathan Adler is the pinnacle of luxurious lighting. A 17-inch brass stem is adorned with an array of pink, green and blue acrylic spheres, with five lightbulbs interspersed throughout, causing vibrant light to reflect off the multicolored orbs. Equal parts industrial and romantic, this futuristic chandelier from the eponymous brand of a renowned American potter and designer functions as an elegant ornament in any room of the house. $1,895 at Jonathan Adler, www.jonathanadler.com.

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Luxe WHEELS

2020 PORSCHE TAYCAN TURBO The all-electric sports sedan is a gorgeous display of power, poise and prestige

BY JIM PRUETER

VITAL STATS 2020 Porsche Taycan Turbo

Porsche’s first all-electric car, the 2020 Taycan (pronounced tie-kahn, meaning “lively young horse”) is a profoundly impressive sports sedan. It delivers every bit of the refinement, driving engagement and high-performance sports car experience that affluent driving enthusiasts have come to expect from Porsche.

The Taycan, which competes with the Tesla Model S, is just a bit smaller than its larger Panamera sibling and has a four-door coupe-like styling that turns heads. The Taycan weighs in at over 5,100 pounds, but with 670 horsepower including launch control, the turbo goes from zero to 60 mph in just 2.4 seconds. The turbo moniker is especially gratuitous on an all-electric car, since there’s no combustion engine to turbocharge.

The Taycan is the first electric vehicle to use a two-speed transmission and an 800-volt electrical system to power the all-wheel drive, delivering quicker acceleration and shorter recharging times.

It charges from 5% to 80% in 22 minutes, but 800-volt chargers are rare. Buyers should opt for the optional 150-kW charger that triples the maximum charging power at 400-volt DC fast-charging stations. Driving range is around 200 miles.

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Handling is simply magic with razor-sharp cornering, making for a world-class thrill ride. On the open road, its agility; superb body control; and quiet, composed ride are flawless.

The interior, visible through the optional fixed glass roof, proves surprisingly spacious. A fourseat configuration is standard, but an optional third center-rear seat is available. Unlike the liftback styling of the Model S, the Taycan has a traditional trunk in the rear and a small compartment up front.

The cockpit favors digital controls over traditional buttons and dials, giving the interior a clean, streamlined feel that’s echoed by the intuitive, driver-focused displays. The three-screen instrument panel has touch screens for infotainment, climate functions and other operational controls.

Standard equipment includes SiriusXM radio and Apple CarPlay compatibility, but not Android Auto.

Porsche engineers said it was worth sacrificing a bit of driving range to make the Taycan drive as much like a 911 as possible, and it seems that Porsche nailed it. It is quick, gorgeous, fun, quiet and comfortable – a combination worth getting excited about.

Base price: $150,900 Price as tested: $168,680 Engine: Dual electric motor with 500 kW overboost power Horsepower: 670 Fuel economy: 68/71 mpg city/ highway Seating: Up to 5 Fab features: Two-speed automatic transmission Speedy 800-volt recharging capability Wickedly quick with razor-sharp handling

Cool Deck Restorations

BY FUTURA Since 1988

Cool Deck just completed, Paradise Valley

Ugly old Cool Deck?

Clean, repaired, and restored to look like new again.

We take your existing Cool Deck surface that may have unsightly stains, cracks, or missing areas due to a variety of circumstances and perform our exclusive restoration service which will transform your pool/patio decking to new like condition and protect it from future damage.

Futura’s high performance restoration coating system provides a clean protective color shield, for a long lasting, time tested restoration service that restores, enhances and maintains cool decking areas like new.

Call us now for a free consultation

480.710.8157 www.cooldeckresto.com

ROC #077629

Luxe HAUTE PROPERTY

SPOTLIGHT: MOUNTAIN MANOR

BY KAYLOR JONES / PHOTOS BY KEVIN BROST

PHOTO BY ERIC KRUK

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Find paradise in the McDowell Mountains with this custom six-bedroom, 6-1/2 bath home in The Country Club at DC Ranch.

With mountain views from nearly every room, this grand, 7,314-square-foot estate offers luxury in a gorgeous desert setting.

As the heart of the home, the stately great room is complete with reclaimed wood floors and beamed ceilings, and it features a statement gas fireplace and large glass doors that lead directly to one of many patios. The bonus room just off the great room also includes access to a private patio.

The gourmet kitchen is decked out with high-end appliances, granite countertops, and a spacious island. A butler’s pantry is complete with a wine chiller, a beverage refrigerator, an additional oven, a microwave, and a dishwasher. The dining room leads to a courtyard and the wine cellar, while another living area has an additional fireplace and seamless indoor-outdoor living with patio access.

Upstairs, the master suite has its own sitting room, another fireplace and balcony access, while the master bathroom includes double vanities, a large shower, a jetted tub, and dual water closets. A walk-in closet features lots of storage, a separate laundry room, and space for an exercise area.

The additional bedrooms include private bathrooms and walk-in closets, and one bedroom has its own private patio.

Outdoors, this property feels like resort living at its best. Amenities include a heated pool and spa with waterfall features, multiple fireplaces, an outdoor kitchen, and plenty of patios and sitting areas.

There is also a four-car garage and a guest house with a kitchenette, a walk-in closet, a bathroom, and a washer and dryer.

Residents in the guard-gated community of The Country Club at DC Ranch can enjoy scenic walking trails, two clubhouses, a community pool, tennis and pickleball courts, and a workout facility. Private golf club membership is also available.

9820 E. Thompson Peak Pkwy., #837, Scottsdale, AZ 85255. Listed for $5,300,000 with Tracey Gray and Kim Leinweber of The Team with MORE at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. Tracey, 602.980.2243; Kim, 480.980.1427; more@russlyon.com.

Palm Tree & Hardwood

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Luxe PLACES

CERTIFIABLY LUXE

Around the state, Arizona hospitality hot spots earn global acclaim

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

The Forbes Travel Guide – the only independent rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants and spas in the world – has released its 2020 star ratings. To discover the most outstanding properties worldwide, Forbes Travel Guide’s undercover inspectors test up to 900 exacting standards at each property. This year, 24 properties across Arizona earned a place on the coveted list, giving you plenty of places to add to your bucket list of statewide stays.

