There’s a lot of annual local events in the valley. It’s taken me a few years of living here to realize when things happen and what not to miss! Here’s my best attempt at a round-up of favorites, done in chronological order. Arizona Renaissance Festival While it’s easily a 45 minute drive from downtown Phoenix, our local Ren Faire had to make this list because … Continue reading Favorite Phoenix Area Festivals
There’s so many restaurants and bars opening these days, it’s hard to keep track. Luckily, I take going out to eat as a hobby very seriously. These are my top three spots of 2023 so far. Liar’s Club I’m tired of bars that don’t have good food as well as good drinks. Liar’s Club has funky decor, interesting drinks, and real dinner options. Shareable Detroit … Continue reading Best new spots in Downtown Phoenix
As October is finally upon us, it’s time to enjoy what Phoenix is (rightly) most famous for– perfect outdoor weather. Here are some of my favorite places to eat outdoors in Phoenix city limits. For coffee & tea Window Coffee Bar: more people should know about this place! Even though all their seating is outdoors, they have a good quiet space for work, along with … Continue reading Fall Necessities: Best Patios in Phoenix
Think of this blog post like the “light” section of a chain restaurant menu. When summer is in full force, I have a hard time wanting heavy food. If you’re not in the mood for a salad at home but you need some easy veggies or other lighter fare, these are my recommendations. I’m not a salad lover by nature, so this list focuses on … Continue reading Keeping it Cool: Lighter Faves for Summer Days
Phoenix has a surprisingly large selection of combination coffeeshop/bars. My theory is the downtown rent encourages businesses to keep the customers coming all day (and the map of these locations seems to back me up). Below are some of my favorites and what they do best. First Draft Book Bar Located in Changing Hands bookstore, First Draft is my favorite spot on this list to … Continue reading The Best of Both Worlds
As I write this, I’m in the midst of the holidays. Valentine’s Day might still be two months away, but cuffing season is in full force and there’s no better time to plan ahead for a romantic time out. Here are some of my favorite spots with an intimate ambiance. Francine This is a classic French restaurant in Scottsdale, perfect for a special occasion meal. … Continue reading All About Ambiance
There’s an infinite amount of things to do in Phoenix, but here are some of my favorite ways to check two things off your to-do list at once. Modern Manor + Valentine Combining brunch and a little home decor/antique shopping is what this place is made for! Whether you just want to snack on a fun pastry and some coffee or you want substantive brunch, … Continue reading Best Two-Stop Dates in Phoenix
Whether you’re sober, trying to cut down, under 21, or just looking for something else fun to do, here are my favorite places to go out and not drink. Cobra Arcade Bar This downtown barcade is a fun place to hang out and play games, even if you (like me) don’t think you’re much of a gamer. I don’t recommend it for just drinks or … Continue reading Top 5 Bars for Non-Drinkers
Phoenix has a great bar scene, with a lot of fun concepts. Here are the best places to catch deals during happy hour downtown, no reservations required. 5. The Whining Pig This has the virtue of being the longest-running happy hour – ending at 8pm. It’s a great place to go before a baseball or basketball game. They don’t serve any cocktails – for that, … Continue reading Top 5 Downtown Phoenix Happy Hours
Grace Gets Food 