Entertainer Super Bowl 57 Guide by Times Media Group

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2023

CONTENTS

Times Media Group 1900 W. Broadway Rd. Tempe, AZ 85282 Phone 480.348.0343 Fax 480.348.2109 entertainermag.com

PUBLISHER

Steve T. Strickbine

steve@entertainermag.com

VICE PRESIDENT Michael Hiatt

mhiatt@TimesLocalMedia.com

EXECUTIVEEDITOR

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

christina@TimesLocalMedia.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR Connor Dziawura

SURE AND CERTAIN

cdziawura@TimesLocalMedia.com

DESIGNERS

Jimmy Eat World promises a ‘super’ party

Shannon Mead, Veronica Thurman

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Aaron Kolodny

aaron@entertainermag.com

WRITERS

Alex Gallagher, Cole Januszewski, Caleb Jones, Josh Ortega, Bridgette Redman, Jordan Rogers, Dave Gil de Rubio, Anisa Shabir, Annika Tomlin

PHOTOGRAPHERS

LIVE AND LIVID

KELLER INSTINCT

Coyotes leader scores an All-Star hat trick

CONTENTS UPFRONT

SUPER BOWL HOST COMMITTEE

Schedule of Events • Super Bowl Experience at Phoenix Convention Center • Opening Night • Historic Old Town ESPN Main Street Tailgate • Social Media • Legacy Grant Program • Super Bowl Watch Party • Super Bowl Experience at Hance Park Rules • Jimmy Eat World • Taste of the NFL • Downtown Phoenix Map

ONE COPY PER READER

Comedian Margaret Cho uses concerts for LGBTQ+ advocacy

CITY

SPORTS

Big Game Big Give • Margaret Cho • Best of Shopping

Bronson Arroyo • Clayton Keller • Sports Calendar • Best of Sports

ARTS

FAMILY

Arizona Theatre Company • Downtown Glendale Arts & Culture Fest • Tyler Hilton

Top 25

Lupe Bustos, Arizona Cardinals, Eric Ray Davidson, Sergio Garcia, Jimi Giannatti, Abi Polinsky, Alexandra Snow, Mark Tepsic, Diwang Valdez

DINING

50 72

Big Brands and Local Bars • Best of Brews & Spirits

CASINOS

Harlem Globetrotters • Best of Family Events

Curry Corner • Best of Dining

BREWS & SPIRITS

MUSIC

100

Live Music Calendar • Bayside • Sheryl Crow • Haley Reinhart • Jon McLaughlin • Arizona • Lainey Wilson

IN CLOSING

118

The Entertainer! is circulated throughout the Phoenix Metro area, especially concentrated in entertainment districts. ©2022 Affluent Publishing, LLC. A free online subscription is available to all readers simply by going to entertainermag.com/subscribe. For calendar and news items, the deadline for submission is the 15th of the month prior to publication. Submissions are included based on available space and are used at the discretion of the editor. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations will not be returned unless it is specifically requested and submission is accompanied by a properly addressed envelope and sufficient postage. The Entertainer! makes every effort to authenticate claims and accurate times and event locations. We encourage readers to verify information prior to attending events or purchasing tickets. DISTRIBUTION SERVICES PROVIDED BY:

Numbers

LoCash • Casino Entertainment Calendar COVER ILLUSTRATION BY: Veronica Thurman

480.348.0343

TOP25 By Connor Dziawura

Downtown Glendale Arts & Culture Fest

FEBRUARY 4 Music, art, culture and community are all coming together in the host city of Super Bowl LVII, kicking off a week of festivities around the Valley. Get ready for the Big Game at Murphy Park with more than live music performances, an artisan market, a local wine and beer garden, live painting, art installations and food vendors. Outside of the park, businesses will participate with a passport program, pop-up performances including live painting, acoustic music, artist demonstrations and performance art. There’s a lot to see and do! Murphy Park, 5850 W. Glendale Avenue, 520-797-3959, downtownglendalefest.com, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., free admission

Super Bowl Experience

FEBRUARY 4 AND FEBRUARY 5, AND FEBRUARY 9 TO FEBRUARY 11 This multiday event features a football theme park with interactive games like the 40-yard dash and more — all leading up to the match itself! Attendees can look forward to it by getting autographs from star players and taking photos with Super Bowl rings and the Vince Lombardi trophy, plus there will be an NFL Shop with merchandise. Phoenix Convention Center, 100 N. Third Street, Phoenix, azsuperbowl.com, various dates and times, $20-$60 or free for kids 12 and younger

Opening Night

FEBRUARY 6 At this official kickoff event, both

teams will make their first and only public appearance prior to the Super Bowl LVII matchup. See what the players and coaches have to say to the media, and enjoy live entertainment all the while. There will be chances for fans to win prizes and get autographs and photos with players and mascots. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602-379-7800, azsuperbowl.com, 6 p.m., $20

Legacy Cares Kids Football Camp

FEBRUARY 7 Legacy Cares is launching what is planned to become an annual tradition just ahead of this year’s Super Bowl. Dan Manucci’s Quarterback University will lead eighth through 12th grade students in a custom, unique and advanced training experience with coaches, trainers and players. Bell Bank Park, 6321 S. Ellsworth Road, Mesa, 480-572-0670, https://bit.ly/3W5ItGP, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., free admission with registration

Historic Old Town ESPN Main Street Tailgate

FEBRUARY 8 TO FEBRUARY 12 The city of Scottsdale and ESPN have linked up for five days of Old Weststyle partying and televised Super Bowl pregame coverage along Main Street, between Scottsdale Road and Brown Avenue. Attendees can play tailgate-style games, participate in tasting and photo opportunities, enjoy live entertainment like The Singing Cowboy Gary Sprague and his trusty steed Dusty, and receive free swag and giveaway items. Plus, Old Town is filled with dining destinations galore. Old Town Scottsdale, azsuperbowl.com, 8 a.m. to

UPFRONT

PHX » CITY » LOCAL » PRIDE » DO » SEE 8 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday, free admission

Super Bowl Gospel Celebration

FEBRUARY 8 Born with Super Bowl XXXIII in 1999, this annual event — now in its 24th year — brings together NFL players and award-winning artists for a night of musical worship. Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa, superbowlgospel. com, more details TBA

Tailgate Time Machine

FEBRUARY 8 TO FEBRUARY 12 The block party is back for its second year and turning the tunes back to the 2000s. Baby Bash, Paul Wall and Slim Thug kick it off Thursday, with T-Pain headlining Friday and DJ Fashen and other local artists performing Saturday. In addition to the main festivities and Super Bowl Sunday, the two hosting establishments have 80 TVs and two big LED screens. The Hot Chick and Boondocks, 4363 N. 75th Street, Scottsdale, thehotchickaz.com/events, various dates and times, $99-$299

even be available for sipping. A portion of proceeds will be donated to Phoenix Theatre Company. Grimaldi’s Pizzeria, 15147 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite H-135, Scottsdale, fredminnick.com, 2 to 5 p.m. each day, $1,125

Super Bowl Experience

FEBRUARY 9 TO FEBRUARY 12 A different Super Bowl “experience” from the aforementioned one at Phoenix Convention Center, this one is free and includes live music, entertainment, local cuisine, games and activities at Hance Park. The lineup includes Jimmy Eat World on Thursday and Lee Brice on Friday; Saturday’s lineup is TBD. Sunday will include live entertainment from DJ Solomon and, of course, an official watch party for the Big Game. Hance Park, 67 W. Culver Street, Phoenix, azsuperbowl. com/hancepark, various dates and times, free admission

DJ Pauly D

FEBRUARY 9 Renowned for its tequila, handcrafted margaritas and Mexican cuisine, this restaurant and nightclub is bringing Pauly D of “Jersey Shore” fame to the Valley to spin some tunes for this pregame evening celebration. This event is for ages 21 and older. Salt Tacos Y Tequila, 6751 N. Sunset Boulevard, Glendale, relentlessbeats.com, 10 p.m., $45

Fred Minnick’s Bourbon Invitational

FEBRUARY 9 AND FEBRUARY 10 Football legends will serve as bartenders at this two-day spirits tasting event from author and noted bourbon connoisseur Fred Minnick. Former defensive end Jared Allen is one such celebrity guest. Some hard-to-find bourbons will

Super Bowl Music Fest

FEBRUARY 9 TO FEBRUARY 11 Take up some time ahead of the game with this three-day music festival at the Footprint Center. Paramore will perform with a special guest Thursday, followed by Dave Matthews Band with an all-vinyl set from special guest Anderson.Paak as DJ Pee.Wee on Friday and Imagine Dragons and Kane Brown on Saturday. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602-379-7800, superbowlmusicfest.com, 7 p.m. each day, $39.50-$950

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FEBRUARY 10 AND FEBRUARY 11 Comedian and actor Kevin Hart wants to give fans a reality check — and his tour of the same name will allow him to do so across three games the weekend of the game. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602-379-2888, ticketmaster. com, 7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. each day, $69.50-$859.50

Legends Party

FEBRUARY 10 Former tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Vernon Davis are the hosts for this epic football party! Pros, celebs and more will come together for a kickoff soiree, comedy roast and toast, and live performance by Nelly. This event is for ages 21 and older. Gila River Resorts & Casinos - Wild Horse Pass, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, legendsparty.com, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m., $250-$4,000

Love & Football Comedy Show

FEBRUARY 10 Los Angeles’ Chocolate Sundaes is coming for Super Bowl weekend equipped with national comedy and DJ entertainment, perhaps even a celebrity drop-in (the comedy brand notes that it has happened in the past). The lineup is a surprise. Recommended for ages 21 and older. Herberger Theatre, 222 E. Monroe Street, Phoenix, 602-252-8497, herbergertheater.org, 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., $82.50-$3,007.50

Rolling Stone Live

FEBRUARY 10 This immersive experience brings together celebrities, athletes, VIPs and influencers together with live musical entertainment, in the name of raising funds for the American Cancer Society and its Crucial Catch: Intercept Cancer campaign. This event is for ages 21 and older. The Clayton House, 3719 N. 75th Street, Scottsdale, rollingstonelive.ticketsocket. com, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., $1,000

top event.” Shaq himself will even don his DJ Diesel hat for a performance. As far as other experiences, attendees can expect oversized rides and attractions, circus performers, a Ferris wheel, food and drink, celebrity guests and more. This event is for ages 21 and older. Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, 480-850-7777, 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., $349-$50,000

Savage, Diplo, Lil Jon, Bijou, DJ Irie and Sommer Ray. A hit in previous years, the beachy event also features food and drinks, luau performers, a celebrity volleyball game and more. This event is for ages 21 and older. Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Resort, Phoenix, 480-850-7777, gronkbeach.com, noon to 6 p.m., $199-$50,000

season’s final game. It features chefs from Arizona and beyond, with culinary superstars Andrew Zimmern, Carla Hall, Tim Love, Lasheeda Perry and Mark Bucher hosting. So come eat, enjoy live entertainment and check out the autographed collectibles auction with chefs, athletes and other celebrities alike. Chateau Luxe, 1175 E. Lone Cactus Drive, Phoenix, tasteofthenfl. com, 4 to 8 p.m., $750-$950

The Football Classic Domino Tournament

Heated Sole Summit

FEBRUARY 11 This buy-sell-trade convention is coming to the West Valley on Super Bowl weekend with all sorts of sneakers, streetwear, vintage items, sports cards and more. American Sports Centers, 755 N. 114th Avenue, Avondale, heatedsolesummit.com, noon to 7 p.m., $10-$125

Super Fest Arizona

FEBRUARY 11 Players — 128 of them — will compete for more than $5,000 in cash and prizes at this Super Bowl anticipatory event. It’s a single-elimination domino tournament with seven rounds, but don’t worry — players who don’t advance in the first round will have a second chance! Complementing the action will be giveaways, celebrity guests, DJ entertainment, an open play domino area and more. Dave & Buster’s, 21001 N. Tatum Boulevard, Phoenix, universaldominoleague. com, noon to 6 p.m., free general admission, $100 tournament entry

Game On! Goodyear Block Party

FEBRUARY 11 The city of Goodyear is saying “Game on!” with this community gathering, featuring football-themed inflatables, a photo booth, an immersive football experience, food and a beer garden, jumbo lawn games, outdoor screens playing football, and even a sort of halftime show featuring local marching bands and cheer squads. Goodyear Civic Square Park, 1900 N. Civic Square, Goodyear, 623-932-3910, goodyearaz.gov, 2 to 5 p.m., free admission

FEBRUARY 11 From Sports Illustrated, this event is “the” Super Bowl weekend party! The Chainsmokers and Machine Gun Kelly are handling the music, with Wynn Nightlife hosting VIP table service. Notably, big spenders can purchase combo tickets that allow access to the aforementioned Shaq’s Fun House and Gronk Beach. This event is for ages 21 and older. Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, 480-850-7777, talkingstickresort. com, 9 p.m., $799.99-$100,000

Tailgate Party

FEBRUARY 11 With water features off for the season, Six Flags is turning to the Super Bowl to entertain the Valley. There will be live music and DJs, food and drinks, mobile esports, inflatables and games, a pep rally, and the Polar Plunge with Special Olympics Arizona — which will receive a portion of each ticket sale. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix, 4243 W. Pinnacle Peak Road, Glendale, sixflags.com/ phoenix, 1 to 6 p.m., $20

Taste of the NFL

Shaq’s Fun House

FEBRUARY 10 NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal is bringing Diplo, Snoop Dogg and Myles O’Neal to the Valley for this part music

Sports Illustrated The Party

Gronk Beach

FEBRUARY 11 Rob Gronkowski curates this music

FEBRUARY 11 Focused on inclusive football and cheer, this Super Bowl camp aims to be for everyone — regardless of ability. So get the kids together, come on down and toss a pigskin around or work on a cheer routine. Pioneer Park, 8755 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., $30-$60 for players and cheerleaders, free admission or spectators

FEBRUARY 11 Supporting GENYOUth’s efforts to combat student hunger, this event is just another “taste” of what February has to offer surrounding the football

West Fest

FEBRUARY 11 Tim McGraw will headline this outdoor concert with special guest Bailey Zimmerman. The entertainment district, where the game will take place the next day, will also feature an open-air beer garden and more. A portion of beer garden sales will go to a local charity. This event is for ages 21 and older. Westgate Entertainment District, 6751 N. Sunset Boulevard, Glendale, westgateaz.com/ westfest, 6 p.m., $99-$350

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THE ROAD TO KICKOFF DJ Pee.Wee/Anderson .Paak

Dave Matthews Band

Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee marks firsts with new events By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

he Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee and National Football League expanded the lineup of events leading up to Super Bowl LVII on Sunday

February 12. Jay Parry, president and chief executive officer of the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee, and Peter O’Reilly, executive vice president, club business and league events of the NFL, shared the extensive footprint of Super Bowl events taking place across the Valley. “We are thrilled to be hosting the first Official Super Bowl Watch Party in

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE Fox Sports Broadcast Set at The Great Lawn, State Farm Stadium, Glendale: Programming throughout the week Super Bowl Experience presented by Lowe’s at Phoenix Convention Center: Saturday, February 4, and Sunday, February 5; and Thursday, February 9, to Saturday, February 11 Opening Night presented by Fast Twitch at the Footprint Center, Phoenix: Monday, February 6

Downtown Phoenix on game day,” Parry says. “Locating Super Bowl events throughout the Valley is a testament to the collaboration and leadership of our partners and elected officials, with each community having something unique to offer visitors and locals.” O’Reilly adds, “Arizona will provide a unique backdrop for a weeklong celebration heading into Super Bowl LVII which will culminate what is proving to be a remarkable 2022 NFL season. We look forward to providing an incredible Super Bowl experience for the Arizona community, our players, clubs, partners and fans.” For more information about any of the happenings, visit azsuperbowl.com/events.

Super Bowl Soul Celebration: An Evening of Celebration and Culture at the Mesa Arts Center: Wednesday, February 8 Historic Old Town ESPN Main Street Tailgate in Old Town Scottsdale: Wednesday, February 8, to Sunday, February 12 Bud Light Super Bowl Music Fest at the Footprint Center, Phoenix: Thursday, February 9 (Paramore and Bleachers), Friday, February 10 (Dave Matthews Band and

Imagine Dragons

DJ Pee.Wee, otherwise known as Anderson .Paak) and Saturday, February 11 (Imagine Dragons and Kane Brown) NFL Honors presented by Invisalign, hosted by Kelly Clarkson, at Symphony Hall, Phoenix: Thursday, February 9 Super Bowl Experience presented by Lowe’s at Margaret T. Hance Park, Phoenix: Thursday, February 9 (Jimmy Eat World), Friday, February 10 (Lee Brice) and Saturday, February 11 (Arizona)

FanDuel Party featuring the Killers at Tempe Beach Park, Tempe: Friday, February 10 Taste of the NFL at Chateau Luxe, North Phoenix: Saturday, February 11 Super Bowl Watch Party presented by Verizon at Margaret T. Hance Park, Phoenix: Sunday, February 12

FALL IN LOVE WITH THE GAME

Super Bowl Experience returns to the Valley By Jordan Rogers

ith Super Bowl LVII coming to State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Sunday, February 12, the Valley has multiple accompanying events — such as the Super Bowl Experience — to look forward to. The Super Bowl Experience presented by Lowe’s is slated to take place inside the Phoenix Convention Center beginning Saturday, February 4. The culmination of NFL fandom will take place in two chunks of days — Saturday, February 4, and Sunday, February 5, and Thursday, February 9, to Saturday, February 11. Tickets start at $20 for opening weekend. The second weekend runs $40. Kids 12 years old and under, however, can attend the event every day for free. “I remember when I played in my first Super Bowl back in ’99, and it was obviously a big deal, but it’s nothing like it is now,” NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner says. “The star power that comes into town, the different events that you have throughout the week, it is just the place to be, come Super Bowl week. I love all the different kinds of events that you have as well. I think the staple is always going to be the Super Bowl Experience.” Since retiring from the NFL, Warner says it’s tradition to attend the Super Bowl Experience with his family. “When I got done playing, we started making a tradition where two of my boys and my dad would come and watch the Super Bowl with me,” Warner says. “So, a part of every time they would come in for the game, we would go to the Super Bowl Experience. … I’ve enjoyed it with my family. Now I have grandkids, so they may be coming over to the experience with me because it’s fun for all ages. “It’s always a staple every time my family comes in for the Super Bowl that we get over to the experience and check out what’s going on.” An interactive event, the Super Bowl Experience presented by Lowe’s puts the ball

in the hands of fans and allows them to pass like a pro, kick a field goal and race through the 40-yard dash. Specifically for kids, there will be an NFL Play 60 Zone for the youngest NFL fans, where kids 6 to 14 years old can learn football fundamentals at NFL flag clinics. “Growing up when you fall in love with this game, the one thing that I always remembered was I’d love to see how far I can throw it compared to so and so, or I’d love to see how fast I run a 40-yard dash or if I could kick a field goal,” Warner says. “And that’s really what the (Super Bowl) Experience is all about.” The authentic pro football experience will feature the Vince Lombardi trophy, interactive games, sponsor displays and giveaways, the youth football clinics and the NFL Shop Presented by Visa. Fans can collect autographs from current NFL players and legends, and get their picture taken with the Vince Lombardi trophy and all 56 Super Bowl rings. “A lot of the TV stuff that we do during Super Bowl week happens at the NFL experience,” says Warner, who serves as a TV football analyst for the NFL Network. “I’m excited every time I go because I’m like, ‘Who else is going to be there, what other players, what other Hall of Famers are going to come through?’ So, every day is a little bit different. But that’s one that I think if you’re in the area, whether you’re coming in for the game or whether you live here, you have to go to the Super Bowl Experience; you just have to be a part of it. It helps to show you what the Super Bowl is all about.” Warner says the Super Bowl Experience serves as somewhat of an opening night for Super Bowl week. “It really just kicks off the week,” he says. “If you love the game, you love the Super Bowl, it’s one to take part in.” Quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals from 2005-09, Warner is privy to the fact that this will be the fourth Super Bowl to be hosted in Arizona and the third since 2008. This time around, he says, will “be bigger and better.” “I think one of the great things is that when you had a Super Bowl in a city, you learn a lot of stuff about how to do it better,” Warner says. “Since the last time (Arizona) had it, the Super Bowl, just in general, has gotten bigger. So, I think it’s going to be bigger, better and more efficient this year than it’s ever been.”

Super Bowl Experience presented by Lowe’s WHEN: Various times Saturday, February 4, and Sunday, February 5, and Thursday, February 9, to Saturday, February 11 WHERE: Phoenix Convention Center, 100 N. Third Street, Phoenix COST: Tickets start at $20 for opening weekend. The second weekend runs $40. Kids 12 years old and under, however, can attend the event every day for free. INFO: azsuperbowl.com/info

Super Bowl previews week at Fast Twitch event By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

ollowing the conclusion of the first weekend of Super Bowl Experience, the national kickoff to Super Bowl week commences with Super Bowl Opening Night presented by Fast

Twitch. The fan-friendly event will return ahead of Super Bowl LVII at 6 p.m. Monday, February 6, at the Footprint Center in Downtown Phoenix. Fans are invited to be there for Super Bowl

Opening Night presented by Fast Twitch, as hundreds of media members will interview the Super Bowl players and coaches for the first time during their sole public appearance in Arizona before taking the field for Super Bowl LVII. Opening Night is the only time the two teams will be together in one location prior to Super Bowl Sunday. Tickets for Super Bowl Opening Night presented by Fast Twitch are $20, with no additional fees. Fans can visit superbowl.com/ openingnight to purchase tickets.

Super Bowl Opening Night presented by Fast Twitch will also feature live entertainment, special appearances and autographs by NFL Legends, team mascots, fan photo opportunities, and the chance to win prizes, including two tickets to Super Bowl LVII by checking in with the Super Bowl OnePass app. Fans are encouraged to bring their own headphones so they can use their OnePass app to listen to the individual player interview feeds. Fans can also tune in to NFL Network,

which is home to Super Bowl Opening Night, starting 6 p.m. Coverage will be hosted by Rich Eisen from NFL Network Headquarters, while Michael Irvin will be live at Footprint Center interviewing all the main players of Super Bowl LVII. Super Bowl Opening Night coverage will also be featured on FS1 and ESPN2 starting at 6 p.m. For more information on the event and updates on other Super Bowl LVII celebrations, fans may visit superbowl.com/ eventinfo.

ESPN MEETS OLD TOWN 18

Channel slates huge presence for Super Bowl By Alex Gallagher

cottsdale will host the Historic Old Town ESPN Main Street Tailgate — a five-day Old West-style football pre-game party — in the days leading to the Super Bowl. The free event will run from Wednesday, February 8, to Super Bowl Sunday, February 12, in Old Town Scottsdale on Main Street between Scottsdale Road and Brown Avenue. Additionally, multiple ESPN programs like “NFL Live” and “Sunday NFL Countdown” will be shot live from the Historic Old Town, near the renovated Civic Center. That’s good news for city tourism officials and the Scottsdale Civic Center, which will be mostly complete with its expansive renovation by the time ESPN rolls into town. “Scottsdale will be the stage for ESPN’s broadcasts during one of the busiest sports weeks of the year,” Mayor David Ortega says. “Historic Old Town is the ideal showcase — the perfect blend of historic Southwestern charm and modern appeal. “Residents and visitors alike will love the ESPN experience located on Main Street surrounded by our vibrant arts and world-class shopping and dining.” The sentiment was echoed by Scottsdale Arts CEO and President Dr. Gerd Wuestemann, who will manage the Civic Center once most of the construction is completed in late January. “I couldn’t be more excited about it. I think it’s a wonderful opportunity for all of us in Scottsdale, and we’re just thrilled to play a tiny part in this,” Wuestemann says. Wuestemann says he has been working on hosting a Super Bowl event at the art campus for nearly four years. “My first involvement with the Super Bowl predates me being in this job,” Wuestemann recalls. “After I was offered the job around February 2018, I was asked if I would write

a letter to support this whole thing for us to apply it to the Arizona Super Bowl host committee and play a role in it. “As soon as I started here, we were touring this campus with people and I said ‘We want to renovate this’ and, in the end, what ESPN was wanting to have was on one side this amazing cutaway shot of Old Town and this Western ambiance and then to the other side have this glimpse into the new Civic Center with this beautifully renovated spaces.” Karen Churchard, Scottsdale’s director of tourism and events, confirmed that this was the vision ESPN had headed into the Valley’s third Super Bowl in 15 years. “In 2008, ESPN was along the canal, and in 2015 they selected Scottsdale Fashion Square because they wanted the background of Camelback Mountain. But this year they liked Main Street specifically between Brown Avenue in Scottsdale Road in Historic Old Town that has the facades of the Western buildings, some cacti, feels quaint and has that Western feel,” Churchard says. Upping the ante, entertainment and events with live music acts like Gary Sprague — Arizona’s Singing Cowboy, Arizona Music &

Entertainment Hall of Fame member Mark Zubia, Jesse Valenzuela of the Gin Blossoms, and Desert Dixie. Other acts like the Bronze Cowboy living statue and Johnny Hotshot — a trick roper and gunslinger — will perform throughout the week in between tapings for ESPN’s programming. Because of this, several surrounding businesses are expected to expand their premises. Churchard says she reviewed 20 special event applications, mostly from bars and restaurants. Churchard, Wuestemann and Downtown business owners are bracing for big crowds come February. “If we land these two events, each of those events will be about 7000 people on campus for a couple of days each and then we also anticipate spillover traffic of 2,000 to 3,000 people every day on this campus throughout this entire stretch,” Wuestemann says. “We’re talking probably in the neighborhood of 30,000 or so people trafficking this new Civic Center and discovering it in those five or six days ESPN is here on-site.” Churchard says she and her team have been in close contact with the Scottsdale Police Department to ensure that the crowds stay controlled and patrons stay safe. “We’ve had a lot of great conversations with our police department and Chief Jeff Walther

since the focal point during that time of the year has always been the WM Phoenix Open as well as the entertainment district, because those are the two biggest places where the most people are congregating at one time,” Churchard says. “In the case of ESPN, we’re working with that entity to hire their security to manage that space, as our police department is pretty maxed out with the Open and the entertainment district.” The Historic Old Town ESPN Main Street Tailgate will run from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, February 8, to Sunday, February 12. “The bars and restaurants that are in the historic town area are excited about this opportunity to have ESPN there,” Churchard says.

ESPN Main Street Tailgate WHEN: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, February 8, to Sunday, February 12 (8 a.m. to noon on gameday) WHERE: Old Town Scottsdale on Scottsdale Road between Main Street and Brown Avenue, Scottsdale COST: Free INFO: azsuperbowl.com/events

SUPER BOWL LVII • FEBRUARY 12, 2023

THANK YOU PARTNERS!

Interested in partnership or hospitality opportunities with the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee? Email partners@azsuperbowl.com.

SUPER SOCIALS STAY IN TOUCH

ABOUT THE BIG GAME The Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee is encouraging fans to tag the Super Bowl when attending events, snapping photos and just generally celebrating the Big Game on Sunday, February 12, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale.

