Phoenix Restaurant Blog

My new blog is now online at LocalEats.com

2007-10-09T12:04:00.001-07:00

Find my new posts at LocalEats.com, look under blogs in the top menu.

Red, White and Brew Opens New Location

2007-09-25T08:54:00.000-07:00

IN THE NEWS: Red, White and Brew is opening of a second restaurant in Chandler, The Business Journal of Phoenix reports. The American traditional restaurant is set for 4850 S. Gilbert Road in the Chandler Heights Marketplace. phoenix.bizjournals.com ... New Times' Michele Laudig reviews Union Wine Bar & Grill (3815 North Brown Avenue, Scottsdale, 480-686-9966) and reports owner Ben Bethel and manager Justin Lee are hard at work at The Clarendon hotel's Japanese-inspired C4, the hotel's new eatery and bar slated to open in a couple of weeks. phoenixnewtimes.com ... The Arizona Republic reviews Chop and Wok/Wok Star (7136 E. Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale, 480-483-1939, chopandwok.com), Oggi's Pizza and Brewing Co. (6681 W. Beardsley Road, Glendale, 623-566-8080, oggis.com), Logan's Roadhouse (945 N. Dobson Road, Mesa, 480-668-5900, logansroadhouse.com), Jaded (5111 N. 7th St., Phoenix, 602-240-6969), Restaurant Samarkand (7823 N. 19th Ave., Phoenix, 602-331-8991), Catia's Kitchen (10880 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix, 602-996-4371) and New York Sausage Company (3015 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480-970-4774), while Howard Seftel lists his 15 Best New Restaurant Dishes of 2007, including the pork katsu at Ippei Japanese Bistro (7000 E. Mayo Blvd., Scottsdale 101 Power Center, Phoenix, 480-585-7770). azcentral.com ... FeastinginPhoenix.com reviews Yupha’s Thai Kitchen (1020 West Elliot Road, Suite B-107, Tempe, AZ, www.yuphasthaikitchen.com). ... Jack's Brain visits Silver Dragon. iamjacksbrain.com

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Ling & Louie's Asian Bar Set for November

2007-09-18T14:26:00.000-07:00

IN THE NEWS: The Business Journal of Phoenix reports that Ling & Louie's Restaurants LLC is selling its Thaifoon Taste of Asia restaurant to McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurants. A new restaurant, Ling & Louie's Asian Bar & Grill, is expected to open in late November at 94th Street and Shea Boulevard. Thaifoon's 5,200-square-foot space at Gainey Village, however, was too large for the new restaurant, which will have a more intimate atmosphere. phoenix.bizjournals.com ... The Arizona Republic offers a Mexican dining guide and also reviews restaurants Los Reyes de la Torta (9230 N. Seventh St., Phoenix, 602-870-2967), Hiro Sushi (9393 N. 90th Street, Scottsdale, 480-314-4215, hirosushiaz.com), Rosa's Mexican Grill (328 E. University Drive, Mesa, 480-964-5451) and Fate (905 N. Fourth St., Phoenix, 602-254-6424) and notes the opening of upscale fusion eatery LUC'S (34505 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480-488-3811). azcentral.com ... New Times' Michele Laudig tries the miniburgers at Stax Burger Bistro (4400 North Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale), blogs about a visit to Lisa G, and notes the move of Thai Hut from east Mesa to central Phoenix (McDowell Road just east of Central Avenue, across from the Phoenix Art Museum). phoenixnewtimes.com ... FeastinginPhoenix.com reviews Coronado Cafe (2201 North Seventh Street, Phoenix). ... Jack's Brain visits Efes Turkish Cuisine in Tempe. IAmJacksBrain.com ... What the Jester Had For Dinner reviews Urban Campfire in Tempe. thecosmicjester.blogspot.com ...

Zagat Buzz reports that to celebrate its 20th anniversary, the James Beard Foundation is hosting a series of food festivals and special dinners in 20 cities nationwide. The events kick off on September 18th in New York with a lavish menu inspired by Beard at Four Seasons. The celebrations continue the next week with elaborate dinners cooked by first-rate toques in Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Portland, San Francisco, Seattle, Short Hills, NJ and Washington, DC. All of the events are unique, with different chef lineups and dining formats ranging from gala dinners to walk-around tastings, so check the individual city pages for details. Though prices for the dinners vary, all of them will be followed up on September 29th with special events at local Williams-Sonoma stores where chefs will be offering cooking demos, book signings, specialty food tastings and kids' educational activities free of charge. For more information about the event, logon to www.jbftasteamerica.com. zagat.com

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

BLT Steak Takes Over at Camelback Inn

2007-09-11T04:09:00.000-07:00

IN THE NEWS: The Arizona Republic reviews Moe's Southwest Grill (325 W. Elliot Road, Tempe, with three other Valley locations, 480-838-6637, www.moes.com), Lowdown Cafe (2407 E. Osborn Rd., Phoenix, 602-957-8981), Pho Sapa Authentic Vietnamese Restaurant (7707 S. Kyrene Road, Tempe, 480-755-7272), and Radio Milano (3950 E. Campbell Ave., Phoenix, 602-956-6600). ... Howard Zeftel reports that The Camelback Inn has closed the Chaparral room, replacing it with a New York steakhouse called BLT Steak. ... Zeftel also blogs that chef Chris Curtiss has left Heritage Square's Circa 1900 after a fitful one-year run. One of the owners, Tom Vigil -- he and two partners also operate Coronado Cafe -- also are considering selling the restaurant. Curtiss is headed to Binkley's in Cave Creek. azcentral.com New Times' Michele Laudig reviews Palatte (606 North Fourth Avenue, 602-462-9400). phoenixnewtimes.com ... FeastingInPhoenix.com reviews The Siamese Cat
(5034 South Price Road, Tempe, www.thesiamesecat.com).