The Phoenician The Phoenician made Forbes’ list, earning four stars. Its 250-acre grounds of lush lawns and desert botanicals wowed the judges, as did the four 4,000-square-foot presidential suites and diverse dining options. The Phoenician Spa is one of just 24 spas worldwide to earn the Five-Star honor for the very first time this year. A threestory build, the 37,000-square-foot spa features a rooftop pool, a Drybar, 24 treatment rooms, a couple’s suite, a fitness center, a movement studio, a nail salon, and a retail boutique.

The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician earned a Five-Star rating.

A boutique hotel within the award-winning resort, this exclusive enclave received a complete remodel in mid-2016. The 60-room Canyon Suites features a private pool overlooking Camelback Mountain as well as plush accommodations, a private lounge and activities, including trapeze lessons and private helicopter tours.

Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass Aji Spa and Kai Restaurant at Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass also earned the Five-Star Award. This marks the first time Aji Spa has been given the honor, joining Kai, which has maintained the Five-Star accolade for 12 years and is still the only restaurant in Arizona with the distinction. With this achievement, the Sheraton Grand is now the only resort in Arizona to boast a Five-Star spa and a Five-Star restaurant. The Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass resort itself also made the Forbes Recommended list.

The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain Just outside of Tucson in Marana, The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain and its spa both earned five stars. Dove Mountain joins the Sheraton Grand as one of only two Arizona resorts to achieve double Five-Star wins in 2020. The spa, golf course and resort have also been ranked by Forbes Travel Guide as one of the eight most luxurious hotel/spa properties in the world. The spa features 14 treatment rooms; a fitness center; and indoor and outdoor treatments, movement classes and holistic experiences inspired by indigenous elements and healing rituals. Its Core Kitchen & Wine Bar also made the list, earning a Four-Star rating.

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NOW AVAILABLE!

THE COLOR OF MOTHER

A book bringing love + joy to the young and the young at heart Written by local author and So Scottsdale editor-in-chief Chelsea Young, The Color of Mother is a luxe, beautifully illustrated book that showcases the special bond between mothers and their children, whether young or grown.

The Color of Mother is a sweet story for children up to age 10 that encourages creativity and self-expression, and it’s a meaningful gift for new moms, moms-to-be, or moms of any age. It shares a message of love and gratitude that’s especially perfect as a baby shower gift or for moms and children to read together.

Plus, The Color of Mother is a gift that gives back! A portion of all book sales made at www.coloreverything.love are donated to the Phoenix nonprofit Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels.

$15.99

(paperback)

$24.99

(hardcover)

Includes a custom message, shipping, author’s signature, and a charitable donation Order your signed copy online at www.coloreverything.love.

www.coloreverything.love | hello@coloreverything.love

MEET THE AUTHOR, CHELSEA YOUNG

As a lifelong student of the written word, Chelsea Young has a heart for inspiring others through writing. Always fascinated by colors and color psychology, Chelsea wrote the original draft of The Color of Mother at age 11 as a poem in homage to her own mother’s qualities, which are universal to all mothers. When Chelsea isn’t dreaming in color, she’s the editor of a lifestyle magazine, leads writing workshops, and is a freelance writer and editor. Chelsea resides in Phoenix with her beloved rescue dog, Hope. Connect with Chelsea at www.chelseayoung.com.

Luxe PLACES Well & Being Spa at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess The 44,000-square-foot Well & Being Spa at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is among the Forbes Four-Star honorees. Forbes inspectors’ highlights included the impressive number of spa service offerings, such as the Well & Being Signature Journey Massage, Havasupai Falls Rejuvenation, Singing Bowl Sound Therapy and the new Desert Botanical Facial.

Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North The Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North took home three Four-Star honors – one for the resort, one for the spa, and another for Talavera. In the spa, inspectors took particular interest in the extensive list of treatments, as well as its Southwestern-inspired offerings and blending bar. Talavera is no stranger to honors, as executive chef Samantha Sanz was nominated for a James Beard Award last year.

L'Auberge de Sedona L’Apothecary Spa and Cress on Oak Creek at L'Auberge de Sedona – as well as the boutique hotel itself – earned four stars each. The hotel offers professional photography programs, geology discussions, sunrise yoga, and stargazing, not to mention private cottages set along Oak Creek. The intimate spa features just four treatment rooms, but also offers massages in private creekside tents as well as healing botanicals and fragrant herbs to custom-blend body care products. French-influenced Cress has alfresco dining along the creek as well as cozy indoor seating. Its fixed-price menu is a showcase of precision, technique and flavor.

Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa Both Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa and Sanctuary Spa also earned four stars. The spa and resort wowed inspectors with its Asian-inspired decor, notably its bamboo-bordered coed spa courtyard, its nightly sunset Champagne ceremonies, the culinary program led by chef Beau MacMillan, and its focus on active lifestyles. In addition to offering custom guided and non-guided hikes on Camelback Mountain, the resort features three tennis courts, four pickleball courts, three swimming pools, and a state-of-the-art gym with a lap pool where you can book Olympic gold medalist and Arizona resident Misty Hyman for swim lessons.

Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort A Four-Star winner, Tucson’s Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort is a hidden gem. The property was a boarding school before it was converted into a ranch in the 1940s, when Hollywood legends like John Wayne and Katharine Hepburn were noted guests. Today, the 34-acre property offers horseback riding and hiking programs as well as indulgent spa treatments and an award-winning restaurant.

Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Finally, Arizona Biltmore, El Conquistador Tucson, JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, PY Steakhouse at Casino del Sol in Tucson, and Royal Palms Resort and Spa earned a spot on the Forbes Travel Guide Recommended list, essentially the third – and still very exclusive – tier of luxury rankings.

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Make Today Your Day! T

ina Duffy, owner of Dynamic Solutions for Life, is passionate about helping people make positive changes in their lives. “I’ve always enjoyed empowering people to have a voice in the world. I want to help them be confident and strong in who they are,” she says.

Whether you’re under a lot of stress, feeling anxious or fearful, depressed, or simply know that something isn’t ‘right’ with your body or your life, Tina provides support and empowerment for you to take control of your life and your health.