Facebook - AZSuperBowl Twitter - AZSuperBowl Instagram - @AZSuperBowl

PAINT THE TOWN GREEN Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee strives to make an impact 22

By Cole Januszewski

omplementing Super Bowl LVII are charitable efforts that stretch from Flagstaff to Phoenix and to Tucson. The Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee has partnered with the NFL to create the Super Bowl Legacy Grant program. Jay Parry, the president and CEO of the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee, says the program is about giving back. “It is in the DNA of the NFL to make sure we are giving back to the local communities who are hosting the Super Bowl,” she says. “We worked with the communities to give back almost $2 million to nonprofits across the state of Arizona.” Parry says the grants were given to nonprofits and projects that would make a lasting impact on Arizona. To do this, she says they had to work closely with Arizona’s communities. “We went to our local stakeholders in Arizona and said, ‘What’s important for Arizona right now?’” Parry says. “There were four legacy programs that we identified that were very important. The first one was education, the second one was health and wellness, the third one was social justice, and the fourth one was sustainability.” While all four programs were important to the Legacy Grant program, Parry says they had a keen focus on the environment. “Having a real eye on sustainability was identified as something that was very important for Arizona,” she says. “We as a host committee decided to take on the goal of being the greenest Super Bowl yet.” To do this, they took on myriad projects across Arizona. They worked with NFL Green, the NFL’s environmental program, and planted more than 500 low-water usage and drought-resistant trees along with native plants and flowers in communities that had a low percentage of tree canopy. They also undertook the largest NFL Green clean-up at the Lower Salt River with more than 500 volunteers. Susan Groh, the NFL’s associate director of the environmental program, says they removed “two huge dumpsters worth of trash” from the river as well as worked with Force Blue to remove invasive species. “We worked with a group of special ops

retired military veterans to dive in the Lower Salt River and remove invasive apple snails that are destroying the ecosystem there,” she says. “That was an event with a lot of impact and tremendous community involvement, I think. The Salt River is an important waterway. It contributes to drinking water, power and everything else.” Groh says they also worked to replace and restore native habitats and pollinators. Specifically, they worked with foundations such as the Butterfly Wonderland Foundation to bring back bees and butterflies in various regions across Arizona. “There is a big push to bring the monarch butterflies back to this area and to increase that pollinator habitat,” Groh says. “The Butterfly Wonderland Foundation will release 90 painted lady butterflies in addition to

planting pollinator plants that are going to attract butterflies back into the area.” Beyond the immediate impact of these events, Groh says she believes these events will inspire Arizona communities to do more projects like these in the future. “We feel like once the volunteers are out there and see that they can make a difference themselves, they are more likely to do this again,” she says. While their work across Arizona’s communities was sizable, their biggest undertaking is to make the Super Bowl a zero-waste event. A zero-waste event is an event that diverts 90% or more of waste from a landfill. Lorizelda Stoeller, a Phoenix deputy public works director, says they are using organic materials to achieve their goal. “We are going to have a really heavy focus on compostable material, food waste material

and organic material,” Stoeller says. “All of the events hosted in Downtown Phoenix, wherever there are concessions occurring, will have a presence of a compost or food waste bin. We are also going to be focusing on the back of the house — where all the food preparation happens.” To make the goal possible, Stoeller says the public needs to place their organic waste in the compost bins during Super Bowl events. She said they also need a lot of volunteers. Those who want to volunteer can visit https:// bit.ly/PHXZeroWasteAmbassador. “It’s more manpower so we are going to have to rely on a lot of volunteers,” Stoeller says. “These volunteers, we call them zero-waste ambassadors, are going to be walking around inspecting the bins and making sure people are doing the right thing. Being the eyes and ears on the ground and educating the public.”

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DEBUT EFFORT Games, activities abound at the ﬁrst Super Bowl Watch Party By Cole Januszewski

uper Bowl LVII is set for State Farm Stadium in Glendale, but those who can’t make it can party at the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee’s first official Super Bowl Watch Party presented by Verizon on Sunday, February 12. Leading up to the watch party is the Super Bowl Experience presented by Lowe’s at Margaret T. Hance Park from Thursday, February 9, to Saturday, February 11. Jay Parry, the president and chief executive officer of the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee, says the event allows everyone to enjoy Super Bowl activities. “We wanted to make sure we were

elevating the fan experience and creating a number of different events around the community so that we would have something for everyone — something for our locals and something for our visitors,” Parry says. She said the family-friendly event will have activities like a 40-yard dash in a human hamster wheel and a 50- by 80-foot footballthemed obstacle course. She says there are activities for adults as well. “We are creating a lot of entertainment with DJ Solomon leading up to the game,” Parry says. “A lot of interactive activities as well as food and drink. There will be a lot to do on game day. The game itself will be

broadcast on the Verizon stage, which will have Arizona’s largest high-definition LED screens. We think it will be something special.” Entertainment includes performances by Jimmy Eat World, Lee Brice and Arizona. The event is free and open to the public. “It’s important that we really communicate that this is free at Hance Park,” she says. “It is intended to be a community activity, and we are really intent on making sure that our locals have a great experience around the Super Bowl, too.” Parry said the concerts on Thursday, February 9, through Saturday, February 11, will start after dark. The Super Bowl Watch Party will open at 11 a.m.

Parry stresses the event is evolving and things are changing every day. For instance, she said they are working on a nightly light show that will be incorporated into and after the broadcast of Super Bowl LVII.

Super Bowl Watch Party WHEN: Various times Sunday, February 12 WHERE: Margaret T. Hance Park, 67 W. Culver Street, Phoenix COST: Free INFO: AZsuperbowl.com

SUPER BOWL EXPERIENCE 26

Presented by Lowe’s at Hance Park

ALCOHOL Outside alcohol is not allowed at Hance Park. Only guests 21 and older will be allowed to consume alcohol. Guests wanting to consume alcohol will be required to visit an ID Check station within Hance Park prior to purchasing drinks or ordering at a bar. Hensley’s drink options will include local and domestic beer, which are available at the bar stations inside Hance Park. ANIMALS Service animals for guests with disabilities are permitted. All other animals, including emotional support animals are prohibited.

BAG POLICY There is no clear bag policy to enter Hance Park; however, all bags are required to be checked. No bags larger than 18 inches by 16 inches by 8 inches are allowed. Those with bags must enter through Gate A located on Central Avenue to run your items through the X-ray security checkpoint. The Super Bowl Host Committee recommends not bringing a bag to Hance Park to avoid any lines at Gate A. Guests without a bag will be able to enter from any gate into Hance Park.

BANNED ITEMS • Alcohol. • Animals (service animals for guests with disabilities are permitted; all other animals, including emotional support animals are prohibited). • Banners, signs (any object that obstructs the view of others). • Luggage. • Bags larger than 18 inches by 16 inches by 8 inches. • Glass or aluminum containers, thermoses, cups and beverage containers of any kind (unless purchased at an NFL venue). • Camera with removeable lenses more than 6 inches. • Professional video/audio recorders, except for credentialed media. • Chairs, stools or other seating devices. However, Sunday-only exemption: Folding outdoor chairs are permitted for Sunday’s

SBLVII watch party. • Coolers (Coolers for medical purposes are permitted). • Laser pointers. • Food or beverage (unless for medical purpose). • Illegal substances. • Mace, pepper spray or any aerosol. • Motorized scooters, hover boards, skateboards or self-propelled items except for ADA or medical purposes. • Noisemakers and horns, whistles, musical instruments of any kind. • Fireworks. • Promotional items with commercial slogans or identification without written consent from the NFL. • Selfie sticks and tripods. • Weapons including firearms, knives, electronic stunning devices. • Fireworks, explosives or other combustible items. • Firearms. • Any other item deemed potentially dangerous or inappropriate in management’s sole discretion will not be permitted. • Outside food.

BIKE RACKS There are preexisting bike racks on the west

side of Hance Park near the Culver parking lot. There is a limited number available.

CAMERAS No personal camera with changeable lens longer than 6 inches is allowed in Hance Park. Selfie sticks and tripods are also barred from entering the park.

CAPACITY Super Bowl Experience presented by Lowe’s at Hance Park is subject to capacity restrictions. For any updates on event capacity, the Super Bowl Host Committee recommends looking for any notifications on the OnePass app, or on @azsuperbowl social accounts.

DIAPER BAGS Diaper Bags are allowed in Hance Park. Guests must enter through Gate A to scan their items through the X-ray machine. All bags are subject to search.

DIRECTIONS Hance Park is located at 67 W. Culver Street, Phoenix From Sky Harbor International Airport: From East Sky Harbor Boulevard: Merge

onto I-10 West Downtown Phoenix via the left ramp. Take Exit 148 for Jefferson Street and continue north toward Washington Street. Turn left onto Washington Street and head west to Downtown area. or Head east on East Sky Harbor Boulevard. Merge onto I-10W via the ramp on the left to Downtown Phoenix. Take Exit145A for Seventh Street. Turn left and head south. From the North Valley: From I-17: Take I-17 south. Take Exit 199B for Jefferson Street. Turn left onto Jefferson Street and head east to Downtown area. or From I-17: Take I-17 south. Take Exit 200A toward Central Phoenix. Merge onto I-10 east. Take Exit 144A for Seventh Avenue. Turn right onto Seventh Avenue and head south to Downtown area. From SR-51: Take SR-51 south and merge onto I-10 west. Take Exit 145A for Seventh Street. Turn left onto Seventh Street and head south to Downtown area. From the South Valley: Take Baseline Road or Broadway Road from the east or west and head north on Seventh Avenue or Seventh Street to Downtown area.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE MONTH 2022

From West Valley: From I-10: Take I-10 east. Take Exit 144A for Seventh Avenue. Turn right on Seventh Avenue and head south to Downtown area. From SR-101: Take SR-101 south and merge onto I-10 east. Take Exit 144A for Seventh Avenue. Turn right on Seventh Avenue and head south to Downtown area.

• 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, February 11. • 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, February 12.

• Receive alerts on the latest event information.

GUEST SERVICES

PARKING

All guest inquiries and/or questions can be answered at our information booth located near Gate A in Hance Park.

From East Valley: From I-10: Take I-10 west to Phoenix. Take Exit 148 for Jefferson Street and head north toward Washington Street. Turn left onto Washington Street and head west to Downtown area. or From U.S. 60: Take U.S. 60 west and merge onto I-10 west to Phoenix. Take Exit 145A for Seventh Street. Turn left onto Seventh Street and head south to Downtown area. From Loop 202: Continue west on Loop 202 to I-10 west Los Angeles ramp. Merge onto I-10 west and continue to Exit 145A for Seventh Street. Turn left and head south to Downtown area.

Guests with a bag must enter through Gate A and are required to have their items screened through X-ray machines. All bags are required to search. Those without bags will be able to enter through other entrance gates located around Hance Park.

There isn’t any event-specific parking for Hance Park. However, there’s metered parking and paid parking lots throughout Downtown Phoenix. Eliminate any parking struggles with the Space App. This service is offered by ACE Parking, which allows you to prepay and reserve parking at various garage locations in Downtown Phoenix. Once you pay for your spot, a corresponding barcode will be sent to your phone or you can print the reservation. space.aceparking.com/superbowlexperience.

EMERGENCIES/EVACUATIONS If you see something, say something. For any suspicious activity or behavior, report to an officer on duty at Hance Park. In case of an emergency, the Super Bowl Host Committee and city officials will implement related safety measure

FIRST AID In case of an incident, there will be a medical tent and medical personnel accessible to guests at Hance Park.

FOOD Food will be available to purchase inside the event. Options will include Southwestfocused cuisine from a variety of local vendors and food trucks. For those with dietary restrictions, there will be various options, including vegetarian and vegan options.

GATE LOCATIONS There are three gates through which visitors can enter. All visitors with a bag must enter through Gate A. Those without a bag are encouraged to use Gates B and C. The gates are located at the following: • Gate A: East side of Hance Park under Central Avenue Bridge, 67 W. Culver Street, Phoenix. • Gate B: North First and East Moreland streets. • Gate C: North Second and East Moreland streets.

GATES HOURS • 2 to 10 p.m. Thursday, February 9, and Friday, February 10.

ITEM CHECK

LOCATION Hance Park is located at 67 W. Culver Street, Phoenix.

LOCKERS Lockers will not be available for guests to utilize at Hance Park.

LOST AND FOUND Lost and found is at the info booth in the courtyard near Gate A in Hance Park.

LOST CHILD Separated families can receive assistance at the info booth near Gate A in Hance Park.

MEDICAL SERVICES In case of an incident, there will be a firstaid tent at Hance Park.

MERCHANDISE Official NFL merchandise will be available for purchase at Hance Park.

CITY OF PHOENIX • Micromobility hotline: 602-262-7474. • Micromobility inbox: scooters@phoenix. gov. • MyPHX311 App. • Lime: 1-888-LIME-345 (1-888-546-3345). • help-phoenix@li.me. • Spin: 1-888-249-9698, support@spin.pm.

NURSING There are no designated nursing spots at Hance Park.

ONEPASS OnePass is the digital key for NFL events. With NFL OnePass fans can: • See a schedule of player signings and appearances. • Access photos and videos from the event. • Participate in interactive activities. • Be entered for a chance to win prizes. • Ask Vince, the NFL’s 24/7 concierge any event-related questions.

RE-ENTRY POLICY While guests are allowed to leave and re-enter Hance Park, their return is not

guaranteed if the event is at capacity.

TICKET INFORMATION Tickets are not required for this free event. It is recommended that to download the NFL OnePass app to have the best experience possible.

WEATHER While weather is unpredictable, the average temperature for the month of February in Phoenix is 72 degrees during the day and 48 degrees at night. It is recommended to dress in light layers because when the sun is out it can feel warmer than it is, and make sure to check out the weekly forecast before arriving in the Valley. If the weather presents unsafe conditions for guests and vendors, the event will be subject to change.

SURE AND CERTAIN Jimmy Eat World promises a ‘super’ party with Hance Park show By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

ometown heroes Jimmy Eat World are determined to bring the party to Super Bowl LVII Experience presented by Lowe’s at Hance Park. Known for their song “The Middle,” Jimmy Eat World will kick off the festivities with a free show on Thursday, February 9. “It should be pretty wild,” drummer Zach Lind says. “I think, for us, being it’s a hometown gig and a fun outdoor celebration, we’re probably just going to bring the hits and make it a party.” Singer Jim Adkins adds the people watching is key to Super Bowl LVII Experience presented by Lowe’s. “I’m interested to see what kind of people show up,” he says. “I imagine it’ll be a lot of local people who know who we are. I’m also expecting out-of-town fans who are there for the Super Bowl, not necessarily to come see us play. “We get the added bonus of having a core group of people who will respond to what

we’re doing and hopefully they influence the people who don’t know, and they trick them into thinking they’re having much more of a good time than they are.” Jimmy Eat World plays Arizona sparingly, even though they hail from the East Valley. However, they last hit local stages on October 28 and are back already. “It’s interesting because we spent such a long time not doing many shows in Phoenix,” Lind says. “We’ve had a show in October and this one. We’re making up for lost time.” This year, Jimmy Eat World has big plans. They’re knocking out the last of the 2020 rescheduled dates, including those supporting My Chemical Romance in Australia. “That was the first thing we were going to do before quarantine happened around the world,” Adkins says. “We’re getting some closure there. And later on in the year, we’re going to be celebrating our 30 years as a band, which is pretty wild. We’re going to have a big giant bowling party, and everyone is invited.” Looking back on those three decades,

Atkins fondly thinks of Jimmy Eat World’s early years. “I see the very beginnings of our band, where we are now and where we’re going,” he says. “I still remember rehearsing in Zach’s parents’ garage, playing around town in clubs and quasi-legal art spaces. Those moments sort of jump out at me. We’ve done a lot of awesome stuff. We were on ‘Saturday Night Live,’ at festivals in other countries.” On the flipside, Lind says Jimmy Eat World’s formative years are a blur. “A lot of it is a haze now,” he adds with a laugh. “But I do remember playing local shows around town, hitting these benchmarks we were never expected to do. We opened for bands we really loved. “What sticks out to me is, last year, in the summer, we played a show in London and there was something interesting about it and its vibe.” He’s referring to a gig at Brixton Academy, where “fans were singing so loud.” “I could barely hear the band,” he says. “I felt a sense of patting ourselves on our backs.

To be this far down the line in our career and having a show that sticks out in our memory is amazing. A lot of them blend together. Entire tours vacate the memory.” So, let’s get down to brass tacks. Who did Lind hope would make it to the Super Bowl? The Cincinnati Bengals. “I have a soft spot for Joe Burrow,” he says. “I hope that they make it back to the Super Bowl. The reality of it is there are so many good teams left. I think whoever it is will be a great matchup.”

Super Bowl LVII Experience presented by Lowe’s at Hance Park WHEN: Various times Thursday, February 9, to Sunday, February 12 WHERE: Margaret T. Hance Park, 67 W. Culver Street, Phoenix COST: Free INFO: superbowl.com

FREE ADMISSION

FEBRUARY 9-12 JIMMY EAT WORLD THURSDAY

LEE BRICE FRIDAY

@azsuperbowl & @azsuperbowl_es Event details are subject to change.

TASTE OF THE NFL

Chateau Luxe unites players, celebrity chefs By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

en Ostro is passionate about helping the 1 in 8 kids who are food insecure. As chief executive officer of Chateau Luxe in North Phoenix, he’s proud his venue is the home of the charity-driven 32nd annual Taste of the NFL on Saturday, February 11. “Sometimes the only meals these kids get are subsidized meals at school,” Ostro says. “Being in this business, it blows my mind. We have to prepare food for functions and, naturally, there is leftover food. I try to send it

home with staff or donate it to a local charity. The reality, though, kills me that there are children going to bed hungry when there is a surplus of food here.” Super Bowl LVII’s Taste of the NFL, presented by Frito-Lay, Quaker and the PepsiCo Foundation, is the league’s largest sanctioned charity event. It brings together top NFL players and legends, five celebrity chefs and 2,500 football and foodie fans for one cause: GENYOUth. “We’re honored to have Taste of the NFL here at Chateau Luxe,” Ostro says. “It’s been the largest event we’ve ever had. To have something that not only brings together so

much great food and beverage and has heart behind it is an amazing thing.” Celebrity chefs including Andrew Zimmern, Carla Hall, Lasheeda Perry, Tim Love and Mark Boucher together with over 25 Arizona-based culinary superstars, including Beau MacMillan, Christopher Gross and Maria Mazon, will join top NFL stars and a host of entertainment and sports celebrities to create a high-energy culinary experience with incredible food and spirits and other surprise moments throughout the evening. GENYOUth’s End Student Hunger Fund has raised millions of dollars to help schools deliver and distribute meals to at-risk students but still has thousands of outstanding requests to fulfill from schools in need. Event proceeds will directly benefit Phoenix schools and high needs school districts in 31 other NFL club markets across the country,

providing meals to hundreds of thousands of students, particularly the 1 in 8 who suffer from food insecurity. “We truly care about the public and about the clients who come here,” he says. “It’s not just another event that’s happening.”

Taste of the NFL WHEN: 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, February 11 WHERE: Chateau Luxe, 1175 E. Lone Cactus Drive, Phoenix COST: $750 general admission; $950 VIP admission INFO: tasteofthenfl.com

DOWNTOWN PHOENIX MAP EVENTS 1. SUPER BOWL EXPERIENCE

3RD ST

MCDOWELL RD LYNWOOD ST

PRESENTED BY LOWES AT MARGARET T. HANCE PARK

10:00 AM - 10:00 PM 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

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2 LATHAM ST

MCKINLEY ST

TRANSPORTATION 18 MIN WALK

1ST AVE

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FILLMORE ST

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FILLMORE ST

PIERCE ST

TAYLOR ST

POLK ST

5TH ST

4:00 PM - 9:00 PM

GARFIELD ST

2ND ST

PRESENTED BY FAST TWITCH AT FOOTPRINT CENTER

1ST ST

CENTRAL AVE

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0.9 MI

PORTLAND ST

GATE C

ROOSEVELT ST

February 9-11 (Thursday - Saturday)

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AT FOOTPRINT CENTER

PHOENIX CONVENTION CENTER

EXIT 145A

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3. BUD LIGHT MUSIC FEST

February 6 (Monday)

MAIN GATE

PRESENTED BY LOWES AT PHOENIX CONVENTION CENTER

CULVER ST

5TH PL

2.SUPER BOWL EXPERIENCE February 4 (Saturday) February 5 (Sunday) February 9-10 (Thursday & Friday) February 11 (Saturday)

WILLETTA ST

2:00 PM - 10:00 PM 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

1ST ST

February 9-10 (Thursday & Friday) February 11 (Saturday) February 12 (Sunday)

VAN BUREN ST

LIGHT RAIL RIDESHARE

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DRIVING

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WASHINGTON ST

S GATE

SPACE.ACEPARKING.COM/SUPERBOWLEXPERIENCE

5TH ST

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To reserve your parking in advance, download the ACE Parking App on Apple or Android.

7TH ST

ACE Parking App

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PARKING

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JACKSON ST SOUTH PACIFIC RAILROAD

MAP IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

CITY

STYLE » ENVY » PASSION » FASHION » BEAUTY » DESIGN

BIG GAME BIG GIVE J.J. Watt co-hosts fundraiser in Paradise Valley By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

elisa Israel and her family are grateful for Dr. Pablo Prichard. The Scottsdale plastic surgeon saved her sister’s life. “My sister and parents were involved in a traumatic head-on car collision,” Israel says. “They were hit by someone who was texting and driving. All three ended up in the ICU. She wound up with a hematoma on the side of her thigh that made her look deformed. A couple years later, it became severely infected. The way it was attached to the leg, no other doctor would touch it. She was in the hospital for 30 days. Dr. Prichard came in and took care of her the way other doctors wouldn’t. “The only thing missing was a cape.” Now the two, along with The Giving Back Fund, are hoping to raise $2 million for charities, including the Justin J. Watt Foundation, with Big Game Big Give at the doctor’s Paradise Valley home at 6 p.m. Saturday, Feburary 11. It’s co-hosted by retired football star J.J. Watt. Former Phoenix Suns and LA Lakers player Cedric Ceballos will serve as the event emcee and DJ. “I am honored that The Giving Back Fund has chosen the Justin J. Watt Foundation as one of the beneficiaries for this great event,” Watt says. “While I am very much looking forward to the evening, I’m even more excited about the way we’re going to utilize these funds to help kids in underfunded areas all across the country.” At Big Game Big Give, The Vincere Foundation will be honored. Founded by Prichard and Dr. Vershalee Shukla, The Vincere Foundation dives into prevention, early detection and treatment of cancer in firefighters and first responders.

Cancer is responsible for 60% of all on-duty deaths due to an increase in the toxins emitted in synthetic building materials and flame retardants that have become increasingly used in construction and furniture/flooring; increased job stress and PTSD; and increased breaks in the circadian rhythm/sleep-wake cycle disruptions, which together with increased stress lowers the immune system, increasing the chance for cancer. NBA Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo, who played 18 NBA seasons for the Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks and Houston Rockets, will receive The Giving Back Fund’s Award for Extraordinary Philanthropic Achievement. The night forward be renamed in his honor. The award will be presented by former NFL Hall of Fame linebacker Ray Lewis. Mutombo is undergoing treatment for a brain tumor. Shaquille O’Neal has been invited to accept the award on his behalf. Israel’s 10 Fold Entertainment is executive producing the 12th annual Big Game Big Give. The invitation-only event attracts celebrities, athletes and philanthropists from around the country. This marks a return to Arizona for Israel, who began her 20-year career with the NBA as the director of entertainment and special events at the Phoenix Suns and Mercury. She subsequently served as the NBA’s director of live programming and entertainment. As part of the festivities, Grammynominated singer-songwriter Gavin DeGraw will perform songs like “I Don’t Want to Be,” “Chariot” and “Follow Through.” “I’m excited to go back to Arizona for the Big Game Big Give event to perform,” DeGraw says. “The Giving Back Fund and Vincere Foundation support two things close to my heart, cancer research and helping firefighters. This is a good cause. Let’s raise

some money.” An accomplished pianist, Pritchard will perform dueling pianos with DeGraw. “I’m excited about that for the doctor,” Israel says. “What a nice outlet for him.” The event is traditionally held at an exclusive private estate the night before the Super Bowl in the host city. In 2015, The Giving Back Fund raised more than $1.5 million in the Valley when Big Game Big Give was held at the home of Matt and Erika Williams and hosted by Mark Wahlberg and Michael Bay. Among the other experiences for guests that night are live and silent auctions, a tea experience, a salt healing room, rare crystal readings, underwater art experience by Christy Lee Rogers, food stations, sound bowls, cocktail bars, fire dancers, aerialist and

fashion show honoring Arizona firefighters curated by ArtxShanna. “I don’t want this to be just another Super Bowl party,” Israel says. “It has to be meaningful. Look at what we’ve all gone through — COVID-19 and the world blowing up piece by piece. This is our opportunity to be inclusive and unified and to come together in a special and beautiful way.”

Big Game Big Give WHEN: 6 p.m. Saturday, February 11 WHERE: Private Paradise Valley home COST: $3,000, fully tax deductible INFO: givingback.org/bgbg2023

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LIVE AND LIVID

Comedian Margaret Cho uses concerts for LGBTQ+ advocacy By Alex Gallagher

mmy- and Grammy-nominated entertainer Margaret Cho has never been one to shy away from sticking up for members of the LGBTQ+ population. Her latest tour is no deviation. However, Cho says she decided to be less blunt about the issues plaguing that community with her latest show, “Live and Livid,” which comes to the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts on Thursday, March 2. “It’s really indicative of this time where we have this rise in white Christian nationalism, and that’s really hideous and scary, along with the attack on drag queens,” Cho says. “Drag is really the place where, I think, in the queer community we experience a lot of joy and a lot of celebration, so that’s a very scary thing. That, along with all the racism that’s happening and the fighting for our rights to exist, there’s a lot to say.” Because of this, her latest show focuses on the challenges and how the population will make it through these trying times. “It’s all based on where we are in the queer community, where we are as women and as people of color who are just trying to figure out how we will survive this onslaught on our rights, on our real freedoms and on our personhood. And how do we cope with it?” she says. Her answer to how to cope with these problems is laughter. “Humor is a way to cope with trauma and diﬃcult experiences with hope, and it’s always going to be a great way of coping,” Cho says. “I’m really about finding a way to find some light through the darkness of it. It’s tough, but it’s really important.” Cho says she also believes that this is a pillar upon which the institution of comedy was founded. “Comedy is an outsider art form, and it’s more of a proletariat art form,” she says. “(Comedy is) more just about where you’re coming from. Whether it’s from a

place punching up or punching down, you always want to lift up communities that are marginalized and you want to punch down at the establishment — which I think is much more valuable.” Cho emphasizes that her show is not exclusive to members of the LGBTQ+ population. “We can all laugh, and we can all get into this,” Cho says. “Fighting for the rights of the queer community does not mean that you have to be queer to do so. “The A in LGBTQIA stands for allies and allies are essential to our survival.” Cho says she strives to maintain a balance between being comedy and serious issues. “It’s always about trying to find that balance, because I’m still an entertainer, and it’s still about laughing, which is essential to life,” she says. The intimate Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts allows her to have these conversations and forge a bond with her audience, she says. “It’s so important to have that community, and it’s so important to have that connection,” Cho says. “I really love it, and I think it’s really necessary for me. … Especially now as an older person where comedy is really exciting and still challenging, I’m really thrilled to be able to still do it.” Through her show, Cho wants to spark activism and build a sense of community while inspiring fans. “I just hope they find hope and a sense of renewal that they can take on whatever is happening and we can survive as a queer community,” Cho says.

Margaret Cho: Live and Livid! WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 2 WHERE: Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale COST: Tickets start at $39 INFO: scottsdaleperformingarts.org

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West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

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West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

Fry’s

1575 N. Dysart Road 623-925-0267, frysfood.com

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Fry’s is the premier choice for residents when it comes to grocery shopping. The chain is a one-stop shop featuring name brands, fresh produce and delicious meats. The loyalty program means a chance to save on gas purchases. Most importantly, shoppers can’t go wrong with the wine bar.

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Scottsdale Fashion Square

7014 E. Camelback Road 480-941-2140, fashionsquare.com

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Scottsdale Fashion Square is an upscale shopping center with over 240 specialty stores and restaurants, as explained on its website. Stores include Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Dillard’s, Macy’s, Burberry and Coach, to name a few.

Memory Lane Trinkets & Treasures

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Located inside a 1948 historic building, Memory Lane Trinkets and Treasures is a boutique-style shop bursting with everything from home and garden décor to fashion and jewelry. The shop opened in 2019 and houses over 120 local artisans, makers and specialty vendors.

