Subject:

Food and Cooking

  • Blogs

    May 2, 2012

    Korean Taco Food Truck Giant Has Gone Veg and Possibly Sworn Off Cooking

    Kogi Korean BBQ, the Los Angeles based Korean taco food truck, was one of the first trucks to garner national attention and helped launch the food truck craze. It is often held up as an example of what food trucks are capable of being as a culinary movement. Their chief chef, Roy Choi, was recognize ... More >>

  • Blogs

    May 2, 2012

    Cinco de Mayo Dining Roundup 2012

    The annual alcohol-fueled celebration of Cinco de Mayo takes place this coming weekend and it seems every restaurant and bar has some sort of fiesta planned for the occasion. While most Mexican joints are content to trot out the Mexican kitsch and offer cut-rate prices on whatever cerveza they have ... More >>

  • Blogs

    May 2, 2012

    Petite Maison's Sunday Brunch a Fine and Frenchy Affair

    When a new spot opens in town, we can't wait to check it out -- and let you know our initial impressions, share a few photos, and dish about some menu items. First Taste, as the name implies, is not a full-blown review, but instead a peek inside restaurants that have just opened, sampling a few item ... More >>

  • Blogs

    May 2, 2012

    Make Phoenix 2012's BeerCity USA

    In 2009, National Beer Examiner writer and Brewers Association President Charlie Papazian created the BeerCity USA poll. Designed to judge the strength of a city's beer community, the online poll drew thousands of voters to throw their support behind their hometowns and the brew culture therein. As ... More >>

  • Blogs

    May 2, 2012

    Chris Cosantino's Lasagna Bolognese

    This week in Chef Talk we've been talking with Chris Costantino of Costantino's Kitchen. His line of handmade gourmet sauces and seasonings began with one recipe, a recipe for tomato basil pasta sauce he learned from his Grandma Angie. Today, you can find his line of products at farmers markets ar ... More >>

  • Blogs

    May 2, 2012

    Cardamom Chicken at Beaver Choice

    By nature, most spices have unique flavors that only lend well to specific styles of cuisine or types of ingredient. Take coffee, for example. When used as a seasoning, it works best with full-flavored meats like beef and pork, and it doesn't play well with vegetables. On the other hand are spices, ... More >>

  • Blogs

    May 2, 2012

    Chris Bianco Changes Up the Kitchen at Italian Restaurant, But Is That Enough?

    When pizza guru/restaurateur Chris Bianco brought chef Claudio Urciuoli onboard to run his generically named Italian Restaurant -- which opened in Central Phoenix last January -- the partnership promised to be interesting, at the very least. Both men have earned stellar reputations for their meti ... More >>

  • Blogs

    May 2, 2012

    Meet the Vine Geek (Part Two)

    On Tuesday, you met Brian Reeder, co-owner of AZ Wine Merchants and one of our new wine columnists. Today, his story continues. When we left off, Pavle Milic (in the photo above, from left, it's Reeder and Milic) had opened a little restaurant in Scottsdale and Brian had decided resort life at the M ... More >>

  • Blogs

    May 1, 2012

    Chris Costantino of Cotstantino's Kitchen (Part Two)

    Chef Talk this week has brought you into Costantino's Kitchen, where Chris Costantino is cooking up small, handmade batches of his Grandma Angie's Tomato Basil Sauce. On Monday, we talked about how he broke into the culinary world from his past corporate life, and got the scoop on the sauce that's ... More >>

  • Blogs

    May 1, 2012

    Aaron May's Praying Monk Opens as Vitamin T Closes

    Chef-restaurateur Aaron May got a little surprise late last week from RED Development, the commercial real estate company behind CityScape in downtown Phoenix. The larger-than-life owner of Vitamin T, a taco shop situated on the east end of the mixed-use complex, was locked out of his space after a ... More >>

  • Blogs

    May 1, 2012

    Happy Hour Report Card: San Tan Brewing Company

    The Spot: San Tan Brewing Company, 8 S. San Marcos Place, Chandler. 480-917-8700. www.santanbrewing.com Hours: 2 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; Reverse Happy Hour is 9 p.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday Details: They keep it simple: All San Tan pints are $3.75 each, and everything behind ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 30, 2012

    Organic Farms Yield Mixed Results, Study Reveals

    Hoping for a decline in organic produce prices anytime soon? That probably isn't going to happen, if a recent study published in Nature is any indication. And get rid of any notions that organic farming is by definition better for the earth. The "meta-analysis" reveals that certain types of conven ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 30, 2012

