Crying Dinosaur, Supersition Mountains

We’ve come back to this allosaurus-like spire over the years because it’s relatively easy and safe compared with other climbs in the Superstition Mountain Wilderness Area, which is like the Yosemite of Phoenix metro climbing. The Arizona Mountaineering Club climbs here frequently, and the anchor points are big chains connected to bolts drilled and cemented […]

Cupz N’ Crepes

There’s nothing quite so perfect as the combination of fresh coffee and a perfectly-prepared crepe. And lucky for us, when we’re looking to satisfy the craving we need not look any farther than Cupz N’ Crepes in Ahwatukee. The south Phoenix eatery specializes in made-to-order crepes of both the sweet and savory variety filled with […]

Cyclo Vietnamese Cuisine

With over a decade in the business, Chandler’s Cyclo definitely must be doing something right. With both fusion and classic Vietnamese fare, you can enjoy a range of options, including vegetarian and gluten-free upon request. Favorites include bun cha Hanoi and bun bo xao, though the pho at Cyclo is also on point. Owner Justina […]

Daruma

Daruma is fast-casual but chef-driven Japanese restaurant. Starters here are colorful and fun, including a dish called crispy rice with spicy tuna. The fried chicken chunks of karaage here were aromatic and soft, the crispiness peaking just shy of crunchiness. The Dobson Roll is a good-looking roll, topped with cilantro, shavings of red onion, and […]

Denim & Diamonds

Eric Church’s “Drink in My Hand” tends to rile the crowd up and incite activity at Denim & Diamonds on weekends, so brace yourself, buckaroo, for a tornado of two-steppin’ and hollered sing-alongs when the chartbuster blares out here. Ditto for any of the other party-hearty new-country hymns that dominate the playlist. The Wrangler-clad masses […]