As a Life and Health Coach, Tina offers creative ways to deal with stress, fear, anxiety, and other target areas that so many of us feel whether it’s daily or linked to an event. “We don’t know when your stress or fears will end, but I’m here to help guide you. Together we figure out the puzzle.”

Tina covers many areas including Health, Relationships, Physical Activity, Finances, Home Environment, Social Life, Career, Joy, Spirituality, and Creativity. “Everything ties in with this Circle of Life approach. It is about looking past the outward symptoms and digging deeper to find the root cause. We are a team. My role is to offer guidance on how to make your life better. I am your accountability partner.”

She works with all kinds of diets, from keto to vegan and many, many more and helps those with diabetes and thyroid issues, among other health concerns.

Tina Duffy with Dynamic Solutions for Life Tina’s practice centers on virtual sessions—allowing her to empower people across the country—although local clients do have the option to meet in person. “I really feel a strong connection to my clients, even though our sessions are virtual.” By offering virtual sessions, Tina often receives referrals to clients’ family members in other states.

An initial consultation to begin the journey to your best self is free. “This is where you and I get to know each other and form a support team. I keep the information digestible and attainable, taking into account where you’re at in your journey and your goals. The last thing I want to do is overwhelm someone,” Tina says.

“I truly believe that all of the things I’ve done in my life have brought me to exactly right here: being a cheerleader for people as they discover how positive and productive their life can be.” A former fitness trainer, Tina also served on the Board of Governors for The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale. She loves working with children and helping charities in the community. Additionally, 10% of all session costs go to The Children’s Cancer Network based in Arizona.

“My passion is encouraging people to feel empowered to make their own decisions, right now and in the future. I’m forever grateful at having this opportunity to walk beside someone and cheer for them.”

PACKAGES ARE AVAILABLE. Contact Tina Duffy of Dynamic Solutions for Life at 301.461.1102 or www.dynamicsolutionsforlife.com.

Taste DRINK

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

A BURST OF BOTANICALS Raise your glass to gin, a refreshing on-trend spirit perfect for summer

Gin is having a moment. The herbaceous, floral and citrus notes in the versatile spirit make it the perfect ingredient for summertime cocktails or enjoyable on its own. Here is a selection to buy (all are available online), with bottles as captivating as the potions within.

Madam Pattirini Gin Named after a member of the Brigham Young family who performed in drag as an opera singer in the late 1800s, the most intriguing ingredients in this small-batch gin include Nigerian ginger, Sicilian lemons and bergamot, which is a fragrant, slightly bitter citrus fruit. $23.99. www.madampattirini.com.

Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla Distilled Gin This gin was created by infusing ripe oranges from Seville, Spain, with Tanquerary’s classic London Dry Gin. The zesty citrus is prominent as is coriander, licorice and angelica root, often used to flavor chartreuse and vermouth. $25. www.tanqueray.com.

Bloom London Dry Gin Developed with the concept of “summer in a bottle” by one of the world’s first female master distillers, Joanne More, this stunner balances notes of honeysuckle and chamomile with a touch of pomelo. $26.99. www.bloomgin.com.

Gin Lane 1751 Victoria Pink Gin A full-bodied gin that’s blended naturally with aromatic bitters, this pays homage to gins first made in the Victorian era. The juniper is powerful here, as is the cassia bark, star anise and spice notes. $29.99. www.ginlane1751.com.

Hendrick’s Midsummer Solstice Gin A seasonal offering from the iconic Hendrick’s distillery, this gin bursts with floral and pine aromas. It is delicate and complex on the palate with notes of juniper, orange blossom, lemon zest, rose, lavender, and just a hint of spice and a clean yet lingering finish. $31.99. www. hendricksgin.com.

Bluecoat Elderflower Gin This fragrant gin is made by

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steeping the spirit with organic elderflower for two weeks. The result is a bright burst of juniper, citrus, tropical fruit and melon as well as an earthy complexity that has a slight tannic finish. $31.99. www.bluecoatgin.com.

Gray Whale Gin The botanicals in this gin are handforged or organically farmed along the California migratory path of gray whales. It delights with the essence of Big Sur juniper, Baja limes, Sonoma fir trees, Santa Cruz mint, Mendocino sea kelp, and Central Valley almonds. Plus, every bottle helps support Oceana. $32.99. www.graywhalegin.com.

Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin Several well-known botanicals – juniper, coriander, cardamom, star anise, lemon and grapefruit – are showcased in this spirit. However, it also has unique infusions of floral meadowsweet, grassy orris root, and smoky gunpowder tea, which is a Chinese tea in pellet form. $39.99. www.drumshanbogunpowderirishgin.com.

The Bitter Truth Pink Gin A delicious blend of traditionally crafted gin and aromatic bitters, expect complex fruity and floral aromas in this spirit. Beyond the lighter influences on the palate, enjoy a kick of spice with notes of licorice, caraway and fennel. $40.99. www.the-bitter-truth.com.

Empress 1908 Gin Inspired by the iconic high tea and its specialty black tea blend at the Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia, this small-batch gin is crafted in copper-pot stills. It combines eight botanicals – including grapefruit, rose petals, ginger root, and cinnamon bark – plus butterfly pea blossom, which gives the gin a captivating indigo hue. $42.99. www.empressgin.com.

Taste

DRINK / CHEERS / CUISINE / FOOD FILES / DINING GUIDE

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO COURTESY OF NORTH ITALIA

North Italia’s pasta dishes – made in-house daily – offer an escape to the Mediterranean right from Scottsdale. Among North’s signature offerings is the creamy, savory chicken pesto ($17.50). It starts with gigli pasta, also known as campanelle and – fittingly for summer – looks like a bell-shaped flower. Once cooked, the pasta is coated in homemade pesto, made using basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese and olive oil, and tossed with pieces of tender grilled chicken breast. Upon plating, the pasta is topped with toasted pine nuts, garlic, fresh basil, salty crispy capers, and a sprinkle of shaved grana padano cheese and finished with a squeeze of lemon juice. North is now open for dine-in service as well as curbside takeout and delivery via DoorDash. For takeout orders, you can pair your pasta with cocktails, wine and beer to go, too. North Italia, 15024 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.948.2055; www.northitalia.com.