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Scottsdale's Furphy's Gourmet Pizzas Opens

2007-09-04T12:06:00.000-07:00

IN THE NEWS: The Arizona Republic's Casey Sweet notes the opening of Furphy's Gourmet Pizzas and Healthy Cuisine (7000 E. Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale, 480-368-9797, furphysgourmetpizza.com) in the former La Piazza spot, the expected October opening of Canal (7144 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale, 480-949-9000, southbridgescottsdale.com) and reviews Ajo Al's (9393 N. 90th Street, Scottsdale, 480-860-2611, ajoals.com). ... The paper also reviews: San Diego Bay Restaurant (9201 S Avenida Del Yaqui, Guadalupe, 480-839-2991), Layalena (1290 North Scottsdale Road, Tempe, 480-966-9116, www.layalenarestaurant.com), Joyful Chinese Dining (9699 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, 480-998-8188) and Ernie's Inn (10443 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480-948-4422, erniesinn.com) and notes the Sept. 6 celebration of the 20th anniversary of House of Tricks (114 E. Seventh St., Tempe, 480-921-8955, www.houseoftricks.com). azcentral.com ... New Times' Michele Laudig reviews Lemon Grass Thai Café (818 West Broadway Road, Tempe, 480-967-9121). phoenixnewtimes.com ... FeastinginPhoenix.com reviews Shanghai Palace (7901 East Thomas Road, Suite 108, Scottsdale, www.tottierolls.com)

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Pizzeria Bianco Wins Best Pizza Mention

2007-08-27T13:32:00.000-07:00

Phoenix's Pizzeria Bianco and New Orleans' Willie Mae's Scotch House were among the winners in Bon Appetit magazine's recent Food Network special. Winning restaurants were selected from each of three semifinalists for the best versions of six quintessential American classics: pizza, steak, tacos, hamburgers, fried chicken, and ribs. The winners were announced on the Good Eats with Alton Brown show on the Food Network.

Here are the winners and runners-up:
PIZZA: Pizzeria Bianco, Phoenix (WINNER); DiFara Pizza, Brooklyn, NY; Pizzeria Mozza, Los Angeles
STEAK: Peter Luger Steak House, Brooklyn (WINNER); Cut, Los Angeles; Doe's Eat Place, Greenville, Miss.
TACOS: Taco Taco Cafe, San Antonio (WINNER); Taqueria del Sol, Atlanta; South Beach Bar & Grill, Ocean Beach, Calif.
Hamburgers: Bobcate Bite, Santa Fe, NM (WINNER); Taylor's Automatic Refresher, St. Helena, Calif; The Meers Store and Restaurant, Lawton, Okla.
FRIED CHICKEN: Willie Mae's Scotch House, New Orleans (WINNER); Price's Chicken Coop, Charlotte, NC; Blackberry Farm, Walland, Tenn.
RIBS: 17th Street Bar & Grill, Murphysboro, Ill (WINNER); Charles Vergos Rendezvous, Memphis; Jaspers, Plano, Texas.

IN THE NEWS: Three restaurants are the newest tenants announced for San Tan Village in Gilbert, The Business Journal of Phoenix reports. The Keg Steakhouse & Bar, Gordon Biersch and Cantina Laredo will open later this year and next year in the 1.2 million-square-foot regional shopping center off Loop 202 in Gilbert. Gordon Biersch will be the first of the three to open and is expected to welcome guests in late October. Both Cantina Laredo, an eatery that specializes in gourmet Mexican dishes, and The Keg are expected to open next spring. Other restaurants already announced that will locate in the center include Brio Tuscan Grille, Blue Wasabi, Paradise Bakery and Johnny Rockets. phoenix.bizjournals.com ... New Times' Michele Laudig reviews Del Piero (at Queen Creek Olive Mill, 25062 South Meridian Road, Queen Creek, 480-888-9290). phoenixnewtimes.com ... The Arizona Republic reviews Tacos de Juarez Mexican Food (1017 N. 7th St., Phoenix, 623-258-1744), 5395 West Soul Food Place (725 N. Central Ave. Suite 101, Avondale, 623-925-8529, 5395soulfood.com), Madelyn's Restaurant & Wine Bar (39504 N. Daisy Mountain Drive, Anthem, 623-551-6800), Paradise Bakery & Café (10625 North Tatum Boulevard, Phoenix, 480-751-5960, paradisebakery.com), Mike Thai (5110 E. Southern Ave., Mesa, 480-985-3688), Hana Japanese Eatery (5524 N. 7th Ave., Phoenix, 602-973-1238, hanajapaneseeatery.com), and Bravi Tuscan Kitchen (5940 W. Union Hills Road, Glendale, 602-588-3000, bravionline.com), while Howard Zeftel blogs a visit to Luc's (34505 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480-488-3811). azcentral.com ... FeastinginPhoenix.com visits Sol y Sombra Spanish Kitchen (20707 North Pima Road, Suite I-200, Scottsdale, www.solysombraaz.com).

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Dave & Buster's To Open Mid-September

2007-08-21T13:06:00.000-07:00

IN THE NEWS: Arizona's first Dave & Buster's entertainment center will celebrate its grand opening Sept. 15 at Tempe Marketplace with a charity event benefiting Waste Not, the Business Journal of Phoenix reports. The 50,000-square-foot facility features electronic games, arcade games, pool tables, a full-service restaurant and bar. It will open to the general public Sept. 17. ... New Times' Michele Laudig reviews Al-Hana Restaurant at Baiz Market (523 North 20th Street), while C.M. Redding considers Jake's-O-Mine (1985 West Apache Trail, Apache Junction). phoenixnewtimes.com ... The Arizona Republic reviews Big Earl's Greasy Eats (6135 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek), Kazimierz World Wine Bar (7137 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale), Francisco's Pueblo Café (393 W. Warner Road, Chandler) and Lulu's Taco Shop (610 N. Gilbert Road, Gilbert). ... The paper also previews Phoenix Cooks!, a culinary festival with chefs demonstrations, food sampling, cooking competitions, food and wine classes, ice sculpting, set for 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sept. 1 at The Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa, 2400 E. Missouri Ave., Phoenix. azcentral.com ... FeastingInPhoenix.com visits Celtic Curtain Grill & Pub (3128 East Cactus Road, Phoenix).

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Pizzeria Bianco Among National Finalists

2007-08-14T07:35:00.000-07:00

Bon Appetit magazine's September 2007 Restaurant issue features three finalists in a list of quintessential versions of six American classics: pizza, steak, tacos, hamburgers, fried chicken, and ribs. Winner will be announced on the Food Network on Aug. 18 (Good Eats with Alton Brown, 6 and 10 pm CDT). The finalists:

PIZZA: Pizzeria Bianco, Phoenix; DiFara Pizza, Brooklyn, NY; Pizzeria Mozza, Los Angeles
STEAK: Peter Luger Steak House, Brooklyn; Cut, Los Angeles; Doe's Eat Place, Greenville, Miss.
TACOS: Taco Taco Cafe, San Antonio; Taqueria del Sol, Atlanta; South Beach Bar & Grill, Ocean Beach, Calif.
HAMBURGERS: Bobcat Bite, Santa Fe, NM; Taylor's Automatic Refresher, St. Helena, Calif; The Meers Store and Restaurant, Lawton, Okla.
FRIED CHICKEN: Willie Mae's Scotch House, New Orleans; Price's Chicken Coop, Charlotte, NC; Blackberry Farm, Walland, Tenn.
RIBS: Charles Vergos Rendezvous, Memphis; 17th Street Bar & Grill, Murphysboro, Ill; Jaspers, Plano, Texas.

