SPOONZ CAFE

Spoonz Cafe, the latest coffee cafe concept from Denise and Garry Bismore, is now open inside the 101 North Building at First Avenue and Adams.

The Bismores have a wildly successful track record for coffee and lunch hot spots, having previously owned the Silver Spoon Cafe  in the historic Hotel San Carlos and more recently The Daily Grind, the Washington/Central cafe that closed early last year.

Spoonz doesn’t stray far from the Bismores’ proven restaurant template.

Beyond a full menu of hot, cold and frozen coffee and tea beverages, for breakfast Spoonz offers quiche slices for $3.95, New York bagels ($1) and bagel sandwiches ($3.95), breakfast burritos ($3.95), yogurt and fruit cups ($3.50) and all the familiar fresh-baked pastries Silver Spoon and Daily Grind customers loved. 

A wide selection of wraps and paninis, which sell for $6.95 each, take center stage at lunch. The Atlantica Wrap and Caprese Panini are great vegetarian options, while carnivores can take on the Portabella Burger Panini (sausage stuffed mushroom), Hail Caesar Wrap, Tuna Melt Panini, Country Ham Panini, and my personal favorite, the Scottsdale Panini with chicken, bacon, avocado and Swiss cheese. (Now, if we could just convince Denise and Garry to change the name to something more Downtowny; might we suggest ”The Ambassador Panini,” in honor of the kitchen’s helpful neighbors?)

There are also build-your-own-salads for $5.95, Soup of the Day selections ($3 cups/$4 bowls), and Garry’s famous sweet potato fries (an incredible value at $1.95).

Spoonz is open 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday. Please stop in and welcome Garry and Denise back to the neighborhood!

via downtownphoenix.com

WIGWAM FESTIVAL OF FINE ARTS

On February 11-13 you can experience Arizona's premier Fine Art & Wine Event at the Wigwam Resort. The colorful history of the Southwest will be on display as we celebrate the visual, culinary and performing arts.

This outdoor gallery setting on the beautiful Wigwam Resort will allow visitors to discover the talents of the most accomplished fine artists and craftsmen in the Southwest. With fine dining and excellent wines, the sounds of classical violinist and "Lord of the Strings" Arvel Bird, this event is a must for art lovers in Arizona.

WIGWAM RESORT

THERE ARE MUSEUMS...AND THEN THERE'S THE HEARD MUSEUM

There are museums all over the country, however the Heard Museum is very unique. The exhibits are not only unique, but also the way they are displayed is truly eye-catching. It has to be seen to be believed.

If you're looking for what to do in Phoenix, this is your place! With permanent exhibits like the Barry Goldwater collection of Kachina dolls to the annual events like the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest, this amazing and unique museum is a must-visit when you come see Phoenix!

See their website HERE

IF YOU DARE....THE APACHE TRAIL

If you decide to drive the Apache Trail, it will be one of the most memorable drives of your life. The adventure starts at Apache Junction, 25 miles east of Phoenix. The drive between Apache Junction and Roosevelt Lake is beautiful and scenic, but is also very challenging to drive.

You'll pass Goldfield Ghost Town, Saguaro lake, Lost Dutchman State Park, and many other beautiful areas. If you're looking for things to do in Phoenix, this may be one of the most memorable things to do!

The trail has become a designated USFS Scenic Byway by the U.S. Forest Service. It's a unique and fun trip....just don't take your eyes of the road for too long when you're behind the wheel!

APACHE TRAIL

THE BEST RESORTS IN ARIZONA

From the five-star Phoenician to the trendy Camelback sanctuary, packages can be found to accommodate girlfriend getaways, family adventures and romance. Don’t forget to call the resort and ask for current specials, you’ll always find unbeatable incentives to book your stay today. Find the best rates May through August and when our temperatures outside become ideal, the tourists flock in peak season from September through April.

The Brat Pack: The Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Collection Resort often promotes nostalgic themed packages. The historic Biltmore has played host to Presidents with a classic art deco beauty. Bringing luxe to patrons with fine linens, silvers plates and meticulous gardens. A must is to see and be seen at the extravagant Sunday brunch. Visit www.arizonabiltmore.com for details and information.

The Princess Diana: Saving the best for last is the resort of royalty, dignitaries and well – the President. The Phoenician is well hidden in North Scottsdale, far from gawkers and vast in lush greens. Grab your clubs and look for the Obamas. The best time to stay at reasonable rates is off-season and it is definately easier on the federal deficit. Turn your vacation into a destination to remember at Arizona’s largest and most prestigious resorts. Visit www.thephoenician.com for details and more information.

