Write On Rubee

I’m an Arizona-based food, beverage, and travel writer sharing stories of my culinary adventures, drink discoveries, gardening projects, and travel in Phoenix and beyond.

Somm Brawl at The Mick
Jan
12
6:00 PM18:00

Somm Brawl at The Mick

Quarter Final 1: Raini Keyser, Vinum 55 VS Troy Tranzow, CATCH Scottsdale

During Somm Brawl 2025, eight of the finest sommeliers will go head-to-head across four-course tasting menus crafted by Executive Chef Brent Menke and Chef de Cuisine Michael Winneker. Wines are paired by the competing sommeliers, and you get to be the judge. Cast your vote after each course to decide which pairing advances on the road to the SOMM BRAWL Finals! Reserve

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Somm Brawl at The Mick Brasserie
Jan
19
6:00 PM18:00

Somm Brawl at The Mick Brasserie

Quarter Final 2: Laura Bruno vs Audrey Everett.

During Somm Brawl 2025, eight of the finest sommeliers will go head-to-head across four-course tasting menus crafted by Executive Chef Brent Menke and Chef de Cuisine Michael Winneker. Wines are paired by the competing sommeliers, and you get to be the judge. Cast your vote after each course to decide which pairing advances on the road to the SOMM BRAWL Finals! Reserve

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A Taste of AZ Food and Drink Festival
Jan
31
1:30 PM13:30

A Taste of AZ Food and Drink Festival

For a WriteOnRubee discount, enter RUBEE in ACCESS CODE at THIS LINK.

A Taste of AZ Food and Drink Festival at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick returns to showcase flavors from across the Grand Canyon State with live music, cooking demos, and beverages from Arizona’s top wineries, breweries, distilleries and more. Tickets include unlimited food samples, plus 15 drink samples (beer, wine & cocktails), and free parking. Upgrade to VIP for early 12 pm access and 1 complimentary ticket to a Spring Training game at Salt River Fields on February 22. General Admission: $99. VIP: $139. The festival is 21+.

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Devour Phoenix
Feb
21
to Feb 22

Devour Phoenix

  • Desert Botanical Garden (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The desert’s most anticipated culinary weekend returns as Local First Arizona presents the 18th annual Devour Culinary Classic at Desert Botanical Garden Guests can explore tasting stations, sip exceptional wines and craft beverages, and enjoy live music and art throughout the Garden’s trails. Tickets go on sale Nov. 3 at devourgoodfood.com/culinary-classic. (Must be 21+ to attend.)

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Weft & Warp: Passport Wine Dinner Series
Dec
17
5:30 PM17:30

Weft & Warp: Passport Wine Dinner Series

  • Weft & Warp Art Bar and Kitchen (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The next installment of the Weft & Warp Art Bar + Kitchen Passport Winner Dinner series will highlight New World Wines, with pairings from Argentina, Chile, New Zealand, Australia, and the USA.  Guests will enjoy five wine-paired courses; from Grouper Crudo to Tuscan Fried Quail. Priced at $125 per guest, experiences can be reserved for either 5:30pm or 5:45pm. Cost is $125 per guest. Visit THIS LINK to reserve your spot.

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Spirited Sipping Seminars at Mountain Shadows
Dec
13
3:00 PM15:00

Spirited Sipping Seminars at Mountain Shadows

spiritedsipping.jpg

Join Hearth ’61 as we take you on a journey through the wonderful world of wine and spirits. Our talented beverage experts will guide you through a tasting seminar and history lesson worth savoring. Each seminar is 30 to 45 minutes, including a light, paired nosh. $45 pp. Tickets for December’s “Bring on the Bubbles” are available at THIS LINK.

 

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SEDONA: Lisa Dahl Foundation Weekend - Film & Feast
Dec
12
to Dec 14

SEDONA: Lisa Dahl Foundation Weekend - Film & Feast

After decades of giving back to the community, Lisa Dahl announces The Lisa Dahl Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to nourishing those in need and honoring those who came before. “I'm pouring everything from my soul into the planning of three events that will be unlike anything we’ve ever done before,” says Dahl. For more information and to purchaese tickets, visit THIS LINK.