The magazine also features favorite restaurant recipes, including: Lucia's in Minneapolis-St. Paul; Eve in Ann Arbor, Mich.; Dali Restaurant & Tapas Bar in Somerville, Mass.; Binkley's Restaurant in Cave Creek, Ariz.; Kelly Liken Restaurant in Vail, Colo; Pizzeria Mozza in Los Angeles; and Park Kitchen in Portland, Ore. ... And the mag also features 12 small restaurants and their recipes, including: The Little Owl, New York City; The Good Fork, Brooklyn; La Laiterie at Farmstead, Providence, RI; Cremant, Seattle; Bonne Soiree, Chapel Hill, N.C.; Hatfield's, Los Angeles; Canteen, San Francisco; Revolver, Findlay, Ohio; Le Pigeon, Portland, Ore; and Komi, Washington, DC. epicurious.com/bonappetit

IN THE NEWS: New Times' Michele Laudig reviews Centro Paninoteca (7120 East Becker Lane, Scottsdale) and blogs about an upcoming $30 sandwich, "The Foodbar was just the first of seven restaurants in the works for the upscale, canal-front SouthBridge development in Scottsdale. Next up, with a planned debut in October, will be Canal, a scenestery spot where their decor will include 30 feet of high-definition projection screens along a fashion runway." phoenixnewtimes.com ... The Arizona Republic reviews Maui Grille (15529 W. Bell Road, Surprise), Sushi Kee Asian Cuisine (1006 E. Warner Road, Tempe), La Canasta Capitolio (1733 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix), The Butcher Block Restaurant & Lounge (7228 E. First Avenue, Scottsdale), Yasu Sushi Bistro (4316 E. Cactus Road, Phoenix) and Pullano's Pizza and Wings (13848 N. 51st Ave., Glendale), and notes Cartwright's (6710 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek) and Tonto Bar & Grill, 5736 E. Rancho Mañana Boulevard, Cave Creek). ... Howard Seftel notes the opening of Dish (8977 N. Scottsdale Road, the Shops at Gainey Village, southeast corner of Scottsdale and Doubletree Ranch Roads, Scottsdale). azcentral.com ... FeastingInPhoenix.com visits Prime Chinese Restaurant (24 West Camelback Road, Phoenix).

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Scottsdale's Stax Burger Bistro Opens

2007-08-07T12:28:00.000-07:00

IN THE NEWS: The Arizona Republic notes the opening of Stax Burger Bistro (4400 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale) and the addition of a liquor license at The Foodbar (7114 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale). ... The paper reviews Ranch House Grille (5618 E. Thomas Road, Phoenix), Tutti Santi by Nina (7575 N. 16th St., Phoenix), Brunchies (17 E. Boston St., Chandler), Guido's Chicago Meat & Deli (10893 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale) and has a first bite at Union Bar & Grill (3815 N. Brown Ave, Scottsdale). azcentral.com ... New Times' Kathleen Vanesian reviews Bamboo Bakery (2647 West Glendale Avenue, Phoenix). phoenixnewtimes.com ... FeastingInPhoenix.com reviews Fenix Eatery & Bar (3943 East Camelback Road, Phoenix), and Gourmet House of Hong Kong (1438 East McDowell Road, Phoenix). ... TheCosmicJester.blogspot.com reviews Cafe Zuzu (Hotel Valley Ho, Scottsdale).

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Oscar Taylor's Axes Chef, Alters Menu

2007-07-31T12:01:00.000-07:00

IN THE NEWS: The Republic's Geri Koeppel reviews Croque Famous Sandwiches (13610 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale), while Howard Seftel weighs in on Taneko Japanese Tavern (6166 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale) and revisits Olive & Ivy (7135 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale Waterfront, Scottsdale), and Gina Niemiec visits Sinbad (903 South Rural Road, Tempe). ... Seftel reports that, "After finally clearing all the hurdles that come with renovating a 1942 Old Town Scottsdale building, Union Bar & Grill is ready for the public." ... Seftel also notes that Oscar Taylor's chef has been let go and the restaurant is moving in a more mainstream direction, and also notes the opening of Spices Mediterraean Kitchen (4040 W. Ray Road, Chandler). azcentral.com ... CityBakery, the restaurant that serves tragically hip soups, sandwiches and salads now has a location at the Arizona Science Center in downtown Phoenix, the Business Journal of Phoenix reports. ... New Times' Michele Laudig reviews Sabuddy (6949 East Shea Boulevard, #10, Scottsdale). phoenixnewtimes.com ... FeastingInPhoenix.com visits Chicago Hamburger Co. (3749 East Indian School Road, Phoenix). ... Jack's Brain stops by Papa Razzini's in Tempe. iamjacksbrain.com

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Salty Senorita Sets Peoria Opening

2007-07-24T10:40:00.000-07:00

IN THE NEWS: The Valley is set to get its fourth Salty Senorita, Fresh Mexican Cantina with a new opening planned for Peoria, the Business Journal of Phoenix reports. The concept's parent company, Scottsdale-based Anthem Restaurant Management, will put the unit directly adjacent to the Peoria Sports Complex at 8011 West Paradise Lane. ... New Times' Michele Laudig reviews chef Brian Ford's Madelyn's Restaurant & Wine Bar (39504 North Daisy Mountain Drive, Anthem). phoenixnewtimes.com ... The Arizona Republic reviews Grazie Pizzeria and Winebar (21051 W. Main St., Buckeye, in the Verrado community), Pino's Pizza Al Centro (139 W. Thomas Road, Phoenix), Red's Steakhouse (300 E. Wigwam Blvd., Wigwam Golf Resort & Spa, Litchfield Park), while Howard Seftel takes a first look at Hana Japanese Eatery (5524 N. Seventh Ave., Phoenix). azcentral.com ... FeastingInPhoenix.com visits Dillon’s Restaurant (8706 West Thunderbird Avenue, Peoria) and China Chili (302 East Flower Street, Phoenix). ... IAmJacksBrain.com reviews Affinito's Bistro in Anthem.