The Mediterranean: Looking to travel abroad? Stay close with all the inspired influence of Spain’s Andalusia region with a visit to the Intercontinental Montelucia Resort and Joya spa, nestled in the hills of Paradise Valley. One of the Valley’s newest resorts accommodates with a vibrant theme and suites at every price level. Enjoy your stay at their two pool, trendy restaurants and poolside cocktail lounges. Visit www.icmontelucia.com for details in addition to don’t want to miss packages, details and more information.

La México: Not ready to cross the border but looking for lush tropics and rustic charm. The Royal Palms is one of Arizona’s most enchanting resorts. From the flagstone drive to the rich yellow stucco, the Royal Palms embraces its Latin influences in the décor, archways and hospitality. Don’t miss an afternoon by the fountain in the Mansion Courtyard or the inviting blue pool. The cabanas mirror the resort with a romantic charm. If your looking for a relaxing weekend, visitwww.royalpalmshotel.com for more information about the rustic resort, award winning T. Cooks and the world renowned Alvadora Spa.

The Malibu: Sleek and simple, the Camelback Sanctuary offers great summer rates when they’re not tending to celebrities to the likes of Justin Timberlake and Brittany Spears in peak season. Spend your vacation lofting in the infinity pool and dining on fresh farmed, Asian inspired cuisine at famed Elements. This boutique resort and spa is a tranquil hideaway beneath the Camelback Mountain. Visitwww.sanctuaryoncamelback.com for availability and information.

The Marilyn Monroe: Hotel Valley Ho reinvents retro in this renovated 1956 chic resort. On the grounds, locals are always at play visiting Trader Vics, Café ZuZu and the infamous VH Spa. For a inclusive vacation, visit www.hotelvalleyho.com for vintage and trendy events, live music by the pool and a plethora of specials.

The Golfer: The adventurer will find The Boulders resort perfect for their next vacation or staycation. They have much more to offer than stunning views, The Boulders was voted best for golf in travel.azcentral.com's Best Arizona Hotels poll. Superior views surround the two courses designed by award-winning Jay Morrish. The courses were carefully designed around the massive boulders to present a rigorous game for newbies and pros alike. The Waldorf Astoria Collection is also home to Latilla casual dining while the ladies indulge at the Golden Door family of Spas.Start packing and head out and visit the best the Sonoran Desert has to offer. Visit www.theboulders.com for reservations and more information.

The Swiss Family Robinson: Family adventure awaits at Hilton Pointe Tapatio Cliffs resort. A nostalgic family resort, well known for its lush acres of pools, water slides, and waterfalls. Grab the kids and climb into a tube for a wild or lazy stay under the cliffs. Family friendly rates start at $119 per suite. Visit www.tapatiocliffshilton.comfor details and more information.

THE TOP 5 PHOENIX MEXICAN RESTAURANTS...

Phoenix has such a broad array of dining venues so I will just touch on a few that serve what we here in the southwest do best, Mexican. From local joints, family to happy hour, each is top notch and you won’t leave hungry or short of a good time.

I don't normally pick favorites, however, I will start with numero uno. Rancho de Tia Rosa’s is a family owned and run Mexican restaurant in the East Valley and worth the drive from all corner of Phoenix. Located off McKellips and Val Vista in the heart of the Valley’s orange groves. Tia Rosa’s rose-colored stucco buildings with bold southwest colors invite you as much as the food. Surrounded by two patios, lush foliage and the best Mexican food you ever ate. Prepare yourself for an afternoon or a long evening to linger with margaritas and friends. Start in with a simple cheese crisp and Dos Tia’s Tamales for the table. The entrees are a no miss, my husbands favorite is the Tia’s Plato de Carne Asada, a signature 12-spice marinated beef or pork slowly oven roasted for ten hours then lightly charbroiled on an open flame… Need I say more? The beef just melts in your mouth. I on the hand, love Baja. The Seafood Tacos come in an array of three choices: shrimp and pineapple salsa , grilled salmon and with an orange mango salsa and the crab with papaya dressing. Each taco carefully layered with two white corn tortillas and cheese to blanket your sautéed seafood. Open Tuesday through Saturday, closed Sunday and Monday. Reservations are recommended, Tia Rosa’s is no secret with the award strewn foyer. For Reservations call (480) 659-8787 or visit www.ranchodetiarosa.com.