Friday: Forgotten Peoples Tribute. Screen Lisa Dahl’s award winning film and enjoy an indigenous culture reception, a four-course luncheon with Soup Hope and DAOU wines, and a live auction ($250 pp).
Saturday: Celebrazione Festa
. A tribute to the 30th anniversary of Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante Italiano with an exclusive dinner party and live auction. (Cost: $350 pp)
Sunday: Pizza Send-Off . A joyful finale to don complimentary “when you cook with love, you feed the soul” aprons to make pizza together, sip on the new private-label wine Passionista de Sedona, sample our Soup Hope blend, and share a Sunday. (Cost: $100 pp).

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Whiskey & Wisdom
Dec
11
6:00 PM18:00

Whiskey & Wisdom

  • Driscoll Cuisine & Cocktails: The Concept (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Driscoll’s Whiskey & Wisdom fall series at The Concept kicks off this month, and you’ll want to join them for an intimate evening of great food, great whiskey, and great company in an intimate setting (10 guests max). Cost: $150 pp. Click THIS LINK for more details and to register.

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Hotel Valley Ho: A Night to Toast
Dec
10
6:00 PM18:00

Hotel Valley Ho: A Night to Toast

Bring on the bubbly! Join Hotel Valley H o for an unforgettable evening with Veuve Clicquot. Start with hors d'oeuvres and a glass of Yellow Label in the Citrus Grove, then move into Sands for a three-course dinner paired with Veuve Clicquot Champagnes. Reserve your spot and let the celebrations begin: https://bit.ly/3UUBrHc

CITRUS GROVE RECEPTION

Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label

big eye tuna poke mini tacos
oysters + caviar
spanish chilled shrimp
Belvedere 10 Vodka

Yakitori: yellow squash, japanese eggplant, shiitake mushrooms + tofu
Cheese: Raclette + triple cream blue cheese with brioche, truffle bavarian pretzels

DINNER IN SANDS

Big Eye Tuna
pork belly, stracciatella, green grapes, kumquat, pistachio + thai chili ponzu
Veuve Clicquot Extra Brut Extra Old

Peppercorn + Black Garlic Prime Rib
winter truffle jus, fresh wasabi, beech mushrooms + red vein sorrel
Veuve Clicquot Vintage 2015 Brut

Salted Caramel Mousse
passion fruit, valrhona dark chocolate + toasted pistachios
Veuve Clicquot Rich Rosé

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Inaugural AZ Brunch Fest
Dec
7
10:00 AM10:00

Inaugural AZ Brunch Fest

Get ready to indulge at Arizona’s first AZ Brunch Fest. Featuring the best brunch spots in Phoenix, this event serves up mouthwatering bites, refreshing mimosas, cocktails, and local craft beer. Whether you're a fan of sweet or savory, there’s something for everyone at this brunch-filled extravaganza. Early Bird tickets start at $55 for GA and $90 for VIP. Get your tickets HERE.

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Macayo's Tamalada Class - Goodyear
Dec
6
3:00 PM15:00

Macayo's Tamalada Class - Goodyear

Macayo’s Mexican Food tamalada classes are back. Guests will learn how to assemble tamales and enjoy a three-course lunch and margarit . They will also take home the tamales they assemble during the experience. Cost is $60++ per person. Tickets are available at http://macayo.com/shop/event-tickets with dates and locations as follows:

• Saturday, Dec. 6 | 3 p.m. at Goodyear

• Saturday, Dec. 13 | 3 p.m. at Scottsdale

• Saturday, Dec. 20 | 3 p.m. at Mesa Dobson •

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The Americano: An Evening with Dan Kosta
Dec
4
6:00 PM18:00

The Americano: An Evening with Dan Kosta

Join The Americano Chefs Beau MacMillian and Peter McQuaid,as they welcome Sonoma Coast vintner Dan Kosta and guest chef Gio Osso of Virtù Honest Craft and Pizzeria Virtù for a multi-course evening of world-class wine and inspired cuisine. The evening begins with a cocktail reception, followed by a four-course dinner expertly paired with Kosta’s celebrated wines, including the highly coveted Grail Grand Cru Campbell Ranch Pinot Noir.  Cocktail Reception: 6 p.m. Dinner: 7 p.m. $295 per person. Tickets are required and available here.

