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.
Arizona Restaurant Week is back with 230 participating restaurants statewide. For ten delicious days, diners can enjoy three-course menus for $33, $44, or $55 per person. See the full list of participating restaurants at Arizona Restaurant Week.
Get ready for another culinary showdown at Sunday Dinner at The Duce! Three amazing chefs will each present their unique spin on vegan dishes and you'll be the judge, casting your vote for your favorite version. It’s like a live cooking show where you’re the star—eating your way through mouthwatering creations while deciding who takes home the crown. Tickets $150 pp. For more details and to reserve your tickets, visit THIS LINK.
5:00-6:00pm - Cocktail hour with complimentary appetizers and drinks for purchase
6:00-8:00pm - Each chef presents a dish with time for Q&A. You’ll also enjoy a paired cocktail with each chef’s dish.
8:00-8:30pm - Award Presentation and mingle with the Chefs.
Chef Kyle is back for “The Encore”, a Korean comfort take-out feast for two at Chula Grayhawk. Ticket Info: $65++* per order ( feeds two). Take-out only item. Ready to eat and available for pick up 4:00 PM - 7:30 PM. To pre-order, visit ChulaSeafood.com
Join Phoenix City Grille and special guests Founder Frank August and CEO Jonathan Crocker for a whiskey-paired dinner featuring a four-course menu by Chef Uriel Telix-Medina. Cost: $85 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Reserve: privatedining@phoenixcitygrille.com | 602.510.7174
Join La Zozzona at Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort for an exclusive wine dinner in collaboration with Paul Martin's Justin, a blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot. The evening begins at 6:00 pm with a 6 meet and greet with Master Sommelier Joseph Spellman, followed by 6:30 pm dinner with Spellman guiding you through the pairings. Price: $175 per person (Must be +21). To reserve your spot, visit THIS LINK.
Join Phoenix City Grille and special guest Hailey Wells for an exclusive wine-paired dinner featuring Justin Vineyards and Winery. Cost: $120 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Reserve: privatedining@phoenixcitygrille.com | 602.510.7174
Join Ember at We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort for an unforgettable evening as LPGA Champion and vintner Cristie Kerr of Kerr Cellars hosts a 5-Course Wine Dinner. $245 per person, plus tax and gratuity. For tickets, visit OpenTable or call 480-789-5323. Space is limited, so reservations are recommended.
Breakthru Beverage Group presents Batch Burning at COURSE on October 5. For one night only, resident mixologist Justin Chard leads a spirited send-off to summer, pouring the final rounds of the restaurant’s lineup before introducing his fall libations. $12 cocktails and $12 fried chicken sandwiches. First come, first served—no reservations.
Join Mowry & Cotton at the Phoenician Resort for a special night featuring the celebrated wines of Hundred Acre Winery, a Napa Valley icon renowned for its single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. Enjoy complimentary valet parking, a guest raffle for a chance to win exclusive wine bottles, and a unique opportunity to meet and speak with the winemaker. Tickets are $200 (inclusive of tax and gratuity) at THIS LINK.
Tucked within a secluded Sonoran Desert canyon, Castle Hot Springs is introducing Desert Vines, a new multi-day wine and culinary series launching October 2025. Building on the resort’s acclaimed Wine Spectator Restaurant Award-winning wine program, the series will debut with a signature weekend hosted by acclaimed Master Sommelier Bobby Stuckey. Guests can choose between two exceptional events, or enjoy both: A wine education masterclass and a five-course wine-paired dinner, presented in collaboration with Castle Hot Springs’ acclaimed culinary team: Executive Chef Chris Knouse and Level 2 Sommelier Sarah Foote. For full details, CLICK HERE or reserve your seat HERE.
