11 minute read
One Block
THINGS TO DO IN
CAVE CREEK/ CAREFREE
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EAT
The English Rose Tea Room is the perfect place for high tea. Meanwhile, The Horny Toad— which opened in 1976—is known far and wide for its fried chicken and strawberry shortcake. And at Ofrenda, enjoy Latin-inspired cuisine served indoors or on the second-story patio.
English Rose Tea Room 201 Easy St., Carefree www.carefreetea.com
The Horny Toad 6738 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek www.thehornytoad.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP:
Dine at Ofrenda, explore Cave Creek Museum, drink at Keeler's Neighborhood Steakhouse, shop at Thunderbird Artists Gallery
DRINK SHOP
At Buffalo Chip Saloon, grab a drink, meal, get ready to dance, and yes, there’s bull riding, too. Western bar and grill Harold’s Cave Creek Corral also offers live music and country dancing. At Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse, try the new cocktails. At Cave Creek Olive Oil Company, find a variety of flavorful vinegars, oils, and specialty foods. Thunderbird Artists Gallery offers artwork from renowned artists. And, the famous Watson’s Hat Shop sells handcrafted hats.
Buffalo Chip Saloon 6823 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek www.buffalochipsaloon.com
Harold’s Cave Creek Corral 6895 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek www.haroldscorral.com
Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, Carefree www.keelerssteakhouse.com
Cave Creek Olive Oil Company 6201 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek www.cavecreekoliveoil.com
Thunderbird Artists Gallery 99 Easy St., Carefree www.thunderbirdartistsgallery.com
Watson’s Hat Shop 7100 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek www.watsonshatshop.com
PLAY
Carefree Desert Gardens is a free, 4-acre botanical garden with a playground and the largest sundial in the United States. Learn the prehistory, culture, and legacy of the Cave Creek/ Carefree area at Cave Creek Museum. At Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, catch a show or join an activity.
Cave Creek Museum 6140 E. Skyline Drive, Cave Creek https://cavecreekmuseum.org
BEST IN BRUNCH
Toast to the weekend at these Valley A.M. hot spots
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
Breakfast might be the most important meal of the day, but come the weekend, brunch rules. Here are some of the Valley’s best bets for brunch.
FOCH CAFÉ & BISTRO
The Downtown Tempe bistro offers an all-you-can-eat crêpe— both sweet and savory—experience for $22 per guest every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Toppings run the gamut, including strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, whipped cream, Nutella, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and more. Foch also features two signature morning cocktail offerings—a frozen Tequila Sunrise and Frosé—for just $6 each. 21 E. 6th St., Tempe; www.fochcafe.com
THIRSTY LION GASTROPUB
Each of Thirsty Lion’s locations (Phoenix, Gilbert, Chandler, and Tempe) features brunch on weekends from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., complete with a full menu of signature offerings—notably Adobo Pork Benedict, Irish Whiskey French Toast, and Spanish Chilaquiles. Not to be outdone by the food, the drink menu similarly shines with a Fresh Pressed Grapefruit Greyhound and Salted Caramel Moroccan Coffee. Various locations; www.thirstyliongastropub.com
BRUNCH COCKTAILS AT THIRSTY LION GASTROPUB
OEB BREAKFAST CO.
