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
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
Midtown/Uptown Phoenix gets less love than downtown, but it’s often cheaper and just as good. These are some of my favorite choices. All include multiple cocktail options and accompanying deals on food. Hula’s Uptown Not only does this tiki bar have amazing deals on food, they do happy hour all night on Wednesdays. If you’re looking for a mid-week girls night or date spot, this … Continue reading Best Midtown Phoenix Happy Hours
I’ve written about my favorite date spots and adventures before, but there are so many new (or new to me) spots I want to highlight as 2023 comes to a close. Experiences Lotions and Potions Absolutely not new, but new to me this year, Lotions & Potions has been a Mill Ave and Melrose classic for decades. My husband and I came and got custom … Continue reading My 2023 Favorites
It’s been too long since I’ve done lunch recommendations, and I’ve found a lot more great places since then. As 2023 comes to a close, here are some of my favorites. Café Mollie This is a sweet spot for boba or other fun tea and lemonade drinks. Their menu of Vietnamese food is small, but everything on it is excellent. Great Wall This Chinese place … Continue reading Lunch Lately
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
Grace Gets Food 