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Republic Critic Picks Top Gourmet Pizzas

2007-07-16T13:13:00.000-07:00

IN THE NEWS: New Times' Michele Laudig reviews Radio Milano (3950 East Campbell Street). phoenixnewtimes.com ... The Arizona Republic's Howard Zeftel notes the new Tempe barbecue joint Urban Campfire (921 E University Drive, Tempe), while the paper lists 20 gourmet pizza places and also reviews Guedo's Cantina Grille (71 E. Chandler Blvd., Chandler), Monti's La Casa Vieja (1 West Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe), A Touch of European Café (7146 N. 57th Drive, Glendale), Drift Polynesian Restaurant & Lounge (4341 N. 75th St., Scottsdale), and Taggia (4925 N. Scottsdale Road, Firesky Resort & Spa, Scottsdale). azcentral.com ... Cold Stone Creamery's parent company is adding another restaurant franchise to its roster, the Business Journal of Phoenix reports. Scottsdale-based Kahala-Cold Stone has acquired Chicago-based Cereality Cereal Bar & Café. Cereality was founded in 2003, and customers at the restaurants choose from more than 30 cereal varieties and signature blends, plus 40 toppings and mix-in combinations to create their meals. Offerings also include parfaits, smoothies, cereal bars and other bakery items. ... FeastingInPhoenix.com reviews China Chili (302 East Flower Street, Phoenix) and Acacia Cafe (3701 East Indian School Road, Phoenix, acaciacafe.net). ... IAmJacksBrain.com visits Takamatsu.

By Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Paradise Bakery Eyes Big Expansion

2007-07-10T07:51:00.000-07:00

IN THE NEWS: Paradise Bakery and Café is cooking up an aggressive nationwide expansion that will almost double the company's size by the end of next year, the Business Journal of Phoenix reports. Paradise Bakery, which just finished consolidating into new headquarters in North Scottsdale, specializes in baked goods, homemade soups, fresh salads and sandwiches. The company now operates 46 stores in 10 states, including sites in Phoenix, Salt Lake City and Denver. The expansion calls for opening 20 stores in the next six months and 14 to 20 more by the end of next year, executives say. Ten of those stores will open in metro Phoenix and one in Tucson by the end of 2007. ... New Times' Michele Laudig reports the closings of upscale eateries The Tavern and Baroque Luxe Lounge: "The former started off as Star-Spangled Tavern, a spendy comfort food concept from Blue Wasabi owner Jimmy Carlin and Kazimierz owner Peter Kasperski. (Kasperski eventually moved on, and the name of the place was changed to simply The Tavern). The latter was a chic champagne and caviar type hangout that was connected to The Tavern. It seemed like the kind of thing that would've done well in party-centric Old Town, rather than in the ritzy but reserved reaches of North Scottsdale." ... Kathleen Vanesian reviews Yasha From Russia European Market (10240 N. 32nd St., Phoenix), while C.M. Redding considers Silver Pony Bar and Grill (620 W. Dobbins Rd., Phoenix). phoenixnewtimes.com ... The Republic's Howard Seftel blogs on the closings of: Convivo Bistro and Calico Cow, and opines that because of recent developments, he'd be surprised if Mary Elaine's lasts more than a year or two. ... Angelo Rabago reviews Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers (4929 W. Bell Road, Glendale), Gwen Ashley Waters considers El Encanto Dos (1112 E. Carefree Highway, Phoenix), and Geri Koeppel reviews D'Vine Wine Bar & Bistro (2837 N. Power Road, Mesa). azcentral.com

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Clarendon's New Eatery To Be Named C4

2007-07-03T09:54:00.000-07:00

IN THE NEWS: New Times' Michele Laudig reviews Andreoli’s Italian Grocer (8880 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale), while the Chow Bella blog reports, "According to Ben Bethel, the owner and general manager at the Clarendon, a new restaurant will debut at the hotel by late summer. It'll be called C4, and the menu will feature casual Asian fusion dishes with a Southwestern touch." ... Chow Bella also reports, "June 30 the venerable soul lounge Chez Nous pours its final cocktail after 40-plus years in the drink-slingin' biz. The Chez's been forced out by the imminent arrival of a Tesco supermarket, ushered in by the Gordon Gekkos over at Red Mountain Retail Group. That's the bad news. The good news is that Chez owner Amina Uben has been able to find another spot for the Chez, one that she's buying so she won't have to go through this crap again. The location? She's keeping that on the down-low for now, honoring the request of that bar's current owner. But she promises the city will only be Chez-less for a couple of months, with the new and improved Chez to open in the early fall." phoenixnewtimes.com ... The Arizona Republic's Gwen Walters gives two stars to Cantina Laredo (7361 E. Frank Lloyd Wright, Scottsdale), while Carey Sweet awards three stars to Celtic Curtain Grill & Pub (3128 E. Cactus Road, Phoenix), Geri Koeppel awards three stars to Streamers Ice Cream Parlor & Grill (1166 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert) as well as to VinciTorio's Restaurant (1835 E. Elliot Road, Tempe), Howard Seftel gives three stars to OT (Oscar Taylor, 2375 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix) and two stars to Koi (4372 W. Olive Ave., Glendale), and Angela Mussi gives three stars to Archie's Deli (5870 W. Thunderbird Road, Glendale) ... Seftel reports, "Once upon a time, the hiring of a new chef at Mary Elaine's generated the same kind of speculative frenzy as the election of a new pope. Journalists and foodies practically camped out at the resort, looking for a puff of white smoke to emerge from Mary Elaine's chimney. Not anymore. Frank Belosic, sous chef to Bradford Thompson, the James Beard Award-winner who left last April, has been tapped to fill the post. The resort didn't bother to announce it." ... Seftel also reports the resignation of Reed Groban, longtime Executive Chef and Director of Food and Beverage at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. He will stay on until mid-August. azcentral.com ... FeastingInPhoenix.com visits Blue Nile Cafe (933 East University Drive, Suite 112, Tempe). ... IAmJacksBrain.com stops by Pasand in Tempe.

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Centro Paninoteca Gets Sweet Review

2007-06-26T09:40:00.000-07:00

IN THE NEWS: The Arizona Republic's azcentral.com Carey Sweet awards four stars in reviewing chef-owner Chris Cottingham's Centro Paninoteca (7120 E. Becker Lane, Scottsdale), while Geri Koeppel gives three stars to both Country Cottage Café & Gift Shop (236 S. Wall St., Chandler), Hoosier Café (393 W Warner Road, Chandler) and Big Buns Bakery (7204 E. Ho Hum Road, Carefree) and one star to Bonefish Grill (6538 E. Superstition Springs Blvd., Mesa), Jennifer Kitou awards three stars to Corleone's (15040 N. Northsight Blvd., Scottsdale), Howard Seftel gives three stars to Fresh Wasabi (6645 W. Bell Road, Glendale), Angela Rabago awards four stars to Oh! Formaggio (15560 W. Roosevelt St., Goodyear). ... New Times' phoenixnewtimes.com Michele Laudig raves about Kai (5594 West Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler). ... Blogger FeastingInPhoenix.com reviews Lemon Grass Thai Cafe (818 West Broadway Road, Suite 108, Tempe) and Au Petit Four (2501 East Camelback Road, Suite 18, Phoenix). ... Blogger Jack's Brain iamjacksbrain.com visits Tempe's Casa Reynoso, Priya Indian Cuisine and Royal Taj, as well as Phoenix's Silver Dragon and Sylvia's La Canasta.