Founded in Calgary, Canada in 2009, OEB chose Scottsdale as its first-ever U.S. location in 2019. The menu, available daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., is divided into nine main sections, with the most unique being the Breakfast Poutine, which pays homage to the iconic dish native to Canada of the same name. Their brunchy take on this Canadian mainstay features more than half a dozen elevated versions of the dish, each subbing breakfast potatoes for fries. 17757 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; www.eatoeb.com
STK STEAKHOUSE
Among the most lavish morning menus—think Lobster & Eggs Benedict and Truffle Steak & Eggs—in the Valley, STK Steakhouse offers brunch on weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bonus: Guests are given the option of purchasing bottomless mimosas or Bloody Marys with the purchase of any entrée. 7134 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale; www.stksteakhouse.com
BEVVY
Both Bevvy Uptown Phoenix and Old Town Scottsdale have clever brunch programs. Uptown offers shareable brunch-only cocktails, as well as an all-you-can-eat option on some of its most popular morning items every weekend from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., while the Old Town location features whimsical takes on favorites, including a French toast infused with Maker’s Mark whiskey, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 4420 N. Saddlebag Trail, Scottsdale and 5600 N. 7th St., Phoenix; www.bevvyaz.com
POSTINO WINECAFE
Brunch is available on weekends from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at all nine Postino locations statewide. Hip takes on comfort food rules the menu here—notably both Croque Monsieur and Croque Madams, Umbria Egg Toast piled high with white truffle and crispy oyster mushrooms, and heavenly Ricotta Fritters with apple butter and Madagascar vanilla caramel—as do cocktails, thanks to inspired combinations of rosé with grapefruit, Cappelletti with Dolin Blanc, and orange juice with Dogfish Head SeaQuench Gose. Various locations; www.postinowinecafe.com
LON'S AT THE HERMOSA INN
to 2 p.m. The menu offers a bounty of delectable options, including four varieties of eggs benedict, a sizzling bacon board, Bananas Foster French Toast, Short Rib Hash, and the beloved Monkey Bread, all paired with signature flavored mimosas, wines, and ample bubble options. 5532 N. Palo Cristi Road, Paradise Valley; www.lons.com
K-38 BEACH MEX CANTINA
This popular Chandler south-of-the-border-inspired cantina offers brunch on weekends from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. An epic combination of sweet and savory delights, expect ample Mexican takes on the morning menu including Breakfast Takos (yes, with a k) and waffles made using churro batter. 1155 W. Ocotillo Road, Chandler; www.k-38beachmexcantina.com
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT:
Brunch menu highlights at Campo Italian Bistro + Bar; Big Buns at Humble Bistro; Avocado Toast at RnR Gastropub
FROM TOP: COURTESY HUMBLE BISTRO; COURTESY RNR GASTROPUB
HUMBLE BISTRO
Humble Bistro, which has locations in Phoenix, Gilbert, and Glendale, offers a perfect combination of traditional breakfast sandwiches and egg preparations, as well as more adventurous fare including the oversized Forno Cinnamon Roll with candied bacon, cinnamon glaze, and whipped citrus mascarpone, and a Frenchstyle Scramble with savory capicola ham, candied bacon, aged white cheddar, and chipotle hollandaise. Available on weekends from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Various locations; www.humblebistro.com
RNR GASTROPUB
This Old Town Scottsdale staple is known for its daily brunch served until 4 p.m., especially its morning libations—notably the Spark Plug, a spirited take on a morning cold brew. The food menu showcases Avocado Toast topped with roasted corn and French toast made using Chambord-infused cream cheese and Chantilly cream. 3737 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; www.rnrscottsdale.com
CAMPO ITALIAN BISTRO + BAR
Not only did this charming new eatery in Scottsdale recently launch brunch on the weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., but they are offering it with a side of live music. A revolving array of talent from across Arizona performs every weekend during brunch, while award-winning chef Alex Stratta cooks up everything from Dutch Baby Pancakes to Crab Cake Benedict and rural Italian breakfast classics. 8260 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; www.campoitalian.com
COURTESY HASH KITCHEN; LON'S AT THE HERMOSA INN; COURTESY THE HOT CHICK; COURTESY BLUE CLOVER DISTILLERY. OPPOSITE: COURTESY BLUE HOUND KITCHEN & COCKTAILS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: HASH GLAZED DONUTS AT HASH KITCHEN; BRUNCH AT LON'S AT THE HERMOSA INN; BRUNCH OPTIONS AT THE HOT CHICK; BRUNCH AT BLUE CLOVER DISTILLERY
BLUE HOUND KITCHEN & COCKTAILS
Blue Hound features brunch from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. each weekend, including nearly a dozen morning cocktails and mocktails, as well as a menu that runs the gamut. Try the Avocado & Mushroom Toast, Blueberry Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, or Chicken & Waffle. Also, if you're feeling saucy, splurge on a morning bourbon flight. 2 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix; www.bluehoundkitchen.com
BLUE CLOVER DISTILLERY
The microdistillery offers a $10 brunch menu on weekends from noon to 3 p.m., with indulgent items such as a Smothered Green Chile Breakfast Burrito and a Farm Egg & Bacon Grilled Cheese with tater tots. The menu also features mimosas with refills for $2 and cocktails with the distillery’s artisanal vodka. 7042 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale; www.bluecloverdistillery.com
HASH KITCHEN
This brunch-only restaurant concept with locations in Chandler, Phoenix, Peoria, and Scottsdale has an over-the-top menu from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekends. Think glazed donuts in the shape of hashtags, bacon with 24-karat edible gold flakes, and even a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar with more than 50 craft accoutrements. Various locations; www.hashkitchen.com
THE HOT CHICK
The Scottsdale bar with throwback vibes has brunch every Sunday from noon to 3 p.m. Among its most notable offerings is Peace, Love & Bubbles, a bottle of sparkling wine for just $1 with the purchase of any entrée. The Hot Chick is also hosting a cornhole tournament during brunch weekly through June. 4363 N. 75th St., Scottsdale; www.thehotchickaz.com
THE MONTAUK
Allow yourself to be whisked away to the Hamptons courtesy of this buzzy spot, which offers brunch Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and on weekends from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Along with popular breakfast menu items such as their “McMontauk” sandwich, you can catch live music while you enjoy the cozy lounge. 4360 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; www.themontaukaz.com
Scenic Sights
Stunning sweeping vistas of a sprawling city? Yes, please!
BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN
CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN
Mountains surround Metro Phoenix (hence its nickname as “The Valley”), as well as rise within. For stunning views, head to these locales.
A REWARD AT THE TOP
While it requires some effort to access these views, your hard work will be rewarded. Put on your sneakers, grab some sunscreen and water, and spend some time hiking.
The Valley’s iconic Camelback Mountain (6131 E. Cholla Lane, Phoenix and 5700 N. Echo Canyon Parkway, Phoenix)—so called because its shape resembles that of a reclining camel—offers two trails that lead to a summit that sits 2,704 feet above sea level. Both are challenging hikes, but the 360-degree views are worth it.
While Camelback is the highest peak in the Valley, Piestewa Peak (2701 E. Piestewa Peak Drive, Phoenix) is the second-highest and also offers stunning views. There is one summit trail and it’s challenging, but the 1,200 foot gain views are stunning.
At Papago Park find Hole-in-the-Rock (625 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix), which is, well, a hole in a rock. Wind and rain caused the erosion that created this unique feature, which is large and perfectly frames the Valley below.
A MEAL & A VIEW
Take in 360-degree views with a meal at Compass Arizona Grill (www.phoenix.regency.hyatt.com), the state’s only revolving rooftop restaurant. Located on the 24th floor of the Hyatt Regency Phoenix in Downtown Phoenix, it offers seasonal and regional New American meals with an ever-changing view.
Also in Phoenix, though a little more north, Wrigley Mansion (www.wrigleymansion.com) offers both the popular Geordie’s and Christopher’s (led by James Beard award-winning chef Christopher Gross) restaurants, as well as tours of the historic mansion that was built by chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. in 1932. The locale is perched atop a mountain, with the city sprawled out beneath it.
Meanwhile, Different Pointe of View (www.tapatiocliffshilton. com) is perched atop North Mountain, and is the longest consecutively awarded AAA Four-Diamond restaurant in Phoenix. It offers seating indoors and out, and views as satisfying as the meals.
Rustler’s Rooste (www.rustlersrooste.com) is at the top of South Mountain, and is considered a cowboy steakhouse, with ”beef and brew and a view.” A unique locale (check out the slide that links the second floor saloon with the restaurant below!), there’s also live country Western music nightly.
At Marriott Phoenix Resort Tempe at The Buttes, find Top Of The Rock (www.marriott.com), which offers contemporary, locally inspired American dishes, as well as 260-degree views of the Valley.
WORTH THE DRIVE
From Phoenix or Scottsdale, head east on Shea Boulevard towards Fountain Hills for the Fountain Hills Viewing Point (14845 E. Shea Blvd, Fountain Hills). It's a small parking area to the side the road designed for those looking for scenic views—and it delivers.
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FAVORITES DESERT RIDER
This original exhibition at Phoenix Art Museum explores the sociopolitical realities and imaginative interpretations of automotive subcultures through diverse works by local Arizona and regional artists from the Southwest, focusing exclusively on Latinx and Indigenous perspectives that are challenging preconceived notions around identity and creative self-determination. Featured artists include Liz Cohen, Cara Romero, Betsabeé Romero, Justin Favela, and Douglas Miles, who explore the relationships between transportation, landscape, and identity in the desert region. View large-scale installations, prints, sculptures, and more. Closed Mondays. 1625 N. Central Ave., Phoenix; www.phxart.org