Chef Matt Carter
This fall, Outstanding in the Field returns to Agritopia Farm. Outstanding in the Field has been bringing people together around farm tables for more than 25 years, with dinners hosted in orchards, vineyards, beaches, and ranches across the globe. This is your chance to experience that surrounded by Agritopia Farm peach trees for a multi-course feast prepared by Chef Matt Carter of Fat Ox, The Mission, and Zinc Bistro with local bounty. Tickets: $385 pp. Reserve your space HERE.
( 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.
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.
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.
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.
Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows presents its first-ever Desert & Dusk: Golden Hour Market on September 20, from 4 to 8 p.m. This free, open-air event celebrates Southwestern creativity with local artistry, live music, handcrafted spirits, culinary flavors, and wellness experiences around the resort’s stunning Turquoise Pool. Highlights include:
Mediterranean-inspired bites and cocktails from Weft & Warp Art Bar + Kitchen
Gin and vodka tastings from One Handsome Bastard, part of the resort’s new spirits partnership
Restorative spa activations from Palo Verde Spa & Apothecary
Art displays and performances from Cattle Track Arts & Preservation
Honey tastings from Alvéole Beekeeper Collective
Live music from DJ CECE, Lee Perreira, and The Dusty Ramblers
Join Belmont Kitchen and Cocktails for a four-course prix fixe menu by Michelin-starred Executive Chef Alex Stratta paired with wines from Gemstone Vineyards, a boutique Napa Valley estate known for expressive Bordeaux varieties.. Cost: $220 pp ++. Menu and Tickets Here
Join La Zozzona at Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort as they host an exquisite three-course wine dinner in collaboration with Far Niente, a distinguished Napa Valley winery with a legacy of exceptional vineyards spanning nearly 150 years. The evening begins at 6:00 pm with a social hour, followed by 6:30 pm dinner with a Far Niente expert guiding you through the pairings. Price: $175 per person (Must be +21). To reserve your spot, visit THIS LINK.
FOUND:RE Phoenix Hotel Executive Chef Daniel Crabtree welcomes guest Voila French Bistro Executive Chef Maxime Rudowski for a special four-course dinner celebrating modern and French cuisine, with optional wine pairings. Tickets start at $98 per person. For menu and to purchase tickets, click here.
Join Nello's Pizzeria + Italian Kitchen - Ahwatukee for a special five-course wine dinner. For reservations, visit OpenTable.
Chula Seafood’s Chef Summer Tour presents three unique dining experiences highlighting the culinary creations of Chef Anthony (Chula South Scottsdale), Chef Moniqe (Chula Grayhawk) and Chef Kyle (Chula Uptown). On September 15 at Chula Uptown,the final stop will feature Chef Kyle's Korean Street Food-inspired to-go feast with Korean Fried Chicken (aka Kyle’s Fried Chicken), Tteokbokki, Gimbap and Sweet Potato Hand Pies. This meal feeds two people for $65++ and comes ready to serve. Pickup begins after 4 p.m.
Brewha is shaking things up with the Verde Valley Cocktail Showdown on September 15, from 5 p.m. to close. Bartenders and mixologists will put their skills to the test in a lively competition for prizes, while the crowd enjoys food trucks, local vendors, and DJ beats.
Explore seasonal flavors at this delicious summer series at Hearth ‘61. Enjoy an intimate setting in the private dining room for the chef demo, followed by a three-course brunch including the two featured demo courses, dessert, and a paired glass of wine or cocktail. Cost: $89++. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit THIS LINK.
Join Emmy Award-winning chef, New York Times bestselling author, and Food Network star Giada De Laurentiis for an unforgettable evening at Luna by Giada inside Caesars Republic Scottsdale, a Hilton Hotel. This exclusive Chef-Hosted Dinner Experience features a welcome specialty cocktail, interactive Action Stations with Giada’s signature Italian cuisine, and a curated Wine Pairing Station featuring selections from Santa Margherita, one of Giada’s favorite vineyards. $295 per person (inclusive of tax and gratuity). Book your tickets on OpenTable.
