Drive Thru & Go

by Mike Hunter

Most of us likely know curbside pick-up because of the signs that read, “Reserved parking for curb-side take-out orders only” at some local restaurants. But some local restaurants are offering drive-up as well. Here are some good eats with “pass thru” perks. 32 Shea Gourmet hot spot with a drive-through is a rarity. That makes 32 Shea a stand-out. This quaint and hip … [More]

Cuff: A Glendale Game Changer

By Mike Hunter

This charming and American urban eatery in historic Downtown Glendale is a breath of fresh air and the creation of Chef Tom Harvey. Touted as an area leader to look to for transforming downtown, Cuff is a welcome twist on some great American dishes and drinks served up with savvy in a neighborhood setting in the Humphrey-Davidson Building, built in 1895. The room is quaint … [More]

A Super Place to Be

by Mike Hunter

With Super Bowl coming to town and the televised experience almost as good as going to the game itself, we offer these dining establishments as super places to catch the game and have some great food as well. Arcadia Tavern Under new ownership, this neighborhood, Irish-style tavern is still the hot spot for sports. Equipped with the latest and largest HD TVs at every angle, … [More]

Gallo Blanco: Latin Contemporary Defined

by Mike Hunter

Set in the lobby area of The Clarendon Hotel, a contemporary boutique hotel in Central Phoenix, Gallo Blanco is a hot spot that has received accolades for its guacamole as well as for its overall menu. The creation of chef and owner Doug Robson, who also owns Otro Café, Gallo Blanco’s menu offers dishes into which he has infused the foods he grew up on in Mexico and includes … [More]

Assembly Line: Food for Thought

by Mike Hunter

Make it all about you for lunch at these “assembly-line” concept restaurants with locations throughout the Valley. Pick and choose as you please for the perfect customized meal. Pizza Studio It’s all about choice — crust, sauce, cheese and toppings. This latest of the hot spots is only at CityScape currently and is serving up custom pizzas with incredible flavor made from … [More]

A Mainstream Meal: Cornish Pasty Co.

by Mike Hunter

Growing up in Saltash, Cornwall, the westernmost county in England, Dean Thomas, founder of Cornish Pasty Company, was introduced to this famed food — the pasty. Thomas’ first restaurant in Tempe was a local favorite, and he has expanded now to other parts of the Valley, including a bungalow-style location in Old Town Scottsdale. The scrumptious dish is a virtual “pastry … [More]

Getting Uber Hip for Lunch

by Mike Hunter

Getting out of the office and into something hip and flavorful is something to look forward to. Whether with a client or colleagues, here are some hot spots that are architecturally savvy and focus on great foods. Clever Koi Chinese-American comfort food with a twist is how this place is described. From delicate dumplings to rice and noodle bowls, this casual-cool spot … [More]

Get Out!

by Mike Hunter

Now is our time. Getting out from between walls and onto patios is what this season is all about. Here are our picks for some of the best patio lunch spots in the metropolitan area. Chelsea’s Kitchen Still a staple for anyone interested in dining al fresco, Chelsea’s Kitchen offers tree-covered comfort with delectable American gourmet classics. Selections range from … [More]

An Instant Classic: Paul Martin’s American Grill

by Mike Hunter

Homemade dishes with the finest ingredients at a great price was the concept developed by Brian Bennett and Paul Fleming. Known for their successful restaurant concepts, they have now launched Paul Martin’s American Grill to be that great neighborhood joint to get some well-known dishes and fresh and flavorful creations made of locally sourced ingredients. Recently opened in … [More]

Get a Piece of the Pie

by Mike Hunter

Pizza is beloved by all and has become a meal for many or a single, plate-sized delight. Being easy to eat and available in a vast variety make pizza (or flatbreads) a favorite of lunch-goers. Here are our picks: Federal Pizza Incredible crust is the foundation for this Central Phoenix hot spot housed in the old 1950s First Federal Bank building. Wood-fired and made of only … [More]