    Mother's Day Brunch/Dinner Round Up 2012

    Sunday, May 13th is Mother's Day -- which means it's time to show Mom how much you love and adore her. Why not show her you care by taking her out to a nice brunch? Brunch a little too early for ya? That's cool, moms also love dinner! Here's a list of restaurants around town that will be rolli ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 30, 2012

    Monsterland Bar & Grill: Drag Me to Hell

    When a new spot opens in town, we can't wait to check it out -- and let you know our initial impressions, share a few photos, and dish about some menu items. First Taste, as the name implies, is not a full-blown review, but instead a peek inside restaurants that have just opened, sampling a few item ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 30, 2012

    11 Things to Eat and Drink Before You Leave Phoenix

    Skipping town? You're not alone. Arizona State University's graduation takes place this week -- and once summer hits in earnest, it won't just be the mortar-boarded crowd escaping this Easy Bake. Here's Chow Bella's Bucket List for food and drink in the Valley. Have a favorite we've missed? (Because ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 30, 2012

    10 Favorite Chefs in Metro Phoenix

    They are visionaries, highly devoted to their craft, inventing fresh ideas for dishes in kitchens all over the Valley using top-notch ingredients and seasonal fare. We love their food, expect an experience nothing short of spectacular when we dine at their establishments, and (sometimes) even giggle ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 30, 2012

    Israeli Couscous with Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Preserved Lemon

    Lately, in this In Season/Meatless Monday series, we've taken a look at what I take home from Crooked Sky Farms each week and see what I've done with my CSA share, or part share. This week, I'm using roasted sweet potatoes, but you could use anything like butternut squash, carrots, or beets. I love ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 27, 2012

    Sushi Station at Desert Ridge Has Decent Sushi at a Great Price

    When a new spot opens in town, we can't wait to check it out -- and let you know our initial impressions, share a few photos, and dish about some menu items. First Taste, as the name implies, is not a full-blown review, but instead a peek inside restaurants that have just opened, sampling a few item ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 27, 2012

    The Tea is as Good as the Coffee: Cartel in Scottsdale is Now Serving 'Seven Cups' Tea

    Until a few months ago you couldn't get Seven Cups tea, the finest nearly anywhere, in Metro Phoenix unless you ordered it online or knew a friend visiting from Tucson, willing to stop by the tea house on their way to Phoenix. Things changed when Cartel got a Scottsdale location and wanted to step ... More >>

  • Culture

    April 26, 2012

    Cinco de Mayo Guide: Your Guide to Partying on May 5

    Until a few months ago you couldn't get Seven Cups tea, the finest nearly anywhere, in Metro Phoenix unless you ordered it online or knew a friend visiting from Tucson, willing to stop by the tea house on their way to Phoenix. Things changed when Cartel got a Scottsdale location and wanted to step ... More >>

  • Dining

    April 26, 2012

    La Barquita: Home of the Jefe of the Molcajete

    Until a few months ago you couldn't get Seven Cups tea, the finest nearly anywhere, in Metro Phoenix unless you ordered it online or knew a friend visiting from Tucson, willing to stop by the tea house on their way to Phoenix. Things changed when Cartel got a Scottsdale location and wanted to step ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 26, 2012

    Make Your Own Macarons, Inspired by Pinterest

    Mmmmm, macarons. I love them. Mostly, I'm in love with the way they look. It's one of those desserts you actually feel bad biting into because you don't want to destroy its beauty. That makes them perfect for Pinterest. They're pricey, but after making them, I understand why. They're finicky littl ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 26, 2012

    Chef Brian Hulihee's Green Chile Mac and Cheese

    This week in Chef Talk we brought you our interview with Chef Brian Hulihee of Roaring Fork in central Scottsdale. On Monday, he talked about how he got into the business and what it's like to be entering his 10th year at the restaurant. Yesterday, he recalled family memories involving traditional ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 26, 2012

    Janos and J Bar in Tucson to Close Next Month

    May 27 no doubt will be a dark day for Tucson food lovers. Two of the city's most acclaimed restaurants -- Janos and J Bar -- will serve their last suppers on May 26 before permanently shuttering their doors at the Westin La Paloma Resort and Spa. In a phone interview with Chow Bella, celeb chef J ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 25, 2012

    Coffee: It's a Spice. Really.