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Earl of Sandwich Chain Eyes Phoenix

2007-06-19T09:08:00.000-07:00

A Florida-based restaurant chain is putting out feelers that it wants to greatly expand its reach, the Denver Business Journal reports. Earl of Sandwich, founded in 2004 and based in Orlando, says it's looking for franchisees around the United States, including Denver. Other cities on the company's radar screen include Chicago, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Washington D.C., Atlanta, San Francisco (including Oakland and San Jose), Dallas/Ft. Worth, Seattle, Columbus, Nashville, San Diego, Cleveland, St. Louis and Sacramento. The company's president, Michael Grodi, said the goal is to add more than 100 locations a year. A former executive at Denver-based Quiznos, Grodi was named president and CEO of the sandwich chain in January. Quiznos sued Grodi and Earl of Sandwich in federal court in Denver in April, alleging Grodi would hurt Quiznos by disclosing their trade secrets about selling sandwiches to his new employer. Grodi left Quiznos in May 2006. He has denied Quiznos' allegations. .. New Times' Michele Laudig reviews Tortas El Güero (2518 N. 16th Street) nd reports that Counter Culture Cafe, the indie eatery and caffeine peddler to the downtown arts crowd, has closed. Originally located in a freestanding building on McDowell, the cafe reopened last year inside The Paper Heart, the Grand Avenue gallery/bar/performance venue. phoenixnewtimes.com ... The Arizona Republic's Geri Koeppel awards four stars to Romeo's Euro Café (207 N. Gilbert Road, Gilbert), Cliff Smith gives two stars to Carmen’s Bistro (219 E. Baseline Road, Tempe), Claire Bush awards four stars to Pho Avina (4920 W. Thunderbird Road, Glendale), Jennifer Kittou gives three stars to Alexi's Grill (N. Central Avenue, Phoenix), and Carey Sweet awards three stars to Basilico Italian Restaurant (10155 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale). ... The paper notes the opening of Foodbar (7114 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale), and the upcoming openings of Nashville-based chain Logan's Roadhouse (2501 W. Happy Valley Road, Phoenix, and 3481 W. Frye Road, Chandler). azcentral.com ... FeastingInPhoenix.com reviews Touch of Thai (16816 North 35th Avenue, Phoenix), Joe’s Real BBQ (301 North Gilbert Road, Gilbert), and Harlow’s Cafe (1021 W. University Drive, Tempe).

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Chandler Set for New Benihana

2007-06-11T10:37:00.000-07:00

IN THE NEWS: Benihana official say the company has Benihana teppanyaki restaurants under development in Chandler, Ariz., Plymouth Meeting, Pa.; and Dulles, Va., the South Florida Business Journal reports. ... Star Buffet Inc. is on the move with the acquisition and opening of new restaurants in Texas, Idaho and Oklahoma, bringing its total lineup to 45, the Business Journal of Phoenix reports. The Scottsdale company announced that it acquired Bar H Steakhouse in Dalhart, Texas, and opened a JB's Family Restaurant in Rexburg, Idaho, and an Oklahoma Steakhouse in Weatherford, Okla. ... New Times' Michele Laudig reviews Rio Sabor Brazil (10425 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale), while Colin Redding stops by Dilly Dally Lounge (3639 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix). phoenixnewtimes.com ... The Arizona Republic's Howard Steftel gives three stars to Manna Cafe (721 N. Arizona Ave., Gilbert), Geri Koeppel awards four stars to Laloos European Bakery (4804 E. Chandler Blvd., Phoenix), Gina Niemiec gives three stars to Kyoto Japanese Restaurant (7170 Stetson Drive, Scottsdale), Claire Bush gives three stars to MacAlpine's Soda Fountain and Restaurant (2303 N. 7th St., Phoenix) and four stars to Tandoori Village (4255 W. Bell Road, Phoenix), and Jennifer Kittou awards four stars to Furio (7210 E. Second St., Scottsdale). ... The First Bite blog visits Radio Milano (3950 E. Campbell Ave, Phoenix). azcentral.com ... FeastingInPhoenix.com reviews Tandoori Times (6810 East 5th Avenue, Scottsdale), Skeptical Chymist (15688 North Pima Road, Suite C 5-6, Scottsdale), Trente-Cinq 35 (2333 North 7th Street, Phoenix) and Sabuddy Israeli Restaurant (6949 East Shea Boulevard #10, Scottsdale) ... Jack's Brain Iamjacksbrain.com reviews Saigon Pho in Chandler.

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Poll: Smoking Ban May Improve Business

2007-06-05T08:39:00.000-07:00

IN THE NEWS: While some bar owners worried that Arizona's ban on smoking in all public places would hurt sales, a recent WestTrack poll showed they actually may be getting more business, the Business Journal of Phoenix reports. Thirty-one percent of the 400 Phoenix-area residents surveyed say there are going to more places because of the nonsmoking policy. Another 21 percent say there are staying longer. Eleven percent said they now choose places where they can smoke, while 4 percent avoid places where smoking is not allowed. Fifty-one percent said the new law has not changed their behavior. The smoking ban was approved through voter initiative and took effect May 1. WestTrack is a telephone study conducted by Phoenix-based WestGroup Research every month. ... Fast-growing restaurant operator Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q is expanding into Arizona and North Carolina and building a new corporate headquarters in Birmingham's Liberty Park, the Birmingham Business Journal reports. Now headquartered on Union Hill Drive in Homewood, Ala., Jim 'N Nick's will more than double its office space to coincide with its growth plans. The company also is close to opening debut locations in Phoenix and Charlotte and a third location in South Carolina, said Sam Burn, the company's commissioner of culture. ... With plans to capitalize on the growing Latino market, Churro Station franchises will roll into new cities this summer, the San Francisco Business Times reports. Although her 800-square-foot San Rafael, Calif., location is the only store in operation, Melanie Farkas has sold four franchises that will open soon in predominantly Hispanic communities in Phoenix and Oakland, Santa Ana and Anaheim, Calif. Three more would-be franchisees in Stockton, Calif., Las Vegas and Austin are in final negotiations. All of the franchises will be minority-owned. Any ballpark aficionado knows churros: those sticks of fried, cinnamon-laden dough that retail for a cool $4. ... The Arizona Republic's Carey Sweet awards four stars to Luke's Chicago Beef (1602 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix). while Claire Bush gives three stars to Asian Fusion (Park Central Mall, 3110 N. Central Ave., Phoenix) and four stars to El Bravo Mexican Food (8338 N. 7th St., Phoenix), Jennifer Kittou awards four stars to Shanghai Palace (7901 E. Thomas Road, Scottsdale.), Cliff Smith gives three stars to Blue Adobe Grille (144 N. Country Club Drive, Mesa) and two and a half stars to Pier 54, formerly The Boathouse, (5394 S. Lakeshore, Tempe) ... Critic Howard Seftel reports: "The folks behind the phenomenally successful La Grande Orange, Chelsea's Kitchen and Postino Winecafe are about to unveil their latest enterprise. It's called Radio Milano -- the name is supposed to suggest an urban Italian vibe. The doors opened June 3. ..."