Aunt Chilada’s is nestled near Squaw Peak Mountain and off the Piestawa (51) Freeway and Glendale Avenue. Well know for its foliage-lined patio, which accommodates no less than 200 patrons. There are two patios to boot on the grounds of the 1890’s historical site that has seen the likes of the gold mining days, prohibition and stood as a steak house among others before becoming one of the Phoenix’s best, as voted by Phoenix Magazine and aol.com. So what are they best at? Best Mexican, best chef, best price, best chip’s and salsa and need I say, best margaritas. Again, Aunt Chilada’s is not an on the fly food joint. You’ll want to linger, drink, eat and listen to live music. We like Aunt Chilada’s Tortillion, a flour tortilla dipped in egg batter and fried with bacon! Also it comes filled with beef, cheese, salsa and a red chipotle sauce with the prickly pear margarita.www.auntchiladas.com for menu, directions and party, I meant group information.

Popo’s Fiesta Del Sol is the best dive for that real TexMex craving. Located in the West Valley at 67^th Avenue and Indian School Road, hidden in an old strip mall. This Mexican will satisfy your cravings on the fly or dine-in with friends and family. My grandpa John took us here every Sunday growing up to put some meat on our bones. What we like is the no fuss atmosphere, just good food and a combo platter for everyone. Make sure you save room for the best fried ice cream in town. Yes, we deep freeze our ice cream, batter and fry it with a crispy crust , then we sundae it up down here in the southwest. Visit www.poposmexicanfood.com for more information.

Mexican at sunset, okay, that’s not what it’s called but it could be. Owners Cliff Skoglund and Robert Hall named it the Spotted Donkey Cantina. Located at one of the best places to view a fiery Arizona sunset, The Boulders El Pedregal.  Perched up next to the golden boulders and The Boulders Resort and Golden Door Spa off Cave Creek Road and Scottsdale Rd./Tom Darlington Drive. The Spotted Donkey is on the second floor at El Pedregal, prime for views on their stucco patio. The atmosphere is casual and eclectic but the food speaks “fine art.” With the regular live music and art shows around the fountain below, The Spotted Donkey fits in perfectly after a day of fun in the boutique lined El Pedregal. While the sky is still blue, we like to start with La Canasta Corn Chips and Salsa, although it should say salsas. Served generously with roasted tomato, chorizo blackbean and tomatillo avocado salsas for every patron’s picky palette. Moving on to courses we like the fusion of good ‘ol Southwest barbeque with Mexican. You can’t go wrong from the Chimaya Chile Rubbed Pork Tenderloin to the Arizona “Mac and Cheese.” A kid friendly and fan favorite around these parts, the Arizona “Mac and Cheese” has rigatone pasta with hatch green chile, Mexican cheeses and applewood smoked bacon. Dig in as the sky turns from golden to hot pink when you start in on the infamous mojitos. Visitwww.spotteddonkeycantina.com for more information and reservations.

So Arizona is not known for its beaches, the Salty Seniorita in Old Town Scottsdale is still home to a beach bar. A fresh Mexican cantina and restaurant, boasting some more of Arizona’s bests, best burrito, best patio, best authentic cantina, and certainly the best happy hour with the best margarita. Salty Seniorita likes to keep things simple for the lively crowd with a combo countdown. We like the “dos, tres, quarto, and cinqo de drinko” from a choice of tacos, enchiladas and tamales. We also like the coconut flan with our seaside margaritas. Stop by, dine-in or linger, nobody minds at Salty’s beach. Visit www.saltyseniorita.com for locations and more information.

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN PHOENIX

1. Arizona Science Center

This interactive science center is leader in providing its visitors with fun, educational, interactive exhibits. 

2. Desert Botanical Garden

The beautiful Desert Botanical Garden offers visitors a chance to see over 21,000 plants on 140-acres.

3. AZ Hummer Tours

Always a favorite, trek through the Sonoran Desert and see the breathtaking views, vistas, Native American ruins and ghost towns and get a taste of Arizona history on this guided tour through this unique landscape. 

4. Heard Museum

The Heard Museum offers visitors a look into Southwestern and Native American art.

5. Trip to Grand Canyon

Take a day trip to the Grand Canyon and experience perhaps the most awe inspiring National Park in the United States. 

6. Hike Camelback Mountain

These beautiful, but daunting red sandstone cliffs draw thousands of nature enthusiasts every year. Hike to the top and experience the gorgeous views.

7. Castles 'n' Coasters

This family fun thrill park is a great way to spend the day. 

8. Phoenix Zoo

The largest non-profit zoo in the United States, the Phoenix Zoo has over 1,300 animals and a wide variety of exhibits for the whole family to enjoy.

9. Papago Park

Papago Park is known for its hilly terrain and many distinct geological formations. the nature enthusiasts with love going for a hike, climb, or relaxing and having a picnic at this truly majestic park.

10. Phoenix Art Museum

The Phoenix Art Museum is home to the largest collection of art from across the world in the Southwestern United States.