15205 N. Kierland Boulevard, Suite 150 kierlandcommons.com

9940 W. Happy Valley Road shoplptc.com

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When Peoria readers are ready to shop until they drop, they land in Lake Pleasant Towne Center. The shopping center features an eclectic mix of boutiques, retail anchors and restaurants. After visiting stores such as Bath & Body Works, Tuesday Morning and PetSmart, shoppers can get a bite to eat at establishments such as Lakeside Bar and Grill, Smashburger or Twisted Italian. They can also enter to win prizes such as concert and special events tickets through the shopping center’s social media channels.

Desert Ridge Marketplace

21001 N. Tatum Boulevard 480-513-7586, shopdesertridge.com

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Launched nearly 20 years ago, Desert Ridge Marketplace is not just the premier shopping center in North Phoenix, but one known around the Valley. With an area of over 1.2 million square feet, the large shopping center is sure to satisfy anyone. Whether it’s shopping for a date night outfit, grabbing groceries, furniture shopping or dining out, Desert Ridge Marketplace is a beautiful shopping destination for any needs.

SanTan Village

5836 W. Palmaire Avenue The Glendale 623-440-9036, memorylanetrinketsandtreasures.com

Kierland Commons

Lake Pleasant Towne Center

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North Valley shopaholics and casual window shoppers alike delight in the open-air elegance of Kierland Commons. The upscale shopping destination features more than 70 high-end specialty stores, such as Michael Kors, Sur La Table, and Chanel Beauty and Fragrance Boutique. After working up an appetite shopping, visitors can enjoy a meal from eateries such as The Cheesecake Factory, North Italia and P.F. Chang’s. Complimentary strollers and wheelchairs are available for use on the property.

2218 E. Williams Field Road 480-282-9500, shopsantanvillage.com The outdoor shopping center brings to Gilbert a variety of dining, shops and services. With so many store options, it is an excellent destination for everyone. Holiday and seasonal events are often held there as well.

Chandler Fashion Center

3111 W. Chandler Boulevard 480-812-8488, shopchandlerfashioncenter.com

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Chandler Fashion Center has more than 180 retailers, including Dillard’s, Macy’s, lululemon, Apple and Urban Outfitters. It also includes Harkins Theatres and the Crayola Experience Studio. While shopping, guests nosh at a variety of top-notch restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, P.F. Chang’s, Hop Social Tavern, and Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2023

ARTS

CULTURE » THEATER » DANCE » GALLERY » DRAMA » VISION

BRINGING THE MAGIC Matt August helms the Arizona Theatre Company By Bridgette M. Redman

rom regional theaters to Broadway, Matt August has devoted more than 27 years to his craft. Now he brings magic to the Arizona Theatre Company as its new artistic

director. He replaces Sean Daniels, who announced his departure in fall 2022. “It really became an opportunity that was too good,” August says. “It was something that I was hoping was going to happen and it really is, for me, a culmination of a 25-year journey.” August has directed more than 90 plays, productions and events including on Broadway, in regional theaters and on national and international tours. He’s directed plays, musicals, contemporary classics, holiday spectacles, new works, youth theater, opera and Shakespeare. He broke Broadway box office records when he directed “How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical” in 2006 and 2007 and then took in on tour from 2010-19 and in 2021 and 2022. “We ended up on Broadway, and that’s just a very high-production environment,” August says. “You’re dealing with huge budgets, and you’ll sink or swim on your ability to deliver the show. Fortunately, we hit. And we’re still going. Eighteen years later, we’re still sending out tours and doing sit-downs all over the country. We even have a U.K. tour.” However, he was working as a freelancer when the ATC job became available. He had twice directed at ATC: in the 2015-16 season with “Discord” and 2016-17 season with “King Charles III.” “We’re delighted to have Matt on board as we continue our legacy and forge ATC’s next chapter,” ATC Executive Director Geri Wright says. “Matt brings a wealth of theater experience, connections, creativity and

innovative and thoughtful work to ATC.” August got his start in regional theaters, the place where he says young directors can cut their teeth and find their voice. He earned a BFA from the University of Colorado and an MFA from the California Institute of the Arts. He went directly from the latter to the Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles. “I literally graduated in the morning and that afternoon, Gordon Davidson hired me to be his assistant,” August says. “I graduated in the morning, and that afternoon I’m in production meetings with one of the country’s most important producers. That was super exciting.” It gave him, he says, the opportunity to see firsthand the mission and purpose of regional theaters — giving audiences high-quality theater where they live. “They are the vanguard of culture in the communities they are serving. They’re producing art on a really high level, so you don’t have to go to the Louvre, you don’t have to go to the Met, you don’t have to go to Broadway and you don’t have to go to opera houses. You can go to regional theaters.” From there he went to the Old Globe in San Diego, where they were actively programming three spaces, a small stage, a main stage for out-of-town shows, and a large outdoor Shakespeare Festival. “I’m seeing this regional theater pumping on three cylinders,” August says. “The people you were working with were talented and confident and courageous. The art that was being done was exciting and visceral and fun. The audiences loved it.” In regional theaters, he learned to entertain audiences with work that was emotional, visual, had a degree of spectacle and contained deep meaning. August then spent 10 years working as a freelance director, making theater at regional theaters around the country. He says the artistic directors he worked with helped him to take his abilities to

the next level. Then he responded to the siren call of New York, acting as associate director for Broadway shows before taking the helm as the “Grinch” director. Wanting to focus on his growing family, he wanted to become ATC’s artistic director. “I’m glad that life circumstances have worked out so that I’m now able to be here,” August says. “First of all, I want ATC to become an alternative for audiences to having to travel to New York,” August says. “I want them to

come into the Arizona Theatre Company and see the best plays that are being written or the best plays that have been written. I want them to feel like it’s a place where they can bring their kids and their folks. I want it to be a place where we are a vibrant — not only contributor but — leader in the artistic landscape of Tucson, Phoenix and, frankly, all of Arizona.”

Arizona Theatre Company atc.org

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2023

‘ALL WALKS OF LIFE’ 46

Downtown Glendale Arts & Culture Fest set to showcase area By Jordan Rogers

he city of Glendale, the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance and Local First Arizona are teaming up to bring an immersive experience to the West Valley community — the Downtown Glendale Arts & Culture Fest. Slated for 11 a.m. to. 8 p.m. Saturday, February 4, the festival at Murphy Park features more than 70 art experiences, including cultural stage showcases, an artisan marketplace, live painting, interactive murals, food trucks, and an evening performance by fire artists Flam Chen. Mojgan Vahabzadeh, arts and culture program manager for the city of Glendale, is looking forward to showing off what Downtown Glendale has to offer. “We have a great, great expectation,” she says. And with Super Bowl LVII coming to Glendale, the timing for the city to put on an event like this, for Vahabzadeh, couldn’t be better. The event is geared toward locals, but with the extra foot traffic, anyone in town at the time of the event can enjoy its wide range of entertainment options. Vahabzadeh says the event is expected to see anywhere from 5,000 to 8,000 festivalgoers. “There are going to be tons of people

coming to the Phoenix area probably a week ahead of the Super Bowl,” Vahabzadeh says. “So, the idea was we have this beautiful Downtown that has a lot of character, and it’s kind of unique, among other metro Phoenix cities. … This is a great opportunity to bring the community together to experience the arts and culture festival, as well as encourage them to go visit some of our Downtown businesses while they’re here.” A family-friendly affair, the event will feature an artist and vendor market with numerous local artisans in fashion, food, home goods and visual arts. From there, stroll through Murphy Park and find a great handmade gift or treasure from one of the more than 50 vendors and local makers featured at the festival. The Downtown Glendale Arts & Culture Fest will also give attendees the distinctive opportunity to engage up close and personal with artists and interactive art installations. Activities and experiences will take place throughout Murphy Park and inside participating businesses located in Downtown Glendale. Highlights include a community chalk art zone, a live paint-by-the-numbers mural with Snoodcity Artist Collective, inflatable art installations, youth painting activities, VESSEL Spectrum Performing Arts, and a musical instrument petting zoo with Sankofa Island Magic. The E. Lowell Rogers amphitheater in Murphy Park will be transformed for the day with exciting cultural music, drumming, dance and circus arts that will start at 11 a.m. and wrap up at 8 p.m. with a performance from Flam Chem. Flam Chem, who will debut a new original experience, “Dance On Water — A Journey of Refuge, Restoration, and Renaissance,” utilizes performances that combine daredevil acrobatics with a mastery of air and fire arts. Vahabzadeh is confident the immersive group will put on a fantastic show. The group has performed for such luminaries as director Tim Burton and Spider-Man and Marvel Comics creator Stan Lee. They also host and produce international performance artists and collaborate on many projects throughout the year. “They’re really kind of a unique group,” Vahabzadeh says. “They’ve been around for a while, but they’re very larger than life; they

have a giant presence. They create a really cool spectacle whenever they’re performing. They’re kind of mesmerizing. They do a lot of elaborate costuming, and their choreography is really unique. So, I think that that whole combination of fire arts and circus performance is really something that appeals to the crowd.” Many cultures are set to be represented with the performances at the amphitheater. Lori German, communication program manager for the city of Glendale, says that was purposeful. “We understand kind of the value of what arts and culture brings to a community,” German says. “So, as we continue to grow, I think those are one of the things that we’re definitely focusing on, is placemaking is very important. … It’s that kind of connection between placemaking and the diverse community that we do live in to make sure that we’re highlighting that.” The city’s main partner for the event, the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance, was responsible for putting the expansive list of artists and vendors together. Kate Marquez, executive director for the Southern Arizona Arts & Culture Alliance, says this event fell perfectly in line with the organization’s goals. The nonprofit is dedicated to the creation, preservation and advancement of the arts. “We work in any capacity that any community has an intent or desire to invest in artists, the creative process, helping artists make a living by selling their work,” Marquez says. “That is what interested us, of course, is the fact that they were interested in investing in that type of project.”

A nuance to the festival is the Downtown Business Passport. Headed up by Local First Arizona, the passport will serve to highlight businesses in Downtown Glendale. The guide will be made available at the festival and will feature locally owned restaurants, retail shops, area attractions and experiences. “The Downtown area is just filled with a robust makeup of diverse set of businesses, everything from local coffee shops to antique stores, boutiques, restaurants. You name it, they’ve got it,” says Thomas Barr, vice president of business development for Local First Arizona. “So, we’ve been going in and just cultivating relationships with them.” With the Downtown Reinvestment Project soon coming to Downtown Glendale, running the event again in the next couple of years may be difficult. But depending on how this one goes, it will certainly not be out of the realm of possibility to see the Downtown Glendale Arts & Culture Fest again. “Definitely, that is something that we will look to doing back in future years, given how successful it will be,” Vahabzadeh says.

Downtown Glendale Arts & Culture Fest WHEN: 11 a.m. to. 8 p.m. Saturday, February 4 WHERE: Murphy Park, 5850 W. Glendale Avenue, Glendale COST: Free INFO: glendaleaz.com

WILL YOU BE THERE? There’s a reason why Glendale is a third-time host to football’s biggest game… all of the epic entertainment that delivers a world-class experience. And State Farm Stadium is perfectly situated near Arizona’s Sports and Entertainment District. Make plans to see and be seen before, during, and after football’s most anticipated showdown.

VISITGLENDALE.COM

ALWAYS ON HIS MIND 48

Tyler Hilton has obsessed over Elvis since he was young By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

yler Hilton was on a crosscountry car trip with his family when his mother played Elvis Presley music to prepare for a trip to Graceland. Hilton immediately fell in love with what he heard. “I loved his music,” says Hilton, who later went on to star as Chris Keller on “One Tree Hill.” “I loved the house. I loved his style. I loved his image. There was just something about it that spoke to me. I was like that from a kid. I started combing my hair like that. I thought he was the coolest person I had ever seen. “I was an Elvis guy forever. For gifts, I received Elvis books or Elvis accoutrement. I just collected them. That got me into blues, country and gospel, and it led me to play guitar.” When he hit his teenage years, he thought it was “dorky” to pretend he was someone else, so he dropped it. It resurfaced, though, in 2005 when he played a young Presley in the Reese Witherspoon/ Joaquin Phoenix film “Walk the Line.”

On Thursday, February 16, Hilton will celebrate Presley’s records from Sun Studio with The Hot Club of Cowtown at the Musical Instrument Museum in North Phoenix. “We’re just doing a celebration of Elvis’ music,” he says. “It’s going to be a bunch of Elvis songs from Sun Records done really authentically — no drums or anything; standup bass, vocals and guitars. I love this kind of music, but it’s hard to find. “I’d always been a fan of Hot Club. I’ve seen them several times and been to a workshop of theirs. When we ended up on the same agency, I was like, ‘Oh, man, I’m a huge fan of Hot Club. I’d love to get hooked up with them and just say hi and tell them how much I’m into them.’” The two met and decided it would be fun to do something musically together. “For me, it was kind of a big deal,” he says. “We settled on doing Elvis stuff, and they are so good at that era of music. I flew down to Austin, and we started rehearsing. We needed to find a place to do this.” However, they were talking about it right before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Finally, they played their first show together at The

Ark in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on January 13. “I’m still in a little bit of disbelief that people are going to come see us tonight because it just seems too good to be true,” he says. “It’s going to be fun.” The show was especially poignant, as Presley’s daughter, Lisa Marie, died the night before, January 12. “We were just texting about it last night,” adds Hilton, a California native who lives in London, Ontario, Canada, now with his wife, director Megan Park, and their daughter. “It’s an eerie, eerie, sad thing.” He acknowledges that some of his fans may be unfamiliar with Elvis, but he hopes some of them attend the gigs to learn more about his hero. After all, it’s an educational process for him, too. “As a kid, I would sing Elvis at karaoke all the time,” he says.

“That was my thing. So, getting to do ‘Walk the Line,’ it was a huge step up from karaoke. Getting to do this club tour, it’s a huge step up. You’re in the music. You’re not just singing it. You’re in it. This is like college for me. I’m learning a ton playing with these guys. They’re way beyond me, musically. “I just feel like I lucked out and I’m in a room full of people that I don’t belong in.”

The Hot Club of Cowtown and Tyler Hilton WHEN: 7 p.m. Thursday, February 16 WHERE: Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix COST: Sold out INFO: 480-478-6000, mim.org

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DINING

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‘KEEP COOKIN’’

Pakistani woman restaurant owner makes inroads in U.S. By Anisa Shabir

uy Fieri is leaning back, his right foot up against a black signpost, his smile stiff beneath a black and white goatee. His eyes are looking straight into the camera — or at least his sunglasses are. The poster sits near the checkout counter at Curry Corner, and beneath his photo, the celebrity chef has written words that Farah Khalid cherishes: “Curry Corner, Keep Cookin’… Guy!” Khalid is the owner of Curry Corner, an unpretentious but beloved Pakistani restaurant near the ASU campus. For 20 years, it also has been a mainstay for college students, especially those who come from South Asia and who miss the foods they have grown up with. Curry Corner’s food reminds them so much of home and Khalid so much of family members that they soon begin calling her “mom” or “aunty.” “I come here thrice or four times a week,” says Anish Jain, who lives across the street from the restaurant. “I am from India, but we share the same border with Pakistan and the food tastes the same as if I eat at home.” Khalid grew up in Pakistan and married a diplomat, which meant postings to different countries. The first was to Austria in 1985, where she gave birth to her two children — a daughter and a son. The family went on to live in England, Portugal, Sydney and Qatar before arriving in the United States in 1998. Her travels brought her into close contact with new cultures. “When you go to different places, you see their culture, and it makes you know about their food,” she says. Rana initially arrived in the United States with her husband on a visitor’s visa. But after her husband’s death in 2002, she joined her sister in Arizona. But once she moved to Arizona, she began to miss her home country’s food. She couldn’t

find a local restaurant that served Pakistani cuisine, and her brother, Syed Ahsan Bukhari, who also had moved to the United States, reminded her that “our food is so good, it has so much aroma, it has so much taste in it, and nobody knows about it. “The idea came into our mind, and we thought that we should make an effort to bring our food to Arizona.” So, the two decided to open a full-fledged Pakistani restaurant. In 1998, they opened the Copper Kettle Express on East Lemon Street and, by 2002, Khalid was running the restaurant on her own. For 10 years, business was good. Then her landlord filed for bankruptcy and Khalid was told she had to be out in two weeks. It was a shock, she says, but she was determined to find a new place, and she wanted it to be close to ASU. “I wanted to be in the Tempe area,” she says. “ASU students have been coming to my restaurant; it’s a feeling of home.” What she found was a former “hookah place” on Apache Boulevard, not far from her first restaurant. Within two months, she had renovated the space and opened a new restaurant with a new name — Curry Corner. She worried about whether she had made a good choice. “I thought … maybe people will come back or maybe people won’t come,” she says. “But when people saw my face and tasted the same food, they says, ‘Oh my God, you are the same people.’” In 2013, Khalid expanded the dining area from 20 seats to 60 and installed new goldtinged lighting. She had the walls painted a vivid shade of orange. In an episode of “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” in 2013, Fieri, the celebrity chef, featured Khalid making goat karahi. Karahi is an Urdu word for a wok and hence the name of the meat cooked in it. She also made tandoori chicken tikka (tandoori is a clay cylindrical oven, and tikka are marinated pieces of meat) and naan

bread. In the episode, her hands seem to move impossibly fast as she throws spices and ingredients into bowls. Fieri found out about Curry Corner from an article in a local publication. He was interested in knowing more, so he decided to pay a visit and bring a signed poster with him. “It was a surprise for us, and we were lucky that he visited,” Khalid says. “He is a topnotch celebrity in the food network. Wherever he visits, it gives a boost to your business.” Everything about Curry Corner is reminiscent of Pakistan. Diners listen to Bollywood/Lollywood music while they eat, with lyrics in Hindi or Urdu. Photos lining the walls include one of former prime minister and Pakistani cricket team captain Imran Khan holding a 1992 cricket World Cup trophy. When she’s not busy in the kitchen, Khalid makes her way around the dining room, greeting guests. “America is a land of opportunities. If you work hard and stay dedicated, you can achieve anything,” she says. One of the first dishes Khalid cooked for her customers was Nihari, a slow-cooked stew from the subcontinent, rich in gravy. That was followed by biryani and chicken tikka. At the time, most of her customers were Arabic, she says, and they “loved the biryani (a dish of rice with a choice of meat, mostly chicken, made in spices),” she says. The dish also was popular with ASU students, who would come for a lunch of biryani and chicken tikka masala. In 2006, the menu and the staff grew when Khalid hired Gul e Rana as the cook. “Pakistani women are very hardworking,” Khalid says as she introduced Rana, who was scuttling to get orders ready in the kitchen. When Khalid first hired her, she says she didn’t even know how to cook. “Farah baji (sister) helped me learn. So I am working as a chef now.” The first dish she learned to make was

chicken curry, which was easy, she says. “Then I learned chicken tikka masala and many more.” “I make sure students who have left their homes don’t feel that they are away from their parents,” Rana says. “So I ask them about food and offer it to them since I have a son myself and I know how it feels.” Khalid wants to open a new branch of Curry Corner in Gilbert or Scottsdale in the future. She says the most important lesson she has learned during her years in the restaurant business is a simple one: “If your dil (heart) and niyat (intentions) are pure and you dedicate yourself, then you will be successful.”

Curry Corner 1212 E. Apache Boulevard, Tempe 480-894-1276, currycornertempe.com

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BREAKFAST SPOT BESTOF

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Henhouse Cafe Multiple locations henhouse-cafe.com

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Since it was hatched in 2010, the Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa Henhouse has grown into three locations offering mouth-watering breakfast and lunch food selections. Be sure to try the HH breakfast sandwich made with a homemade biscuit, chicken-fried chicken, bacon, potatoes, cheddar cheese, fried egg and gravy. Throughout the year, the Henhouse also donates meals, time and resources to the community.

Hillside Spot

TJ’s Homestyle Restaurant

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310 N. Dysart Road 623-932-0309, tjhomestylerestaurant.com

For early birds looking to get their most important meal of the day, look no further than TJ’s Homestyle Restaurant. A family-owned diner, TJ’s Homestyle Restaurant serves waffles, homemade pies and other entrées.

Black Bear Diner 980 N. Dysart Road 623-932-2968, blackbeardiner.com

2022

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

Black Bear Diner prides itself on home-cooked meals that reflect small-town roots. It has superb breakfast options including chicken-fried steak with eggs, steak and eggs, pancakes, waffles, French toast, omelets, scrambles and more.

Parson’s Family Restaurant

4740 E. Warner Road 480-705-7768, hillsidespot.com Breakfast is the root of Hillside Spot. While the hours of service and menu offerings have expanded to lunch and dinner through the years, breakfast is where it started. Its acclaimed coffee bar and fresh-baked pastries are a nod to those beginnings.

9645 N. Black Canyon Highway 602-943-3232, firstwatch.com

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With pancakes, waffles, power bowls, omelets, salads and sandwiches, First Watch has something for everyone to enjoy. Its new summer menu features Mexican-inspired Barbacoa quesadilla benedict, muffin top griddle cakes, hacienda hash and a watermelon wakeup juice. The bright and cheery atmosphere makes it a great location.

Biscuits Café Multiple locations biscuitscafe.com

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2022

Peoria readers think that the best way to start their day is with breakfast at Biscuits Café. The eatery’s menu includes tasty omelets, homemade biscuits and gravy, soups, salads and gourmet hamburgers. A vegan menu, gift cards, rewards and online ordering are available.

BESTOF 2022 5921 W. Northern Avenue tar The Glendale 623-939-8836, pery.top/parson-s-family-restaurant

Village Inn

First opened in Glendale 40 years ago, Parson’s Family Restaurant provides a great breakfast and brunch gathering place with a bright atmosphere. It features hearty, homemade meals, with popular menu items such as burgers, homestyle potatoes, and biscuits and gravy.

Village Inn began offering made-from-scratch buttermilk pancakes in 1959, and word spread fast. It still offers those amazing pancakes along with fresh eggs, cooked any style; sizzling bacon; and a wide range of other breakfast items. Be sure to try the strawberry crepes or the biscuits and gravy.

2780 E. Germann Road 480-855-8250, villageinn.com

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Butterfield’s Pancake House

7388 E. Shea Boulevard 480-951-6002, butterfieldsrestaurant.com

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Butterfield’s Pancake House serves up a tasty menu of breakfast and lunch selections from 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., seven days a week. Guests can indulge in an array of scrumptious choices, including pancakes, French toast, waffles, crepes, omelets and skillets for breakfast. The lunch menu is equally impressive.

Local Johnny’s

6033 E. Cave Creek Road 480-488-7473, localjonnys.com

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2022

North Valley readers love to start their day off with breakfast at family-owned Local Johnny’s. The menu features fresh and indulgent healthy food and comfort food that can be enjoyed inside or on the eatery’s newly renovated outdoor patio.

Baja Café

Multiple locations, bajacafetucson.com Home of the snickerdoodle pancake, Baja is the best. If you’re looking for an awesome breakfast or brunch recommendation, look no further. They’re always busy, so run, don’t walk, to the Baja Cafe that is closest to you.

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HEALTHY FOOD

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Pita Jungle

Multiple locations pitajungle.com

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tar The Glendale Pita Jungle has been serving up award-winning healthy food since 1994. It prepares its fresh food from scratch every day in its kitchen to accommodate all types of diets: BESTOF vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, keto and paleo. Its varied menu features choices such as grilled vegetable salad, turkey pesto lavash wrap, kafta beef pizza and Mediterranean tofu.

2022

Fresh Millions 1515 N. Gilbert Road 480-462-1000, freshmillions.com

2022

Fresh Millions has an incredible Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa assortment of lunch and dinner entrees including customizable stir-fry hot bowls with a variety of proteins, mix-ins and sauces. It also has a broad selection of sandwiches and wraps. Vegan, gluten-free and kid-friendly options are on the menu as well.

Flower Child

Multiple locations iamaflowerchild.com

BESTOF

2022

Flower Child is a healthy lunch and dinner restaurant with a customizable menu of bowls; wraps; salads; and a variety of mix-and-match veggies, grains, fruits and healthy proteins. All the meals are made from scratch, and there are options for various meat, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, keto and paleo diets.

Clean Juice

39504 W. Daisy Mountain Drive 623-233-1444, cleanjuice.com

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2023

Wildflower

BESTOF

2022

Clean Juice’s motto is “food made right,” and it offers handcrafted, USDA-certified organic juices and foods that are made with high-quality ingredients. While Clean Juice does offer a variety of smoothies, protein smoothies, fresh juice and superfood slushies, it also has plenty of healthy food options.

Pomegranate Café 4025 E. Chandler Boulevard 480-706-7472, pomegranatecafe.com

It’s organic. It’s vegan and vegetarian. It’s locally sourced. It’s crafted with love. Revitalizing food and pure flavors are at the heart of what Pomegranate does. Everything is made from scratch, including lattes steamed with hand-crafted syrups and POMilk, as well as its breads, bowls, salads, juices and decadent cakes.

Wildflower is proud to be devoted to creating outstanding food, great service and clean restaurants. Previously known as Wildflower Bread Company, it has built a reputation of quality meals since it opened its first location in 1996.

2022

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

BESTOF

2022

Salad and Go Multiple locations saladandgo.com

BESTOF

2022

Salad and Go believes in a better way of doing fast food. It makes fresh, nutritious food convenient and more affordable. Be sure to check out the drinks, including the frozen strawberry lemonade.

Fresh Millions 1515 N. Gilbert Road 480-462-1000, freshmillions.com

BESTOF

2022

Fresh Millions is committed to providing its customers with alternative, healthy food options. There are seemingly endless options to choose from: Its wide selection of lunch and dinner entrees can be customized with a variety of proteins, mix-ins and sauces.

let’s boozy & brunch

Intentional Foods 1837 W. Guadalupe Road 480-264-7002, intentionalfoods.org

BESTOF

2022

For those who do not feel safe dining out because of food allergies, Intentional Foods offers a viable option. Founded by a couple who nearly lost their daughter due to a single bite of an allergen, the restaurant features a menu free of nuts, dairy, soy, gluten and other ingredients to which people are commonly allergic.

Fixin’ to Eat

8940 W. Bell Road 623-583-8283, fixintoeat.com

BESTOF

2022

Readers who are watching what they eat contact Fixin’ to Eat, which offers ready-to-cook meals prepared for pickup or delivery. Fixin’ to Eat sources food free from high-fructose corn syrup, MSG and other additives. Instead, its assembly kitchen prepares meal kits using organic, grass-fed and wild-caught ingredients as often as possible when they are available at reasonable prices.

True Food Kitchen 15191 N. Scottsdale Road 480-265-4500, truefoodkitchen.com

BESTOF

2022

True Food Kitchen believes that better food means better living, as described on its website. It has an excellent selection of healthy food on the menu, including salads, pizzas, burgers and sandwiches.

� NEW LOCATION COMING SOON � IN SCOTTSDALE MONDAY-SUNDAY 7-3 5450 E HIGH ST, PHOENIX, AZ 85054 @THEBOOZY.AZ

Black Rock Coffee Bar

COFFEE BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

Multiple locations br.coffee

BESTOF

2022

Dutch Bros. Coffee Multiple locations 541-955-4700, dutchbros.com

Dutch Bros. has been providing an expanse of drinks and friendly customer service to coffee drinkers since 1992. With its rebel energy drinks, creative coffee flavors, refreshing lemonades and more, there is something on the menu for all tastes.

The Glendale

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BESTOF

2022

The team at Black Rock Coffee Bar provides customers with incredibly delicious specialty crafted drinks. BESTOF Coffee options include iced coffee, drip coffee, mochas, lattes and blended drinks. It also has hot chocolate, tea, energy drinks and smoothies available. For those that enjoy an alternative to milk, it has soy, almond, coconut and oat milk available.

Janey’s Coffee Co. & Bodega 6602 E. Cave Creek Road 480-575-6885, cavecreekazmusic.com

Amped Coffee Co. 3434 W. Anthem Way 480-462-6733, ampedcoffeeco.com

2022

BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

2022

Amped Coffee Co. is unlike any other cafe in the Valley. In addition to its delicious coffees, teas, beers, wines and bakery, Amped hosts local musicians on Thursdays and weekends. These regionally or even nationally known artists put on shows of all styles, making every weekend of music a special experience.