"After some 11 years, chef Michael DeMaria and his partners have pulled the plug on his acclaimed Scottsdale fine-dining spot, Michael's at the Citadel (closed June 2) ... But he's betting big-time on Tempe. His ventures at the Centerpoint Condominiums project (near University and Mill) don't stop at Trattoria M, his signature restaurant, scheduled to debut in the spring of 2008. He's got Purvine, a wine shop where you'll be able to buy grapes and make your wine. And he's got Centro, a huge market which will offer hot dishes, deli, pastas, salads and retail foods, and house a bakery, coffee bar and gelateria as well. Look for a bocce ball court outside, too. DeMaria is planning beyond 2008. He's opening a Tempe steakhouse (the exact location hasn't been chosen) in 2009." ... "Citrus Cafe, a longtime oasis of dining civilization in the East Valley fine-dining desert of Chandler, has a new chef and owner. He's Andrew Paparella Jr., who comes here after stints in New York (Fraunces Tavern) and Las Vegas (Olives at the Bellagio)." ... Seftel also awards four stars in his review of Chodang Tofu & BBQ (501 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler). azcentral.com ... Michele Laudig reviews Vincent’s Market Bistro (3930 E. Camelback Rd.). phoenixnewtimes.com ... FeastingInPhoenix.com reviews Trente-Cinq 35 (2333 North 7th Street, Phoenix), Sabuddy Israeli Restaurant (6949 East Shea Boulevard #10, Scottsdale), Haus Murphy’s German Restaurant (5739 West Glendale Avenue, Glendale), Osha Thai Café (10953 North Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard, Suite 102, Scottsdale), and Ticoz Resto-Bar (5114 North 7th Street, Phoenix).

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Starbucks Launching McCartney's Latest

2007-05-29T11:13:00.000-07:00

IN THE NEWS: If you can't stand Paul McCartney music, you don't want to go into any Phoenix-area Starbucks on June 5. That's the day the Seattle coffee giant will launch McCartney's first album recorded on Starbucks' Hear Music label, called "Memory Almost Full," the Pugent Sound Business Journal seattle.bizjournals.com reports. The album will be played in all Starbucks stores, all day, all over the world, Starbucks officials said. "Customers from Taipei to Topeka have the opportunity to experience this extraordinary album all within a span of 24 hours," said Ken Lombard, who is president of Starbucks Entertainment and runs Hear Music, in a statement. In March, Starbucks Corp. announced that former Beatle McCartney would be the first musician signed for Los Angeles-based Hear Music. ... The Arizona Republic's Geri Koeppel reviews Kasha’s Bakery & BBQ (1475 W. Elliot Road, Tempe), while Gwen Ashley walters stops by Buono's (2023 W. Guadalupe Road, Mesa), Jennifer Kittou reviews Backstreet Wine Salon (3603 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix), Cliff Smith critiques Chives (Stonebridge Manor, 4000 E. Palm St., Mesa) and Claire Bush visits The Codfather (1618 E. Bell Road, Phoenix) and Inza Coffee (8658 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale). azcentral.com ... New Times' Michele Laudig reviews the new Skye (16844 N. Arrowhead Fountain Center Dr., Peoria). phoenixnewtimes.com ... Phoenix magazine looks at Arizona's best brewpubs in its June 2007 issue. phoenixmag.com ... Blogger FeastingInPhoenix.com reviews The Greek Patio (402 East Greenway Parkway, Phoenix) and Harley’s Italian Bistro (4221 North 7th Avenue, Phoenix). ... Blogger Jack's Brain iamjacksbrain.com stops by Restaurant Mexico in Tempe.

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Highly Rated Marquesa to Close June 3

2007-05-21T12:46:00.000-07:00

IN THE NEWS: Stephanie Paterik of The Arizona Republic azcentral.com reports, "Marquesa, one of Arizona's only five-diamond restaurants, will serve its last meal in two weeks. The famous eatery, located at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Resort, will host its last dinner reservation June 1, and the Scottsdale restaurant will close completely after Sunday brunch on June 3. The owners would not give details about its strategy, but several high-end Valley resorts and restaurants have been retooling their dining options and amenities to appeal to a younger crowd. Marquesa opened at the Princess when the hotel was built in 1987. It quickly became the nicest dining option in town, earning AAA's five-diamond award every year from 1992 to 2007. Only three other restaurants claim the prestigious rating: Mary Elaine's at the Phoenician, Kai at Sheraton Wild Horse Pass, and the Ventana Room at Loews Ventana Canyon." ... Geri Koeppel stops by Ruffino Italian Cuisine, while Jade Palace gets three stars from Gwen Ashley Walters ... New Times critic Michele Laudig reviews Yasu Sushi Bistro (4316 E. Cactus Rd, Ste. B-4). phoenixnewtimes.com ... FeastingInPhoenix.com reviews Flavors of India (4515 North 16th Street, Phoenix), Las Palapas Taco Grill (3923 East Thomas Road, Phoenix), El Nopalito (2831 North 24th Street, Phoenix), and Line Thai (9805 West Bell Road, Sun City) ... Blogger Jack's Brain iamjacksbrain.com visits Zest Spirited Dining in central Phoenix.

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

America's Best Restaurant Cities

2007-05-14T18:55:00.000-07:00

"Today ... most major cities in the U.S. have the kind of gastronomic diversity and regionality that is rich in every department, and even if you’ve visited recently, you can be sure that next time you go, there’ll be more new and enticing restaurants than you could possibly visit," writes Donald Burnam in a recent ForbesTraveler.com piece, "America's Best Restaurant Cities." "It’s getting hard not to have a great meal anywhere in the U.S.." Burnam continues.