Enjoy cocktails, bites, and a hands-on clay workshop in collaboration with Pip Coffee & Clay. Guests will craft their own copita , sip mezcal, and hear stories from special guest Don Carlos Ángulo Ríos, a celebrated mezcal producer. Limited seating. Reservations required. Purchase Tickets Here
Guided by Chef Alex Stratta, a 2-star Michelin and Italian Iron Chef known for his refined Mediterranean cuisine, guests will enjoy an unforgettable multi-course menu paired by Wine Director Daniel Reza. Together with Stem Wine Company, represented by Mark Yaeger and Samantha Fank, the evening will showcase premium selections from independent, family-owned wineries across Italy. Reception at 6:00 PM | Dinner at 6:30 PM. $195 per person ++. Make your reservations at OpenTable.
Reception
Wagyu beef tartare with white truffle butter
Porcini arancini with parmigiano
Rhode Island Swordfish with Caponata and Bagna Cauda
Agnolotti del Plin with Meat Sauce, Sage, Brown Butter
Short Rib with Candied Shallot and Fontina cheese polenta
Gorgonzola Picante with Fig jam and walnut crisps
Tiramisu
The Italiano in Scottsdale has kicked off its highly anticipated Summer Wine Dinner Series featuring a five-course Italian menu by Chef Joey Maggiore alongside world-class wines. On August 27, he welcomes Italy’s Masi Wines. Tickets are $125 per guest. To reserve your seat, click HERE.
Join Weft & Warp every month for their exclusive wine dinners. August’s Argentina event will kick off with a reception at 5:30 pm followed by a 6:00 pm dinner. Cost is $125 per guest and incudes a four-course wine-paired dining experience. For reservations, visit THIS LINK.
.Upcoming Dates:
September 24: Australia
October 29: New Zealand
November 19: USA
December 17: New World Wines
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 are available at THIS LINK.
PHOENIX magazine's Cocktail Camp is a spirited, summer-long series that turns Sunday afternoons into mini-vacations. Hosted at top local venues, each event offers a curated cocktail experience led by expert mixologists and hosted by Editor-in-Chief Craig Outhier. For tickets, visit THIS LINK.
Explore seasonal flavors at this delicious summer series at Hearth ‘61. Enjoy an intimate setting in the private dining room for the chef demo, followed by a three-course brunch including the two featured demo courses, dessert, and a paired glass of wine or cocktail. Cost: $89++. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit THIS LINK.
Fridays | Celebrity Chef Dinners
At 6 p.m., Chef Russell LaCasce and local legend Chef Beau MacMillan — who worked in the kitchen together at Sanctuary — are teaming up for this exclusive dinner. Mingle with the chefs at a meet-and-greet reception, then savor a collaborative three-course dinner with paired wines and chef demos. Cost: $159+ pp. For more information and to make reservations, visit this link.
Saturdays | Free Market Event
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., join us for this free indoor market featuring local purveyors, wineries and spirits. Enjoy live music while you sip, sample, and shop, plus enjoy bites from Chef Beau MacMillan available for purchase.
Beat the heat with El Bandido Tequila at Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila! Enjoy tequila tastings and prizes. It's complimentary to play and seating is communal. RSVP Required at THIS LINK.
Come join us for a cozy evening at Beckett's Table as we celebrate the flavors of the season and few Chef inspirations. Enjoy a delicious multi-course dinner 'family style' with friends in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Indulge in a communal dinner crafted with care by our talented Beckett's culinary team. This in-person event is the perfect way to beat the heat of summer and create lasting memories. Don't miss out on this special dining experience! Cost: $119 pp and includes ax and gratuity. Click here for tickets.