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Paoloni Wine Dinner at Barley & Smoke
Dec
4
5:00 PM17:00

Paoloni Wine Dinner at Barley & Smoke

Guests will have the opportunity to meet winemaker Diana Paoloni, daughter of Paolo Paoloni who relocated to Mexico from Italy over 30 years ago, purchased Toros Pintos in Valle de Guadalupe and founded Villa Montefiori. The evening includes 5 Paoloni Wines, amuse bouche, and a 3-course family style meal presented by Executive Chef Michael Mahalick. Two seatings available, each limited to 30 tickets: 5pm and 7:45pm. Tickets: $131.10 all inclusive of tax and tip. Reserve your ticket HERE.

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Streets Eats and Beats Festival
Nov
28
to Nov 30

Streets Eats and Beats Festival

Street Eats & Beats Festival 2025, Arizona’s first AAPI Music Festival, is a fresh remix of culture, community, and celebration. Tickets start at $21.32 including fees (Use discount code JAPAN for 10% off tickets!). For more information and to purchase tickets, visit THIS LINK.
Day 1: EDM stages, cosplay, neon lights & all the hype
Day 2: Enjoy live music, local eats & nonstop vibes
Day 3: Shop local at our free farmers market, support small businesses, and explore tasty bites from your favorite food trucks and vendors.

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Macayo's Tamalada Class
Nov
22
3:00 PM15:00

Macayo's Tamalada Class

Macayo’s Mexican Food tamalada classes are back. Guests will learn how to assemble tamales and enjoy a three-course lunch and margarit . They will also take home the tamales they assemble during the experience. Cost is $60++ per person. Tickets are available at http://macayo.com/shop/event-tickets with dates and locations as follows:

• Saturday, Nov. 22 | 3 p.m. at Ahwatukee

• Saturday, Dec. 6 | 3 p.m. at Goodyear

• Saturday, Dec. 13 | 3 p.m. at Scottsdale

• Saturday, Dec. 20 | 3 p.m. at Mesa Dobson •

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Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino: Dunkin' Donut Hole Eating Contest
Nov
22
2:00 PM14:00

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino: Dunkin' Donut Hole Eating Contest

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino is hosting a donut hole eating contest to commemorate the grand re-opening of Maricopa’s first Dunkin’. Registration begins at 1 p.m. and the contest kicks off at 2 p.m. in the Main Casino Lobby.  Participants will be selected to go head-to-head in multiple rounds of five people to see who can eat the most donut holes in just one minute, with top contenders advancing to a 90-second final round featuring full-sized donuts and even greater bragging rights. The individual who comes out on top will receive $250 cash, 50,000 Caesars Rewards Credits, $250 in free slot play, a $50 Dunkin’ gift card and a complimentary two-night hotel stay. All participants will also receive a free T-shirt and a $30 Dunkin’ gift card.

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Macayo's Tamalada Class
Nov
15
3:00 PM15:00

Macayo's Tamalada Class

Macayo’s Mexican Food tamalada classes are back. Guests will learn how to assemble tamales and enjoy a three-course lunch and margarit . They will also take home the tamales they assemble during the experience. Cost is $60++ per person. Tickets are available at http://macayo.com/shop/event-tickets with dates and locations as follows:

• Saturday, Nov. 15 | 3 p.m. at ASU Tempe

• Saturday, Nov. 22 | 3 p.m. at Ahwatukee

• Saturday, Dec. 6 | 3 p.m. at Goodyear

• Saturday, Dec. 13 | 3 p.m. at Scottsdale

• Saturday, Dec. 20 | 3 p.m. at Mesa Dobson •

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Cooking Class with Chef Beckett
Nov
15
11:00 AM11:00

Cooking Class with Chef Beckett

Come join us at Beckett's Table for a fun and informative cooking class with Chef Justin Beckett!  November’d class will feature Bite Sized Appetizers for Holiday Entertaining. Ticket price of $125+ pp includes class with materials, a 3-course lunch with wine pairings, and gratuity. Get your tickets HERE.

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Chino Bandido Celebrates 35 Years
Nov
15
to Nov 16

Chino Bandido Celebrates 35 Years

  • Chino Bandido Phoenix (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

In celebration of the anniversary, Chino favorites and most-requested menu items will be brought back for the weekend, such as Black Bean Tostadas, Jade Red Wings and Jerk Wings. Guests can also enjoy a face painter and balloon animal artist on Saturday, as well as musical entertainment, tastings of menu items, door prizes, and the “Chino Kids 35 Years Later” wall. For more information about Chino Bandido’s 35th Anniversary Weekend, visit THIS LINK.