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Taste CHEERS

FLOWER POWER

Sushi Roku rolls out its first CBD-infused cocktail with The Green Fairy

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSHI ROKU SCOTTSDALE

Among the year’s trendiest cocktail ingredients is neither a spirit nor a wine. It’s not even a beer. It’s CBD. Short for cannabidiol, CBD is a naturally occurring substance in the cannabis plant, also known to many as marijuana or hemp, and easily identified for its calming properties.

“One major misconception is that CBD is psychoactive as many confuse it with THC from the same plant,” says Sarah Ehrman, lead bartender at Sushi Roku at W Scottsdale. “Wholly different byproducts, CBD oil has a variety of therapeutic benefits including a subtle, relaxing effect on the body.”

As such, forward-thinking restaurants and bars are finding ways to infuse products with this oil, including Sushi Roku, who has partnered with CBDfx, a national company that procures CBD from organic hemp plants, to create a line of cocktails and mocktails with CBD. Among them is The Green Fairy ($20).

The libation starts by muddling mint in a bucket glass. It then gets a spritz of absinthe and is briefly set on fire to open the bouquet.

“We quell the flames by adding lime juice and lime wheels into the glass for acidity, followed by rhubarb syrup we make in-house, giving the cocktail sweetness along with the signature tartness of the fruit,” Ehrman says.

Ice is added next, followed by Bulleit Bourbon.

“We stir it all together before adding one dropper of CBDfx water soluble solution,” Ehrman says. “It’s garnished with a hemp toothpick, a CBDfx gummy bear, and both a lime peel and mint for visual appeal and aromatics.”

The refreshing cocktail is a truly holistic approach to happy hour or a night out.

Sushi Roku at W Scottsdale, 7277 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale; 480.970.2121; www.sushiroku.com.

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Taste

CUISINE

CHEF CONVERSATIONS In the kitchen with Christine Skaggs of Mastro’s City Hall

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO COURTESY OF MASTRO’S RESTAURANTS

Christine Skaggs is the executive chef at Mastro’s City Hall, where she focuses on offering perfectly prepared cuts of meat as well as fresh seafood, sushi and classic steakhouse sides.

What inspired your passion for food?

I was raised by a single mother on an organic farm outside of Seattle. We had an apple orchard, plum and cherry trees, and field greens, and we raised chickens, goats and cows. Cooking – especially food from our own backyard – was normal for us and a favorite pastime of mine.

How did you get your start?

As a senior in high school, I worked at a fast-casual restaurant in Seattle. Soon after, I applied for a dishwasher job at their sit-down concept, where I was hired as a pantry cook instead. After about a year, I took a sautee cook position at Daniel’s Broiler Prime Steaks & Seafood in 1999.

Tell us about your journey from there.

I was recruited to The Capital Grille in Seattle in 2007 as a sous chef. Then, I was asked to move and open the Scottsdale location in 2008, becoming the first female executive chef for the brand. I’ve also had leadership roles with a catering company, Ruth’s Chris Steak House and Seasons 52.

What led you to Mastro’s City Hall?

Mastro’s preaches that their minimum expectation is perfection. That concept inspired me to join the team in February of this year. At Mastro’s, I have the chance to work with the highest of high-end ingredients in a fast-paced environment while helping guests celebrate milestones in their lives through food.

Any menu favorites?

We have multiple filet mignon options that melt in your mouth, not to mention a decadent spinalis cut rib-eye steak, tableside Dover sole, and sushi topped with wagyu that are all spectacular.

What would readers be surprised to know about you?

While having three dogs and a cat – which we do – is not odd, we also have a 100-pound tortoise named Speedy as a family pet.

Mastro’s City Hall, 6991 E. Camelback Road, 480.941.4700; www.mastrosrestaurants.com.

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Taste FOOD FILES

SWEET STARTS

Begin your morning with breakfast and brunch dishes that double as dessert

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

Brioche French Toast with Fresh Berries

Zinqué Available on weekdays at the counter bar and on weekends during breakfast and brunch service anywhere in the restaurant, French-inspired Zinqué goes so far as to import its brioche directly from France. It is then dipped in egg and cooked on the stove until lightly crispy on both sides. Before coming to the table, it is dotted with powdered sugar; heaped with fresh strawberries, blueberries and blackberries; and paired with a side of warm maple syrup. $13. www.lezinque.com.

Golden Waffle Dogs

Over Easy A perfect combo of sweet and savory, this dish – available daily from open to close – is so popular that it has been featured on The Best Thing I Ever Ate on the Food Network. It starts by taking sausage links and dipping them into homemade vanilla batter. Once coated several times, they are fried to a golden brown on a stick, making the end result appear much like a corn dog, yet with the sweetness of a pancake. They come three to an order with a side of maple syrup and are topped with powdered sugar and strawberries. $10. www.eatatovereasy.com.

Banana Fosters Pancakes

Hash Kitchen Available daily from open to close, this clever twist on a classic Southern dessert is a favorite of Hash Kitchen regulars. To make, bananas are first caramelized using butter, brown sugar and cinnamon. Then, they are topped on a golden tower of fluffy pancakes along with cinnamon-infused whipped cream, candied pecans, and powdered sugar. A gluten-free option is also available for an additional charge. $11. www.hashkitchen.com.

Lemon Ricotta Pancakes Who says dessert needs wait until after dinner? Not us! Whether digging into a fluffy pancake or savoring a cinnamon roll, here are some of the sweetest ways to start off the day, thanks to these restaurants’ rich and decadent morning treats. Please note: Before deciding where to dine, visit each restaurant’s site or call to inquire about potential modificaitons to opening hours, offerings, and dine-in/takeout options amid COVID-19 modifications.

Lon’s at The Hermosa Inn Available on Saturdays and Sundays during brunch, these showstopping souffle-like pancakes pair the tang of lemon with the natural sweetness of blueberries. Stacked in a pyramid, the pancakes are topped with housemade blueberry compote and a generous crown of fresh Meyer lemon whipped cream, creating a sweet yet tart sensation. Lon’s reopens June 17. $15. www.lons.com.

Giant Cinnamon Roll

Prep & Pastry When the menu says “giant,” they mean it.

