December Restaurant Openings and Closings in Metro Phoenix

New spots for coffee, cocktails, and even Colombian hot dogs—metro Phoenix, you were lucky last month. December saw the openings of new bars like Dirty Martini and the Bee's Knees. We also said goodbye to Tempe ramen spot Umami and a place for craft beer in Scottsdale. Openings Street Coffee,...

By Lily Altavena

January 4, 2016

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New spots for coffee, cocktails, and even Colombian hot dogs — metro Phoenix, you were lucky last month. December saw the openings of new bars like Dirty Martini and the Bee's Knees. We also said goodbye to Tempe ramen spot Umami and a place for craft beer in Scottsdale.

Openings

Street Coffee, Phoenix
The coffee is roasted in-house and the pastries are housemade at newly opened Street Coffee in downtown Phoenix. The cafe caters to a busy crowd.

The Coffee Studio, Phoenix
Just weeks before the start of 2016, The Coffee Studio opened its doors in central Phoenix. The owners of the new spot say it is designed for creatives, with a drafting table and bookshelves.

The Bakery Cafe, Carefree
This restaurant reopened last month at El Pedregal at the Boulders Resort and Spa. Boulders executive chef Brian Archibald unveiled a new menu inspired by classic patisseries.

Moroccan Paradise, Tempe
Poutine. Crepes. Gelato. Moroccan food. This new restaurant, which opened up in the old Jorge's Chicken and Waffles location, has a diverse menu, that's for sure.

The Bee's Knees at The Camby Hotel, Phoenix
The Camby opened last month in place of the old Ritz Carlton Hotel, with plenty of dining options, including The Bee's Knees Bar. The Prohibition Era-style bar features classic cocktails.

Corner Bakery, Phoenix
This chain just keeps expanding in metro Phoenix, with a new location for soups, salads, and sandwiches at the Camelback Colonnade on 20th Street and Camelback.

Dirty Martini Bistro & Bar, Phoenix
The newly opened bistro on Washington and 12th streets offers live music and appetizers including sliders and flatbreads.

Simon's Hot Dogs, Scottsdale
This spot just opened in Scottsdale, serving up Colombian-style beef hot dogs.

Closings

Union Barrelhouse, Scottsdale
After a little over a year in business, the craft beer venue shuttered its doors for good just before the new year. On its Facebook page, the restaurant added to its closing announcement: "We want to thank everyone for a memorable experience."

Umami, Tempe
The Tempe ramen restaurant announced its closing on Facebook. But the owners — Jared Lupin and Rebecca Noordago — say they'll be looking for a new location to re-open at within the next few months.

Cactus Moon Sports Grill, Mesa
The Mesa spot has shuttered its doors at Mesa Riverview, and it's been reported that the owners are set to open a new burger concept at Riverview.

5 & Diner, Paradise Valley
After 20 years in business, 5 & Diner closed just before the new year at Paradise Valley Mall due to a reported land sale.

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