Enroute Coffee & Tea House

15605 W. Roosevelt Street 623-230-3031, enroutecoffeeaz.com

2022

The Buzzed Goat Coffee Co.

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

Enroute Coffee & Tea House is a local coffee and tea shop that prides itself on fun ingredients and creative and delicious monthly rotating

BESTOF

2022

Raging Sage

2458 N. Campbell Avenue 520-320-5203, ragingsage.com

BESTOF

2022

Our readers like to wake up with a fresh cup of joe at Janey’s Coffee Co. & Bodega. The warm, comfortable ambience at Janey’s creates a true coffeehouse experience. Janey’s features live music seven nights a week, but it also accommodates music lovers who are early risers with live music on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

480.820.0333 480.820.0333 A QUIET STUDY SPACE A QUIET STUDY SPACE OUTHERN A VE. 1707 E. SOUTHERN AVE. MPE, AZ 85282 TEMPE, AZ 85282 REAL SMOOTHIES FRUIT FRUIT SMOOTHIES EN REAL 5AM - 8PM OPEN 5AM - 8PM

480.820.0333 A QUIET STUDY SPACE 1707 E. SOUTHERN AVE. TEMPE, AZ 85282 BREAKFAST BAGELS BREAKFAST BAGELS REAL FRUIT SMOOTHIES OPEN 5AM - 8PM FREE FREE WIFI WIFI

As a small microroastery in Tucson, Raging Sage is committed to providing its customers with the finest coffee experience delivered in a sustainable way. With 11 caffeinated options and three decaf, coffee drinkers have an assortment of options to choose from. The Raging Sage Blend is the company’s award-winning blend developed for espresso and brewed coffee. With a perfect balance of body and acidity, it continues to please.

4302 E. Ray Road 480-706-7411, thebuzzedgoat.com

The Buzzed Goat is a high-energy coffee bar dedicated to bringing quality drinks and conversation together. It quickly became the neighborhood coffee spot in The Tuke with its espresso drinks and coffee, and its homemade baked goods and lunch items. What really sets it apart is its cold brew. And now it serves alcohol, fueling a splendid line of signature cocktails (happy hour is 2-7 p.m. every day). Those go pretty well with an order of chorizo and waffles.

Bergies Coffee Roast House 309 N. Gilbert Road 480-497-3913, bergiescoffee.com

480.820.0333 1707 E. SOUTHERN AVE. TEMPE, AZ 85282 OPEN 5AM - 8PM

BREAKFAST BAGELS

CRAFT YOUR OWN CRAFT YOUR OWN RED RED BULLBULL

FREE WIFI

HUGE SELECTION OF TEAS HUGE SELECTION OF TEAS BREWED BREWED TO ORDERTO ORDER

0% 50% GET ONE ONE CRAFTGET YOUR OWN RED BULLFREE! FF! OFF! FREE!

VON ALID DRINKS WITH ANY VALID OF DRINKS ON WITH OUR VALID ON ANY OF OUR AN OR LESSER ALUE ANDWICHES AN EQUALEQUAL OR LESSER VALUE BAGEL V SANDWICHES

HUGE SELECTION OF TEAS

EXPIRES 6/30/2023 EXPIRES 6/30/2023 6/30/2023 EXPIRES 6/30/2023

Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa

Bergies opened its doors in 2009 and has been going strong ever since. Bergies is proud to serve artisan-quality coffee, and the beans are small batch roasted on-site by members of the Bergeson family. Bergies is also a stop on the official historic walking tour in the Heritage District of Gilbert.

FRESHEST BEANS FRESHEST BEANS IN TOWN IN TOWN

FRESHEST BEANS IN TOWN BUY BUY ONE ONE

2022

50% OFF! VALID ON ANY OF OUR BAGEL SANDWICHES EXPIRES 6/30/2023

BRUNCH Haymaker

Multiple locations haymakeraz.com Locally owned and operated since 2013, Haymaker restaurant will help you get your day started right. It offers breakfast classics like omelets, waffles, French toast and more as well as specialties like the Haymaker Benedict and the pulled pork skillet. It prides itself on quality ingredients and mouth-watering home recipes. Breakfast is served all day.

Multiple locations firstwatch.com 2022

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

2022

Butters Pancakes Multiple locations, butterscafe.com

Hash Kitchen

First Watch

BESTOF

2022

Butters Pancakes uses only the finest and freshest ingredients available to create the mouthwatering options on its breakfast and lunch menus. Choices include pancakes, French toast, waffles, crepes, omelets, skillets, burgers, wraps and sandwiches. Be sure to enjoy the apple cinnamon pecan caramel French toast for breakfast or the harvest chicken salad from the lunch menu.

BESTOF

2022

First Watch is a popular des- The Glendale tar tination for breakfast, brunch and lunch. Its spread offers organic, gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options, presenting classic meals as well as a rotating menu of seasonal, innovative dishes. There is also a variety of drink options ranging from fresh-squeezed juices to the Project Sunrise Coffee.

Prep & Pastry

2660 N. Campbell Avenue, 520-326-7737 6450 E. Grant Road, 520-838-0809 prepandpastry.com Whether it’s an early morning breakfast with a client, lunch with a friend or brunch with the fam, head over to Prep & Pastry. The menu is compact, which means everything is prepared to order; there’s none of that frozen stuff. Look for biscuits and gravy, fried chicken sandwiches or classic French toast. Top off your meal with any number of teas, fresh squeezed orange juice or better yet, a mimosa or sangria. Then there are the yummy baked goods to take home.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2023

2855 W. Ray Road 480-909-4270 hashkitchen.com

BESTOF

2022

The build-your-own bloody mary bar and various culinary remixes on breakfast classics makes Hash Kitchen 2022 the go-to spot for an incredible brunch experience. Guests can select from a collection of scramblers, hashes, French toasts, Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa burgers and sandwiches. Items to indulge include the s’mores pancakes, banana split brioche French toast and Maso’s breakfast potato tacos.

Crackers & Co. Café

Multiple locations crackersandcompanycafe.com

BESTOF

2022

Crackers & Co. Café has been helping its customers start their days with made-from-scratch meals since 1984. The restaurant’s warm, Tuscan ambiance is the perfect setting for menu selections such as huevos rancheros pork carnitas, lemon blueberry pancakes, loaded baked potato skillet and spinach bacon mushroom omelet. Diners can also enjoy their meals with one of Crackers’ specialty coffees.

Snooze: An A.M. Eatery Multiple locations snoozeeatery.com

Snooze, launched in Denver in 2006, is dedicated to serving its customers trendy, responsibly sourced breakfasts and lunches and BESTOF promoting a more sustainable food system. Its menu consists of photoworthy omelets, breakfast tacos and sandwiches, and a spread of cocktails.

Breakfast and Lunch is our Specialty Fresh Cinnamon Rolls and Biscuits Baked Daily Sausage Gravy, Soups & Pancake Batter from Scratch Mimosas & Bloody Mary’s Coming February 6th

3321 EAST QUEEN CREEK ROAD #101, GILBERT, AZ 85297 • 480-988-2100 Hours: Mon-Fri 6am-2pm • Sat & Sun 7am-2:30pm

VIEW OUR MENU AT WWW.THENOOKAZ.COM

2022

Twisted Italian

ITALIAN Times Square Neighborhood Italian Restaurant

NOW OPEN!

Location

2602 W. Deer Valley Road 623-582-8866, timessquareaz.com

BESTOF

2022

Times Square Neighborhood Italian Restaurant is a classic Italian-style restaurant that has been open for over 15 years. Times Square offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, with healthy portions and diverse options. The staff is dedicated to serving customers the highest-quality Italian dishes making Times Square Neighborhood Italian Restaurant.

Oregano’s

Village Plaza

15280 W. McDowell Road 623-760-9588, oreganos.com

4722 E. Cactus Rd Phoenix, 602-358-7199

BESTOF

2022

Amazing Italian food is the tie that binds the family of Mark S. Russell. His grandmother and father were stellar cooks whose crowning achievements were their pizzas. Now, Russell and his staff are sharing his relatives’ recipes for pizza and other Italian food at Oregano’s. With their large servings and playful atmosphere, Oregano’s is this year’s best Italian restaurant.

Nello’s

• Breakfast

BUY ONE • Burgers • Deli MEAL Sandwiches GET ONE • Lox • Full Bar FREE Monday-Friday Only at our new Tatum & Cactus location.

Total Wine Plaza

1 block south of Shea 10320 N Scottsdale Rd 480-991-3034

Skysong

• Patio

La Mirada Plaza

just south of McDowell just east of Pima 1455 N Scottsdale Rd 8876 E Pinnacle Peak 480-664-4200 480-590-7200

There’s more to top-notch Italian dining than pizza, although Nello’s, a repeat winner in this category, spins a fine wood-fired pie, too. This longtime Ahwatukee gem is tucked in the strip center on the northwestern corner of 48th and Warner.

2022

BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

2022

Twisted Italian is a locally owned and operated, family-friendly restaurant that speBESTOF cializes in Italian classic dishes as well as some not-so-classics. Guests have options of a full bar, dine-in or carryout, daily happy hour specials, and lunch specials. Be sure to try the creative dishes it offers, including the king cut lasagna and loade Chicago beef.

2022

Caruso’s

434 N. Fourth Avenue 520-624-5765, carusositalian.com An absolute Tucson favorite, Caruso’s has had the best selection of fine Italian food for over 80 years. For starters, enjoy its antipasto appetizer that includes thinly sliced meats, cheeses and veggies on a bed of lettuce before diving into any traditional Italian favorite pasta, ravioli or eggplant Parmigiana. Don’t forget dessert! The cappuccino freeze is to die for.

Spiga Cucina Italiana

4710 E. Warner Road 480-893-8930, nellospizza.com

BESTOF

9940 W. Happy Valley Parkway 623-537-4000, eattwisted.com

7500 E. Pinnacle Peak Road 480-513-9000, spigaaz.com

BESTOF

2022

Spiga Cucina Italiana is our readers’ destination when they are in the mood for Italian. In addition to antipasti, soups, salads, pizza and desserts, the menu features entrees such as risotto tutto mare, vitello piccata and pollo Parmigiana. Diners can pair their meals with a glass of wine from Spiga’s lengthy wine list.

Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa

Vito’s Pizza and Italian Ristorante Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante Multiple locations, vitospizza.com One of the top Italian restaurants in the Valley, Vito’s Pizza and Italian Ristorante keeps the classic recipes of the owner’s grandmothers alive. Its menu boasts quality ingredients: flour imported from Italy and Wisconsin and Italian cheeses.

Pasta Brioni’s 4416 N. Miller Road 480-994-0028, pastabrioni.com

19420 N. 59th Avenue 623-777-1868, bottegaristorante.com

2022

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante was opened in 2017 by owner BESTOF Nick DiLello, who wanted to combine his passion for food and hospitality. There is something for The Glendale tar everyone with all the options, including a variety of pasta, pizza and salad dishes on the lunch and dinner menus. It also has a selection of beer, wine and cocktails. Be sure to try the eggplant Parmigiana and chicken piccata.

2022

BESTOF

2022

Pasta Brioni’s is a fine Italian dining experience not to be missed. Guests enjoy the beautiful atmosphere and the incredible lunch and dinner menu selections including pasta, salads, soups, homemade ravioli, premium sides, specialties and more.

Visit us at noodles.com

Casella’s Italian Delicatessen (TIE)

DELI/SANDWICH SHOP BESTOF

2022

Not Your Typical Deli

BESTOF

2022

Multiple locaitons nytdeli.com

Cheba Hut

Multiple locations chebahut.com/phoenix

BESTOF

2022

Cheba Hut features more than The Glendale tar 30 signature sub sandwiches, as well as a variety of Rice Krispy treats, salads, munchies and craft beer and spirits from local sources. Its proprietary Parisian bread — in white, whole wheat and signature garlic — is hand-rolled, hand-scored and baked by a bakery that has been in the business for more than 50 years.

Firehouse Subs Multiple locations firehousesubs.com

2022

Firehouse Subs takes pride in making sure guests are treated and fed well. Its wide array of sandwich choices uses the best meats, cheeses and toppings they can find. Be sure to try the smokehouse beef and cheddar brisket made with USDA Choice beef brisket, melted cheddar, mayo and Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce.

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

A delicatessen and bakery, Not Your Typical Deli fosters a dining experience that lives up to its name. It provides training for adults with developmental disabilities in an integrated work environment to help set them up for future success.

5905 N. Granite Reef Road 480-991-0770

BESTOF

Chompie’s (TIE) BESTOF

2022

Established in 1977, Casella’s Italian Delicatessen is a neighborhood sandwich shop serving up hot and cold Italian subs in a casual setting. Tasty sandwich selections include the Italian hoagie, chicken salad, pizza hoagie, meatball and pastrami.

BESTOF

Flancer’s

2022

Beyond Bread Multiple locations beyondbread.com

It all starts with the bread. At Beyond Bread, it’s an almost fanatical dedication they have to delivering the freshest and finest homemade artisan bread. From Charlie’s Chicken stacked high with chicken, bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, tomato, red onion and barbecue sauce on a torta roll to Salam’s Shawarma topped full with plant-based shawarma, beets, tomato, mixed greens, pickled onion, cucumber dill dressing wrapped in a wheat pita, sandwich options are endless.

Multiple Locations flancers.com

BESTOF

2022

Chompie’s is celebrated for its New York-style menu items and, of course, its famous sandwiches play a key role in that. Options include sliced-to-order pastrami, roast beef, corned beef, turkey breast and ham.

Mr. Gyros 2022

Culinary Institute of America graduate Jeff Flancer opened Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa Flancer’s over 20 years ago. It is proud to offer genuine comfort food with a twist. It uses only the freshest-quality ingredients that are locally grown, when possible. It even oven-bakes its own turkeys and makes its bread from scratch.

Heidi’s Brooklyn Deli 8360 W. Thunderbird Road 623-412-8100, heidisbrooklyndeli.com

9301 E. Shea Boulevard 480-860-0475, chompies.com

3655 W. Anthem Way 623-551-6458 facebook.com/ MrGyrosAnthemAz

BESTOF

2022

Mr. Gyros is a primarily Greek restaurant with added surprises like Chicago-style hot dogs and Philly cheesesteaks. Located in Anthem Marketplace, Mr. Gyros is a great stop during a day of shopping or exploring Anthem.

JJ’s Delicatessen BESTOF

2022

Founded by Brooklyn natives, Heidi’s Brooklyn Deli prepares its sandwiches with the highest quality, natural ingredients that are grass-fed, humanely raised, non-GMO when possible, and free of nitrates, nitrites, hormones and antibiotics. It serves its sandwiches on eight flavors of bread, which are free of additives and baked daily.

23425 N. Scottsdale Road 480-563-4557, jjsdeliaz.com

BESTOF

2022

JJ’s Delicatessen’s cooks carefully procure quality ingredients to make the best sandwiches in the North Valley, according to our readers. All of its hot and cold sandwiches are made to order and served to provide customers with an eating experience that invites comfort, reliability, consistency and great taste.

MEXICAN FOOD BESTOF

2022

tar

The Glendale

Urban Margarita is a locally owned Mexican and American restaurant. Its cuisine is simple but elevated, made with locally sourced produce and fresh, quality meats and seafood. It believes in humble hospitality and aims to provide each of its guests a great dining experience.

Raul & Theresa’s Mexican Restaurant has been making the finest Mexican food since 1968. Options include mouthwatering breakfast, lunch and dinner selections. Be sure to check out the all-you-can-eat shredded beef tacos and cheese enchiladas on Wednesdays.

Carolina’s Mexican Food

9030 W. Peoria Avenue 623-487-1400, carolinasmexicanfood.com

2022

Multiple locations bocataqueria.com

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

BESTOF

2022

Multiple locations ajoals.com

Boca Taqueria’s Gilbert restaurant is the business’ second location, which opened in 2017. It showcases the same delicious Mexican food as its first location in Mesa but with a more modern, industrial interior and trendy atmosphere.

Nando’s Mexican Cafe BESTOF

2022

Peoria food lovers can stay north of the border and still enjoy great south of the border cuisine at Carolina’s Mexican Food. Since 1968, the multigenerational family-owned restaurant has been using its original recipes and always fresh ingredients cook up some of the best Mexican food in the Southwest.

Ajo Al’s Mexican Café

Guy Fieri featured Los Taquitos on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” (Guy is particularly fond of the carnitas tacos and Bombero Burrito). The seven Ochoa sisters and brothers who run it have prided themselves for a quarter-century on doing it “the way Mom used to do it,” with old family recipes prepared only with fresh ingredients.

Boca Taqueria

Raul & Theresa’s 1363 N. Litchfield Road 623-536-9700, raulandtheresas.com

4747 E. Elliot Road 480-753-4370, lostaquitosaz.com

Urban Margarita

6685 W. Beardsley Road 623-561-6674, urbanmargarita.com

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2023

Los Taquitos Comida Mexicana

Multiple locations nandosmexicancafe.com

BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

2022

A tradition of great taste since 1983!

FRESH INGREDIENTS & FAMILY RECIPIES

2022

Nando’s is a Sonoran-style Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa Mexican restaurant with a tasty menu. It has six a la carte tacos including shredded or ground beef, machaca beef, chicken, grilled veggie, carne asada and carnitas. Try the specialties on the menu including Sonoran enchiladas and tacos pescado, both are served with rice, beans and flour tortillas.

Southeast Valley Para

2022

Family owned and operated since 1986, Ajo Al’s Mexican café prides itself on an extensive BESTOF menu of Mexican food including appetizers, soups, salads, Al’s originals, pizzas, fajitas, combos and desserts. Try the picado dinner made with diced chicken or steak, grilled with tomatoes, onions, green chiles and Monterey Jack cheese ($19). It also has gluten-friendly selections.

2022

Valle Luna

1949 W. Ray Road 480-786-3100, valleluna.com Valle Luna is an old-fashioned, family-owned and -operated business that proudly serves a diverse menu of Sonoran-style dishes. Try the popular dish,

SE Corner Dobson/W. Ray Roads Greenway P 1949 W. Ray Rd., Chandler 16048 N. Cav 602 480.786.3100

El Encanto BESTOF

6248 E. Cave Creek Road 480-488-1752, elencantorestaurants.com

BESTOF

2021

BESTOF

2022

El Encanto specializes in Sonoran Mexican food, which is inspired by Arizona. With a stunning patio that overlooks a pond, El Encanto is a truly BESTOF enchanting restaurant with traditional and neo takes on delicious Mexican dishes. El Encanto is the best simply because the staff, owners and chefs all work to provide an authentic Sonoran experience.

2022

Pepe’s sizzling fajitas, made with a choice of marinated steak, pork, chicken or shrimp and served with choice of beans, Spanish rice, lettuce, cheese, sour cream and guacamole along with warm tortillas ($15.95).

BESTOF

2022

2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017 and 2016 Best of Chandler “Best Mexican Food” “Best Tacos” • “Best Happy Hour”

Voted BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

2022

1st Place - Best Mexican Food

Best Tacos

Best Mexican Food

Boca Tacos y Tequila

TACOS

533 N. Fourth Avenue 520-777-8134, bocatacos.com

Tacos Calafia

2022

Multiple Locaitons tacoscalafia.com

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

Tacos Calafia started as a food truck in 2016 to bring authentic Tijuana street-style tacos to Arizona. The tacos were such a hit that the food truck turned into three restaurants. All the tacos are made with the freshest ingredients, including handmade tortillas, daily fresh salsa and guacamole. Be sure to try the family pack, which includes 10 tacos, two cheese quesadillas, beans, chips and two large drinks for $38.

Nando’s Mexican Café Multiple locations nandosmexicancafe.com

BESTOF

Tucson native Maria Mazon knows how to change up her menu with a variety of salsas and “one-of-akind” tacos that are a must-try. Incorporating fresh ingredients that she grows behind the restaurant, Boca Tacos and Tequila is a hot spot for some of the best tacos in Tucson.

2022

BESTOF

2022

Barrio Queen Multiple locations barrioqueen.com

BESTOF

2022

Nando’s is a locally owned and operated Sonoran-style Mexican restaurant with a mouthwatering menu. It has six a la carte tacos made with shredded or ground beef, machaca beef, chicken, grilled veggie, carne asada and carnitas. Try the specialties on the menu, including mesquite tacos ($16) and Barrio tacos ($16), both served with rice, beans and flour tortillas.

BESTOF

2022

Barrio Queen has a fivepage menu with more than 25 options for tacos. More than that, it offers appetizers like its award-winning guacamole, BESTOF soups, salads, bowls, burritos, tortas, enchiladas and entrée plates. There are also vegetarian and healthier options available. Of course, the best way to wash down a good taco is with a margarita, and Barrio Queen doesn’t disappoint. The restaurant has over a dozen different margaritas and even a margarita flight.

2022

BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

2022

Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa

Backyard Taco Multiple locations backyardtaco.com

Backyard Taco is all about simple, authentic Mexican food, and it proudly serves only the best-quality ingredients. The menu features made-to-order tacos, and nothing is frozen in the cocina. Customers have a choice of steak ($3.25), chicken ($2.95), shredded beef ($3.35) or pork tacos ($2.95) on top of a corn or flour tortilla with diced red onion and red tomato sauce on top.

q locations in r

Angry Crab Shack

SEAFOOD

708 W. Cactus Road 480-739-2949, angrycrabshack.com

High Tide at the Steelyard

BESTOF

5045 S. Gilbert Road 480-608-2815, hightidesteelyard.com

2022

High Tide at the Steelyard is dedicated to fresh seafood, oysters, sushi, prime steaks and the ultimate guest service. It offers a wide range of seafood options including the herb-crusted Baja Corvina seabass ($34) and Louisiana gumbo ($24). Do not forget to look at the dessert selection, including a snickerdoodle skillet with cookie dough, vanilla ice cream, caramel drizzle and wafer crumble ($9).

High Tide Seafood Bar and Grill

BESTOF

2022

2540 S. Val Vista Drive 480-821-9950, hightideseafoodbar. com

BESTOF

2022

Delicious food served in a fun environment by amazing staff makes Angry Crab Shack the top destination among our readers for seafood. There is something for every seafood lover on a menu that includes a scallop bowl, crab cake sandwich, fish and chips, and a Cajun seafood boil that can be prepared with seafood choices ranging from mussels to lobster to crawfish. There are also chicken sandwiches, po’boys, cheeseburgers and other choices for those who do not come for seafood.

Ocean 44

4748 N. Goldwater Boulevard 480-867-0044, ocean44.com

5455 E. High Street 480-347-1313, ocean-prime.com

2022

BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

2022

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

Pete’s Fish & Chips Multiple locations petesfishandchips.com

BESTOF

2022

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

2022

Pete’s Fish and Chips has been serving its special recipe since 1947. It offers a broad menu of sea food including fish and chips, shrimp, crabettes and scallops. Be sure to try the Pete’s special sauce that comes in 2-, 5-, 8- or 14-ounce containers. It only accepts cash, and there is an ATM on-site.

Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa

BESTOF

Landlocked? It’s not a problem for Kingfisher Bar and Grill, which has been serving award-winning cuisine since 1993. The seafood dishes — as well as grilled meats and poultry — are inspired by the multiple American cooking styles, all interpreted by chefs and owners Jeff Azersky and Jim “Murph” Murphy.

Ocean Prime is a nationally recognized, award-winning restaurant known for its BESTOF impressive made from scratch menu and sophisticated, fine dining atmosphere. It has a creative focus and appreciation for ingredients, which is why it prioritizes the use of simple, local and fresh foods. The seafood is selected daily and comes from wild and naturally harvested fish. Steaks are USDA-certified prime cuts. The menu has items like the spicy tuna roll, lobster bisque, ahi tuna, filet mignon and even crème brûlée.

2564 E. Grant Road 520-323-7739, kingfishertucson.com

BESTOF

Ocean 44 is an upscale world-class seafood experience. The menu includes chef-sourced, high-grade sustainable fresh seafood from around the world. Selections from the menu include oysters, Maine lobster, crab, shrimp, calamari, salmon, tuna and scallops. It has an incredible array of steak choices as well.

Specializing in steam kettle cooking that is prepared right at the counter, High Tide offers quality seafood in a fun, cozy environment, sourcing local suppliers for fresh ingredients.

Kingfisher Bar and Grill

Ocean Prime

THE ORIGINAL FISH & CHIPS

The fish we serve is mild, flaky & delicious! Even the kids love it! Crispy white meat chicken tenders & nuggets. Our onion rings are made fresh daily, never frozen! Burgers, Dogs & Burritos too!

2022

BESTOF

2022

The Glendale

tar

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2023

Sammy’s Burgers

LOCAL BURGER

525 N. Estrella Parkway 623-932-0908, sammysburger.com

Keegan’s Grill

4723 E. Ray Road 480-705-0505 keegansgrill.com/locations/ ahwatukee

10% off for military and first responders 2022

Sammy’s Burgers is a casual, family-owned restaurant serving up a tasty selection of burgers. Options include classic burgers as well as specialty burgers like the teriyaki burger and the Hawaiian burger. West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

There’s a mouthwatering array of burgers for every taste at Keegan’s Grill. Try Keegan’s Proprietary Chuck Blend Burger, with array of cheeses on an onion-knot bun. The Bistro Angus Burger has 6 ounces of brisket and Angus chuck with double cheddar on a brioche bun.

Big Earl’s Greasy Eats

Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers

All-natural hormone-free meat, fresh baked buns, hand-chopped veggies, and real mayo and butter make Big Earl’s Greasy Eats home to “the last honest hamburger.” What started as a gas station in the 1930s has spent the past two decades as a hamburger joint serving up burgers such as the Cave Creek BBQ burger and the Gut Buster burger.

Multiple locations coldbeers.com

BESTOF

2022

Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers is not your basic burger place. Only the freshest ingredients are used in the kitchen, while all the burgers are hand-formed and cooked to order. Customers can build their own burger or select from 14 different burgers.

Zinburger

344 N. Gilbert Road 480-387-5000, zinburgeraz.com

BESTOF

2022

With fresh ingredients and an emphasis on comfort, the All-American Zinburger is the place to visit for any occasion. The restaurant specializes in burgers and shakes and offers an array of appetizers and sides. A beer and wine spread is also available to complement any of its meals.

Pete’s Fish & Chips 22 S. Mesa Drive petesfishandchips.com

2022

Pete’s Fish and Chips is famous for serving up its unique recipe of Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa fish and chips since 1947, but it also serves up incredible burgers. It has a 1/3-pound Monsterburger option, with or without cheese. The burgers are served with Pete’s sauce, mustard, onions and pickles, and you can also add sliced jalapeños or coleslaw.

Zinburger

Multiple locations, zinburgeraz.com There’s something special about eating a delicious juicy burger along with crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside fries. Satisfy one’s hamburger cravings with the classic Samburger with applewood smoked bacon, American cheese, lettuce and Thousand Island dressing.

Lenny’s Burgers

2545 W. Glendale Avenue 602-347-1188, lennysburger.com

BESTOF

2022

Lenny’s Burgers has been a Valley sta- The Glendale tar ple since Lenny Fleaszar launched it 1984. Made-to-order charbroiled burgers are created with fresh, local ingredients and paired with custom homemade sauces, milkshakes and more. Fostering a friendly environment, the restaurant often leads guests to creating fond memories.

6135 E. Cave Creek Road 480-575-7889, bigearlsgreasyeats.com

BESTOF

2022

Time Out Sports Bar & Grill is open for dine-in, bar and carryout!

TRIVIA NIGHT wednesday nights

AZ/88

7353 E. Scottsdale Mall, Scottsdale 480-994-5576, az88.com

BESTOF

2022

AZ/88 is a modern saloon with award-winning cocktails and classic cuisine. The burger patties at AZ/88 are ground fresh and delivered daily by a local butcher. The burgers are served with waffle fries, fresh fruit and raw vegetables.