This behemoth breakfast treat, available during weekend brunch, is about the size of one’s

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Churro Waffle

Breakfast Kitchen Bar A state fair favorite – available at Breakfast Kitchen Bar daily – makes its way to the table thanks to this innovative dish, available at both the Scottsdale Quarter and new Desert Ridge Marketplace locations. Churro dough is reimagined into waffle form here and flash-fried before getting completely covered in cinnamon sugar. But that’s not all. Once plated, the waffle is topped with vanilla ice cream, a healthy sized drizzle of Nutella, and fresh blueberries and strawberries. It also comes with a side of maple syrup. $13.25. www.breakfastkitchenbar.com.

Smores Cakes

head (yes, really!) and takes about three days to make. The roll is made using yeast-leavened dough and a generous portion of cinnamon and sugar, slowly rising over time before being baked. Melt-in-your-mouth cream cheese frosting takes the indulgence level over the top. $10. www.prepandpastry.com.

Daily Dose Old Town Bar & Grill One of the best parts of a camping trip is making s’mores over the fire. Thanks to Daily Dose, you can now enjoy this campfire classic as a highly indulgent breakfast. These pancakes, served in a stack of three, actually have a real graham cracker crust. They are topped with both a housemade marshmallow icing and milk chocolate chips to round out the twist on the classic, along with maple syrup upon request. $10.50. www.dailydosegrill.com.

Berry- and Mascarpone-Stuffed French Toast Rusconi’s American Kitchen Available during brunch on Sundays, this updated take on traditional French toast and uses layers of flavor and texture, both salty and sweet, almost making it more of a sandwich than toast. To make, one layer of French toast is topped with lemon-scented mascarpone and strawberries, before getting topped with another piece of the toast. Then, each sandwich-like bite gets a drizzle of salted caramel, tart berry compote, and another smattering of berries. $12. www.rusconiskitchen.com.

Cinnamon Buckwheat Pancakes

The Herb Box By using buckwheat flour instead of traditional flour, this dish is gluten-free yet still has all the comfort food flavors – and then some – one would want in a morning treat. After lightly cooking each pancake until fluffy, they are stacked three high on a plate and topped with a heavenly combination of honey butter, housemade maple syrup, wild seasonal berries, and smoked bacon. The chef also recommends adding the orange-honey glazed fried chicken to take the indulgence level up one more notch. $14 ($19 with chicken). www.theherbbox.com.

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Taste DINING GUIDE

MAPLE & ASH

ASIAN

This high-end Chicago steakhouse opened a Scottsdale location last year offering a modern take on the traditional steakhouse with sleek furnishings and a fun atmosphere.

The menu includes caviar, a fire-roasted seafood tower, and housemade pasta. Steak offerings range from filet mignon and surf and turf to wagyu. At Scottsdale Waterfront, 7135 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale; 480.400.8888; www.mapleandash.com; $$$$

BY SHOSHANA LEON / PHOTO BY DEREK RICHMOND

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 Thai-style curries, there is something for everyone. 15027 N. Thompson Pkwy, Scottsdale; 480.661.8883; www.madebyflo.com; $$ HOT NOODLES COLD SAKE Chef Josh Hebert, a student of Japanese cuisine, serves traditional Japanese ramen as well as salads, gyoza, edamame, steamed buns, beer and sake at this casual ramen shop. Ramen is available for lunch and dinner with pork, seafood and vegan options. At Sonora Village, 15689 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.432.9898; www.hotnoodlescoldsake.com; $$ PURE SUSHI BAR & DINING Pure Sushi Bar & Dining offers an upscale atmosphere, tasty cocktails, and an extensive sushi and sashimi menu. Bento boxes are available for lunch. The dinner menu includes Korean barbecue grilled pork ribs, coconut tiger shrimp, crab and shrimp stuffed salmon, and pan-roasted duck.

20567 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, 480.355.0999; www.puresushibar. com; $$

As of press time, all restaurants included are open for dine-in service. Due to COVID-19, many restaurants have modified hours and specials – call or go online to verify before dining.

AMERICAN

COPPER MULE KITCHEN & BAR Copper Mule Kitchen & Bar opened in North Scottsdale in January with a diverse menu inspired by the owners’ travels and home states. Menu items with regional influences include Hatch chile queso, Delta deviled eggs, and a Sonoran shrimp cocktail accompanied by sandwiches, burgers, tacos and entrees. The cocktail menu offers nine mules and several signature cocktails with a regional twist. 23335 N. Scottsdale Road, 480.573.6853; www.coppermuleaz.com; $$ HAND CUT BURGERS & CHOPHOUSE Specializing in burgers and steaks, Hand Cut serves 100% grass-fed beef from Arizona. The menu includes salads, sandwiches, pasta, and a vari-

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ety of meats including rib-eye steak, bison loin, flank steak and bone-in pork chop. At Scottsdale Waterfront, 7135 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale; 480.494.2008; www.handcutchophouse.com; $$ TWISTED GROVE PARLOR + BAR Part of Common Ground Culinary, which owns several Valley restaurants, Twisted Grove offers shareable small plates, bruschetta, salads, pasta, sandwiches and stone oven flatbreads, as well as a craft cocktail menu. At the Village at Hayden, 8220 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.699.0811; www.twistedgrove.com; $$ YARD HOUSE A nationwide chain with four Arizona locations, Yard House offers an impressive selection of draft beers,

from wheat and IPAs to ciders and seasonal brews from Arizona, across the country, and around the world. It is a great atmosphere to socialize, watch sports, and enjoy an extensive food menu with vegetarian and glutensensitive items. Locations at Desert Ridge and Scottsdale Fashion Square; www.yardhouse.com; $$ ZUZU Nestled inside the Hotel Valley Ho, this retro-chic restaurant has been serving guests and locals for decades with innovative, upscale American comfort foods and cocktails. Whether dining for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner, make sure to save room for dessert, as the monthly featured “Show Stopper” Shake. 6850 E. Main St., Scottsdale; 480.376.2600; www. hotelvalleyho.com; $$