Chula Seafood’s Chef Summer Tour presents three unique dining experiences highlighting the culinary creations of Chef Anthony (Chula South Scottsdale), Chef Moniqe (Chula Grayhawk) and Chef Kyle (Chula Uptown). On August 14 at Chula Grayhawk, Chef Moniqe will take diners on a deep dive into Mexico-City inspired cuisine. Cost: $80++ per person, with an optional wine pairing. Two seating times will be offered: 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Join Belmont Kitchen and Cocktails for a journey through the regions of France with a four-course prix fixe menu by Michelin-starred Executive Chef Alex Stratta. Each course will be complemented by French wines, presented by Wine Director Daniel Reza, and guided by Rachel Macalisang, the United States French Wine Ambassador for Kobrand. Cost: $220 pp ++. Menu and Tickets Here
PHOENIX magazine's Cocktail Camp is a spirited, summer-long series that turns Sunday afternoons into mini-vacations. Hosted at top local venues, each event offers a curated cocktail experience led by expert mixologists and hosted by Editor-in-Chief Craig Outhier. For tickets and full summer schedule, visit THIS LINK.
PHOENIX magazine's Cocktail Camp is a spirited, summer-long series that turns Sunday afternoons into mini-vacations. Hosted at top local venues, each event offers a curated cocktail experience led by expert mixologists and hosted by Editor-in-Chief Craig Outhier. For tickets and full summer schedule, visit THIS LINK.
The Italiano in Scottsdale has kicked off its highly anticipated Summer Wine Dinner Series featuring a five-course Italian menu by Chef Joey Maggiore alongside world-class wines. On July 30, he welcomes Far Niente Winery. Tickets are $125 per guest. To reserve your seat, click HERE.
Join Weft & Warp every month for their exclusive wine dinners. The event will kick off with a reception at 5:30 pm followed by a 6:00 pm dinner. Cost is $125 per guest and incudes a four-course wine-paired dining experience. For reservations, visit THIS LINK.
.Upcoming Dates:
August 27: Argentina
September 24: Australia
October 29: New Zealand
November 19: USA
December 17: New World Wines
PHOENIX magazine's Cocktail Camp is a spirited, summer-long series that turns Sunday afternoons into mini-vacations. Hosted at top local venues, each event offers a curated cocktail experience led by expert mixologists and hosted by Editor-in-Chief Craig Outhier. Cost: $45 pp. For tickets and full summer schedule, visit THIS LINK.
Join Rune Wines in Sonoita to explore wines from across the state of Arizona! Sip new wines, enjoy food truck favorites, and vibe with great musicians. Buy tickets early online for $30 or at the door for $40. For more information and to reserve tickets, visit EventBrite.
Hotel Valley Ho is hosting an Old Town Comedy Night on Friday, July 25 in the Sands Event Venue. Guests can enjoy performances by local stand-up comics while sipping on a handcrafted cocktail and snacking on a tasty nosh board complete with artisan cheeses, pickles, baby crudité veggies, hummus, olives, pita chips, crackers, popcorn, chips and more. Cost: $99 per person, including tax and gratuity. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Guests can make a night of it with a late dinner at ZuZu (a 20% off voucher is included) and a 30% discount on a room with code COMEDY. Reservations can be made at hotelvalleyho.com.
Come join us for a cozy evening at Beckett's Table as we celebrate the flavors of the season and few Chef inspirations. Enjoy a delicious multi-course dinner 'family style' with friends in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Indulge in a communal dinner crafted with care by our talented Beckett's culinary team. This in-person event is the perfect way to beat the heat of summer and create lasting memories. Don't miss out on this special dining experience! Cost: $119 pp and includes ax and gratuity. Click here for tickets.
Join Atria as four of Arizona’s most celebrated chefs come together for one night only for the debut of the Four Top collaborative dinner series. Chef Rochelle Daniel will be joined by Scottsdale chefs Cory Oppold of Course, Scottsdale’ Christopher Brugman of Heritage Kitchen + Cocktails, and Steven “Chops” Smith of Liquor Pig, Scottsdale.
Two seatings available at 4:30 PM and 7:00 PM | $165++ per person | Optional cocktail and wine pairings available. Reserve HERE.