WING SPECIAL wednesdays & saturdays

Haymaker

Multiple locations haymakeraz.com

2022

Using fresh 100 % Angus chuck, Haymaker makes the best burgers in the area, according to our readers. Haymaker locally sources its ingredients whenever possible. The Smokehouse burger includes pulled pork and a bourbon barbecue sauce that the restaurant has been making for 18 years.

Saddle Mountain Brewing Company

15651 W. Roosevelt Street 623-249-5520, saddlemountainbrewing.com

BESTOF

2022

Jacob and Laura Hansen began their brewing journey with an at-home kit. Fifteen years later, Saddle Mountain Brewing was born with quality beer and quality, savory foods. Saddle Mountain’s dining room is open, but carryout and curbside pickup are also available.

Tru Burger

39504 N. Daisy Mountain Drive 623-465-5000, geeconcepts.com Refreshed in 2017, Tru Burger is a name known around the Valley. When Gee Concepts purchased the restaurant four years ago, its sales doubled and a second location appeared in Phoenix. Its flavorful gourmet burgers are made with hormone-free meat and with the addition of vegan and vegetarian options, customers can feel good about where they are eating.

75¢ traditional 89¢

BESTOF

2022

Boneless

HAPPY HOUR everyday 2pm-7pm

1 Off

16 oz. Beers

2 Off

25 oz. Beers

ERS ON ALL APPETIZ

Time Out Sports Bar & Grill

1762 S Greenfield Rd 111 • Mesa, AZ 85206

(480) 926-8500

BESTOF

2022

SPECIAL

sportsbarmesa.com

STEAKHOUSE

The Keg Steakhouse

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

16067 N. Arrowhead Fountains Center Drive 623-773-0500, firebirdsrestaurants.com

BESTOF

2022

2240 E. Williams Field Road 480-821-1500, kegsteakhouse.com

The Keg Steakhouse + Bar is a great stop for classic steak and seafood in a modern, stylish setting. The restaurant’s Keg Spirit Foundation supports over 300 charities across the country, concentrating on those that focus on youth development and mentorship.

Rodizio Grill

1840 S. Val Vista Drive 480-815-5400, rodiziogrill.com

BESTOF

2022

Rodizio Grill brings the authentic taste of Brazil to steak lovers in Mesa. Gauchos bring a dozen rotisserie meats and signature items such as tritip, sirloin and mint lamb directly to guests’ tables.

DC Steak House

180 S. Arizona Avenue 480-899-4400, dc-steakhouse.com

BESTOF

2022

Firebirds earns accolades from Peoria readers for its modestly priced upscale dining and top-notch service. Its 21-day aged steaks are cut in house and hardwood grilled in its scratch kitchen to produce bold menu offerings.

The Wigwam

300 E. Wigwam Boulevard 866-976-6894, wigwamarizona.com

BESTOF

2022

Litchfield’s at The Wigwam sports a refreshingly casual atmosphere fit for any occasion. The steakhouse, named after Litchfield Park founder Paul W. Litchfield, adopts a farm-to-table philosophy while supporting the community with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

2022

Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa

BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

2022

Downtown Chandler Steak House has created a space where guests are made to feel at home while they enjoy a wonderful meal. Guests have 11 different steak and chops options to choose from and some seafood options as well. All the entrées are served with a mixed green salad and your choice of baked potato, thin French fries or peppery sweet potato fries, or you can upgrade to a loaded baked potato with cheese and bacon.

Mastro’s Steakhouse

8852 E. Pinnacle Peak Road 480-585-9500, mastrosrestaurants.com

BESTOF

2022

Mastro’s Steakhouse is an upscale, fine dining steakhouse with top-quality steaks and outstanding service. The menu showcases the USDA prime steaks that are wet-aged for 28 days and cooked in a 1,500-degree broiler served sizzling hot with clarified butter.

Dominick’s Steakhouse

15169 N. Scottsdale Road 480-272-7271, dominickssteakhouse.com

BESTOF

2022

Dominick’s Steakhouse prides itself on creating an incredible fine dining experience with a luxurious atmosphere and exceptional meals. The menu features the highest-grade domestic Wagyu and USDA prime-grade beef with all steaks cut in-house by the master butcher.

Silver Saddle

310 E. Benson Highway 520-622-6253 thesilversaddlesteakhouse.com

Since 1984. family-owned and -operated Silver Saddle has been satisfying its customers with steaks cooked over a custom steel and brick mesquite wood grill and pit.

Thank You for making us

2022

Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa

BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

2021

Best East Valley Steakhouse the past 5 years and running! We are your grandparents steakhouse!

180 S Arizona Ave Ste 106, Chandler, AZ 85225 • 480-899-4400 MAKE RESERVATIONS AT DCSTEAKHOUSE.COM

Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse

7212 E. Ho Hum Drive 602-374-4784, keelerssteakhouse.com

BESTOF

2022

Keeler’s combines fine dining BESTOF with a friendly, social atmosphere. It features certified angus beef steaks, fresh seafood, chicken and other American specialty dishes. Steak options include a prime top sirloin baseball cut, New York strip, ribeye and filet mignon.

2022

Arrowhead Grill

8280 W. Union Hills Drive 623-566-2224, arrowheadgrill.com

2022

Arrowhead Grill is an award-winning, luxury restaurant serving incredible culinary experiences. It uses Iowa Premium Est. 8 BESTOF Angus-Certified USDA Prime cuts of meat with the highest tar The Glendale standards. Options include the original recipe Delmonico steak, Porter House, Tuscan steak, house prime rib and New York Strip.

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

2022

Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante

Barro’s Pizza

PIZZA

Multiple locations, barrospizza.com

Sal’s Gilbert Pizza 1150 S. Gilbert Road 480-633-2226, gilbertpizzaaz.com

2022

Sal’s Gilbert Pizza opened in 2006 to share New York-style fresh, home-cooked Italian cuisine with the Gilbert community. The restaurant uses the finest ingredients for its pizzas, which includes classic pies and signatures like the baked ziti pizza.

Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa

BESTOF

2022

Zesty Zzeeks Pizza & Wings

BESTOF

2022

4825 E. Warner Road 480-940-5555, zzeeks.com

2022

Barro’s Pizza has been an Arizona staple since 1980, when the state’s first location opened. Now there are over 45 locations across Arizona that are owned by the four Barro siblings.

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

Venezia’s New York Style Pizzeria

BESTOF

2022

Multiple locations venezias.com

Homemade recipes and fresh ingredients combine to make Venezia’s New York Style Pizzeria our readers’ favorite pizzeria. Using tomatoes imported directly from Italy, Venezia bakes classic pizzas and specialty pies such as Buffalo spicy chicken, Hawaiian, meat lovers and pesto.

Ray’s Pizza

A classic mom-and-pop, Zzeeks is the place to go when you’re hungry for pie. Never satisfied, this repeat category winner continues to roll out creative crusts, including the keto crust, the cauliflower crust and the broccoli crust. And a crust-less pie. Build your own or dig into the specialty pies that cover a range of toppings and sauces. And they deliver.

8385 W. Deer Valley Road 623-825-7005, rayspizzapeoria.com

19420 N. 59th Avenue 623-777-1868, bottegaristorante.com

Oregano’s BESTOF

Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante was opened in 2017 by owner Nick DiLello, who wanted to combine his passion for food and hospitality.

Grimaldi’s

20715 N. Pima Road, Suite F115 480-515-5588, grimaldispizzeria.com

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BESTOF

2022

The most award-winning pizzeria in the country, Grimaldi’s bakes its pizzas in its signature coal-fired brick oven to create a unique flavor and crisp crust. Using fresh ingredients and a “secret recipe” dough that is made and hand-tossed daily.

BESTOF

2022

4205 W. Anthem Way 623-500-2350 facebook.com/ GiosPizzaAnthem

BESTOF

2022

Gio’s Pizza is a family-owned and -operated Italian/ Sicilian New York-style pizzeria. Here, it’s all about perfecting the basics. Gio’s Pizza makes its own mozzarella and uses authentic Italian products. Pizzas are available with Gio’s famous crust.

Bottomless Mimosas

Best Breakfast Restaurant & Best American Restaurant

tar

Gio’s Pizza

When our readers are in the mood for incredible pizza, they visit Ray’s Pizza. Pizza lovers can decide between ordering whole pies, individual slices or calzones. They also can choose between thin crust and Sicilian thick crust. In addition to traditional pizzas, Ray’s creates specialty pies such as veggie, Hawaiian, Buffalo chicken and meat lovers.

Voted

2022

The Glendale

3224 S. Mill Ave Tempe, AZ 85282

(NW corner of Mill & Southern)

480-912-1711

15280 W. McDowell Road 623-760-9588, oreganos.com

BESTOF

2022

Whether it’s date night or family night, Oregano’s is a fantastic choice for pan or thin crust pizzas. The Phoenix mainstay has the usual suspects (toppings), along with spiced feta cheese, caramelized red onion and sun dried tomatoes.

Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria Multiple locations loumalnatis.com

BESTOF

2022

Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria stays true to the Chicago-style deep dish pizza recipe that Grandpa Malnati helped create in 1943. It uses the freshest and finest ingredients available, including the finest vine-ripened plum tomatoes that are blended and canned exclusively for Lou Malnati’s.

Oregano’s Pizza Bistro

3102 N. Scottsdale Road 480-970-1860, oreganos.com

BESTOF

2022

Every pizza at Oregano’s Pizza Bistro is hand-tossed and made with fresh ingredients. Guests can select from the thick crust pan pizza or the thin crust and then choose from a generous selection of toppings.

Buffalo Wild Wings

WINGS

970 S. Gilbert Road 480-632-9464, buffalowildwings.com

Ray’s Pizza

8385 W. Deer Valley Road 623-825-7005, rayspizzapeoria.com

2022

Ray’s Pizza is a neighborhood eatery offering some of the tastiest wings in the West Valley. The wings come in quantities of six, 12 or 20 pieces with a choice of plain, hot, medium, mild or barbecue. Don’t forget the dipping sauces, including ranch dressing, bleu cheese dressing or Buffalo sauce. West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

Wings Over Broadway 8838 E. Broadway Boulevard 520-207-5883, wobtucson.com

Perfect pairing to a football game, wings are plentiful at Wings Over Broadway. With 13 sauce flavors, customers are sure to find one or a few to make it a finger-licking good meal. Going solo, try the one-dozen bucket deal. There with the crew? Go up to 200 pieces accompanied with 16 ranch or bleu cheese dressings and up to eight flavor choices.

Wingstop

Multiple locations wingstop.com

BESTOF

2022

Buffalo Wild Wings has been a prime spot to grab some wings and catch the game since 1992. The franchise is recognized nationwide for its wings and sauces, but its menu also includes sandwiches, wraps and salads.

Sardella’s

8278 W. Lake Pleasant Parkway 623-561-9200, sardellaspizza.com

BESTOF

2022

With nine sauces, it is easy to find a taste to love when ordering wings at family-owned and -operated Sardella’s. Flavors include mango habanero, spicy barbecue, honey mustard and “suicide.” Its regular and boneless wings come in orders of five, 10 or 20 wings.

Luna Pizza

7800 N. 55th Avenue 480-428-3587, mylunapizza.com

The Glendale

tar

Glendale’s Luna Pizza is a family-owned restaurant serving New York-style pizza. Known for its classic cheese pizza, it offers everything from calzones and strombolis to cheesecakes and cannolis.

Zesty Zzeeks Pizza & Wings

2022

Multiple locations zzeeks.com

BESTOF

A classic mom-and-pop, Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa Zzeeks is the place to go when you’re hungry for pie. Never satisfied, this repeat category BESTOF winner continues to roll out creative crusts, including the keto crust, the cauliflower crust and the broccoli crust. And a crustless pie. Build your own or dig into the specialty pies that cover a range of toppings and sauces. And they deliver.

R.T. O’Sullivan’s

2022

Founded in 1993, R.T. O’Sullivan’s sports bar serves a variety of great food and, in particular, incredible wings. Guests can choose from bone-in or boneless and a wide selection of flavors, including mild, medium, hot, barbecue, honey barbecue and teriyaki. All wings are served with celery, carrots and ranch dressing.

CK’s Tavern & Grill

BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

Don’t just leave the wings to the celebrity interviews on YouTube. Choose from an array of flavors fit to satisfy any palate at Wingstop. Whether you’re a wimp to the wing and prefer to keep it mild or you’re crazy for Cajun and like to push the limits of heat.

7919 E. Thomas Road 480-307-6533, rtosullivans.com

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2023

4142 E. Chandler Boulevard 480-706-5564, ckgrill.com

CK’s “Best of Ahwatukee” wings are fried to perfection, even finished on the grill at your request. Served extra crispy with your choice of sauce .

2022

The Hub Grill and Bar Multiple locations hubgrill.com

BESTOF

2022

When our readers want wings, they want them at The Hub Grill and Bar. Wing lovers can order a half-pound, full-pound or 2-pound order of wings or smoked wings. Boneless smoked wings and smoked thighs are other options. Beyond the typical hot, medium and mild wing sauce flavors, menu choices include honey barbecue, Cajun, garlic Parmesan and raspberry chipotle.

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29° DRAFT BEER. SCRATCH KITCHEN. SCENIC VIEWS.

Twin Peaks Near You TWIN PEAKS TEMPE

TWIN PEAKS SCOTTSDALE

2050 E Rio Salado Pkwy

8787 E Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd Scottsdale, AZ 85260

Tempe, AZ 85281

TWIN PEAKS CAMELBACK TWIN PEAKS GLENDALE 2135 E Camelback Rd Phoenix, AZ 85016

6922 N 95th Ave Glendale, AZ 85305

TWIN PEAKS DEER VALLEY Coming Soon

BREWS & SPIRITS SIP » BREW » RELAX » EXPERIMENT » REFRESH » TOAST

HAVE A DRINK weeklong fanfare. Establishments Diego Pops will serve its top-selling pricklytoast to partnerships pear margarita — which features agave, prickly pear and house-made sweet and sour for Super Bowl — and Diego margarita streetside for guests By Alex Gallagher

efore the big game kicks off on Sunday, February 12, several bars and establishments are shaking things up by partnering with big names like Bacardi, Hensley Beverage Co. and Jack Daniel’s for specialty drinks, events and other offerings. Additionally, neighboring outposts have teamed up to create large events and crosspromote their bestselling beverages.

DIEGO POPS AND THE MONTAUK Neighboring restaurants Diego Pops and The Montauk have joined forces to create a parking lot “Super Block” party so customers can get the best of both worlds. Joining the party is Phoenix-based beverage distributor Hensley Beverage Co. and Bacardi. Live DJs and games add to the Frozen Jack and Coke at Mavrix

to sip on as they wait for a table or mingle outdoors. The Montauk’s signature drink is Montauk Frosé — a creative blend of Campo Viejo rosé and Ketel One botanical vodka — and its hottest-selling Mango Tango, featuring a sweet heat combo of jalapeño-infused Bacardi, mango real, lime and Tajin. Diego Pops 4338 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale 480-970-1007, diegopops.com The Montauk 4360 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale 480-994-1888, themontaukaz.com

BOONDOCKS AND THE HOT CHICK Old Town’s Boondocks and The Hot Chick are hosting one of the hottest parties in the Valley, the Tailgate Time Machine. Featuring acts like Slim Thug, Baby Bash, T-Pain and Fashen over five days, Boondocks and The Hot Chick will block off the northbound side of 75th Street for a large block party equipped with DJs, big-screen televisions and several outdoor games. Adding to the fun, Red Bull will set up makeshift bars outside for guests to order drinks from as they mingle, play and groove to the bassy tunes. The outside bar will have liquors like Angel’s Envy, Bacardi, Bombay, Grey Goose and Patron available for patrons to craft cocktails out of. Inside the establishments, they will serve their full drink menus. Boondocks 4341 N. 75th Street, Scottsdale 480-949-8454, boondocksaz.com The Hot Chick 4363 N. 75th Street, Scottsdale 480-550-7507, thehotchickaz.com

MAVRIX Located off Loop 101 and Talking Stick Way, Mavrix has become a destination for families looking for a place to bowl, game and enjoy a bite to eat. This year, Mavrix has stepped up its game by partnering with Jack Daniel’s to create a drink menu that utilizes the famed whiskey to jazz up its signature drinks. Kicking off the menu is a twist on the classic old fashioned cocktail, which is infused with Jack Daniel’s; agave syrup; a ball of ice; and smoke to give it a smokey, silky finish. Conversely, for guests looking to enjoy a colder beverage, Mavrix is offering an adult twist on a childhood favorite. Mavrix has added a frozen Jack and Coke to its menu, which Octane Entertainment — which owns Mavrix — COO JP Mullan describes as tasting similar to a Coca-Cola slushie. Rounding out its drink menu is a Jack Daniel’s-infused Lynchburg Lemonade and a Jack Apple Mule — which features Jack Apple, ginger beer and a lime wedge garnish. Mavrix Jack Daniel’s has also partnered with the restaurant to create upgraded experiences to view the big game on its patio or in its intimate VIP trophy room. Mullan says he thought the whiskey brand was a natural fit for the dining destination. “We try to think of Mavrix as a good fit for everybody — whether it’s the young crowd or the parents — and we saw Jack Daniel’s offers so much that you can do with the liquor and spirit, so we figured that it’d be a great fit,” Mullan says. Mavrix 9139 Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale 480-291-7500, mavrix.com/thebiggame

THE MEXICANO The latest concept from the Maggiore Group, The Mexicano — which recently feted its first anniversary — will have a hit on its hands with the build-your-own piñata margarita bar, where guests can choose the salt rim, tequila and margarita.

Available flavors like prickly pear or passion fruit can be topped with cotton candy, Mexican candy, boba, edible flowers and Sour Patch Kids or watermelon, mango and guava. This is expected to be a big seller during the week leading up to the Super Bowl. Guests can watch the big game in the restaurant, too. “We aim to bring over-the-top margaritas with our signature build-your-own margarita bar where our guests can craft next-level margaritas and pick from over 30 unique toppings,” The Mexicano co-founder and chef Joey Maggiore says. “Our piñata margarita is the ultimate party-starter drink because it comes with a custom margarita experience, a tequila shot, and a playful piñata to take home.” The Mexicano 4801 E. Cactus Road, Phoenix 602-812-2100, themexicano.com

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16554 N 83rd Ave, Peoria, AZ 85382 • 623-773-2424

THEMOONSALOON

BEER/BREWERY

SanTan Brewing Company 8 S. San Marcos Place 480-917-8700, santanbrewing.com

2022

Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa

2022

15681 N. Hayden Road 480-948-3159, ohsobrewery.com

BESTOF

2022

Multiple locations unclebearsaz.com

SanTan Brewing Company cares about everything that goes into making beer and BESTOF spirits, from the ingredients to the packaging, and it shows. An incredible year-round line of brews is available that includes MoonJuice IPA, Devil’s Ale and an Arizona-style lager. It also has a limited-time selection of beers that incorporate the flavors of each season, including Mr. Pineapple and Oktoberfest.

O.H.S.O. Brewery + Distillery

Yard House

Uncle Bear’s Grill and Tap

BESTOF

2022

O.H.S.O. Brewery + Distillery has 36 beers on tap, 24 wines by the glass, and several signature cocktails to go along with the delicious food menu options, but that’s not all. This location is special because you can take a tour of the distillery, sample the hand-crafted spirits, and take home a bottle.

At Uncle Bear’s Grill and Tap, guests can enjoy a selection of locally brewed craft beers BESTOF paired with Uncle Bear’s tasty food selections, including craft burgers, Tex-Mex, sandwiches and wings, to name a few. Uncle Bear’s own specially made craft beers are available at all its locations; however, guests can see where the drinks are made locally at the brewery location in Gilbert.

2022

Barrio Brewing

800 E. Sixth Street 520-791-2739, barriobrewing.com The home of Tucson’s Best Beer, Barrio Blond, Barrio Brewing was Arizona’s first brewery when it opened in 1991. It’s also 100% employee owned. Inside an old factory as picturesque as a 1930s movie set, there’s a wood-paneled bar and restaurant. All three stories also have rooms suitable for any size party, meeting or special event. The brewery’s website helps customers find other Tucson locations that sell any of their 15 beers.

Multiple locations yardhouse.com

BESTOF

2022

Located near the Westgate The Glendale tar Entertainment District Mall, Yard House is a convenient stop for innovative food. Chefs are always looking for BESTOF new ways to introduce globally inspired flavors to American dishes, so its menu has a familiar yet worldly vibe. Its spread features over 100 draft beers from local to imported breweries, the world’s largest selection.

2022

12 West Brewing Company 12 W. Main Street 480-508-7018, 12westbrewing.com

BESTOF

2022

With a full kitchen, 12 craft beer taps, full spirits, wine and a patio with two levels, 12 West Brewing Company is Mesa’s favorite brewery. Its 10-barrel system brews local craft beers that are served in its family- and dog-friendly taproom in Downtown Mesa. The brewery also produces sour ale named Alma. Event hosting, can and bottle releases, brunch, happy hour, daily specials and live music are available.

Saddle Mountain Brewing Company

15651 W. Roosevelt Street 623-249-5520, saddlemountainbrewing.com

2022

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

Saddle Mountain Brewing Company is a full-service restaurant and Goodyear’s first full-producBESTOF tion craft brewery. It has a wide selection of craft beer, including stouts, lagers and pale ales. Be sure to check out its fantastic daily specials and exciting events. Happy hour is all day on Mondays and 3 to 6 p.m. Tuesday to Friday.

2022

Peoria Artisan Brewery & Gastropub

10144 W. Lake Pleasant Parkway 623-572-2816, peoriaartisanbrewing.com

BESTOF

2022

Family- and community-oriented Peoria Artisan Brewery & Gastropub crafts its beers in house on a 155-gallon brew system. The locally owned brewery rotates its taps frequently and creates new and exciting beers every month, including seasonal and limited brews such as peanut butter porter, monsoon juice and Oktoberfest lager.

The Hub Grill and Bar

HAPPY HOUR

The Perch Pub & Brewery

Multiple locations hubgrill.com

BESTOF

The Social on 83rd BESTOF

2022

The Perch Brewery and Pub is not only a brewery and pub but home to a collection of over 50 brightly colored, tropical rescue birds. Customers enjoy observing the birds and an amazing happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday.

The Hub Grill and Bar puts the “happy” in happy hour every weekday from 2:12 to 6:12 p.m. and 10 p.m. to close Sunday to Thursday. In addition to getting $2 off Hub drinks, thirsty patrons can choose from well drinks, small domestics and domestic bottles for $4 each. The Hub also serves call drinks, small craft, large domestic and house wine for $5. And $6 will get them five beer sample paddles, queso and chips, or a single fried item in a basket.

Roman’s Oasis

The Trident Grill

232 S. Wall Street 480-773-7688, perchpubbrewery.com

16825 W. Yuma Road 623-932-0922

2022

Multiple locations, tridentgrill.com 2022

Since 1986, Roman’s Oasis has been the go-to spot for a good time. The dance hall, West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times live music venue and bar has a happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m. daily with $3.50 domestic bottles, $3.50 domestic drafts, $3.75 well drinks and $1 off all liquor. Pair your drink with food specials from the menu as well. Remember, Roman’s Oasis is a cash-only bar.

BESTOF

2022

GREAT FOOD!! Voted Best Wings & Best Karaoke

The Trident is a gastropub in the proud uniform of a neighborhood sports bar. Patrons are serious enough about sports to get the channel changed on the screens facing their respective tables. The happy hour menu of $6 to $8 treats comes out from 3 to 6 p.m. when there’s $1 off all craft beer, well cocktails, and wine by the glass. We recommend the Kahlua pork tacos with mango sauce or the crispy cod tacos with avocado lime.

8350 W. Paradise Lane 623-486-4343, thesocialaz.us

BESTOF

2022

The Social on 83rd puts the “happy” in happy hour every weekday from 2 to 6 p.m. Guests can unwind with draft beer for $3.50; well drinks for $4; or wine by the glass, martinis or sangria for $5. If they are hungry, they can enjoy bruschetta and shared plates for $4 or a burger with fries for $10.

Urban Margarita 6685 W. Beardsley Road 623-561-6674, urbanmargarita.com

BESTOF

2022

The Glendale

tar

Village Tavern

8787 N. Scottsdale Road 480-951-6445, villagetavern.com

BESTOF

2022

You can’t go wrong with happy hour at Village Tavern. From 4 to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, guests enjoy $6.50 top-shelf, $7 wines, $1 off all draft or bottle beers, and $8 to $12 small plates.

4905 E. Ray Road 480-454-3599, livingroomwinebar.com

The comfy furniture, relaxed atmosphere and friendly people indeed do make this place feel like your living room — or back patio. From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, wines by the glass, flights and well drinks are $3 off. Signature cocktails and draft beer are $2 off. Weekdays from 3-6 p.m., select happy hour food items are $3 off and flatbreads are priced at $5. That’s comfy.

Postino East

302 N. Gilbert Road 480-632.6363, postinowinecafe.com With a spread of beer and wine to pair with its brunch menu, Downtown Gilbert’s Postino East is a great place to drop by during happy hour. Guests can enjoy a warm atmosphere either hanging out at the cozy bar or relaxing on the sunny patio.

2022

Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa

BESTOF

2022

YOU CALL IT DRINK!

NO PREMIUM. One per person ONLY.

FRIENDLY, NEIGHBORHOOD SPORTS BAR 5030 S. Mill Ave Ste D20 • Tempe, AZ 85282 (NW corner of Mill & Baseline)

480-456-FOOD(3663)

Mention this ad or show us your ticket and receive

The Living Room Wine Café & Lounge

Roman’s Oasis Bar and Restaurant, now in the middle of the thriving City of Goodyear, was once in the middle of cotton and corn fields. Self proclaimed ‘Hillbilly’ Roman Comer took over the business in 1986; adding on to the existing 2,800 SF to make what is now 9,000 SF of dining, drinks and dancing. Roman’s daughter Myra Curtis took over the business in 2015 with the goal of continuing her daddy’s legacy of providing a fun, local community gathering spot. “If you don’t have fun at Roman’s, it’s your own fault”, laughs Curtis. Roman’s Oasis is a destination with entertainment every night of the week. Live Bands, DJs, Karaoke, Event Poker, both Couples and Line Dance Lessons, and Trivia. Menu items include such delicacies as coconut crusted shrimp, calamari, seared Ahi tuna, green chili chicken pasta and ribeye steaks... as well as ‘fried wonderfuls’. Reservations for dinner or parties can be made throughout the year; including wedding receptions, birthday parties, and company events (623-512-0852). As the city grows, so must the roadways. Therefore, Yuma Road is slated to be widened in the near future to accommodate current and future growth. A new building will be established near the current location, on the same property, prior to the existing building being torn down. Since Roman had help from his contemporaries with building and decorating the current building; so Myra wishes to continue the theme of a ‘community build’ when taking down current décor and then placing it at the new building. Community members are encouraged to sign up at Roman’s to assist. 2022

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

BESTOF

2022

The next generation of Roman’s family is firmly entwined in the business, as Myra’s daughter Sarah Curtis, who grew up working for her Papa, is the General Manager at Roman’s. Roman’s Oasis is located on the SE corner of Cotton Lane and Yuma Road, at 16825 W. Yuma, Goodyear, Az 85338 623-932-0922

FREE Dance Lessons Mon, Tues & Sat from 7-9pm FREE Poker Wednesdays & Thursdays from 6-8pm Trivia Wednesdays from 6:30-8pm LIVE Band Friday and Saturday from 9pm-1am LIVE DJ Friday and Saturday from 9:30pm-1:30pm Karaoke Wednesday from 8pm -9pm Thursday & Sunday from 8pm-Midnight

Open EVERY DAY from 11am-2am Happy Hour EVERY DAY from 3-7pm Kitchen Hours Sun-Thurs from 11-9pm Fri & Sat 11am-10pm

16825 W Yuma Rd Goodyear, AZ 85338

PLACE TO GRAB A COCKTAIL

The Ostrich

10 N. San Marcos Place 480-917-4913, theostrichbar.com

BESTOF

2022

The Ostrich takes customers back in time when they step foot in the vintage-style lounge beneath Crust. Bartenders at The Ostrich are connoisseurs of drinkmaking, and the menu includes shaken, stirred and Ostrich classic drinks. Be sure to try the Pretty Young Thing ($12) or the Manhattan ($14). Wine, draft beer, and food from the Crust restaurant are also available.