TOTTIE’S ASIAN FUSION Chef Tottie Kaya’s namesake restaurant is her vision of bringing together Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese cuisine under one roof. Guest favorites include pad Thai, Vietnamese egg rolls (known as Tottie Rolls), chicken dumplings, and pan-fried noodles. Two locations in Scottsdale: Indian River Plaza and Lincoln Village Shops; www.tottiesasianfusion.com; $$

BARBECUE

BRYAN’S BLACK MOUNTAIN BARBECUE Named best ribs in America by Food Network, Bryan’s offers a variety of barbecue items available as sandwiches, plates or combos with sides including baked potato salad and olive coleslaw. Meats are also available by the pound. USA Today notes its ribs, pulled pork, vegetarian pulled spaghetti squash, brisket chili, and homemade ice cream sandwiches as reasons to visit. 6130 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek; 480.575.7155; www.bryansbarbecue.com; $$

LIBERTY STATION AMERICAN TAVERN & SMOKEHOUSE 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 slaw, mac and cheese, beans and cornbread muffins. Three Valley locations including Scottsdale: 10240 N. 90th St.; 480.912.2102; www.nakedq.com; $-$$ STARLITE BBQ This cozy restaurant offers delicious barbecue smoked with Arizona pecan and mesquite woods. Appetizers include porky fries, pickled fried green tomatoes, and mesquite grilled cauliflower. The wide selection of barbecue includes beef ribs, pork, duck and meatloaf. Vegetarian and glutenfree options are available. 7620 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale; 480.553.9330; www.starlitebbq.com; $$

BREWERIES

FATE BREWING COMPANY Fate offers small-batch brews with perfectly paired bites. Favorite Fate beers include Fateful IPA, Buena Vista Blonde Ale, and the award-winning Candy Bar Milk Stout, available only at the North Scottsdale location. To accompany the beers, diners can enjoy wings, burgers, salads and wood-fired pizzas. The South Scottsdale location has a large beer garden with a dog-friendly patio. Two Scottsdale locations: South Scottsdale and North Scottsdale. www.fatebrewing.com; $$ GROWLER USA Growler USA is a national chain that is dedicated to quality craft beer with over 90 beers on draft. Pub fare includes loaded beer-battered fries, short rib sliders, handcrafted pretzels with beer cheese sauce, beer brat sliders, wraps, tacos, salads and sandwiches. 5415 E. High St., Phoenix; 480.454.4354; www.growlerusa.com; $$

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Outpost) has developed a reputation as a local-centric and dog-friendly social hot spot. It offers several nanobrews as well as cocktails made with vodka, rum and gin from its distillery.

Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. includes a 10-ounce Arizona beer or mimosa with each entree. Gluten-free and vegan menus are available. Only area location currently open for dine-in is Paradise Valley: 10810 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix; 602.900.9003; www.ohsobrewery.com; $$ PHX BEER CO. Last year Phoenix Ale Brewery became PHX Beer Co. and opened a Scottsdale restaurant in addition to its two Phoenix locations. The menu offers several items made with PHX Beer Co.’s brews including ale house wings, beer-battered cod and chips, and a porter brownie, as well as its signature black iron pizzas, sandwiches, burgers, salads and soups.

8300 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.571.8645; www.phxbeerco.com; $$ STATE 48 LAGER HOUSE State 48 started in Surprise and has since expanded to four Valley locations, including Scottsdale, where it brews its lagers on-site. The restaurant has a spacious patio with beautiful views and a menu with bestselling items like beer-battered fish and chips and the State 48 burger topped with aged cheddar, beer-battered pickles and IPA-Sriracha glazed bacon. 15600 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.659.0048; www. state48brewery.com; $-$$

DESSERT

ALIEN DONUTS Opened in 2018, Alien Donuts specializes in fresh doughnuts with crazy, creative toppings and different offerings daily. The Galaxy is a classic yeast doughnut with galaxy sugar glaze and gold stars, and the Alien Head is Bavarian cream-filled and decorated with a smiling alien glaze.

Vegan doughnuts available. 7111 E. 5th Ave., Scottsdale; 480.588.4668; www.aliendonuts.com; $ UNBAKED At Unbaked, guests can enjoy housemade ice cream and edible cookie dough by the scoop. Whether in a cup or a freshly made waffle cone, you can satisfy your sweet tooth with cookie dough like brownie batter, funfetti birthday cake or s’mores along with a variety of toppings. There are also glutenfree and vegan options, as well as fully baked cookies. 3712 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.421.8089; www.getunbaked.com; $

HEALTH FOOD

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. The seasonal lemonade flavors are always refreshing. Several locations, including Scottsdale Fiesta Shopping Center and Desert Ridge; www.iamaflowerchild.com; $$ 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 their app to skip the line. Five locations throughout Scottsdale. www.nekterjuicebar.com; $ ORIGINAL CHOPSHOP Original ChopShop offers producepacked juices, protein shakes and healthful bowls and sandwiches. This quick-service restaurant is committed to offering tasty fuel for the body by using fresh, whole ingredients, as well as guiltless baked goods for a delicious sweet treat to end your meal.

The menu includes vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free and lactose-free items. Several locations throughout the Valley, including Old Town, North Scottsdale and Paradise Valley; www.originalchopshop.com; $$

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TRUE FOOD KITCHEN In collaboration with integrated medicine guru, Dr. Andrew Weil, True Food Kitchen is a leader in healthy farm-to-table full-service dining. The food and beverage menus are created with seasonal ingredients guided by Weil’s anti-inflammatory food pyramid model. The farmers market crudites is a bouquet of chilled raw vegetables served with tzatziki and black olive dip that is a great starter for the table. The ancient grains bowl and grass-fed steak tacos are also fan favorites. True Food Kitchen happily caters to a variety of food preferences including gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan. At Scottsdale Quarter, 15191 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.265.4500; www.truefoodkitchen. com; $$-$$$

