Write On Rubee

An Arizona-based food, beverage and travel writer since 2008, I launched this website in 2015 to document my culinary adventures, beverage escapades, gardening endeavors, and travel in the Phoenix area and beyond. Also find a comprehensive calendar of Phoenix-area food and drink-related events on my Events page.

Filtering by Tag: JW Marriott Desert Ridge

RUBEE TUESDAY: Sel, Kembara, Morning Would, Krazy Cajun Seafood & Hibachi, Marcellino's Ristorante

December 19, 2023  /  Christina Barrueta

I publish round-ups every Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Malpeque oyster stew at Sel in Old Town Scottsdale

Thursday, December 14: Sel (Old Town Scottsdale). Sel, a personal favorite (one that I featured in my Phoenix Cooks book), introduced a lunch menu this year for the first time.

Celebrating something special? Splurge on caviar and Miyazaki A5 Wagyu. A casual get-together with friends? Check out the Korean short rib buns, carnitas tacos, or Sel Burger. How about a foodie luncheon? I loved my Malpeque oyster stew with truffle-potato puree, smoked trout roe (lead photo above), duck confit poutine, and Old Bay tuile and miso-marinated fish and chips with Tokyo street fries and tomatillo remoulade.

It’s now my go-to for lunch in Old Town! The menu is available 11 am-2:30 pm Tuesday through Friday.

Afterwards, I stopped in to two spots for a margarita assignment I’m working on - Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila and Prado at Omni at the Montelucia. Be on the look-out for my Experience Scottsdale feature.

Friday, December 14: Etta (Scottsdale Quarter). Our friend Matt Allen is now behind the stick in the dining room bar which opened up seating just a few weeks ago.

I first met Matt when he taught this cocktail class eight years ago, and I’ve been a huge fan of his cocktail skills ever since. Our evening started off with a Vieux Carre for my husband, and a fantastic Negroni for me with Campari, vermouth, rum, banana liqueur, and coffee beans.

To pair with Etta’s excellent cocktails, we dined on delicious House Foccacia with rosemary and black truffle-honey whipped ricotta; Bubbling Shrimp with ginger and cilantro; Wagyu Meatballs with Calabrian chile gremolata; and Cannoli Ice Cream Sandwiches.

Saturday, December 16: Kembara (JW Marriott Desert Ridge). I was so excited to introduce my parents to Chef Angelo Sosa and his new restaurant celebrating the flavors of Asia, especially since my mom is Vietnamese and we had lived in Thailand, where my brother was born.

Needless to say, they fell in love with both the restaurant and Chef Angelo himself (thank you Angelo for bringing mom into the kitchen - that was such a highlight for her!).

Don’t overlook the excellent craft cocktails named after books and Asian authors. Two favorites below: The Sympathizer (Akashi White Oak whisky, Genmaicha tea, toasted rice, and cherry wood smoke poured from a teapot) and The Joy Luck Club (a clarified punch with bourbon, rum, coconut milk, and yuzu).

Angelo chose some of his favorite dishes for us to try and what a feast! We all had different top three favorites (mine were the lamb spring rolls, chili crab, and rendang) but every dish was a winner. You can listen in to Angelo here describing some of the dishes.

Pictured below: Tuna Thai Jewel with ginger-coconut broth; chicken satay; noodles with pork belly and pea tendrils; fish head curry with lemongrass and coconut milk; chili crab with tamarind and sambal; green papaya salad; Wagyu beef rendang; Vietnamese Coffee Donuts and Thai tea shaved ice with pound cake and meringue; Vietnamese egg coffee and a Vietnamese Coffee Martini.

Sunday, December 17: Morning Would (Scottsdale). Course is one of my favorite restaurants, and I had been wanting to get to its “immature sibling” Morning Would for Sunday Brunch.

The party-sized Spritz XL set the tone for a fun morning with our friends Lisa, aka Cocktail Maven, and her husband Gregg.