The Whining Pig Desert Ridge 21001 N. Tatum Boulevard 480-534-5657, thewhiningpig.com

BESTOF

2022

Some may know The Whining Pig to just be a beer and wine bar, but with a little secret intel, guests can find their way into the speakeasy cocktail bar hidden next door. Here’s a hint: Follow the neon sign. The speakeasy features an entire wall covered with plants, plush seating, a secret exit behind a bookshelf and, of course, an extensive list of specialty cocktails. It’s a hidden oasis with plenty of fruity cocktails and top-shelf bourbons for those who want to embrace the speakeasy spirit.

Lucky Lou’s American Grill 1929 N. Power Road 480-985-8259, luckylousaz.com

BESTOF

2022

A Vegas theme combined with daily specials and happy hours makes Lucky Lou’s American Grill Mesa readers’ favorite place to sip a cocktail. The only thing they like more than Lucky Lou’s selection of craft beer pints, well drinks, domestic drafts and house wines is getting them for $1 off during happy hour — 2 to 6 p.m. weekdays and noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.

The Living Room

Multiple locations livingroomwinebar.com

CK’s Tavern & Grill

2022

The Living Room is a local wine café and lounge with an array of cocktails to choose from, including the James Brown, made with Old Forester bourbon, Montenegro amaro, brown sugar, simple syrup and orange essence. Guests will notice the charming ambiance and welcoming atmosphere when they stop in. It also has an intriguing food menu including appetizers, soups, salads, bruschetta, flatbreads, sandwiches, burgers, sushi rolls and desserts to pair with a cocktail.

7320 E. Scottsdale Mall 480-945-2882, oldtowntavernaz.com

4142 E. Chandler Boulevard 480-706-5564, ckgrill.com Full bar. Incredible happy hour. Famous friendly service. Thirty-five HDTVs. It’s no wonder why Ahwatukee residents regard CK’s as the place to grab a beverage. The unpretentious neighborhood watering hole has been the spot to imbibe and/or chow down for decades. The seven-days-a-week 3-7 p.m. happy hour includes discounted pricing on bar food.

The White Rabbit Bar

207 N. Gilbert Road 480-750-0099, twr.bar

BESTOF

Old Town Tavern

2022

Gilbert’s first and original Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa speakeasy, The White Rabbit Bar opened in 2018 and ignited cocktail culture in East Valley. With BESTOF classic-inspired modern cocktails, the speakeasy celebrates community and the artistry that goes on behind the bar. Guests must know the password to enter through the secret entrance.

2022

BESTOF

2022

Old Town Tavern is the place to be in Old Town Scottsdale for great cocktails, good times and live music. Constant drink specials are happening, so it is always happy hour at OTT. The drinks are never watered down or overpriced, according to staff. The OTT team’s drinks are so talented that people come from all over the world.

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OF PICKLEBALL AND PERFORMING LoCash readies new sets for Arizona shows By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

ountry duo LoCash acknowledges that they, like most musicians, spend 23 hours twiddling their thumbs and one hour doing what they do best —

performing. They kill time co-writing songs, bingewatching TV shows and playing pickleball. “I don’t know if we’re good, but we can hang in there,” vocalist Preston Brust says with a laugh. “We try to win some money on the road against band members, the songwriters who are out with us, and our managers. They’re weak. We can always beat them.” They’re bringing the equipment — and music — to Arizona for a handful of shows: 8 p.m. Friday, February 24, at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino in Chandler and 8 p.m. Saturday, February 25, with Drake Milligan at Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment in Sahuarita. This is a special market for them. “My fondest memory of Phoenix is Tim Richards. He was in radio,” Brust says. “He’s become one of our best friends. When ‘One Big Country Song’ kicked off (in 2019), he led the way. When it needed a push in the middle, he was there for us. “When we went for No. 1, he pushed hard for it. He’s the spin leader in the country. He played the song more than any other radio station in the United States. We’re indebted to him. Phoenix stepped up and hit it out of the park.” LoCash is on tour supporting its forthcoming single “Three Favorite Colors,” a song about the red, white and blue. “Everything in our life revolves around that song,” Brust says. Singer Chris Lucas adds, “We hope the song brings America together. There’s so much animosity. LoCash is known for bringing the positive. This song does it. It just shows

you we have these colors, and we all stand together. We’re bigger together than we are separately.” The song comes on the heels of their 2021 EP, “Woods & Water.” It’s a busy time for the duo, who met as DJs. LoCash has earned eight charting singles, two successful albums, and over 815 million global on-demand streams. They were nominated for vocal duo of the year at the 56th annual CMA Awards. The duo recently inked a partnership with Monster Jam. On July 1, they’ll play the halftime show of the Monster Jam World Finals at Nashville’s Nissan Stadium. “We’re looking forward to a great partnership,” Lucas says. “I went for the first time, and I was so impressed by it. Even my little girls had a blast.” 2023 also sees LoCash opening for Kane Brown on 30 dates of his Drunk or Dreaming Tour. Perhaps one of LoCash’s highlights is collaborating with the Beach Boys on the song “Beach Boys.” It features the Beach Boys’ cofounder Mike Love and longtime bandmate Bruce Johnston, and it has tallied 4.56 million global streams to date. “When became little kids again,” Lucas says about the collaboration. “They’re icons. My dad listened to the Beach Boys. We all know who they are. To get to know them and their secret ingredients — harmonies — to tour with them a couple times was awesome.” They took the song to ABC’s “Good Morning America” on August 2, 2022, and added to the set the Beach Boys’ iconic “Kokomo” on “GMA3: What You Need to Know.” LoCash and the Beach Boys made four pop-up appearances. They surprised fans at the Beach Boys’ hometown show at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles on August 7, 2022, with special guests John Stamos and Sugar Ray’s Mark McGrath. The two performed together during their debuts at Stagecoach in Indio, California, in May 2022. That same month, LoCash introduced the Beach Boys before their first gig at the Grand Ole Opry.

“That was extra special,” Brust says. “That night will live with us forever in our hearts. It’ll forever be an amazing memory.” The Beach Boys experiences more than make up for the dull times on the road. “We spend so much time on the road and in the bus,” Brust says. “We carry writers with us on the bus with us sometimes. Chris and I can knock out six to seven songs on the weekend if we have a couple writers with us. “They always say there are 23 hours of (expletive) just to get to that one hour of what you really love to do. Those 23 hours we spend trying to be creative if we can. You do need

a little time to yourself. You’re cramped on a little tour bus.” When LoCash does hit the stage, it’s ready to party, Brust says. “We come out there and just rock,” he says. “We have a high-energy show to make everyone forget about their drama. They get their hands up and sing along with country songs that they know. “You never know what we’re going to throw in the set. We always switch it up. It’s our way of making the show feel unique every night. If you’ve seen one show or five shows or 10 shows, you’ll still get something different.”

LoCash w/Drake Milligan

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WHERE: Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 W. Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita

WHERE: Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler

COST: Tickets start at $25

COST: Tickets start at $29

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CASINO ENTERTAINMENT

CALENDAR By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Matt Farris

8 p.m. Friday, February 3, and Saturday, February 4, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-7894957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Mo Amer

8 p.m. Friday, February 3, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $15, 1-800-WIN-GILA, playatgila.com

Wanted

7:30 p.m. Friday, February 3, and Saturday, February 4, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $15, 480-850-7777, casinoarizona.com

Kathleen Madigan

8 p.m. Saturday, February 4, Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, tickets start at $34, 480-850-7777, talkingstickresort.com

Superzona Kick-Off with Steve Aoki

Way, Scottsdale, tickets start at $400, 480-850-7777, talkingstickresort.com

Planters brand Legends Party hosted by Ron Gronkowski and Vernon Davis 8 p.m. Friday, February 10, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $250, 1-800-WIN-GILA, playatgila.com

Radio Dayz

8 p.m. Friday, February 10, We-KoPa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-7894957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Gronk Beach w/21 Savage, Diplo, Lil Jon, Bijou, DJ Irie and Sommer Ray

Noon Saturday, February 11, Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, tickets start at $249, 480-850-7777, talkingstickresort.com

Sports Illustrated The Party presented by Captain Morgan w/Chainsmokers and Machine Gun Kelly

7 p.m. Thursday, February 9, The Pool at Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, tickets start at $49, 480-8507777, talkingstickresort.com

9 p.m. Saturday, February 11, The Pool at Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, tickets start at $799.99, 480-8507777, talkingstickresort.com

Sixtiesmania

Powerdrive

7:30 p.m. Friday, February 10, and Saturday, February 11, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $15, 480-850-7777, casinoarizona.com

8 p.m. Saturday, February 11, WeKo-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-7894957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Shaq’s Fun House w/Diplo, Snoop Dogg, Diesel and Myles O’Neal

8 p.m. Tuesday, February 14, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $25, 1-800-WIN-GILA, playatgila.com

8 p.m. Friday, February 10, Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick

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Bijou

Superhero

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Basketball Jones

LoCash

Sheena Easton and Taylor Dayne

Rock N Roll Band

8 p.m. Friday, February 17, We-KoPa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-7894957, wekopacasinoresort.com 8 p.m. Saturday, February 18, WeKo-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-7894957, wekopacasinoresort.com

8 p.m. Saturday, February 18, Desert Diamond Casino Sahuarita, 1100 W. Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita, tickets start at $30, ddcaz.com

Air Supply

8 p.m. Saturday, February 18, Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, tickets start at $35, 480-850-7777, talkingstickresort.com

Tony Kishman: Live and Let Die: The Music of Paul McCartney

8 p.m. Saturday, February 18, WeKo-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-7894957, wekopacasinoresort.com

8 p.m. Friday, February 24, We-KoPa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-7894957, wekopacasinoresort.com 8 p.m. Friday, February 24, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $29, 1-800-WIN-GILA, playatgila.com 7:30 p.m. Friday, February 24, and Saturday, February 25, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $15, 480-850-7777, casinoarizona.com

Mixtape

8 p.m. Saturday, February 25, WeKo-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-7894957, wekopacasinoresort.com

LoCash w/Drake Milligan

8 p.m. Saturday, February 25, Desert Diamond Casino Sahuarita, 1100 W. Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita, tickets start at $25, ddcaz.com

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COVERING THE BASES Innings Festival, as the days are brutal. Ex-pitcher brings attend “A lot of time, Spring Training days beat you up miserably,” he says with a laugh. hard-driving “They’re early days. You get to the park at 7 or 8 a.m. You’re so used to getting to rock to Innings a.m. the park at 2 or 3 in the afternoon. It throws By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

ormer D-backs pitcher Bronson Arroyo missed the sounds of Spring Training: the crack of the bat, the ball meeting the mitt. It’s easy to feel sentimental about the spring — especially when COVID-19 took away those opportunities. “After 22 years in baseball, it’s easy to get nostalgic about February and March for me,” Arroyo says. He’s returning to Arizona and Florida for Spring Training this year to perform as part of Innings Festival. It comes to Tempe Beach Park & Arts Park Saturday, February 25, and Sunday, February 26, and Raymond James Stadium Grounds in Tampa on Saturday, March 18, and Sunday, March 19. Performers include Green Day, Weezer, the Black Crowes, the Offspring, the Pretty Reckless, Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness, the Glorious Sons, Heartless Bastards and Annie DiRusso on Saturday and Eddie Vedder, Marcus Mumford, the Revivalists, Mt. Joy, the Head and the Heart, Umphrey’s McGee, Magic City Hippies, Paris Jackson and Hazel English on Sunday. Baseball players making appearances are Ryan Dempster, Jake Peavy, Randy Johnson, Dontrelle Willis, Grady Sizemore, Kevin Mitchell, Bret Boone, Vinny Castilla, Matt Williams, Edgar Martinez and Mike Cameron. “It’s going to be great to get out there and play some music,” Arroyo says. “I did the one in Tampa, and I played just a couple songs with (former players/musicians) Jake Peavy and Bernie Williams. “I was also there as a baseball player, signing autographs, teaching pitching.” When he was playing baseball, he couldn’t

your body out of whack a little bit. You’re just starting to get in shape. They’re really running you hard as a pitcher. Those first three weeks of Spring Training are exhausting.” Arroyo played for the D-backs in the 2014 season after signing a two-year, $23.5 million contract. On June 16, Arroyo was placed on the disabled list for the first time in his career, after leaving a start early against the Dodgers with an elbow injury. Three weeks later, he had Tommy John surgery to repair a torn UCL, forcing him out for the remainder of the 2014 season. In 14 starts of the 2014 year, he went 7-4 with a 4.08 ERA. “When I think about the D-backs days, I think about my arm hurting the whole time,” he says. “I only had seven wins before the AllStar Break in 2014. I always felt like it was an uphill grind. I felt like I always had to prove myself. It was a rough season for me. “They were the friendliest organization to fans and players. The guys who worked in the clubhouse — (strength coach) Nate Shaw and (director of sports medicine) Ken Crenshaw — were great. I was frustrated. It was the first time I was hurt.” For the last two decades, Arroyo has regularly performed around the country, usually playing sets of cover songs to raise funds for philanthropic causes. Now, after his retirement from baseball, Arroyo shares his own music with the world for the first time. He and his band, The ’04, will release the album “Some Might Say” on February 17. “Some Might Say” features 10 original songs filled with hard-driving guitars, powerful choruses and vivid, observational lyrics penned and sung by Arroyo. “The theme throughout the album is my optimism for life,” Arroyo says. “I’ve always been about being present and enjoying the moment. The glass is always half full

— that’s the thread that ties all the songs together.” Though he doesn’t appear on the album, Arroyo credits his friend Vedder with playing an important role in the record’s creation. “I played him the demos, some which were still really raw, and he went through every single song critiquing and adding little notes to my lyric sheets. Afterward, he was like, ‘Hey, man — you got something here.’” The ’04 band features A-list musicians including Jamie Arentzen (who also plays with Miley Cyrus, Butch Walker & American Hi-Fi), bassist Ed Valauskas (Juliana Hatfield, Gravel Pit), guitarist Clint Walsh (Dwarves, the Motels) and drummer Eric Gardner (Gnarls Barkley, Tom Morello). Legendary Cars keyboardist Greg Hawkes also makes an appearance on the track “Side FX.” At Innings, Arroyo guarantees a good time.

“We’re playing the whole album and a couple of covers to fill a bit of time,” he says. “It’s a pretty rockin’, high-energy set. It’s fullon rock ’n’ roll. There’s nothing soft about it. Most of the songs are riff-driven. It’s a little loud ad a lot of energy. That’s what rock ’n’ roll is all about.”

Innings Festival WHEN: Saturday, February 25, and Sunday, February 26 WHERE: Tempe Beach Park and Arts Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe COST: Tickets start at $112 for one-day pass INFO: inningsfestival.com/arizona

KELLER INSTINCT Coyotes leader scores an All-Star hat trick By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

hen Arizona Coyotes forward Clayton Keller fractured his leg in a freak accident on the ice March 30, 2022, he didn’t think he was going to return to the ice anytime soon. For the last 15 games of the season, the 24-year-old Keller was stuck on his couch, forced to watch his fellow Arizona Coyotes play hockey on television. “Coming into this (2022-23) season, I didn’t really know what to expect,” Keller says via telephone from his North Valley home. “I had a super scary injury at the end of last season. I didn’t know how long I was going to be out or how long to heal and feel like myself again.” Keller rehabbed all summer and beat the odds, returning for the first game of the 2022-23 season. He now leads the team in scoring and is a few points away from the 300 career mark. That would make him the ninth Coyotes player to reach the milestone. This month, he heads to Sunrise, Florida,

for this third appearance in the NHL All-Star Game on Saturday, February 4. The choice ties him with Keith Tkachuk and Teppo Numminen for the most All-Star appearances for a Coyotes player. “It’s definitely something that every player wants to achieve,” Keller says about the AllStar Game. “Not knowing how I was going to feel coming into the season and being selected with other amazing players, I feel super lucky and thankful. I couldn’t have done it without so many people’s sacrifices, teammates and coaches.” Keller grew up in the St. Louis area and recalls watching the All-Star Games and the skills competition as a kid. “I would try things I saw in the skills competition in practice when I was young,” he says. “I think it’s definitely a nice accolade to be chosen for the All-Star Game, but it’s not that important to make it. There are multiple other guys who could have gone.” One of his choices is Czech-born Coyotes goalie Karel Vejmelka. “I think Karel Vejmelka has been unbelievable all year,” he says. “He keeps

us in games. We could see it last year. He’s an unbelievable goalie and a great guy. He’s awesome.” Keller is modest about his accomplishments, as he was unaware he was approaching 300 points. He’s led the team in scoring four out of his six NHL seasons — even last year when he only played 67 games. Recently, he scored his first NHL hat trick with the game-winning goal in overtime against the Philadelphia Flyers on December 11. Keller was bound to succeed. He looked up to Sidney Crosby, Tkachuk and Patrick Kane. Although he played other sports growing up, too, hockey was his favorite. His mentors included Tkachuk, who coached Keller as a youth growing up in the St. Louis area, and former NHL player Jeff Brown. “He and Jeff Brown were two unbelievable coaches,” he says. “They really taught us how to play the game. I think a lot of us gained a lot of hockey knowledge at a young age and didn’t realize it. I’m super thankful for everything they did for us.” That inspiration didn’t stop with youth hockey.

“I’ve had great coaches and players around me,” he says. “I’ve been developing and growing into a better player. Every single year you learn so much in this league and how hard it is. I’m super thankful.” Living in the North Valley has been fun for Keller. He enjoys golfing with his teammates, and Scottsdale’s Ocean 44, The Montauk and Diego Pops. When he returns home, he’s an avid fisherman. But he’s laser-focused on his career. “I’m pretty active,” he says. “I like to spend a lot of time in the gym. I like to skate a lot in the summer. Skating is one of the best parts of the summer for me. I work on new things. “Last summer was pretty challenging, just because I had to go at a slower pace. I couldn’t do a whole lot other than my rehab. I was just sitting around and just letting my leg heal. Sitting on the couch watching was definitely tough to do but then it was the off season. At least I didn’t miss too many games and didn’t have to suffer anymore. I missed the game so much. I had never really been injured before. It was a little eye opening, but I’m super thankful to be back playing.”

SPORTS

CALENDAR By Caleb Jones

Phoenix Suns vs. Atlanta Hawks

FEBRUARY 1 The Suns enter February with a matchup against the Atlanta Hawks led by star point guard Trae Young. The Suns will need to start off the month strong to climb back up the rankings in time for the playoffs. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 8 p.m., tickets start at $13, suns.com

Arizona State Sun Devils vs. Oregon State Beavers

FEBRUARY 2 The Sun Devils look to take down the Beavers yet again. The two teams met earlier in the year and ASU came out victorious, erasing a first half double-digit lead by the Beavers. The Sun Devils will look to put on a show in front of the home crowd and sweep the season series. Desert Financial Arena, 600 E. Veterans Way, Tempe, 6 p.m., tickets start at $12, ticketmaster.com

Arizona State Sun Devils vs. Oregon Ducks

FEBRUARY 4 ASU will look to take down another Oregon foe when they take on the Ducks. ASU demolished Oregon 90-73 in the two teams’ previous matchup. The Sun Devils will look to do it again this time around. Desert Financial Arena, 600 E. Veterans Way, Tempe, time TBD, tickets start at $20, ticketmaster.com

Arizona Coyotes vs. Minnesota Wild

FEBRUARY 6 The Coyotes open February at home with a clash against the Minnesota Wild, whom they have not defeated this year. Mullett Arena, 411 S. Packard Drive, Tempe, 7 p.m., tickets start at $125, ticketmaster.com

PGA Waste Management Phoenix Open

FEBRUARY 6 TO FEBRUARY 12 The PGA Waste Management Phoenix Open is back for its 2023 installment and will feature some of the best golfers in the world competing over multiple days. TPC Scottsdale, 17020 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, check online for start times and ticketing options, wmphoenixopen.com

Super Bowl LVII

FEBRUARY 12 The biggest game in football is back in town. Check out the NFL’s best teams vying to become the world champs. State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, 4:30 p.m., tickets start at $6,000, ticketmaster.com

Phoenix Suns vs. Sacramento Kings

FEBRUARY 14 The Phoenix Suns take on the Sacramento Kings, one of the surprise teams in the NBA this year. The duo of De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis has helped

propel the team to a respectable standing in the Western Conference. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 7 p.m., tickets start at $16, suns.com

Arizona Coyotes vs. Tampa Bay Lightning

FEBRUARY 15 The Coyotes will look to take down Eastern Conference powerhouse Tampa Bay Lightning when these two teams meet up at Mullett Arena. The Lightning features the likes of Nikita Kucherov and Steven Stamkos. Mullett Arena, 411 S. Packard Drive, Tempe, 7 p.m., tickets start at $119, ticketmaster.com

Arizona State Sun Devils vs. Colorado Buffaloes

FEBRUARY 16 The Sun Devils basketball team faces off against PAC-12 foes the Colorado Buffaloes. The two teams played an extremely close game the first time around when ASU came out on top by a score of 60-59 off of a go-ahead Desmond Cambridge Jr. three-point shot with 4 seconds left in the game. Desert Financial Arena, 600 E. Veterans Way, Tempe, 6 p.m., tickets start at $9, ticketmaster.com

Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Clippers

FEBRUARY 16 The Suns will look to take down the Clippers in this matchup right before the All-Star break. The Suns will look to head into the break on the right foot with a win over a Pacific Division foe in the LA Clippers. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 8 p.m., tickets start at $20, suns.com

Arizona State Sun Devils vs. Utah Utes

FEBRUARY 18 The Sun Devils will take on the Utah Utes in their last home game for the month of February. This matchup will be the first and only matchup between the two teams for this season. Desert Financial Arena, 600 E. Veterans Way, Tempe, 4 p.m., tickets start at $14, ticketmaster.com

Arizona Coyotes vs. Columbus Blue Jackets

FEBRUARY 19 The Coyotes look to defeat the Columbus Blue Jackets in a matchup that will kick off a four-game home stand for the Coyotes. The Blue Jackets find themselves toward the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. The Coyotes will look to take down the Blue Jackets once again as they have already defeated them earlier in the season. Mullett Arena, 411 S. Packard Drive, Tempe, 6:30 p.m., tickets start at $130, ticketmaster.com

Arizona Coyotes vs. Calgary Flames

FEBRUARY 22 The Coyotes continue their homestand with a matchup against the Calgary Flames, led by Elias Lindholm and Nikita Zadorov. Mullett Arena, 411 S. Packard Drive, Tempe, 7:30 p.m., tickets start at $125, ticketmaster.com

Phoenix Suns vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

FEBRUARY 24 The Suns return from the All-Star break for their final home game in February. The Suns will take on the Oklahoma City Thunder who feature an exciting young core and promising future. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 7 p.m., tickets start at $27, suns.com

Arizona Coyotes vs. Nashville Predators

FEBRUARY 26 The Coyotes will look to defend home ice when the Predators come to town. The Coyotes hope to spoil the Predators’ playoff chances and steal a win against Nashville. Mullett Arena, 411 S. Packard Drive, Tempe, 5 p.m., tickets start at $125, ticketmaster.com

Arizona Coyotes vs. Chicago Blackhawks

FEBRUARY 28 The Coyotes close out the month with a game against the Chicago Blackhawks. The Coyotes will look to end their home stand on a high note with a win over the Blackhawks, who find themselves near the bottom of the Western Conference standings. Mullett Arena, 411 S. Packard Drive, Tempe, 7 p.m., tickets start at $149, ticketmaster.com

Twin Peaks

PLACE TO WATCH THE GAME Tailgaters & Il Primo (TIE)

Lakeside Bar & Grill (TIE)

10146 W. Lake Pleasant Parkway 623-825-9999, tgpizza.com

9980 W. Happy Valley Road 623-566-1470, lakesidebarandgrillaz.com

With large-screen televisions spaced throughout the restaurant and one huge viewing screen, Tailgaters treats guests to every game. Whether it is football, hockey, baseball, UFC or NASCAR, Tailgaters shows it. With a full food and drink menu, all-day specials on NASCAR race days, and the sports bar’s own games and events, every fan wins whether or not his or her teams do.

Uncle Bear’s Grill and Tap

Multiple locations unclebearsaz.com

2022

BESTOF

2022

Uncle Bear’s Grill and Tap C h a n d l e r • G i l b e r t • M e s a provides guests a selection of locally brewed craft beers paired with tasty food selections including burgers, Tex-Mex, sandwiches and wings, to name a few. Enjoy the delicious drinks and food while watching the game on the many TVs all around the restaurant. Be sure to try the spicy chicken wontons and the Arizona sliders.

Sports fans can enjoy the best in burgers, brews and American and Southwest favorites without missing a minute of the game on Lakeside Bar & Grill’s wall-to-wall televisions. Guests don’t need to be a sports fan to enjoy the menu, which features fajitas, Cajun alfredo, a vegetarian sandwich, and an all-you-can-eat fish fry on Fridays.

The Hub Grill and Bar Multiple locations hubgrill.com

BESTOF

2022

Formed by locals and business professionals, The Hub Grill and Bar is the preferred place for our readers to watch a game. Guests can order from wings, pizza, burgers and gluten-free offerings. The Hub also carries a large drink menu of craft beers, wine and cocktails. As an integrated member of the community.

What’s Next After Football?

8787 E. Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard 480-483-0921, twinpeaksrestaurant.com

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2023

Blue 32 Sports Grill 4845 S. Arizona Avenue 480-284-6496, blue32sportsgrill.com

BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

2022

With 29-degree beer and a comfortable hunting-lodge atmosphere, Twin Peaks is the ultimate place to watch the game. Guests can enjoy fresh, high-quality comfort food while watching live UFC fights, football, baseball, basketball and other sporting events.

Blue 32 Sports Grill has plenty of HD televisions up to 65 inches displaying the latest sporting events. Guests won’t miss a minute of the big game while enjoying the full-service menu including fresh ground burgers, steaks, seafood, salads, sandwiches and a variety of local craft beers.

Zipps Sports Grill

Booty’s Pizza and Wings

19420 N. 59th Avenue 623-505-7600, zippssportsgrills.com

BESTOF

2022

The Glendale

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Zipps Sports Grill, family owned and operated since 1995, has plenty of TVs, pool tables and other entertainment, making for a great destination to watch the game or socialize with family and friends.

Buffalo Wild Wings 970 S. Gilbert Road 480-632-9464, buffalowildwings.com

BESTOF

2022

Buffalo Wild Wings has been a prime spot to grab some wings and catch the game since 1992. The franchise is recognized nationwide for its wings and sauces, but its menu includes sandwiches, wraps and more.

13375 W. McDowell Road 623-440-4739, bootyswings.com

BESTOF

2022

Sports fans looking for wings, beer, burger and games will be hard-pressed to find a better spot than Booty’s. Booty’s combines a friendly staff and atmosphere, more than 50 homemade sauces and dry rubs, and plenty of TVs.

Tailgaters Sports Bar & Grill

2022

Multiple locations tgpizza.com

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

Tailgaters Sports Bar & Grill has been family owned and operated since 1998. Guests can enjoy all the best of sports on one of the many giant HD flat-screen TVs.

COIN-OPERATED MACHINES TUNNEL RENTAL

3530 E. Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85204 | 480-325-3438 Northwest corner of Val Vista and Southern

PRO-SHOP

SUN CITY west

GOLF GOLF GOLF

GOLF

SUN CITY west

Trilogy Golf Club at Power Ranch

SUN CITY west

GOLF GOLF SUN CITY west

4415 E. Village Parkway 480-988-0004, powerranchgolfclub.com

Ocotillo Golf Resort

BESTOF

2022

Designed by golf course architect Dick Bailey, Trilogy Golf Club at Power Ranch spans over 6,900 yards. Golfers can enjoy the greens and dine at the course’s Slate Bistro restaurant against the backdrop of the mountains.

