RUBEE TUESDAY: Andaz Scottsdale, CRUjiente Tacos, Grey Hen at Century Grand, Say Less, Turquoise Wine Bar
I publish Rubee Tuesday weekly as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.
Monday, November 20: Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows (Scottsdale). We were invited to celebrate our 19th wedding anniversary at this gorgeous 23-acre resort with Camelback Mountain views.
While we had visited its signature restaurant, Weft & Warp, many times over the years, it was the first time staying overnight in one of their luxurious mid-century modern bungalows.
I’ll be sharing all the details in an upcoming recap in the Travel section of my website, but for now, click the photo below to watch my video Reel of our staycation.
It was also a treat to meet the new culinary and beverage team, including executive chef Sammy DeMarco (read all about this talented chef HERE) and beverage director Ash Iraqui.
Wednesday, November 22: Grey Hen at Century Grand (Phoenix). We were invited to try the new cocktails at this award-winning cocktail emporium (check out a past podcast here on YouTube with co-owners Kailee and Jason Asher).
Coconut Whiskey Highball and The Mapmaker’s Folly at Grey Hen at Century Grand in Phoenix
If I had to pick a favorite, it might have to be the Coconut Whiskey Highball that uses a centrifuge to clarify the strawberries and lemons, but these four were all winners:
Coconut Whiskey Highball (Toasted Coconut-Infused Toki Japanese Whiskey, Briottet Bergamot, Clarified Strawberry and Lemon, Bison Grass, Grapefruit Oils)
The Mapmaker’s Folly (Patron Sherry Cask Añejo Tequila, Banana-infused Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon, Sauternes, East India Sherry, Yuzu, Peach, Madras Curry, Palo Santo, Cinnamon, Orange Oils)
Paper Plane (Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon, Amaro Nonio, Aperol, Lemon)
Kentucky Buck (Knob Creek 100 Proof Bourbon, Coruba Jamaican Rum, Ginger, Ancho Chile, Cacao Nib, Lemon)
You can also watch my video reel HERE.
Having worked up an appetite, we were off to CRUjiente Tacos, who had also launched some new cocktails (and menu items).
Executive chef and co-owner Richard Hinojosa of CRUjiente Tacos in Phoenix
If you’re headed to CRU, in addition to their award-winning margaritas, you’ll want to order these two fantastic new libations: Red Wedding with bourbon, hopped honey, strawberry, ginger, anise, and lemon juice, and Luck Be a Lady with mezcal, creme de violette, Maraschino cherry liqueur, lemon, and lavender bitters.
Chef Rich also introduced us to new menu items, like this grilled WorldClass Ibérico pork loin seasoned with jalapeño, cilantro, garlic, and cumin served with mole verde, charred onions, and black beans. It was so incredibly juicy and flavorful, that I had to order another!
Monday, November 27: Sunny’s Lounge/Say Less (Phoenix). In September, the Barter & Shake team of Century Grand opened Sunny's Lounge in the former Shady's, the beloved dive bar on Indian School Road.
We had made plans with our friends Kristy of Where Should We Eat and her husband Mike, and The Cocktail Maven and her husband Gregg. Serendipitously, we happened to plan our triple date for a night when Ashley Cibor was guest bartending with a special menu. Such a fun night! And bonus - running into owner Jason Asher, chef Peter McQuaid of Cala, and beverage director Jordan Chandler of Trevor’s.
After some great cocktails and a round of Ashley’s Grasshopper shots, we headed to Avanti, an old-school Italian favorite.
Tuesday, November 28: Turquoise Wine Bar (Glendale). We had been meaning to get together with our friends Travis and Tara, and Travis chose the perfect spot.
This wine bar and bottle shop is such a great addition to the West Valley wine scene, and we already have plans to return for a tasting. Be sure to check out this event calendar for their fun schedule of events that include live music, sip and paint classes, and special winemaker tastings.
Wednesday, June 29: Restaurant Progress (Melrose District). Progress had been on my list since it opened back in 2017, and it was worth the wait, especially in the company of our friends Joe and Cindy Johnston, founders of Agritopia and Epicenter.
Although it took me far too long to discover this Phoenix favorite for myself, it was easy to see why this is such a beloved neighborhood favorite - loved the warm and cozy vibe, excellent cocktails, delicious small plates menu, and friendly service.
Check back on my next Rubee Tuesday for visits to VAI Resort, Kembara, Global Ambassador, Arizona Biltmore, Bar Cena, and Campo Italian.
Last week’s recap featured a Spanish wine dinner at Arboleda, Hermosa Inn, Urban Agave, D&Y Chinese, and Stetson Social.