Brunch menu at Morning Would in Scottsdale

Morning Would brunch menu in Scottsdale

Loved the clever menu!

And thank you to Nick for treating us to a round of Grasshoppers (part of the Course holiday menu).

Wednesday, December 20: Krazy Cajun Seafood & Hibachi (Phoenix). It’s alway fun to discover a new spot, especially when our friends Jason and Tawnya of CRUjiente Tacos introduce us to one of their favorites!

Thursday, December 21: Marcellino’s Ristorante (Old Town Scottsdale). I’m working on a Scottsdale Aperol Spritz round-up, so of course I had to include Marcellino’s, which celebrated 20 years in 2023. Bonus: Spending time chatting with owners Sima and Chef Marcellino Verzino.

Chef-owner Marcello Vezino of Marcellino’s Ristorante in Scottsdale

We didn’t have time to have a full dinner but shared antipasti, Marcellino’s signature Polenta e Funghi (recipe is in my Phoenix Cooks cookbook!), and a fabulous special of grilled WorldClass calamari.

And thank you to Marcellino and Sima for sending us home with this generous gift! You can see what I did with Marcellino’s delicious sausage ragu here.

Check back on next week’s Rubee Tuesday for visits to B&B Cocktail Lounge, Talavera at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale, and The Italian Daughter.

Last week’s recap featured VAI Resort, Kembara, Global Ambassador, La Hacienda, Rosticceria, Arizona Biltmore, Bar Cena, and Campo Italian.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / Sel, Kembara, JW Marriott Desert Ridge, Krazy Cajun, Marcellino's, Marcellino's Ristorante, Old Town Scottsdale, JW Marriott, Brunch, Morning Would, Course Scottsdale

RUBEE TUESDAY: Renata’s Hearth at Arizona Biltmore resort, Tia Carmen at JW Marriott Desert Ridge, Bitter & Twisted, The Italian Daughter, CRUjiente Tacos

August 15, 2023  /  Christina Barrueta

A weekly Tuesday feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Bloomingdale cocktail at Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour in downtown Phoenix

Friday, July 28: Renata’s Hearth at the Arizona Biltmore (Phoenix). Back to one of my favorites, this time with Meridith May and Bill Brandel, owners of SOMM Journal and Tasting Panel magazines. Stay tuned for my upcoming SOMM Journal feature with Director of Restaurants Timothy Ahrens.

Saturday, July 29: Tia Carmen at JW Marriott Desert Ridge (Phoenix). This was the launch of the new 'Tia and Chef' guest chef series with chef-owner Chef Angelo Sosa and I was thrilled that his inaugural guest was Chef Maria Mazon, executive chef and owner of BOCA Tacos y Tequila in Tucson, whom I first met in 2016.

Both of these talented chefs are also well-known TV personalities - Chef Maria competed on Bravo’s Top Chef and Food Network’s Chopped, and Chef Angelo was on Bravo’s Top Chef for three seasons and HBO Max’s Selena + Chef.

Chef Maria Mazon, writer Christina Barrueta, and Chef Angelo Sosa at Tia Carmen

While the main event was Chef Maria’s special seven-course taco menu, our media group was invited to a pre-dinner cooking demo.

I don’t know who had more fun - our group, or the chefs! Click the photo below to watch the video reel.

Chefs Maria Mazon and Angelo Sosa

And check out our fantasic feast: Thank you to chef Maria who introduced each of her delicious tacos, and GM Maritza for the great education on all our pairings:

Tuesday, August 1: Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour (downtown Phoenix). Every year B&T releases a new book of cocktails, and this year’s was another winner. It’s no surprise that their book has landed on Tales of the Cocktail Foundation’s Top 10 "World’s Best Cocktail Menu" multiple times.