Forbes' Top 10 Restaurant Cities:
1. New York City
2. Chicago
3. San Francisco
4. Los Angeles
5. New Orleans
6. Houston
7. Washington, D.C.
8. Atlanta
9. Boston
10. Las Vegas

Rankings were based on: Overall number of restaurants above the fast food level; Number of fine dining restaurants with national and international standing; Solid representation of regional American food; A wide segment of second-tier restaurants that would include seafood, steakhouses, and independently chef-owned restaurants; Breadth and depth of ethnic restaurants, especially if the city has neighborhood such as a Chinatown; A significant number of neigborhood restaurants where the locals tend to eat out regularly; A well-traveled clientele that regards eating out in that city one of the real pleasures of going there.

IN THE NEWS: Bistro Di Napoli (5830 W. Thunderbird in Glendale) gets three stars from The Arizona Republic's Jennifer Kittou. Cliff Smith awards two stars to Arizona Joe's (417 S. Winchester Road, Apache Junction), while Geri Koeppel gives three and a half stars to Moki's Hawaiian Grill (1916 W. Baseline Road, Mesa). azcentral.com ... New Times' Michelle Laudig reviews the pink tacos at Pink Taco, East Camelback Road in Scottsdale. phoenixnewtimes.com ... Blogger FeastingInPhoenix.com reviews Saba’s Mediterranean Cuisine, 4747 East Bell Road in Phoenix, and Amano, 1541 East Baseline Road in Phoenix ... Blogger Jack's Brain http://www.iamjacksbrain.com/ stops by Welcome Diner, Los Taquitos, and Da Vang. ... Welcome Diner also receives a visit from blogger What the Jester Had for Dinner http://thecosmicjester.blogspot.com ... Mix blended ice cream treats with a variety of restaurant concepts and you'll get Kahala Cold Stone, a merger of Kahala Corp. and Cold Stone Creamery, the Business Journal of Phoenix reports. The two privately held, Scottsdale-based firms are combining to form a holding company for 13 brands that currently generate $1.1 billion in annual revenue in partnership with 3,000 franchisees. At the time of the merger the combined network consisted of more than 4,400 retail locations spread across 15 countries. Cold Stone Creamery, with stores that mix premium ice cream with a variety of mix-ins on frozen stone slabs, currently has 1,400 stores in its franchise system, covering the U.S., Puerto Rico, Guam, Japan, Korea, China and Taiwan. Kahala, with a variety of brands, has more than 3,000 retail locations.

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

Sea Saw Chef Nabs Beard Award

2007-05-08T11:47:00.000-07:00

Chicago's Frontera Grill won Outstanding Restaurant of the Year and Michel Richard of Michel Richard Citronelle in Washington, D.C. was named Outstanding Chef at the 2007 James Beard Foundation Awards Ceremony. Hosted by CBS Early Show anchor Hannah Storm, the Beard Awards were held May 7 at Avery Fisher Hall in New York's Lincoln Center. More than 60 awards were presented by the country's pre-eminent nonprofit culinary organization, in its 20th anniversary celebration, and more than 1,600 industry leaders attended the ceremony. Other top awards went to: New York's L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon, named Best New Restaurant; Thomas Keller (The French Laundry, Yountville, Ca.) received the award for Outstanding Restaurateur; and David Chang (Momofuku Noodle Bar, New York) received the Rising Star Chef of the Year award. Celebrity and culinary superstar attendees included Stephanie March, Ted Allen, Katie Lee Joel, Martha Stewart, Wolfgang Puck, Bobby Flay, Thomas Keller, Jose Andres, Tom Colicchio, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Padma Lakshmi, and Marcus Samuelsson. The Foundation's Media Awards took place at a separate event at the Hudson Theatre at Millennium Broadway Hotel on May 6. All Award winners received a bronze medallion etched with the image of the late James Beard, the esteemed chef, cookbook author, and food journalist. There are no cash awards. Established in 1990, the James Beard Foundation Awards recognizes outstanding achievement within the fine food and beverage industry in North America. For full awards results, please visit http://www.jamesbeard.org.

Beard Award highlights are:

AMERICA'S CLASSICS: Primanti Brothers, Demetrios Patrinos, Pittsburgh, Pa.; The Pickwick, Christopher Wisocki, Duluth, Minn.; Doe's Eat Place, The Signa Family, Greenville, Miss.; Aunt Carrie's, Elsie Foy, Narragansett, R.I.; I

Brookville Hotel, Mark and Connie Martin, Abilene, Kan.; Weaver D's, Dexter Weaver, Athens, Ga.

BEST CHEF, GREAT LAKES: Grant Achatz, Alinea, Chicago

BEST CHEF, MID-ATLANTIC: R.J. Cooper, III, Vidalia, Washington, DC

BEST CHEF, MIDWEST: Celina Tio, The American Restaurant, Kansas City, Mo.

BEST CHEF, NEW YORK CITY: David Waltuck, Chanterelle, New York, NY

BEST CHEF, NORTHEAST: Frank McClelland, L'Espalier, Boston

BEST CHEF, NORTHWEST: John Sundstrom, Lark, Seattle

BEST CHEF, PACIFIC: Traci Des Jardins, Jardinière, San Francisco

BEST CHEF, SOUTH: Donald Link, Herbsaint, New Orleans

BEST CHEF, SOUTHEAST: Scott Peacock, Watershed, Decatur, Ga.

BEST CHEF, SOUTHWEST: Nobuo Fukuda, Sea Saw, Scottsdale, Ariz.

BEST NEW RESTAURANT: L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon, Chef-Owner: Joël Robuchon, New York, NY

OUTSTANDING CHEF: Michel Richard, Michel Richard Citronelle, Washington, DC

OUTSTANDING PASTRY CHEF: Michael Laskonis, Le Bernardin, New York, NY

OUTSTANDING RESTAURANT: Frontera Grill, chef-owner: Rick and Deann Bayless, Chicago

OUTSTANDING RESTAURATEUR: Thomas Keller, The French Laundry, Yountville, Calif.

OUTSTANDING SERVICE: Rick Tramonto, Gale Gand, and Richard Melman, Tru, Chicago

OUTSTANDING WINE AND SPIRITS PROFESSIONAL: Paul Draper, Ridge Vineyards, Cupertino, Calif.