TWO Players - $30

Las Sendas Golf Club 7555 E. Eagle Crest Drive 480-396-4000, lassendas.com

2022

The course at Las Sendas Golf C h a n d l e r • G i l b e r t • M e s a Club was designed by distinguished architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. The course is a demanding desert-style layout winding through the Usery Mountains in East Mesa.

rs - $30

Starr Pass Golf Club

18836 N. 128th Ave. 623-544-6010

Seven golf courses – Seven days in a week, Sounds Like Golf Heaven!

SIGNUP for our PUBLIC PLAYER GOLF CARD

and you’ll be entered into a drawing for a weekend round of golf for you and 3 friends

suncitywest.com/golf

Trail Ridge

21021 N. 151st Ave. 623-544-6015

Grandview

14260 Meeker Blvd. 623-544-6013

Echo Mesa

20349 Echo Mesa Dr. 623-544-6014

Desert Trails

22525 N. Executive Way 623-544-6017

Deer Valley

13975 Deer Valley Rd. 623-544-6016

Stardust

12702 W Stardust Blvd. 623-544-6012

2022

Blackstone

12101 W. Blackstone Drive 623-707-8700, blackstonecountryclub.com

BESTOF

2022

When our readers want to hit the links, they prefer teeing up at Blackstone in Vistancia. Its private 72-par, 18-hole, 7,089-yard golf course has been honored by Golf Digest. The course is defined by deep chiseled channels with sheer rock faces and a series of black volcanic stone.

Dobson Ranch Golf Course BESTOF

2022

Marriott’s Starr Pass Golf Club lies against the backdrop of the bright Arizona desert and picturesque mountains.

Dobson Ranch isn’t a typical golf destination. On its website, the club calls other establishments too “stiff and stuffy.” It encourages upbeat music, cold drinks, and fun on the course above all else.

TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course

The Wigwam

17020 N. Hayden Road 480-585-4334, tpc.com/Scottsdale

Pebblebrook

BESTOF

Ocotillo Golf Resort is one of six Mickelson Golf Properties created by Phil Mickelson and Steve Loy across the state of Arizona. It offers a traditional-style course with rich fairways, waterfalls and colorful flora. The course includes 27 holes of superb golf.

2155 S. Dobson Road 480-644-2291, dobsonranchgolfclub.com

3645 W. Starr Pass Boulevard 520-791-6270, marriott.com

Locations

3751 S. Clubhouse Drive 480-917-6660, ocotillogolf.com

BESTOF

2022

The Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale is the PGA Tour stop BESTOF with the largest crowds of any golf event in the world, as shown with the WM Phoenix Open. The most recognizable hole on the course is the 16th hole that transforms into a party coliseum with 17,000 seats during tournaments.

2022

The Views Golf Club

1555 E. Rancho Vistoso Boulevard, 520-825-3110, theviewsgolfclub.com

BESTOF

2022

The Views Golf Club is a 6,715-yard, 18-hole championship golf course and a prime location for golfers of all skill levels. Its desert-inspired landscape in combination with the backdrop of the Catalina Mountains creates a beautiful setting to golf.

300 E. Wigwam Boulevard 1-866-976-6894, wigwamarizona.com

BESTOF

The Wigwam’s 18-hole championship golf courses offer a range of challenges for golfers. It has three 18-hole courses — the Gold, Blue and Red. The Gold Course is the most challenging, as it’s nicknamed “Arizona’s Monster,” and it’s been named one of the top golf courses in America.

The Legend at Arrowhead Golf Club 21027 N. Sixth Avenue 623-561-1902, legendatarrowhead.com

2022 2022

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

BESTOF

2022

The Glendale

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The Legend at Arrowhead is an award-winning Arnold Palmer-designed championship golf course. Located on a remote mountain slope, the course boasts a picturesque background for golfing, tournaments, dining and outdoor receptions.

Rancho Manana Golf Club 5734 E. Rancho Manana Boulevard 480-488-0398, ranchomanana.com

BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

2022

Rooted in Cave Creek’s rustic charm and the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Rancho Manana Golf Club is one of Arizona’s most scenic golf courses. It features a par-70 championship course with dramatic elevation changes and natural desert terrain in addition to a full-length driving range, practice chipping and putting greens, a golf shop, locker rooms and full-service restaurant.

SPORTS BAR

Multiple locations hubgrill.com

CK’s Tavern & Grill

4142 E. Chandler Boulevard, 480-7065564, ckgrill.com With 35-plus HDTVs, CK’s is the place in Ahwatukee to see your favorite game and to be seen watching it. The popular, unpretentious neighborhood watering hole, which specializes in classic pub grub, has been the spot to imbibe and/or chow down while watching sports since before it became a viewing station for the Ahwatukee Little League All-Star team at the World Series in the early 2000s.

BESTOF

2022

3655 W. Anthem Way 623-551-9525, legendsanthem.com

BESTOF

2022

Uncle Bear’s Grill and Tap

BESTOF

2022

Local sports fans prefer to catch their favorite games and enjoy a meal and drink at Uncle Bear’s Grill and Tap. It is not surprising that Uncle Bear’s is family and dog friendly — after all, it’s named after the family’s dog. Fans working up an appetite during the game can order from a menu that includes craft burgers, wings, salads and Tex-Mex cuisine. Uncle Bear’s also runs its own brewery and serves its flagship craft beers.

7033 E. Cave Creek Road 480-575-7782, mountainviewpub.pub

BESTOF

2022

R.T. O’Sullivan’s offers a comfortable dining experience along with everything you would expect from a sports bar and more. Along with the many TVs available while dining, it has a wraparound bar, drink and food specials, pool tables, off-track betting, a climate-controlled patio, live music, sand volleyball courts and bean bag toss competitions. Be sure to try the wings.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2023

BESTOF

2022

Tailgaters Sports Bar & Grill

2022

Multiple locations, tgpizza.com

Legends Bar & Grill is the best place to grab a brew and watch the game. With classic American-style food and a stocked bar and tap, Legends beats out the competition when it comes to sports bars. The upbeat atmosphere will keep anyone entertained and makes it a great spot for people of any age. High-quality food and service have given Legends a name in Arizona in its run of nearly 10 years.

Tailgaters Sports Bar & Grill has been family owned and operated since 1998. Guests can enjoy all the best of sports BESTOF on one of the many giant HD flatscreen TVs. While watching the game, be sure to enjoy all the fresh, tasty food options, including burgers, pizza, wings and desserts.

Tailgaters & Il Primo

Putney’s Pitstop Sports Bar and Grill

10146 W. Lake Pleasant Parkway 623-825-9999, tgpizza.com

Mountain View Pub

R.T. O’Sullivan’s 7919 E. Thomas Road 480-307-6533, rtosullivans.com

Legends Bar & Grill

The Hub Grill and Bar is a welcoming family-friendly 2022 restaurant and sports bar. It has a menu with something for everyone including those with gluten-free needs. Enjoy burgers, wings, appetizers, C h a n d l e r • G i l b e r t • M e s a sandwiches, pizza, salads and more while watching all your favorite sports. Be sure to check out the weekly food and drink specials.

Multiple locations unclebearsaz.com

Blue 32 Sports Grill 4845 S. Arizona Avenue 480-284-6496, blue32sportsgrill.com

The Hub Grill and Bar

BESTOF

2022

With more than 50 beers on tap, daily food and drink specials, smiling servers and bartenders, and every televised game available, Tailgaters is the spot our readers choose as the best sports bar in town. While working up an appetite watching a game or just stopping by for lunch or dinner, the menu’s offerings include wings, pizza, baked subs, burgers and salads. Happy hour, online ordering and catering are available.

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

2022

6090 N. Oracle Road 520-575-1767, putneysbar.com Open daily from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., Putney’s brings downtown neighborhood bar culture to the kind of spaciousness we rarely find south of River Road. The enormous patio has a rec-room-sized covered lounge area and several dart boards. Inside, the very long bar is festooned with pennants. Everywhere offers sightlines to several of the bar’s 30 TVs. Two pool tables and a shuffleboard table round out the fun.

BESTOF

2022

An Irish pub with stunning mountain vistas, Mountain View Pub is the best pub in the North Valley, according to our readers. Frozen margaritas, house tap wine and well drinks slake their thirst while they satisfy their appetites with menu items such as Irish pub nachos, shepherd’s pie and a salad called “party in your mouth.” Mountain View Pub features a happy hour every weekday from 3 to 6 p.m. and live music every weekend.

Zipps Sports Grill

19420 N. 59th Avenue 623-505-7600, zippssportsgrills.com

BESTOF

2022

Zipps Sports Grill, family owned and operated since 1995, has plenty of TVs, pool tables and other entertainment, making for a great destination to watch the The Glendale game or socialize with family and friends.

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A visit to RTO’Sullivans Sports Grill offers our guests an opportunity to experience dining, sports and entertainment like no other in South Scottsdale!

FEB 5TH - RSVP FOR THE BIG GAME HERE!

7919 E. Thomas Rd. Suite 101 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 480.307.6533

scottsdale.rtosullivans.com

FAMILY

FROLIC » DISCOVER » IMAGINE » FAMILY » FUN » CONNECT

BRINGING THE FIRE ‘Torch’ George and the Globetrotters head west By Caleb Jones

he Harlem Globetrotters are known for their highlight-reel moves. But for player Cherrelle “Torch” George, the real thrill is meeting fans. “It’s a beautiful feeling after a game when a little girl comes up to you and she wants a hug or a high-five or she’s wearing my jersey and wants an autograph or calls me her hero,” she says. “Those moments are just priceless, and that’s why I do what I do and that’s why I love what I do.” Fans can mingle with the Globetrotters when they visit the Valley for two events — Saturday, March 4, at the Footprint Center in Downtown Phoenix, and Sunday, March 5, at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale. “We are gifted basketball players,” she says. “We

know the game and we can play the game, but it’s also a balance of being a good basketball player and an entertainer and giving fans fun, entertainment and laughs.” Called the “Queen of the Crossover,” George set a Guinness World Record for the most basketball-under-the-leg tumbles in 1 minute for a woman with 32 in 2018. The 5-foot-3 guard attended Iowa Western Community College, where she led the Reivers to a 26-5 record her sophomore year while averaging 25.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 4.3 steals per game. She finished her sophomore year with four single-game records and was inducted into IWCC’s Hall of Fame in 2019. After a brief stint at Purdue University, she transferred to Oklahoma City University, where she earned a degree in kinesiology. She recently launched her own clothing line, Hood to History, which aims to show young people how to dominate without a ball in their hands. One day, she says, she hopes to coach a Division 1 school’s team. Meanwhile, George is enjoying her time with the Globetrotters, who are well known for their fun dunks and trick shots. Among its former players is NBA legend Wilt Chamberlain. “There is no game in the world like a Globetrotters game,” she says. “We have some of the best dunkers in

the world. Some of the best dribblers. Expect a great game and great showmanship.” A Globetrotter since 2017, George doesn’t take her job for granted. “It’s an honor,” she says. “Being able to travel the world and do what I love, it definitely doesn’t feel like work. I thank God for the opportunity to showcase my talent and be an inspiration to so many people.”

Harlem Globetrotters WHEN: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, March 4 WHERE: Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix COST: Tickets start at $20 INFO: footprintcenter.com, harlemglobetrotters.com WHEN: 2 p.m. Sunday, March 5 WHERE: Desert Diamond Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale COST: Tickets start at $20 INFO: desertdiamondarena.com, harlemglobetrotters.com

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2023

MEET OUR LINEBACKER!

53 N Macdonald, Mesa, AZ 85201 | azmnh.org

Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium

FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT

Urban Air Trampoline

16501 W. Northern Avenue 623-935-9453, wildlifeworld.com

Glendale Glitters N. 58th and W. Glendale avenues 623-930-2299, glendaleaz.com

4816 E. Ray Road 602-693-9340, urbanair.com When looking for the best year-round amusements in Ahwatukee, our readers find repeat winner Urban Air Trampoline the perfect place. Whether for a child’s birthday party or for a day of fun with the family, it is more than just a trampoline park. Urban Air’s sky rider, ropes course, climbing wall, warrior’s course, tubes playground, slam-dunk course and café provide an entire day’s fun for everyone.

BESTOF

2022

The Glendale

Every holiday season, Downtown Glendale lights up for the Glendale Glitters Christmas Festival. The celebration features local performances, restaurants and over 1 million holiday lights across 16 blocks for several weekends. Admission is free.

Arizona Broadway Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Theatre 7701 W. Paradise Lane 2021 N. Kinney Road 520-883-2702, desertmuseum.org

For the past eight years, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum has been voted as the best location for family fun. Not only a zoo, the Desert Museum also has a botanical garden, art gallery, natural history museum and aquarium. Learn about the diverse biomes and its inhabitants that the Sonoran Desert has to offer, including an Earth Sciences Center, which is a replica of a limestone cave.

tar

BESTOF

2022

623-776-8400, azbroadway.org

The most-attended year-round theater in the Phoenix metropolitan area, nonprofit Arizona Broadway Theatre has been enriching lives through the power of the performing arts since 2005. Auditioning locally and in New York State to bring the best actors, singers and dancers to its stage, the theater produces musicals and hosts special events. Patrons can just enjoy the show or pair it with chef-created meals and high-end sit-down table service. Event space and production rentals are available. The theater hosts master workshops and youth troupes and academy.

ALL-NEW AIR SHOW! SATURDAY @ 2:30 p.m. SUNDAY @ 1:30 p.m.

BESTOF

2022

West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

42302 N. Vision Way 623-551-3111, northvalleyescaperoom.com

2022

BESTOF

2022

Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa

FatCats Gilbert

Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park has Arizona’s 2022 largest collection of exotic and endangered animals, with more than 600 separate species, including cheetahs, hippos, meercats and others. Guests can feed stingrays at the aquarium and observe penguins, otters and sharks.

North Valley Escape Room

BESTOF

Multiple locations, fatcatsfun.com FatCats began in Salt Lake City in 1999 and has since expanded to entertaining friends and families alike across several states. The all-in-one entertainment center offers bowling, movies, mini golf and arcade games.

Singing Pandas Asian Restaurant

757 E. Chandler Boulevard 480-777-5050

BESTOF

2022

Escape rooms are one of the fastest-growing entertainment trends in the United States. For anyone looking to get in on the action, North Valley Escape Room offers the most creative and immersive escape room experience in the Valley. Whether it’s with coworkers, family or friends, North Valley Escape Room is sure to bring everyone together. Fun and challenging, these puzzle games are a creative way to spend an afternoon, especially when escaping the heat.

BESTOF

2022

Established in 2015, Singing Pandas is a family-owned Asian/Chinese restaurant that features a delicious selection of at least 20 entrées as well as having free, nightly entertainment. It offers a Vegas-style tribute show featuring the music of Frank Sinatra, Garth Brooks, Elvis Presley and the Blue Brothers, to name a few.

Topgolf

9500 E. Talking Stick Way 480-240-2402, topgolf.com

BESTOF

2022

Topgolf is a sports entertainment complex that highlights an incredible high-tech golf game. The facilities include a bar and restaurant, more than 100 all-weather bays, over 200 HDTVs, free Wi-Fi, and a rooftop terrace with fire pits.

An interactive chocolate making experience!

FEATURING THE

AOPA FLY-IN!

FEB. 17-19, 2023

BUCKEYE MUNICIPAL AIRPORT 3-DAYS OF FAMILY FUN! 17 FRIDAY 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

18 SATURDAY 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 19 SUNDAY 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

3000 S. PALO VERDE Rd.

AIR SHOW SAT. & SUN. MILITARY DISPLAYS SCITECH FESTIVAL KIDS ZONE

PARKING PASS PARKING PASSES OR VIP EXPERIENCE PASSES AVAILABLE ONLINE FOR PURCHASE! $15 PARKING AT EVENT

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5345 W. Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ, 85301

(623) 930-9000

MORE THAN A

MUSEUM 85% OUTDOORS • 100% ADVENTURE • 112 MILES FROM PHOENIX

ZOO • BOTANICAL GARDEN • AQUARIUM • NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM • ART GALLERY DESERTMUSEUM.ORG • 2021 N. KINNEY RD. • TUCSON, AZ 85743 • 520.883.2702

GAMES AND ENTERTAINMENT

Main Event

Multiple locations mainevent.com

2022

BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

2022

Main Event is an entertainment center with something for everyone. It has a variety of experiences available for attendees, including bowling, laser tag, virtual reality, billiards, mini golf and more. It also has a variety of birthday party and group event packages available for all your special occasion planning needs. West Valley View • Glendale Star • Peoria Times

Topgolf

1689 S. Santan Village Parkway 480-240-1282, topgolf.com

Mavrix BESTOF

2022

Topgolf is a sports entertainment complex that features an incredible high-tech golf game for guest to enjoy. Amenities include a bar and restaurant, more than 100 all-weather bays, over 200 HDTVs, free Wi-Fi, rooftop terrace with fire pits, and more. Reservations are recommended but not required. It also has options for parties and private events.

9139 E. Talking Stick Way 480-291-7500, mavrix.com

BESTOF

2022

Mavrix is the place for an unforgettable day of fun with the family or a night out with friends. There is something for everyone at this entertainment center, including 22 bowling lanes, a state-of-the-art laser tag arena, 85 arcade games, billiards tables and dozens of 4K televisions. Craft beers and custom cocktails are also served at the 5,000-square-foot restaurant and bar that features a chef-curated menu.

Makutu’s Island 6919 W. Ray Road 480-344-3740, makutusisland.com

FatCats Mesa

5846 E. Longbow Parkway 480-498-3323, fatcatsfun.com/mesa

BESTOF

2022

Makutu’s Island is an incredible four-story indoor playground with tunnels, rope bridges, an arcade and a full-service café. Guests can climb in the giant indoor “tree” and navigate the tunnels, tubes, mole-holes and slides. Admission price includes an entire day of fun. Makutu’s Island also prides itself on being the leaders in hosting top-quality parties in one of the six available party rooms.

Westgate Entertainment District

2022

6770 N. Sunrise Boulevard The Glendale 480-387-5678, westgateaz.com

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In the heart of Glendale lies the Westgate Entertainment District, a hub of specialty shops, restaurants and entertainment for the community to enjoy. It also offers live music and sporting-related events for Cardinals and Coyotes fans.

2022

FatCats offers plenty in the way of games and entertainment. Patrons can enjoy arcade games, movies, bowling, glow golf and virtual reality experiences. Arcade games are half-priced on Wednesdays, and glow golf features nine space-themed holes.

Uptown Jungle Park

7608 W. Cactus Road 623-404-6868, peoria.uptownjungle.com

BESTOF

2022

With trampolines, climbing walls, super slides and an obstacle course, Uptown Jungle Park has enough fun and excitement under its roof to absorb the energy of even the most excited child. Its wide variety of action-oriented activities offer children not just fun but excellent physical activity as well. Birthday parties, group events, fundraising and memberships are available.

THE BIG GAME IS COMING

READY TO PARTY, ARIZONA? The most fun you can have under one roof. Main Event has more than 85 games and activities specifically designed to play together, making it the premier destination for any sized group occasion. We host full facility buyouts, fundraising, volunteer events, team building, youth outings and more!

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MUSIC

100

LISTEN » JAM » INNOVATE » EVOLVE » ROCK » SING Teenage Mutants

LIVE MUSIC

Darkstar, 9 p.m., $14.25-$19

CALENDAR By Connor Dziawura

FEBRUARY 1

Kamp Fest Kick Back Pre-Fest Party w/Katastro Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $15-$55

Bush

La Salsa Vive w/Cafe Jaleo

My Lizard-Alien Dad

M.A.G.S.

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $49.50 The Rebel Lounge, 7 p.m., $12-$15

Parkway Drive

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $39.50-$59.50

FEBRUARY 2 Aaron McCall Band

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $15

The Underground, 8 p.m., $15-$18

Nick Hakim

The Rebel Lounge, 8:30 p.m., $18-$23

Paris Chansons

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $38.50-$49.50

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., tickets available at the door

Reverend Horton Heat

Babytron

Tommy James & the Shondells

The Rebel Lounge, 7 p.m., sold out

Delphine Cortez and Joel Robin The Nash, 4 p.m., free

Forest Blakk

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $17

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $35 Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $47.66-$$117.62

We Banjo 3

Chandler Center for the Arts’ Mainstage, 7:30 p.m., $15-$38

FEBRUARY 5 Clark Gibson

The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$10 or free for instrumentalists and vocalists who sit in

The Nash, 3 p.m., $37-$45

Salt, 10 p.m., $35

Leo Kottke

Earth Surface People

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $49.50-$54.50

Tempe Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $10-$15

Mac Sabbath

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $16-$20

The Nile, 7 p.m., $25

Leo Kottke

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $20

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $49.50-$54.50

Margo Price

Arizona Financial Theatre, 8 p.m., $39.50-$403.50

FEBRUARY 7

New Found Glory

D.R.U.G.S.

Blue Elephant & the Seven Snakes

Ella Jane

Dead Hot Workshop, Johnny Zapp, and Frankie & the Studs

The March Divide

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $12-$15

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., tickets available at the door

Jeff Libman Quartet

Matt Heckler

Kathleen Madigan

FEBRUARY 8

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Sophia Bavishi

Tempe Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $10-$15

Sun Room

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $20

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $27-$35

FEBRUARY 3

Talking Stick Resort’s Salt River Grand Ballroom, 8 p.m., $34

Beth Lederman w/Jazz Con Alma

Lil Texas

The Nash, 7 p.m., free

Sunbar, 9 p.m., $20-$1,500

Christian McBride’s New Jawn

Poncho Sanchez

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Virginia G. Piper Theater, 8 p.m., $40-$70

Musical Instrument Museum, 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m., $44.50-$54.50

J.I.D. and Smino

Reverend Horton Heat

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., sold out

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $35

Sandra Bassett Motown Experience The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $35

La Casa de Cristo, 7:30 p.m., $39-$74

Parade of Bad Guys

Riz La Vie

FEBRUARY 6

24K Magic: The #1 Tribute to Bruno Mars

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $65-$100

Footprint Center, 7 p.m., $39.50-$500

DJ Pauly D

The Black Market Trust

Oneus

Bud Light Super Bowl Music Fest w/Paramore

Francine Reed

We Came as Romans

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $22.50-$35

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $33.50-$44.50

The Nash, 4 p.m., free

FEBRUARY 4

Celebrity Theatre, 8:30 p.m., $46.27

Brian Chartrand and the Project

Delphine Cortez and Joel Robin

GloRilla

The Nile, 8 p.m., sold out

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $18

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $59.50-$144.50

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $27.50

The Nile, 7 p.m., $25-$30

Almost Monday

Danny Ocean

Warsaw Poland Bros

Yucca Tap Room, 7:30 p.m., $15

FEBRUARY 9

The Nile, 6 p.m., $25 Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $17

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $15

Catbamboo

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $13-$15

Ivan Cornejo

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25

Koo Koo Kanga Roo and The Homeless Gospel Choir The Nile, 7 p.m., $18

Unsane

Yucca Tap Room, 7:30 p.m., $15-$20

Suki Waterhouse

FEBRUARY 10 American Amigos

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., tickets available at the door

BoDeans

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., $44.50-$54.50

Bud Light Super Bowl Music Fest w/Dave Matthews Band Footprint Center, 7 p.m., $49.50-$800

Dru Hill featuring SisQo, Nokio, Jazz, Scola, Tao, Smoke and Black

Chandler Center for the Arts’ Mainstage, 7:30 p.m., $68-$180 Fayuca, Jakob Nowell and Jason DeVore Yucca Tap Room, 7 p.m., $20-$25 HoneyLuv Darkstar, 9 p.m., $14.81-$19.75 The Power Trio w/Everette Harp The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $32-$39

Shaq’s Fun House w/Diplo, Snoop Dogg, Diesel and Myles O’Neal Talking Stick Resort, 8 p.m., $349-$50,000

The Super Bowl of Jazz Concerts featuring Emil Viklický Trio ASU Kerr, 7:30 p.m., $25-$48

Trousdale

Valley Bar, 7 p.m., $16

continued on pg. 102

FEBRUARY 11 BoDeans

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., $44.50-$54.50

Bud Light Super Bowl Music Fest w/ Imagine Dragons and Kane Brown Footprint Center, 7 p.m., $150-$950

Howe Gelb and David Huckfelt Valley Bar, 6 p.m., $18

Latmun

Darkstar, 9 p.m., $11.81-$15.75

Marcos Crego

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $32-$39

Sandra Bassett

Mesa Jazz and Blues Theater, 7 p.m., $20.50-$29.50

Sports Illustrated The Party w/The Chainsmokers and Machine Gun Kelly

Talking Stick Resort, 9 p.m., $799.99-$100,000

The Sugar Thieves

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., tickets available at the door

Warped Tour FM

Pub Rock Live, 7:30 p.m., $12

FEBRUARY 12 Dirty Red and the Soul Shakers

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., tickets available at the door

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $12-$15

Welcome to Indian Country — An Indigenous Celebration of Original Music and Poetry ASU Kerr, 7:30 p.m., $25-$48

FEBRUARY 15 Bass Drum of Death

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $20-$22

Chappell Roan

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $17

El Tri

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $65

Esteban

Musical Instrument Museum, 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m., $46.50-$56.50

The Gilmour Project Explores “The Dark Side of the Moon”

Air Supply

Talking Stick Resort’s Salt River Grand Ballroom, 8 p.m., $35

Buku and G-Rex

Darkstar, 9 p.m., $15.50-$20.50

Dave Holland, Kevin Eubanks and Eric Harland

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., $33.50-$49.50

Dmitri Matheny

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $32-$39

Dreamboat

The Rebel Lounge, 4:45 p.m., $12-$15

Eric Ramsey with Jhett Black

The Rhythm Room, 5 p.m., tickets available at the door

The Kat & Dave Show

Celebrity Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $41.83-$94.30

Highlands Church, 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., $62-$102

Pepper

Kathleen Turner

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $25-$45

Surfer Joe

Yucca Tap Room, 7:30 p.m., $10-$15

FEBRUARY 16 Delphine Cortez and Joel Robin The Nash, 4 p.m., free

Fit for a King

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $25-$55

The Hot Club of Cowtown and Tyler Hilton

Mesa Arts Center’s Piper Repertory Theater, 7:30 p.m., $54-$153.25

FEBRUARY 20 The Frights

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25

Rotting Christ

The Nile, 6 p.m., $26

FEBRUARY 21 Johnny Mathis

Highlands Church, 7:30 p.m., $87-$149

Riders in the Sky

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., sold out

FEBRUARY 22 Black Jacket Symphony presents Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours” The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25.50-$38

Home Free

Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, 7:30 p.m., $24.50-$304.25

The Movement

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $27.50-$57.50

Nessa Barrett

Los Temerarios

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $35

Arizona Financial Theatre, 8 p.m., $59-$403.50

Quasi

Mega 104.3 Valentine’s Super Love Jam w/Keith Sweat, Backstreet and Ginuwine

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $18-$20

¿Téo?

Footprint Center, 8 p.m., $45-$85

The NOLAZ Band

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $25

FEBRUARY 23

Mesa Jazz and Blues Theater, 7 p.m., $24.50-$34.50

Delphine Cortez and Joel Robin The Nash, 4 p.m., free

Thieves Paradise

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $49.50-$54.50

The Suffers

Edwin Lopez

Tempe Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $20-$25

The Rebel Lounge, 6:30 p.m., $12-$15

FEBRUARY 13

International Anime Music Festival

Tito Torbellino Jr.