Hasta La Vista, Berry! at Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour

Here are some of my favorites (including the jerk chicken on the food menu, a partnership with Jamaican restaurant, The Breadfruit & Rum Bar):
Hasta La Vista, Berry!: “A lively fusion of Mezcal and Martini & Rossi's Riserva Speciale Bitter dances with Aperitivo Rosato, harmonized by a tangy triple berry shrub. Topped with sparkling prosecco and a splash of club soda."
You Shell Nut Pass: ”An elegant blend of VSOP cognac, house-blended sweet vermouth, and amontillado sherry, harmonized with zesty lemon and a delightful touch of pistachio adds an alluring twist.”
Bloomingdale: “A delicate fusion of Roku gin and elderflower liqueur harmoniously intertwine with crisp Rosé wine and a house dry vermouth blend. A dash of Peychaud bitters completes this elegant, floral masterpiece. Served chilled and up.”
Nibs & Bitters Negroni: “Sous vide cocoa nib mezcal pairs perfectly with the bitter warmth of Campari and a touch of sweet vermouth blend. It's like a fireside chat with an old friend.”
Split Decision: “A silken blend of Tullamore D.E.W. and Monkey Shoulder whiskies, enhanced by rich banana Madeira and aromatic cardamom bitters. Smooth vanilla buttermilk syrup brings it all together, creating a luxurious, spirited sipper.”
M.V.P. “A refined twist on a cult classic Miami Vice, this tempting fusion features a house rum blend, exotic spices, and strawberry tea. Pineapple, coconut milk, and lime intermingle for a refreshing, tropical experience, all clarified for a smooth finish.”

Wednesday, August 2: The Italian Daughter (North Scottsdale). We were invited to check out the new menu and it was a delicious reminder to return here more often. Thank you to Chef Vittorio Colafranceschi, who made one of the best Italian seafood dishes I have ever had - an off-menu special of Dungeness crab guazzetto.

Crab guazzetto at Italian Daughter

Thursday, August 3: CRUjiente Tacos (Phoenix). As always, another great visit to this award-winning gem. Look for my Sonoran Scoop column in the next issue of SOMM Journal!

Check back on next week’s Rubee Tuesday for visits to Bobby-Q BBQ, PHOENIX Magazine Best Fest, Anhelo, Wren & Wolf, and Chilte.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / Renata's Hearth, Arizona Biltmore, Tia Carmen, JW Marriott Desert Ridge, Italian Daughter, Scottsdale, Downtown Phoenix, CRUjiente Tacos, Bitter and Twisted

RUBEE TUESDAY: Prime at Gila River Resort and Casino at Wild Horse Pass, Tia Carmen, Tarbell’s and Vecina.

July 11, 2023  /  Christina Barrueta

A weekly Tuesday feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Elevated Seafood Tower at Prime at Gila River Resort & Casino - Wild Horse Pass

Wednesday, July 28: Prime, A Shula's Steak House Gila River Resorts & CasinosPrime, A Shula's Steak House Gila River Resorts & CasinosPrime, A Shula's Steak House at Gila River Resorts & Casinos – Wild Horse Pass (Chandler). While I’m usually here to attend one of their spectacular wine dinners, this time I was interviewing Chef Michael Dei Maggi, Advanced Sommelier Troy Tranzow, and Gila River Resort & Casinos Corporate VP of Food and Beverage Maj Kayyali for a SOMM Journal feature.

Chef Michael Dei Maggi, Sommelier Troy Tranzow, and Gila River Resort VP of Food and Beverage Maj Kayyali

After a great interview, we stayed for surf and turf that included the Elevated Seafood Tower, Potted King crab (a new favorite!), and Japanese A5 Wagyu (not pictured).

And, as alway, fantastic cocktails thanks to the skills of Camille Tixier.

Camille Tixier of Prime at Gila River Resort and Casino in Chandler, Arizona

Tamarindo Sour (Knob Creek rye, Alma Tepec Chile Pasilla liqueur, lime juice, Camille’s tamarind syrup, grapefruit bitters, and a rim of crushed Lucas tamarindo candy), Vieux Carré, and Sunshine Spritzer (Sloe gin, Italicus, Suze and club soda).