    When you think of coffee, chances are that you think of the beverage -- and probably Starbucks -- and stop there. But coffee has uses beyond being a deliciously addictive caffeine fix to be guzzled down at all hours of the day. Coffee is also a spice that can add a rich, deep, and earthy flavor to o ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 25, 2012

    Battle of the Banh Mi: Da Vang vs. Pho House

    Ahhhh, the banh mi. Such a tasty and cheap little Vietnamese sandwich. Soft French bread filled with carrots, jalapeños, cilantro, and a delightful meat. It's one of our favorites, but we tend to overlook the little guys when we are at our favorite Vietnamese spots because, well, because there are ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 24, 2012

    Seven Don't-Miss Wine & Farm (& Tequila!) Dinners in Metro Phoenix

    Whether you're looking for the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion, or just want an excuse to enjoy a decadent and delicious night out, there's a dinner this spring for everyone, including wine lovers, tequila aficionados, and fans of farm fresh ingredients. Some dinners are on weekdays, oth ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 23, 2012

    10 Favorite Spots for French Toast in Metro Phoenix

    Since we are adults and all, we tend to skip breakfast's sweet friend, French toast. But every once in awhile we give into our sweet tooth and order up the genius combination of eggs, milk, and bread. And when we do decided to give in to our French toast cravings, we can't resist these ten Valley ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 23, 2012

    Point-Counterpoint: Alton Brown Is the Man and I Challenge You to Say Otherwise

    We had so much fun chucking Chow Bella contributors Ando Muneno and Lauren Saria into the ring over food trucks, we decided to do it again. This week's burning topic: Alton Brown. Ando: Alton Brown is the man and I challenge you to say otherwise. Lauren: CHALLENGE ACCEPTED. Ando: Seriously, wha ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 20, 2012

    Tamale Dinner at Corona Ranch Tonight Benefits Friendly House

    If you have a hankering for some Mexican food and don't already have plans tonight, might we suggest tamales and a show in South Phoenix. The 77th Annual Friendly House Tamale Dinner is tonight from 5 to 9 at Corona Ranch Rodeo Grounds.

  • Blogs

    April 20, 2012

    Profiteroles with Roasted Banana Ice Cream at Café Bink

    There's one chef in all of Arizona who's currently nominated for a James Beard Award. Up for Best Chef: Southwest, Kevin Binkley is making our state proud. But with entrees priced around $40, not everyone will be rushing to Binkley's to see what the buzz is all about. Luckily, the restaurant has a l ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 20, 2012

    So Who Won the Burger Battle at the Scottsdale Culinary Festival?

    It was burgers galore last night at Scottsdale Stadium and although there wasn't a huge turnout for the Scottsdale Culinary Festival's very first Burger Battle it was a really fun (and filling) experience and the folks that did shell out the $55 for a ticket got their money's worth. Zinburger, Mod ... More >>

  • Dining

    April 19, 2012

    Circle H Barbecue, Despite a Few Misses, Fills a Neighborhood Void

    It was burgers galore last night at Scottsdale Stadium and although there wasn't a huge turnout for the Scottsdale Culinary Festival's very first Burger Battle it was a really fun (and filling) experience and the folks that did shell out the $55 for a ticket got their money's worth. Zinburger, Mod ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 19, 2012

    Last Night's Scottsdale Culinary Festival Chocolate & Wine Experience Not So Chocolatey

    To me, one of chocolate's best properties is the fact that it doesn't need to be super sweet to feel incredibly indulgent. A blissful chocolate is smooth, rich, dark, and simple. My current favorite is Chocolove's Orange Peel, and I expected the Scottsdale Culinary Festival's only dessert event woul ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 18, 2012

    Liberty Market Sells Stumptown Coffee, Presents a Coffee-Centered Community Dinner

    Coffee is simple, but preparation can get complicated, so most restaurants leave espresso up to the cafe across the street. Luckily for us, restauranteur Joe Johnston likes a challenge and stuck the E61 Bar - where a chrome 1965 espresso machine is the daily driver - right inside Liberty Market to u ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 18, 2012

    The 2012 Arizona Culinary Hall of Fame Inductees Are . . .

    Starting off the Scottsdale Culinary Festival for 2012 was last night's invite-only Arizona Culinary Hall of Fame cocktail party presented by the Scottsdale League of the Arts held at Technique Restaurant at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Old Town Scottsdale. It was a nice juxtaposition ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 18, 2012

    Getting Shaken & Stirred at the Scottsdale Culinary Festival

    The 34th Annual Scottsdale Culinary Festival began on Tuesday, and we chose to kick the weeklong celebration off the same way we would any soirée -- with a few drinks. Not your simple liquor-plus-mixer drinks, mind you. There was a time when the cocktail was as essential to living as food, and wa ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 17, 2012

    Brian Kingdeski of The Spot, Part Two

    Yesterday we began our talk with Brian Kingdeski of The Spot in Gilbert. The neighborhood restaurant and hangout serves "food you'll like" in a comfortably tiny and welcoming setting. The Spot may be a baby in the restaurant world, but Kingdeski's no new kid on the block. He's been working the in b ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 17, 2012

    Juan's Authentic Mexican Food Serves Up Giant (Authentic) Portions for Under $10

    Finding decent Mexican food on the cheap in Central Phoenix isn't difficult, but finding amazing service from a staff that makes you feel like family is a little bit more of a challenge. Good thing we found Juan's Authentic Mexican Food. Located on Thomas Road just west of 16th Street, Juan's sits ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 16, 2012

    Point-Counterpoint: We Are So Over Food Trucks. (Or Are We?)

