What better use for an extra case of Girl Scout cookies than a Chow Bella Showdown? In years past we’ve challenged our contributors to make something delicious out of Thin Mints and Trefoils. This time: Savannah Smiles. Stay tuned for more recipes and a decision from our “judge,” web editor Eric Tsetsi. My…
It’s that time of year when my thoughts turn away from warm, comforting Irish Coffees and Hot Buttered Rums. Balmy days like these call for a light, refreshing tipple. Few drinks can match the refreshing power of a personal favorite, the Mojito. Problem is, it’s next to impossible to find…
I find it kind of ironic that I decided to call this column “Last Call”. I do like the sound of it for a column title; last call is the literal last word of authority for bartenders across the country. It’s a definite sign that the night’s revelry is drawing…
After working at Trader Vic’s for its entire five-year run at the beautiful Hotel Valley Ho, I developed quite an appreciation for rum. Most people’s familiarity with rum is limited to a mere two brands: Bacardi and Captain Morgan. Sometimes people are also familiar with Sailor Jerry. It’s a crying…
A short while ago, a letter scripted in brilliant ruby-red ink landed on my desk. It read: Dear Bartender, A friend just presented me with a bottle of homemade grenadine for my birthday. What do you recommend I do with it? -Joe J. of the Eastern Hinterlands I’m sure that…
A common refrain of foodniks around the metro Phoenix area is “There’s no good food in the West Valley.” It seems like once diners get past downtown Glendale, they are stuck in chain restaurant purgatory. When paying a visit to the west side, it certainly does seem like your choices…
In my years of bartending, one of the things I’ve heard the most is this: “I don’t like gin.” When I press for details, the story is always the same: They had a bad experience with it years ago (inevitably in college) and haven’t been able to touch the stuff…
Since there’s really no better accessory than a cocktail in your hand, each week Jackalope Ranch brings you a tasty adult beverage from one of our favorite drinking establishments, complete with recipe. This week: Tongue-n-Groove at The Little Woody. While some are still lamenting the loss of The Great Escape…
The Mill Avenue area surely must be approaching a critical mass of frozen dessert purveyors. As of a couple of weeks ago, on the short quarter-mile strip there are now six shops exclusively offering chilly sweets. Of the six, half of them offer hand-scooped ice cream sandwiched between fresh-baked cookies. With…
Chicken fingers were once only a mainstay of sports bars and kids’ menus. Now, restaurants dedicated solely to them are popping up around town. A David and Goliath battle is brewing in the Valley. Will a chain that’s new to town fry the competition, or will the local mom-and-pop prevail?…