Writer Christina Barrueta of Write On Rubee with the team at Prime at Gila River Resort

Thursday, July 29: Tia Carmen at JWMarriott Desert Ridge (Phoenix). In August, The SOMM Journal is hosting a Gavi Master Class at Tia Carmen, providing a perfect opportunity to join Meridith May, the editor and owner of SOMM Journal, and event manager Dawn for lunch and a walkthrough at one of my favorite restaurants.

For dinner that night. we headed to another of our favorites, Tarbell’s, for a wine dinner highlighting mushrooms with special guest Brian Hedger, owner of local mushroom purveyor Hypha Foods.

Another fantastic experience at Tarbell’s!

Friday, June 30: Vecina (Phoenix). We ended our food-filled week at a Phoenix gem I wish I could get to more often, And this visit was extra-special as we were joined by Abel Arriaga, founder of Compa Spirits, and his family.

I fell in love with this taco árabe when it was a special, so I'm thrilled they added it to the menu! It features WorldClass Ibérico de Bellota pluma with chipotle crema, cashew dukkah, micro cilantro, and Fresno chiles on flatbread.

Taco árabe with WorldClass Iberico de bellotta pluma

Other must-orders include the Raiz Rioja cocktail with guacamole, chicken karaage with aji amarillo and togarashi, hiramasa ceviche with coconut leche de tigre, and skirt steak tacos with cascabel chile.

And this is still one of my favorite octopus dishes in town - WorldClass octopus with mole rojo, white beans, aji verde, and crispy potatoes.

Abel’s mission is to support small businesses across Mexico by curating beautiful artisanal spirits and boutique wines. Naturally, we had to sample some for ourselves, and wow, I was impressed! If you’re heading to Vecina (or see this on any other menus around town), be sure to order a bottle of Parvada Tinto from winemaker Lucía García Alonso in Valle de Parras in Coahuila de Zaragoza (the oldest wine region in America). It’s a rich and layered blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tempranillo with notes of cocoa, plum, and black fruit and especially delicious paired with my taco árabe.

And to pair with decadent mezcal banana bread and peanut butter mousse, I was introduced to Lechugilla, a lesser-known agave spirit. Both of these were beautiful expressions of Lechuguilla (two different species), and I can’t wait to explore this category more. Thank you, Abel, for the introduction!

Lechugilla Cumbrita de la Sierra is made by Maestro Destilador Dolores González and hails from Chihuahua. The agaves are cooked in an earthen oven covered with pine needle duff, milled by hand using an axe and wooden mallet, fermented in a stone and clay basin with spring water, and distilled in a unique hybrid still called a "tren."

Lamata Lechuguilla Sonora, crafted by Maestro Vinatero Martín Yépiz in Alamo, Sonora begins with cooking the agaves in an underground oven before mashing with an axe in a wooden canoe. Abel pointed out that with a lot size of only 150 liters, it’s a rare find and has become a collector’s item. Tip: I also spied this on the backbar at Arboleda on my last visit.

Looking to do some exploration yourself? Join me at next month’s Chilte and Compas Spirits cocktail collab! Get all the details by clicking the photo below.

Check back on my next Rubee Tuesday for visits to Sicilian Butcher, The Mexicano, Thirsty Camel at The Phoenician, and Farm Provisions in Prescott.

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tags / Vecina, Prime, Compa Spirits, Tia Carmen, JW Marriott Desert Ridge

RUBEE TUESDAY: JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort, The Mexicano, D&Y Chinese, and Francine.

June 06, 2023  /  Christina Barrueta

A weekly Tuesday feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

JW Marriott Desert Ridge Kokopelli’s Cabana Colada

Thursday, May 25: JW Marriott Desert Ridge. We had family visiting from Texas and one of our traditions (see last year) has been to spend a day poolside in a Canyon Creek Lazy River Day Suite. These luxurious cabanas offer a private half bathroom, air conditioning, misting system, indoor and outdoor seating, and more, and the kids love being steps from the lazy river (this year’s video HERE).