OUTSTANDING WINE SERVICE: Mark Slater, Michel Richard Citronelle, Washington, DC

RISING STAR CHEF OF THE YEAR: David Chang, Momofuku Noodle Bar, New York, NY

Selected James Beard Media Awards

NEWSPAPER FEATURE WRITING ABOUT RESTAURANTS AND/OR CHEFS WITH OR WITHOUT RECIPES
Barbara Yost, The Arizona Republic
NEWSPAPER FEATURE WRITING WITH RECIPES
Janet Fletcher, San Francisco Chronicle
NEWSPAPER FEATURE WRITING WITHOUT RECIPES
Elaine Cicora, Cleveland Scene
NEWSPAPER SECTION
Miriam Morgan and Jon Bonne
San Francisco Chronicle
NEWSPAPER, NEWSLETTER OR MAGAZINE COLUMNS
Dara Moskowitz, Minneapolis City Pages
NEWSPAPER OR MAGAZINE RESTAURANT REVIEW OR CRITIQUE: Rebekah Denn, Seattle Post-Intelligencer
TELEVISION FOOD SHOW, LOCAL: Check, Please! Bay Area, Host: Leslie Sbrocco, KQED Public Television, Producer: Tina Salter

IN THE NEWS: The Arizona Republic critic Cliff Smith gives two stars to Café Michelle, Mesa City Plaza Lobby, 20 E. Main St. in Mesa, while he awards three stars to Rancho de Tia Rosa, 3129 E. McKellips Road in Mesa ... Phoenix New Times critic Michele Laudig reviews Essence Bakery Cafe, 825 West University Drive in Tempe. ... Blogger FeastingInPhoenix.com looks at Dooby’s Grill Cafe (2909 South Dobson Road in Mesa), Da Vang Restaurant (4538 North 19th Ave., Phoenix), and Benjarong Thai Restaurant (1440 South Country Club Drive, Suite 10 in Mesa). ... Blogger Jack's Brain stops by Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles in South Phoenix, and Simply Burgers in Gilbert.

Compiled by Pat Embry, WhereTheLocalsEat.com

James Beard Awards Await

2007-04-29T15:03:00.000-07:00

Roughly the dining out equivalent of The Academy Awards, The James Beard Foundation annual awards ceremony takes place Monday, May 7, at the Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center in New York City. The talented Nobuo Fukuda of Scottsdale's Sea Saw is among the five nominees for Best Chef: Southwest. Go to www.jamesbeard.org for the complete list, but here's a partial list of national nominees:

-- Outstanding Restaurant: Boulevard, San Francisco; Frontera Grill, Chicago; Magnolia Grill, Durham, N.C., Picholine, New York; Spiaggia, Chicago.
-- Best New Restaurant: A Voce, New York City; Chochon, New Orleans; Cut, Beverly Hill, Calif; L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon, New York City; Momofuku Ssam Bar, New York City; Restaurant Guy Savoy, Las Vegas.
-- Outstanding Restaurateur: Thomas Keller, The French Laundry, Yountville, Calif; Keith McNally, Balthazar, New York City; Richard Melman, Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises (R.J. Grunts, Wildfire, Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!), Chicago; Drew Nieporent, Myriad Restaurant Group (Tribeca Grill, Nobu, Rubicon), New York City; Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Jean Georges restaurant, New York City.
-- Outstanding Chef: Tom Colicchio, Craft, New York City; Lee Hefter, Spago, Beverly Hills, Calif.; Jean Joho, Everest, Chicago; Paul Kahan, Blackbird, Chicago; Michel Richard, Michel Richard Citronelle, Washington, D.C.
-- Rising Star Chef: Nate Appleman, A16, San Francisco; Graham Elliot Bowles, Avenues at The Peninsula Hotel, Philadelphia; David Chang, Momofuku Noodle Bar, New York; Patrick Connelly, Radius, Boston; Daniel Humm, Eleven Madison Park, New York City.

Restaurant magazine just released its list of the world's top 100 restaurants. (http://www.theworlds50best.com/2007_list.html) Here are the U.S. entries:

The French Laundry, Yountville, Ca. (No. 4)
Per Se, New York City (No. 9)
Jean Georges, New York City (No. 18)
Le Bernardin, New York City (No. 26)
Charlie Trotter's, Chicago (No. 30)
Daniel, New York City (No. 32)
Alinea, Chicago (No. 36)
Chez Panisse, Berkeley, Ca. (No. 40)
Masa, New York City (No. 56)
L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon at the Four Seasons, New York City (No. 64)
Peter Lugar, Brooklyn, NY (No. 69)
Nobu New York, New York City (No. 89)
Gramercy Tavern, New York City (No. 90)
WD-50, New York City (No. 91)
Zuni Café, San Francisco (No. 98)
Alex at Wynn, Las Vegas (No. 100)

IN THE NEWS: Grand Lux Cafe, an offshoot of The Cheesecake Factory chain, is set to open sometime in fall 2007 at Scottsdale Fashion Square, the Business Journal Phoenix reports. The paper also reports the opening of downtown's Bar Smith, the latest from Stoudemire's owner Bill Smith, who also plans to open Maria's Mexican Grill and an Italian restaurant, both in the Collier Center. And downtown's Sonoma Casual Dining, featuring contemporary California cuisine, set to open soon at the Copper Square retail development at 25 W. Van Buren St. cuisineaphoenix.bizjournals.com ... The Arizona Republic's Geri Koeppel gives three stars to Thai Basel, 4221 E. Chandler Blvd., Phoenix, as well as Capistrano’s Italian Delicatessen, 1221 W. Warner Road, Tempe. ... Meanwhile, Cliff Smith awards three stars to Brunello Restaurant, 1954 S. Dobson Road, Mesa, and Howard Seftel gives three stars to Fuego Bistro, 713 E. Palo Verde Drive, Phoenix. Seftel also blogs on Mack Daddy's, a new restaurant right next door to Mack Newton Fitness and Taekwon-Do Center at 3243 E. Indian School Road. ... Scott Wong reports on the opening of Motu’s Tahitian Noni Island Grill, Westgate City Center, 6770 North Hockey Way, Glendale, (tahitiannoni.com). www.azcentral.com. ... New Times' Michele Laudig reviews Med Fresh Grill, 414 South Mill Avenue, Tempe. Her Chow Bella blog considers the Ethiopian Blue Nile Cafe in Tempe and Asadero Norte de Sonora on 16th Street. www.phoenixnewtimes.com ... Blogger iamjacksbrain.com reviews Tempe's Taco Nazo ... thecosmicjester.blogspot.com visits Olive & Ivy, 7135 E Camelback Road, Ste 195 (Scottsdale Waterfront complex), Scottsdale.