ITALIAN

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Taste DINING GUIDE experience alfresco. The Caesar salad is prepared tableside and an absolute must. The menu highlights more than a dozen housemade pastas that change seasonally, plus flavorful roasted meats. The full bar offers handcrafted, Italian-inspired cocktails; an extensive wine list; and internationally renowned craft beer. 6316 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.307.6900; www. ilovefatox.com; $$$ NICK’S ITALIAN A Valley favorite for more than 20 years, Nick’s Italian offers classic Italian dishes, a sophisticated ambiance and affordable prices. The menu includes fresh-made ravioli with a variety of fillings, seafood pasta dishes, and favorite Italian preparations including marsala and piccata, as well as pizza and calzones. Several gluten-free dishes are available. Three Valley locations: Tatum and Shea, Pinnacle Peak, and Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard; www.nicks-italian.com; $$ SPIGA CUCINA ITALIANA Spiga Cucina Italiana imports the classic flavors of Italy and the Iberian Peninsula to Scottsdale. Diners can expect hearty southern Italian pastas, Neapolitan-style pizza from a woodfired oven, Sicilian-style seafood, and Northern Italian risottos, as well as an extensive wine collection and traditional Italian desserts. 7500 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale; 480.513.9000; www.spigacucina.com; $$ VIC & OLA’S TAVOLA ITALIANA This new addition to Market Street in North Scottsdale offers an intimate space with upscale Italian cuisine.

Appetizers include meatballs, zucchini pizza and arancini. 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 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

BLANCO TACOS + TEQUILA Blanco serves Mexican dishes and cocktails in a bright, modern setting.

Try the street-style carne asada tacos or the award-winning barbecue pork tacos with fresh sweet corn tomato salsa. Pair the food with any of the ice-cold Mexican beers or tequila from their collection of rare varieties.

At The Borgata, 6166 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.305.6692; www.foxrc.com; $$

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CARLOS O’BRIEN’S A Valley staple since 1978, Carlos O’Brien’s is a unique fusion of a Mexican restaurant and an Irish pub that combines Mexican dishes like chimichangas, fajitas and enchiladas with a few Irish favorites like fish and chips. To drink, Irish beers and whiskeys are served alongside Mexican beers and tequilas. 7000 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix; 480.367.0469; www.carlosobriens.com; $$ MODERN MARGARITA Modern Margarita offers a large selection of margaritas and cocktails alongside delicious dips, tacos and tostadas served in a lively atmosphere with a spacious patio. At High Street, 5410 E. High St., Phoenix; 602.795.8111; www.modernmargarita.com; $$ TOCA MADERA In 2019, Toca Madera opened at Scottsdale Fashion Square. The beautiful restaurant features an open floor plan and an expansive dining room with views of the kitchen. The menu includes ceviche, tacos served on housemade tortillas, shared plates, and the opportunity for guests to experience a custom tasting menu based on the regional cuisine of Mexico. There is also a lively bar with expert mixologists creating farm-toglass cocktails. 4736 N. Goldwater Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.930.4357; www.tocamadera.com; $$$

PIZZA

CRUST BROTHERS This locally owned, family-run pizzeria is a casual and welcoming spot offering pizza, salads and subs including meatball and baked chicken. Pizza specialties include barbecue, pesto and buffalo chicken. Diners can choose from a variety of toppings to create their own pizza, with a glutenfree option available. 7342 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.525.5949; www.crustbrotherspizza.com; $$ GRIMALDI’S PIZZERIA In addition to coal brick-oven pizza, calzones and appetizers like bruschetta, Brooklyn-based Grimaldi’s is known for its cannoli filled with sweet ricotta cheese and chocolate chips for dessert. Three Scottsdale locations: Old Town, Market Street at DC Ranch and Scottsdale Quarter; www.grimaldispizzeria.com; $$ IL CAPO PIZZERIA This family-owned pizzeria offers both wood-fired Neapolitan style pizza and New York style pizza, as well as handmade pasta and gelato. 7366 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.951.0077; www.ilcapoaz.com; $$

LOU MALNATI’S PIZZERIA A Chicago favorite, this pizzeria is known for its deep-dish pizza and flaky butter crust. Try the Lou with spinach and mushrooms, the Malnati Chicago Classic with sausage and extra cheese, or create your own deep-dish delight. The menu also offers crispy thin crust pizza, appetizers, salads, sandwiches, pasta and lunch specials. 17787 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.681.3400; www.loumalnatis.com; $$

SEAFOOD

EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD Eddie V’s is known for superb seafood, delicious steaks, an upscale atmosphere, and a lively cocktail lounge. Diners can enjoy fresh oysters, a shellfish tower, lobster tacos, and several cuts of USDA Prime steaks. At Scottsdale Quarter, 15323 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.730.4800; www.eddiev.com; $$$-$$$$ MODERN OYSTERBAR CHOPHOUSE Modern Oysterbar Chophouse has an open kitchen and a full-size seafood bar with fresh oysters and seafood brought in daily. The chilled seafood tower is a perfect starter for the table followed by meat cooked to order or a fresh fish dish. End the meal with bacon French toast bread pudding, salted caramel creme brulee, or a dessert cocktail. 10050 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.531.1400; www.modernoysterbarchophouse. com; $$$ OCEAN 44 Ocean 44 is the latest seafood creation by the Mastro brothers, occupying 12,000 square feet in the former Harkins Camelview Theatre space near Scottsdale Fashion Square. It offers upscale seafood dishes as well as premium steaks like its sister restaurants Steak 44 and Dominick’s Steakhouse.

Look for the Maine lobster escargot, and don’t miss out on the raw bar offerings. 4748 N. Goldwater Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.867.0044; www. ocean44.com; $$$ OCEAN PRIME From renowned restauranteur Cameron Mitchell, Ocean Prime is an award-winning restaurant and lounge that specializes in exquisite seafood, steaks and exceptional service with many locations across the U.S. Menu favorites include the Chilean sea bass with Champagne truffle sauce, the filet mignon, and the sea scallops with Parmesan risotto. At High Street, 5455 E. High St., Phoenix; 480.347.1313; www.ocean-prime. com; $$$

THE SALT CELLAR Down the wooden stairwell lies Arizona’s only underground, fullservice restaurant, which has been serving some of the best seafood in the Valley since 1971. A variety of seasonal seafood is sourced from all over the world, but The Salt Cellar is known for always having an excellent selection of whole Maine lobsters.

Creative specialty dishes such as shrimp San Remo and the skewered calamari strips are popular appetizers. 550 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.947.1963; www.saltcellarrestaurant.com; $$$-$$$$

STEAKHOUSE

BOURBON & BONES CHOPHOUSE & BAR A modern and upscale steakhouse located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, Bourbon & Bones specializes in top-quality, wet- and dry-aged steaks and fresh seafood.