Igor & the Red Elvises

The Rebel Lounge, 7 p.m., $15-$18

Bobby Oroza

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $16

Early James

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $17-$20

The Lucky Devils

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., tickets available at the door

Paul McDermand

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $44.50-$54.50

Sematary and the Haunted Mound Crescent Ballroom, 7 p.m., $23

FEBRUARY 14 Bayside

The Nile, 6:30 p.m., $25

Cory Weeds and Champian Fulton The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $60-$70

Isn’t It Romantic? w/Nicole Pesce, Stephanie Trick and Paolo Alderighi The Gathering Place at La Casa de Cristo, 7:30 p.m., $59

Arizona Financial Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $45-$80

Ladama

ASU Kerr, 7:30 p.m., $25-$55

Rustic Moon

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., tickets available at the door

FEBRUARY 17 Big Sandy and His Fly-Rite Boys The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $20

David Binney Trio

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $29-$39

DeVotchKa

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $33.50-$49.50

Inner Wave

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25-$75

Jaded

Darkstar, 9 p.m., $15-$20

Markus Schulz

Sunbar, 9 p.m., $21-$1,500

Mike Massé

Tempe Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $37

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $7.44-$123.45

Twiddle

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $27-$127

White Reaper

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., tickets available at the door

Live from Laurel Canyon

Tempe Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $10-$15

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $23

Nessa Barrett

FEBRUARY 19

Teethe and Milly

Charlie Smith

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $30 Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $15

The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$10 or free for instrumentalists and vocalists who sit in

FEBRUARY 24

Collie Buddz

Andrew Bayer

Marquee Theatre, 8:15 p.m., $27.50-$60

Sunbar, 9 p.m., $23-$1,500

Haley Reinhart

Dr. Ozi and JOOL

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $46.50-$56.50

Darkstar, 9 p.m., $18

Karen Hester as Dolly

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $44.50-$152

Chandler Center for the Arts’ Mainstage, 3 p.m., $24-$38

Latrice Royale

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $30

Martin Ikin and Mau P

Sunbar, 9 p.m., $23.25-$2,000

Slow Crush

The Rebel Lounge, 7 p.m., $18-$20

Kenia Os LoCash

Gila River Resorts & Casinos - Wild Horse Pass, 8 p.m., $29-$49

Natalie Gallatin Quartet The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $27-$35

The Sadies

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $38.50-$44.50

continued on pg. 104

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2023

103

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104

JUST LIKE HOME Bayside finds its place in intimate venues on its latest jaunt By Alex Gallagher

or more than two decades, Queens, New York punk-rockers Bayside has become a house-packing, energetic live act. However, the band has also fallen victim to the rigors of excessive touring. Because of this, vocalist Anthony Raneri says the band has scaled back on its aggressive schedule. “Over the last five to seven years, the band has been transitioning from touring all the time to doing one or maybe two tours a year,” Raneri says. “We were at a point where we were on tour for 10 months out of the year, but now we’re on tour for maybe 10 weeks out of the year, which is cool, because every time we go on tour, it’s super exciting and we’re ready to go on tour again.” Conversely, Raneri says this has increased fans’ appetite to catch the band in person at intimate venues across the country — like the Nile Theater, where the band plays on Tuesday, February 14. “As bands grow and progress in size, you have to change your strategy,” he says. “When we were growing in the early to mid-2000s, we had to sort of grind it out to develop the band. Now that we have the fans and the

shows have gotten bigger and bigger, we have to leave space in between when we go to cities just to rebuild that hunger for the band.” Although Bayside chopped down its tour itinerary, Raneri says the band still packs the same punch as it did back then. “Somehow we’ve been a band for going on 25 years now, and somehow I think that we’re playing the best that we ever have — from a live perspective,” he says. “I think that we’re putting out the best music we ever have, we’re writing the best songs we ever have and I’m hungry to be better and we’re constantly trying to get better.” Raneri says Bayside’s live shows differ from other bands’ gigs because of their communal nature. “Our show feels like a communal thing where things are a little bit more collaborative,” says Raneri, whose band will tour with I Am the Avalanche and Koyo. “We recognize that going to shows is a night away from your problems and that’s what entertainment brings to the world, that’s the purpose that we serve.” Because of this, Raneri is excited to treat fans to new tunes like “Go to Hell” and “Strangest Faces” off 2022’s “The Red EP.” “For the most part, we haven’t been able to play most of the new stuff yet (live),” Raneri

says. “I’m especially excited to play ‘Go to Hell’ from what’s going to be our next EP. “I’m excited to play that one because the fans have reacted strongly to it (via streaming) and it seems like it’s a new fan favorite, so I’m excited to see what the reaction to it live is.” However, he expects to hear fans roar the loudest when he belts out the hit tune “Devotion and Desire” from the 2005 selftitled sophomore effort. It’s generally the closing track live. “We’ve been closing with ‘Devotion and Desire’ since it came out, and that’s always when the set reaches the fever pitch,” Raneri says. “What’s cool about it is that we’ve been able to make that the last song for all this time because a lot of times it speaks to our catalog and how much our fans enjoy everything that we do.” Altogether, Raneri hopes fans will feel

rejuvenated when they leave the show. “I always use this analogy of ‘recharging batteries,’” Raneri says. “I think what our show brings is a time of your night or your week or your month or however often you go to shows where it recharges your batteries and you’re ready to go back to regular life tomorrow.”

continued from pg. 102

Jon McLaughlin

Emotional Oranges

FEBRUARY 27

SonReal

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $23

Stick Men

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $30-$50

FEBRUARY 25 Dexter Gordon Centennial Celebration

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $35.50-$46.50

Mindy Gledhill

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $24

Mwenso & the Shakes

Chandler Center for the Arts’ Hal Bogle Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $15-$39

Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock & Roll

The Nash, 7 p.m. and 9:15 p.m., $47-$55

Highlands Church, 7:30 p.m., $41-$81

Grieves w/Mouse Powell and Zach Ivie + Dumb Luck

San Pacho

Darkstar, 9 p.m., $12.75-$17

Innings Festival w/Green Day

Sunbar, 9 p.m., $21.75

Valley Bar, 7 p.m., $21

Tempe Beach Park & Arts Park, noon, $112-$1,405

Jerry Cantrell

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $50-$80

Jimi Primetime Smith/Bob Corritore Blues Band The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $12

SAYMYNAME

Soultown Train

Mesa Jazz and Blues Theater, 7 p.m., $24.50-$34.50

FEBRUARY 26 Black Mountain Moonshine

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $12-$15

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25

Innings Festival w/Eddie Vedder

Tempe Beach Park & Arts Park, noon, $112-$1,405

Michael Eckroth Trio The Nash, 3 p.m., $27-$35

Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock & Roll Highlands Church, 7:30 p.m., $41-$81

One Night of Queen

Celebrity Theatre, 7 p.m., $40.66-$63.98

Scottsdale Chorus

Bayside “Just Like Home” Tour with I Am The Avalanche and Koyo WHEN: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 14 WHERE: The Nile Theater, 105 W. Main Street, Mesa COST: Tickets start at $25 INFO: baysidebayside.com, theniletheater.com

August Burns Red

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $29.50-$60

Credit Electric

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $13-$15

Sunami

The Nile, 7 p.m., $13

FEBRUARY 28 Andy Shauf

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Virginia G. Piper Theater, 3 p.m., $30-$40

Betty Who

Stan Sorenson

Mnozil Brass

The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$10 or free for instrumentalists and vocalists who sit in

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $49.50-$69.50

Steel Panther

Sweet n Juicy

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $27.50-$136.50

Within Destruction

The Underground, 6 p.m., $16

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $30-$205

The Rhythm Room, 7:30 p.m., tickets available at the door

The Wonder Years

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $29-$50

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106

EVERY DAY IS A WINDING ROAD Sheryl Crow is strong enough to handle fame By Dave Gil de Rubio

et’s be clear: Sheryl Crow veers away from the off-stage spotlight whenever she can. As someone who cheerfully admits to “living with my head in the sand,” she’d be the last person you’d expect to be front and center in a film project. But here she is in “Sheryl,” the Amy Scott-

directed documentary that recently bowed on Showtime. Featuring present-day interviews with Crow along with famous friends including Keith Richards, Brandi Carlile, Emmylou Harris, Joe Walsh, Jason Isbell and Laura Dern, this project traces the Missouri native’s path growing up as the piano-playing daughter of big band musicians up through the present day. Rather than having it become a sunshine and lollipops kind of hagiography, Scott succeeds at creating a chronological narrative that includes a mix of performances along with insights into obstacles Crow ran into. Among the pitfalls touched on are the alleged sexual abuse from former employer Michael Jackson’s late manager Frank DiLeo (along

with battling various forms of sexism while having to constantly prove her mettle as an artist) and Crow having her album banned by Walmart after including a song addressing gun violence that name-checked the big box retailer as a source for purchasing weapons. The film was an ambitious project the singersongwriter wasn’t exactly eager to pursue. “When my manager (Stephen ‘Scooter’ Weintraub) and Van Toffler, who I knew back in the early days from MTV and VH1, came to me and said they had some interest from Showtime to do a documentary, I was really not on board with it,” Crow admits in a recent phone interview. “I felt like I’m a very private person, and I didn’t feel like a retrospective was in order

when I’m still alive and have so many more songs to write. For a while there, I sat with the idea and decided that there was a world of story and living that is the story of a person and not necessarily a well-known artist. Everybody who has ever become a public figure has that story, so we dug in and my only prerequisite for it was that I didn’t want it to be a catalog of awards and a review of fantastic appearances. I wanted it to be the story of the person I am.” While Crow was ruminating over whether or not to dive into this documentary, the pandemic arrived. It proved to be a perfect respite for her and sons Levi and Wyatt.

continued on pg. 108

Life’s Best Decisions Start Here.

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“We kind of sequestered and to have that time where they could experience what it means to be bored and not be entertained all the time,” she says. “They built a chicken coop, raised baby chicks, planted a garden and we rented an RV, went across the country and adopted a Bernese mountain dog. There were things that wouldn’t have happened and I wouldn’t have traded it. The second half of the pandemic, when they were back in school is when we dug in and started making the documentary.” Having chosen Scott after seeing “Hal,” the latter’s 2018 documentary on late filmmaker Hal Ashby, Crow set to work going through storage, digging up photographs and sitting down and going down memory lane. Crow’s vulnerability is freely expressed, particularly when she recounts experiences like reliving her breast cancer battle along with admitting to suffering from bouts of depression. But it was all in keeping with the 60-year-old rocker’s goal of being honest in telling her story, particularly given how averse Crow is to the limelight. “I’m not a person who reads the press on me,” she says. “I don’t look at footage. It’s more enjoyable for me not to have a critical eye, but to just experience it and feel good about it. It was really fun to remember and see some of that old footage and to experience that it was joyful and it wasn’t the speed crash force in the rise to fame — or the spinning of plates of how to keep the popularity and then the losing of one’s self. There were a lot of great memories along the way that were hilarious, poignant and fun to see. There were a lot of things I’d forgotten about. And then there are a lot of things that we talked about and that I remembered vividly and aren’t documented because nobody had cell phones. The parties I had at my house — there are so many great things. There were some great fun moments. But a lot of it was also very introspective and (involved) revisiting some hard stuff. There was hours and hours of reflecting and it was exhausting and super-emotional. But in the end, I hate to use that stupid word cathartic, but it was.” Of course, it wouldn’t mean anything if

the music wasn’t the fuel driving this engine starting with early hits like “Leaving Las Vegas,” “All I Wanna Do” and “If It Makes You Happy” through latter-day gems like “Home,” “Soak Up the Sun,” “Redemption Day” and “Prove You Wrong” (featuring Stevie Nicks and Maren Morris). A trio of new songs, “Forever,” “Still the Same” and “Live With Me,” proves Crow’s creative spark is still burning strong. And while she publicly said 2019’s “Threads” was going to be her final album, she intends to continue writing and releasing songs. “It’s so nice to be able to write a song like ‘Forever’ and just put the dang thing out,” she says. “I just want to keep writing and putting songs out. I think putting records out now at my age is a little bit of a waste of time. People don’t listen to a full body of work in order. I want to keep making music and putting it

out. I’m going to do like David Bowie. I’m just going to put songs out every couple of months, and people can make their own playlists.” That said, Crow spent a good bit of 2022 touring with a band. She has a few dates on the book for the new year, including a show Sunday, February 12, at State Farm Stadium as part of the Super Bowl festivities. She may also go out solo while playing a multitude of instruments. For Crow, it’s less about the spotlight and more about sharing her music, particularly when she was asked what stardom means to her. “Fame is a mind (expletive),” she responds. “I’m going to have to put $20 in the swear jar in my kitchen as soon as my kids read this. But seriously, it sounds so hokey, but we’re so grateful to be able to go out and play songs that our audiences, which look like Bonnaroo — there are people there my

age with their kids and their kids — who are singing all these lyrics. And it’s just such an unbelievably awesome position to be in, to have songs that are generational and a soundtrack. We go out there and play our hearts out and it’s so much fun. It’s a different show. We’re so committed and so present. It’s a good time.”

Sheryl Crow w/Patrick Droney WHEN: 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, February 12 WHERE: Pregame NFL Tailgate Party at State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale COST: See website for details INFO: onlocationexp.com PHX METRO » JANUARY 2020

The Insider’s Guide to Arizona Entertainment

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Harlem rs Globetrotte bounce into town

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Summer

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Haley Reinhart, others raising money for Casey Abrams By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

aley Reinhart looks back on “American Idol” fondly — especially her connection with fellow 10th season contestant Casey Abrams. Twelve years later, she’s still supporting Abrams, who has suffered from ulcerative colitis since he was young. Recently, he was hospitalized and underwent a life-saving surgery that forced the removal of his entire colon. Abrams will recover, but he needs two more surgeries. Ulcerative colitis is an autoimmune disease for which there is no cure. Unfortunately, he hasn’t been able to perform for pay since September 6, and that was his main source of income. Reinhart recently collaborated with friends like Stephen Kramer Glickman, co-organizer Dylan Chambers for “With a Little Help from My Friends,” a benefit for Abrams at The Venice West in Venice, California. “Casey’s one of my dearest friends, and we’ve remained very close and continue to collaborate musically throughout the years,” says Reinhart, who finished third on “Idol.” “On ‘Idol,’ there were plenty of times he would have to duck out and go to the hospital. I’d have to hold a cutout pick of his head on a stick.” Recently, friends set up a GoFundMe with a $100,000 goal. They raised $103,194 as of January 25. Reinhart says his surgery was frightening. “It was very scary,” she recalls. “It wasn’t that much later — maybe three weeks — that we had a huge Thanksgiving jam session and my house, and he was able to sing and play music. It was great to see him on the up and up. I played a show at the Troubadour in LA, and he came out.” He’s doing well, but he “isn’t out of the woods yet,” Reinhart says. Reinhart and Abrams connected immediately on “Idol” but didn’t start hanging out and connecting until much later on the show. “We’re two peas in a pod,” she says. “He seems in a much better place than he was in the beginning of this challenging time for him.”

NEW MATERIAL Reinhart is now going to headline the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix on her own tour on Sunday, February 19. The show is sold out. Since “Idol,” Reinhart became the first of the show’s contestants to perform at Lollapalooza and earned widespread acclaim for her performances and tours with Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox. Her most notable collaborations include a jazz cover of Radiohead’s “Creep,” which spent 58 consecutive weeks on Billboard’s jazz digital songs chart. Her rendition of Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love” was used in a commercial for Extra Gum. Acting has become another passion. She made her acting debut in Robert Rodriguez’s science fiction superhero film, “We Can Be Heroes,” which was released on Netflix in 2020. Last September, she released the EP “Off the Ground,” which she called a collection of “new songs and really old songs I love.” “I hold on to things and wait until it’s right to put them out,” she says. She collaborated with longtime friends Anders Grahn and Tingsek. “We did (the EP) from afar, from LA to Sweden,” Reinhart recalls. “It was a challenge during the pandemic. It was just a great challenge to be able to get up at different times of the day and night and work through it together. But it was nice. I didn’t have anybody breathing down my neck. We took our time. I really wanted to make something that had authentic instrumentation. It brought my tunes I had written to a different level.” Looking back on her “Idol” days, she says she never expected this type of success. She shares it with contestants on “American Idol.” “In my wildest dreams, yes, I thought of this,” she says with a laugh. “It takes a lot of hard work, but I’m in it for the long haul. I couldn’t have painted this exact picture. Of all the beautiful surprises in life, there are ones that are super exciting and magical. It’s like catching lightning in a bottle. It’s so nice to be on the other side of it, and be a mentor for kids on the show.”

Haley Reinhart WHEN: 7 p.m. Sunday, February 19 WHERE: Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix COST: Sold out INFO: mim.org

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IN THE ‘MOOD’ Jon McLaughlin is ready for the MIM’s grand pianos By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Jon McLaughlin has performed around the world, but the Musical Instrument Museum’s theater in North Phoenix is among his favorite venues. He’ll return to the MIM on Saturday, February 25, to celebrate the 15th anniversary of his debut album, “Indiana.” He’ll play the collection in its entirety along with new songs and fan favorites — with just him at the grand piano. “It’s going to be a solo show,” he says via Zoom. “Don’t get me wrong. I love playing with my band, but in that room, at the MIM, I want to be there solo. I just feel like it’s such a great venue. They have such incredible grand pianos there.” He admits to fete “Indiana,” he’s working to relearn some of the tracks. “Some of the songs, I never really played,” McLaughlin says. “There are 13 songs on that record. That’s a lot. When we were touring on that record, I wasn’t doing a lot of headline shows. I was playing a lot of opening slots where I have only 30 minutes. The more records you put out, the less songs I played from ‘Indiana.’ Other songs just get weeded out. There are some songs off of ‘Indiana’ that I had never really played live, so I’ve had to practice them and get them under my fingers.” “Indiana” produced two singles, “Beautiful Disaster” and “Human.” “Beautiful Disaster” was originally released in April 2007 and peaked at No. 28 on the Billboard Adult Top 40 chart. “Human” was a frequent visitors to TV soundtracks. Last October, Island Def Jam/UMe released a remastered, digital-only 15-year anniversary edition of “Indiana.” The deluxe edition features a new a cappella version of the title track “Indiana” featuring Straight No Chaser, as well as two as two B-sides from the original recording session, one of which has never been released. When he thinks back on the last 15 years, McLaughlin jokes about the natural process of aging. “The first thing that pops into my mind is touring with the band and my wife, and I had so much hair back then,” he says with a laugh. “Everybody in the band had so much hair. It was 2007, 2008. There was this rule back then that all the singer-songwriter guys had to have hair like giant mops. We toured so much back then. We didn’t have kids yet.” He and his wife, Amy, were newlyweds and she

traveled with him. McLaughlin admits he took any gig he could possibly get — and it was “a blast.” Now, the couple have two girls, Luca and Liv. “We have a piano in the house so they can hear me play and they can just tick around,” he says. “They’re not taking lessons yet, but pretty soon they will. They like to sit at the piano and make stuff up.” 2023 is a busy year for McLaughlin. He’s working on the instrumental follow-up to “Mood” and “Mood II,” as well as a pop album. “I was just playing through a couple of the new ones for ‘Mood III,’ which I’m recording later this spring,” McLaughlin says. “Then, I have probably half a new pop record written. My plan is for ‘Mood III’ to come out and then a new single for the pop stuff will come out. I just have to choose which one it’s going to be. There will be some touring this year, but this year will be more recording heavy than touring heavy.” “Mood III” has become challenging. There’s no recording to a click track, as he must play the songs to tape all the way through. “There’s no breaking that up,” he says. “There’s no overdubbing. You actually have to learn to play this song all at once. I cannot play them yet. They’re written now so I have to get them under my fingers.” Playing instrumental and pop music keeps it fresh for McLaughlin. “I think it saved my pop career because — I wasn’t ready to quit — but I just felt like I needed some other creative outlet that wasn’t pop,” he says. “It was like I had been running on a treadmill for 20 years and I needed the elliptical machine for a minute, you know what I mean? I get ideas for each. I’ll be working on a pop song, and I’ll get some idea for a bridge that isn’t really for a pop song, but it could be a ‘Mood’ thing. I have this other outlet for all those ideas that maybe didn’t quite fit in the pop world before and vice versa.” He anticipates performing “Mood” tracks at the MIM. “The pianos that they have at the MIM, it would be an insult to not play classical stuff on them, because they’re just amazing,” he says.

Jon McLaughlin WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, February 25 WHERE: Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix COST: Tickets start at $35.50 INFO: 480-478-6000, mim.org

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GRAND CANYON STATE OF MIND Arizona bringing electropop to Super Bowl Experience at Hance Park By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

he New Jersey band Arizona is obsessed with the Grand Canyon State. Admittedly, vocalist Zachary Charles says, the moniker was a bit of a joke. “We were just making a few songs here and there,” Charles says. “At the time Nate (Esquite, guitars) was wearing an Arizona Iced Tea hat or something. He pointed to his hat when we were thinking of a name and that was that. People from Arizona get the joke. We’re not from Arizona.” But humor gave way to love, and the electropop band is all-in. They’ll headline the Super Bowl Experience at Hance Park at 7:15 p.m. Saturday, February 11. “It’s a double-awesome thing because we, coincidentally, love Arizona just in general,” Charles says. “The people there are just great. The music scene is awesome, and I mean it’s the Super Bowl. You can’t really beat both of those things together.” Arizona is returning to music on Wednesday, February 8, with the release of the single “Moving On.” Complete with synth-infused beats and big pop hooks, the song marks the band’s first original music release in four years. The trio has amassed more than 1 billion worldwide career streams, sold-out a series of headline tours, and played well-received sets at all the major U.S. festivals: Coachella, Lollapalooza, Lollapalooza, Austin City Limits, Hangout, Firefly and Governors Ball. To tie in with their namesake and love of the state, the band filmed a truly epic music video in Sedona, which will be released in tandem with the new single. One of the world’s top land artists Jim Denevan and his son created the video’s landscape art in a dry Arizona riverbed. It’s actually the first time that a piece of

land art this size has been built for a music video, and marks the first music video project for Denevan. Once the sun sets, the art transforms into an intergalactic-style lightshow. The video was also created in partnership with the community of Navajo Nation, who joined Denevan to build the artwork. “The music video was pretty insane,” Charles says. “It was also shot all over Arizona, really. We were there for about a week and then the whole crew was probably out there for a week or two before we were there. “Because of the different landscapes, we were able to utilize both natural landscapes and landscape artists. Everybody who was a part of it was really, really good at what they do. It’s like this weird, trippy, alien-looking pyramid thing. It’s 300 by 300 wide. It’s a massive set. It was freezing cold. It was tricky to do the night shots, but seeing the final cuts we have now, it was worth it.” At Hance Park, Arizona fans can expect to hear “Moving On” as well as, maybe, other new songs from an as-of-yet unnamed forthcoming album. “You can expect a crazy, breezy party as always,” he says. “We have a lot of pent-up energy. We haven’t played too many shows. Really over the past year or so, we’ve just been finishing our new album, which we just wrapped up before the end of the year. One of the most rewarding experiences of the whole job is being able to go play in front of people.”

Arizona WHEN: 7:15 p.m. Saturday, February 11 WHERE: Margaret T. Hance Park, 67 W. Culver Street, Phoenix COST: Free INFO: superbowl.com

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‘DREAMING A LITTLE BIT BIGGER’ Chris Lane and Dustin Lynch. She hopes Country’s Lainey with fans will “laugh, cry and want to drink a beer all at the same time.” Wilson is just “I hear that people love to have a good time while they’re there,” Wilson says. “And they getting started know that me and my band are all about By Josh Ortega

fter 12 years of preparation, country star Lainey Wilson says she’s finally entered the race, but the process was all a part of paying her dues. “They say Nashville is a 10-year town, and I truly believe it,” Wilson says. The Louisiana native saw the fruits of her labor in 2022 nabbing an armful of accolades including CMA Female Vocalist of the Year, CMA New Artist of the Year, ACM’s New Female Artist of the Year and CMT’s Breakout Artist of the Year honors. Wilson is one of Nashville’s hottest and most-buzzedabout new artists who’s just getting started. But when her team approached her about “this legendary event,” Wilson couldn’t say yes quickly enough to performing at the Coors Light Birds Nest on Wednesday, February 8,

going and playing music and having a good time wherever we go.” Wilson has opened shows for Lane and Lynch and respects and loves their work that she’s long watched from afar, and she says it’ll be great to reconnect with her two friends. “A lot of times you don’t get to see your artists friends a whole lot because most of the time you’re on opposite ends of the country playing shows,” Wilson says. “But I’m so glad that we’ll be able to see each other that night and catch up and have a good time.” Wilson says the Grand Canyon State holds “a special spot” in her heart especially when she attended a writer’s retreat in Wickenburg with friends. The trail riding on horseback around Wickenburg inspired to write a few songs for her latest album, “Bell Bottom Country,” which debuted in October. “I just feel really inspired every single time I get an opportunity to go out there and play a show or just be there,” Wilson says. As she reflects on what the past year has given her, Wilson says 2022 was a year of her “putting those bricks in place” to continue building her house of success that she’s worked on for the past decade. That’s not to say she didn’t reminisce about special moments along the way including one special connection for the Baskin, Louisiana, native. Besides the Birds Nest, Wilson was just as enthusiastic about performing during the January 2 Rose Parade. She rode on the Louisiana Office of Tourism “Feed Your Soul” float that depicted a paddlewheel riverboat and she performed her song “LA” that’s an ode, in part, to her Louisiana roots. “As soon as I showed up and there was nothing but a bunch of Louisiana folks on the float, I felt right at home,” Wilson says. “I’m proud of where I

come from, and I am who I am because of the place that raised me.” Wilson says she considers 2022 “a big introduction year” for her and she’s in “a unique position” that has her “dreaming a little bigger” this year. “Everything I put on my goals list for last year, we accomplished that plus then some,” Wilson says. After stop at The Birds Nest on February 8, Wilson will jet off to Chattanooga, Tennessee, to continue her Country with a Flare Tour, presented by Stella Rosa Future is Female music series. The 27-city trek, which started on January 4 and runs through March 31, marks the first headline tour for the 30-year-old star, who will perform many of the songs off her latest album. But keeping busy is all in a day’s work for Wilson as she looks to 2023 for more of the same, and that’s a lot considering she spent about 350 nights on the road last year. “I feel like I need to write 300 songs in order to get the best 12, and so I need to be

prepared for that,” Wilson says. Thankfully, this year has her riding on a tour bus that will allow her to get some sleep between shows. Even amid the hustle and bustle of her growing fame, Wilson says she still finds time to stay centered and grounded with meditation, prayer or other simple activities. “For me, sometimes that just means going to find a patch of grass and putting my feet in the grass and doing that, meditation, prayer, I talk to the Lord,” Wilson says. “So, as long as I’m doing those things, I feel like I’m OK and I can stay above water.”

Chris Lane, Lainey Wilson and Dustin Lynch WHEN: Gates open at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, February 8 WHERE: Coors Light Birds Nest, 17020 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale COST: Tickets start at $75 INFO: coorslightbirdsnest.com

IN CLOSING

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FUN » FACTS » LEARN » SHARE » PLAY

NUMBERS By Annika Tomlin

The first Super Bowl was January 15, 1967, at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The Vince Lombardi Trophy stands at 22 inches tall and weighs 7 pounds. Super Bowl 50 is the only Super Bowl not to feature Roman numerals. Lamar Hunt came up with using Roman numerals for Super Bowls starting with Super Bowl V in 1971. There are 12 teams who haven’t won a Super Bowl (Arizona Cardinals is one of them). Super Bowl LVII will be the first time Apple Music is the sponsor for the halftime show, replacing Pepsi. The halftime show will mark Rihanna’s first live performance in over five years. In 2013’s Super Bowl XLVII, Jim and John Harbaugh, of the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens, respectively, were the first brothers to compete against each other as coaches. Bill Belichick has the most Super Bowl rings, with six as head coach and two as defensive coordinator for a total of 8 rings. Tom Brady has 7 Super Bowl rings, the most for a player. Super Bowl LVI commercials cost upward of $6.5 million for a 30-second ad.

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