    Just utter (or type) the words food and truck in close proximity, and some people freak out -- while others drool. It's the same among Chow Bella's staff, which is why when we decided to unveil our first "Point-Counterpoint" (with thanks/apologies to our sister blog in Houston, Eating Our Words) the ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 16, 2012

    Top Ten Spots for Mac 'n' Cheese in the Valley

    Mm, mm, mac 'n' cheese. President Thomas Jefferson had it for dinner at the White House in 1802, Crayola made it a crayon color in 1993, and Kraft sells more than one million boxes of it every day. Dressed up with additional ingredients or stripped down and simple, mac 'n' cheese, essentially cook ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 16, 2012

    Santa Fe Imperial Java Stout

    Beer: Imperial Java Stout Brewery: Santa Fe Brewing Co. Style: American Imperial Stout ABV: 8 percent Beer: It's what's for breakfast. It's also for second breakfast, brunch, lunch, second lunch, first dinner and dessert, but today it's mainly for breakfast. And when a beer is for breakfast, there ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 13, 2012

    We Welcome Our (Sushi) Robot Overlords

    First cupcake ATMs, now a small army of sushi making machines? If the retro "News of the World" style music doesn't get you then just wait until the 0:40 mark, whoever edited this video wasn't afraid to lay down some funky beats. The sushi making machines featured in this video are the products of ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 13, 2012

    Last Night at AZ Wine & Dine: Balsamic-Braised Short Ribs, Salted Caramel Chocolate Lollipops, and Much More

    Are you the kind of person who rushes home from the grocery store to eat a tiny nibble of every single thing you bought? It's okay; I'm like that too. If you are, you might think a tasting event featuring lots of bites from many restaurants is for you. But for me, the usual problem with tasting ev ... More >>

  • Dining

    April 12, 2012

    Fu-Fu Cuisine: Where Africa Meets the Caribbean

    Are you the kind of person who rushes home from the grocery store to eat a tiny nibble of every single thing you bought? It's okay; I'm like that too. If you are, you might think a tasting event featuring lots of bites from many restaurants is for you. But for me, the usual problem with tasting ev ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 12, 2012

    Brunch at Distrito, Free Midnight Feast at Old Town Whiskey and a Secret Special

    Since opening at the end of last year, Distrito and Old Town Whiskey, the two restaurants in Scottsdale's The Saguaro, have been causing quite a buzz in the Valley. Much of that is due to Chef Jose Garces, the man behind the menus, who is best known for winning the coveted title on season two of The ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 12, 2012

    The Famous Pinterest Rainbow Cake: Did We Succeed?

    Surely you've seen the rainbow cake. It's pretty darn popular. As my fellow Chow Bella-ite Amy Silvemran puts it, the rainbow cake is nothing less than "the holy grail of Pinterest." Pin Up Girl would be a farce if we didn't conquer this thing. So this week we spent three hours (which is a ver ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 12, 2012

    Campfire Bistro at Tom's Thumb Fresh Market Fires Up Some Good Eats

    When a new spot opens in town, we can't wait to check it out -- and let you know our initial impressions, share a few photos, and dish about some menu items. First Taste, as the name implies, is not a full-blown review, but instead a peek inside restaurants that have just opened, sampling a few item ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 11, 2012

    Taking It Slow: Some Great Drinks Take Time

    A friend recently handed me the February 2012 issue of Esquire magazine. Sticking out the side was a Post-It with three huge question marks and an arrow pointing inside. The arrow pointed to the cover story, "Agree: Bill Clinton and 78 Other Things We Can All Agree On". Specifically, it pointed to " ... More >>

  • Blogs

    April 11, 2012

    What's Your Favorite Cookbook?

    Welcome to Chow Bella's Bites & Dishes, where Valley chefs and restaurateurs respond to a question New Times food critic Laura Hahnefeld has on her mind. Have a question you'd like to ask? E-mail laura.hahnefeld@newtimes.com. Miss a question? Go here.Inspiration, information, mouth-watering photogra ... More >>

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