And as stated in its name, the bar is stocked with more than 75 high-end bourbons. The interior consists of studded leather and crystal lighting, perfect for an intimate evening.

4200 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.629.4922; www.bourbonandbonesaz.com; $$$ DOMINICK’S STEAKHOUSE Dominick’s is a high-end steakhouse offering cuts of beef that are wet-aged and hand-cut in-house.

The menu also includes a raw bar, fresh fish entrees, and tasty sides like corn creme brulee and Alaskan king crab and rock shrimp mac and cheese. At Scottsdale Quarter, 15169 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.272.7271; www.dominickssteakhouse.com; $$$$ KEELER’S NEIGHBORHOOD STEAKHOUSE This steakhouse is owned by Keeler Hospitality Group, which also operates both Liberty Station American Tavern & Smokehouse restaurants in North Scottsdale. Keeler’s features the finest certified Angus beef steaks and freshest seafood available with a beautiful courtyard and rooftop deck. At the Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, Carefree; 602.374.4784; www.keelerssteakhouse.com; $$$ MORTON’S THE STEAKHOUSE Morton’s is a nationwide chain of steakhouses well-loved for its upscale atmosphere and the best cuts of USDA prime-aged beef, as well as fresh seafood and delectable side dishes and desserts. At Kierland Commons, 15233 N. Kierland Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.951.4440; www.mortons.com; $$$-$$$$

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Ruth’s Chris is a nationally recognized steakhouse chain known for its signature 500-degree sizzling plates with butter-topped steaks and an awardwinning wine list. The Scottsdale location boasts beautiful sunset views from the patio and terrace. Along with classic steakhouse dishes, guests can try new menu items as they are offered seasonally. Great for private dinners and business meetings. At the Seville Shopping Center, 7001 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.991.5988; www.ruthschris.com; $$$

WINE BARS

BRIX WINES Try and buy a variety of wines at this charming wine bar and store. Guests are walked through the unique wine selections and can order snacks and create their own charcuterie plate to pair. 37636 N. Tom Darlington Drive, Carefree; 480.595.2749; www.brixwinesaz.com; $$ MERKIN VINEYARDS Merkin wines are produced in Arizona’s Verde Valley. In 2019, Merkin opened a tasting room in Old Town Scottsdale where guests can taste a variety of red, white and rose wines from Arizona. The food menu highlights fresh ingredients including vegetables sourced from Arizona farms, cheese and charcuterie, and locally made gelato and sorbet.

7133 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale, 480.912.1027; www.merkinoldtownscottsdale.com, $$ POSTINO WINECAFE With several Valley locations, this beloved wine bar is known for its changing selection of wines from Arizona and around the world as well as its delicious bruschetta and boards. Specials include a $25 bottle and bruschetta board on Monday and Tuesday evenings after 8 p.m. and $5 wines by the glass and pitchers of beer offered daily from open to 5 p.m.

Two locations in Scottsdale: Highland and Kierland Commons; www.postinowinecafe.com; $$ SORSO WINE ROOM Sorso Wine Room is a sampler’s paradise with its wall of wine taps allowing guests to try a variety of wines. Wine is also available by the glass or bottle, as well as a selection of beer. The food menu includes bruschetta, salads, sandwiches and charcuterie boards. Sorso offers a comfortable setting; a fun patio; and a shop with bottles, growlers, sweets and wine accessories. At Scottsdale Quarter, 15323 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.951.4344; www.sorsowineroom.com; $$

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End NEW IN TOWN

MAKING IT HAPPEN Cook & Craft opens, then pivots amid COVID-19 pandemic

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

It’s been quite a ride for one of Scottsdale’s newest restaurants, Cook & Craft, which opened in late February just weeks before COVID-19 forced all restaurants statewide to close their dining rooms.

“This endeavor is not my first. I even worked at a restaurant in Jamaica, starting three days before Hurricane Ivan physically decimated the building. But nothing compares to the past few months,” says co-owner Brandon Juniper, who also served as a general manager at Sapporo and as regional manager for Square One Concepts, helping expand its Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers brand across the Valley.

Pre-pandemic, when the 3,000-squarefoot space formally occupied by Sip Coffee & Beer Kitchen on Shea Boulevard became available in 2019, Juniper and partners Chris Coriale and Brent Wiese had a vision to create a gathering place that would be enticing to locals and tourists alike.

“When we got the space, we used our imagination – and then actual blueprints and help from designers – to make the space feel a bit cozier with soft touches through lighting and wood accents. Our vision was a contemporary, modern bar and

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neighborhood restaurant with a regularly evolving menu,” he says.

The result is an inviting 96-seat space, including an ample patio, that features a modern farmhouse aesthetic dotted with wood tabletops as well as handwritten chalkboards, polished concrete floors, and accents of copper and glass. There also happens to be a drive-thru, which came in handy once the restaurant moved (temporarily) to solely to-go items.

The eclectic-yet-sophisticated menu is best described as modern American and includes vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options as well as more standard fare.

Heading the kitchen as executive chef is Martin Kucera, whom Juniper has known for more than 20 years, notably when they worked together at Sapporo in the early 2000s. Kucera was also behind Sapporo’s 2019 rebirth as Kasai Asian Grill, and led the kitchens at Temple Bar, The Creek Patio Grill and Burger Theory as well.

“From bison sliders and buffalo cauliflower to chocolate bacon and Brussels sprouts with bourbon caramel, we wanted the menu to be equal parts playful and pleasing to the palate,” Juniper says. “We found that, quite quickly, the menu also had to be easily converted to go, including our cocktails, which we batched out for one, four or eight to make sheltering in place a little more fun for folks.”

Now, the dining room has reopened, featuring lunch and dinner that includes small bites, soups and salads, elevated burgers and sandwiches, and entrees. There is also an expanded list of beer and wine as well as craft cocktails with barrel-aged bourbons and CBD-infused recipes.

Cook & Craft is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday for dine-in, takeout and delivery.

Cook & Craft, 7306 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.207.1541; www.cookandcraftaz.com.

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