As a sort of companion piece to my post of the best new spots that opened in 2024, I have to acknowledge the best places that were new to me this past year. The Persian Room I like everything about this spot, from the great flavor to the ambiance to the family style ordering. Que Hoang It’s always best to be skeptical of a restaurant … Continue reading Best new (to me) spots in 2024
If you’re looking to shop for last-minute Christmas gifts, here are my (admittedly last-minute) recommendations. Local shopping Changing Hands is an independent bookstore with Mesa and midtown Phoenix locations. If they don’t have what you’re looking for, they can order it in, and they have other cute products besides just books. Their loyalty card and the First Draft coffee shop/bar inside the Phoenix store are … Continue reading Grace’s gift giving guide 2024
This year brought a ton of new restaurants to the valley. I primarily focused on Phoenix proper, though you’ll see a few outliers on the list from the East valley. Below are my favorites. Pretty Penny Globally inspired small plates? Sign me up. This addition to Roosevelt Row is a great night out for fun food. I loved their diverse options and cocktails. Bad Jimmy’s … Continue reading New restaurant roundup: 2024
I’m including the whole valley in this post, to fully show the variety of funky spots to eat. These are places I recommend for the experience just as much (or more so) than the food. Organ Stop Pizza Will this pizza change your life? To be honest, no— but the incredible two-story organ and constant live performances are worth the drive (and the food is … Continue reading Quirkiest Restaurants in Phoenix
We have no shortage of great spots for a baked sweet treat here. These are my favorites. Stay tuned for a post specifically on the best cookies in the valley— I have a little experiment I need to conduct before then. The DinerSaur This place sets itself apart in two major ways: their delicious lunch sandwich deal, and their partnership doing pastries and scones for … Continue reading Best Bakeries in Phoenix
Compared to Phoenix and Flagstaff, Sedona and nearby Cottonwood are for an older, more established crowd. Sedona is also especially beautiful just to drive through, even if you aren’t planning to stop for much. If you’re looking to feel like you’re in the movie Cars, this is the place. Food While these places can be on the pricier end, the area is a unique dining … Continue reading Weekend trip inspiration: Cottonwood & Sedona
Of all the Arizona places on my list, Bisbee is the furthest initial drive from Phoenix— just under 3.5 hours. I would never suggest driving further than necessary, so rest assured this place is worth the trip! Bisbee is an old mining town, at one point the largest city in Arizona. It’s past Tucson and close to the Mexican border, built into hills near the … Continue reading Weekend trip inspiration: Bisbee
Clocking in at just over two hours from Phoenix, Flagstaff is my most common weekend getaway year round. I love the college town meets Route 66 vibe here. In the winter, it’s a great home base for skiing at SnowBowl. In the summer, it’s a great escape from the Phoenix heat, with a younger and more casual vibe than Sedona. Food To me, Flagstaff has … Continue reading Weekend trip inspiration: Flagstaff
There are many great museums and cultural spots in Phoenix, but for those trying to find the best value on a budget, these are my can’t miss events and activities in the museum and theater space. Phoenix Zoo: Roars and Pours This once a month event is a can’t miss for me because of the discounted ticket, taking the price of admission from $45 for … Continue reading Phoenix local cultural event roundup
Phoenix has so many good options! Here are my favorite restaurants, ordered from the most cheap/casual to the more fancy/expensive. I’ve stuck to the city limits because I can’t claim to be an expert in the whole valley. Under $10 Tacos Huicho A taco Tuesday go to in my house, this valley spot has multiple locations and a $1.25 taco on our favorite weekly holiday. … Continue reading My Favorite Mexican Spots
Grace Gets Food 