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Belle Glos and Napa Valley Quilt Dinner at Campo Italian
Nov
14
6:00 PM18:00

Belle Glos and Napa Valley Quilt Dinner at Campo Italian

Join Campo Italian for an exclusive five-course experience paired with Copper Cane Wines featured brands, Belle Glos and Napa Valley Quilt .From lobster ravioli paired with Quilt Chardonnay, to Argentine beef striploin paired with Belle Glos Pinot Noir, it wil be a night to remember. $125++ per guest, limited seating available. CLICK TO RESERVE.

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Australian Wine Dinner at La Zozzona
Nov
11
6:00 PM18:00

Australian Wine Dinner at La Zozzona

Join La Zozzona at Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort as they celebrate the renowned vineyards of Australia during a three-course wine dinner. The evening begins at 6:00 pm with a social hour, followed by 6:30 pm dinner with guests Molly Duker and Monica Telagades guiding you through the pairings. Price: $175 per person (Must be +21). To reserve your spot, visit THIS LINK.

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USA Today Wine and Food Experience
Nov
8
1:00 PM13:00

USA Today Wine and Food Experience

Phoenix is one of the stops on the 2025 USA TODAY Wine & Food Experience nationwide tour. Indulge in a culinary adventure and experience the area’s best local wine & food with a gourmet showcase, premier wine, beer, and spirits and live demonstrations. *This is a 21+ Event* 1:00-4:00 p.m. (Early Admission 12:00 p.m.) Tickets start at $60 pp for General Admission. TICKET LINK.

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Phoenix Eats + Drinks Launch Party
Nov
4
6:00 PM18:00

Phoenix Eats + Drinks Launch Party

  • Sands venue at Hotel Valley Ho (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join us for a celebration of Phoenix's culinary and beverage scene at the launch party for Phoenix Eats and Drinks hosted by Executive Chef Russell LaCasce of the Hotel Valley Ho and author Christina Barrueta. Here’s your chance to mingle with the talented restaurateurs, chefs, and mixologists featured in the book while sampling delicious bites from Tia Carmen to Zuzu and cocktails from Poppy's Office to the Phoenician Tavern.

The event will take place in the Sands venue. Books will be available for purchase, or bring your own copy for signing. Tickets are $99 per person and include sample dishes and two drinks. Click HERE for tickets.

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Stags Leap District House of Cab Event at Hermosa Inn
Nov
4
4:30 PM16:30

Stags Leap District House of Cab Event at Hermosa Inn

Stags Leap District Comes to Paradise Valley! On November 4, the acclaimed Napa Valley wine region hits the road for an exclusive House of Cab evening at the historic Hermosa Inn. Meet the visiting vintners, winemakers, and proprietors behind Napa Valley’s legendary Stags Leap District, and sample their most coveted Cabernets. Ticket price also includes paired bites from Lon’s at the Hermosa’s award-winning culinary team led by Chef Brian Peterson and your own Riedel crystal Cabernet tasting glass. Tickets: $125 per person (Advance Enthusiast Price through September 1). For more information, including a list of visiting wineries, and to purchase your ticket, visit THIS LINK.

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A Taste of AZ Inaugural Sip, Savor, Shop Festival
Nov
1
1:30 PM13:30

A Taste of AZ Inaugural Sip, Savor, Shop Festival

( For a $10 WriteOnRubee discount, use Promo Code RUBEE at get tickets! ) A Taste of AZ is launching their inaugural fall celebration, Sip, Savor, Shop, and you’re invited! Gather at the Salt River Fields East Lawn to enjoy unlimied bites from Arizona’s top restaurants along with local brews, wines, and cocktails while shopping a curated market of artisans and retailers for fall finds and holiday gifts. General Admission ($89) starts at 1:30 pm with VIP ($109) early admission at 12 pm.

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Hotel Valley Ho: From Ho to Hollywood
Oct
30
4:30 PM16:30

Hotel Valley Ho: From Ho to Hollywood

We’re bringing Hollywood to Scottsdale! Join us for a collaborative five-course dinner with beverage pairings in ZuZu on October 30. Chef Russell is teaming up with Chef Larry Greenwood of The Front Yard at The Garland in Los Angeles for this special event. Tickets cost $139++ reservations are required. Visit TOCK to reserve your table.

And for round two? Chef Russell is heading to California on Tuesday, October 28 to bring the ZuZu energy to California and collaborating with Chef Larry on a five-course dinner with wine pairings,

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