And the JW Marriott Desert Ridge pool amenities are actually going to get bigger and better with a current expansion into AquaRidge WaterPark. This $18 million pool transformation will include an enhanced lazy river, Havasu Playground with three new water slides, and an exclusive adults-only Sky Island. Click the photo below to get all the details.

Saturday, May 27: The Mexicano (North Scottsdale). This is one of our favorite spots with one of our favorite chefs - Fidencio Alatriste - and I knew the kids would love the fun menu and colorful vibe.

Chef Fidencio Alatriste of the Mexicano

And good timing! Our visit happened to be three days after the launch of new cocktails and menu items, and you’ll want to add these to your new favorites list:

  • Amor Amago with tequila repo, lime, agave, and chocolate bitters; Summer Fling Margarita with strawberry and kiwi

  • Ahi tacos with chipotle mayo and serrano ponzu

  • Watermelon ensalada fresca

  • Chicken tinga empanadas

  • The BEST chicharrones (my Mexican husband said he hasn't had chicharrones this good since he was a kid)

  • Chile relleno with salsa verde

And while the kids loved their options from the children’s menu (cheese enchiladas and a chicken burrito), the big hit was the surprise dessert board.

Conchas stuffed with vanilla cream, flan with roasted pineapple and vanilla whipped cream, pineapple empanadas with caramel sauce, and a churro cart with chocolate, caramel, and tres leches dipping sauces. Gracias, Fidencio!

Thursday. June 1: D&Y Chinese (Glendale). A family dinner at our favorite neighborhood Chinese spot included trying three new-to-us dishes from the menu - roast duck carved Peking style with steamed buns, beef chow fun, and honey walnut shrimp.

Peking duck at D&Y Chinese in Glendale, Arizona

Friday, June 2: Francine (Scottsdale Fashion Square). Though we’ve been long-time fans of Francine and have been many times, our last visit was more than a year ago so we were long overdue. When we were invited to check out the spring menu, I was excited to meet new Executive Chef Connor Harmon and try his dishes. What a talent! We loved both the savory dishes, and his dessert creations. Here’s our fabulous feast (and you can watch a video Reel HERE):

Grilled WorldClass Portuguese octopus with piperade, Niçoise olives and fennel.

Grilled WorldClass octopus at Francine

Pure Bliss (gin, Chartreuse, Lillet, Chareau) and vodka Martini with blue cheese-stuffed olives; frito mixto; pea soup en croute with crab; spinach risotto with pistachios and lobster add-on (now my favorite risotto in town!); chicken Milanese; Domaine Georges Lignier & Fils Clos des Ormes Premier Cru.

Herb-crusted WorldClass Patagonian lamb chops with baby vegetable sauté and rosemary olive oil, paired with 2017 Domaine Georges Lignier & Fils Clos des Ormes Premier Cru Burgundy.

WorldClass lamb chops at Francine

Chocolate pot de crème with hazelnut crumble and Grand Marnier chantilly; Espresso Martini; lemon curd tart with torched meringue; Scholar’s Folly (Whistlepig 10-year rye, Averna, Manzanilla sherry).

Olive oil cake with local Steadfast Farm honey, salted caramel sauce, lemon and honey mascarpone, olive oil powder and honeycomb tuile.

Check back on my next Rubee Tuesday for visits to Trevor’s for a Tasting Panel magazine feature, Chilte at The Egyptian Motor Lodge, a Mother Road Beer Dinner at Arizona Biltmore, Course for a SOMM Journal interview, Rice Paper, and Il Capo Pizzeria.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / JW Marriott Desert Ridge, JW Marriott, Fidencio Alatriste, The Mexicano, D&Y Chinese, Francine