This week the Phoenix-area said 'hello' to a few new, interesting concepts, including an all-poutine spot for Canadian culinary aficionados, and another new incarnation of the iconic Lodge — this time in Tempe. We also said goodbye to our "Nabers."
Openings
- Angry Crab & BBQ, Ahwatukee
The Ahwatukee-area restaurant is the third seafood spot from local restaurateur Daniel Sevilla, who's also the man behind Mesa's Angry Crab Shack and Angry Crab & BBQ in Central Phoenix. Angry Crab brings seafood by-the-pound and barbecue to 'Tukee, as well as cocktails, beer, and wine.
- US Fries, Tempe
It's Arizona's first self-proclaimed "poutinerie" — a restaurant completely dedicated to the Canadian dish of fries topped with gravy and cheese curds. US Fries, (which already opened in Tucson about a year ago), open late on weekends, slings out a variety of different poutines, including a pot-roast topped one. The sleek, soon-to-be chain has a clean atmosphere and is serving up excellent poutine.
- Be Coffee, Phoenix
The coffee shop takes over a space inside MonOrchid Gallery that used to house Songbird Coffee. The tiny coffee shop serves a nice breakfast and lunch lineup, and a rotating pour-over and drip menu.
- Le Macaron French Pastries, Scottsdale
This newly-opened pastry shop in the Scottsdale Quarter specializes in all things French. The store, which is actually a chain, sells 20 different flavors of macaron, including an intriguing "rose petal."
- The Lodge Sasquatch Kitchen, Tempe
Aaron May's new Lodge location is now open in Tempe, right across the street from The Yard — the old lodge in Scottsdale closed down last year. The new location promises vittles fit for all Phoenix-area lumberjacks (or anyone who wants to grab a drink.)
- Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, Scottsdale
The Snooze-takeover of Metro Phoenix continues in North Scottsdale at Kierland Commons. The newest location of the Denver-based breakfast chain opened in late August, facing Scottsdale Road.
- Crust Pizza, Chandler
The "simply Italian" spot just opened up off of Arizona Avenue near Chandler Boulevard. Crust serves up a range of Italian dishes, including Sicilian pizza and different bruschetta variations.
- Fate Brewing Company South, Scottsdale
Fate's massive new second location has the capacity to brew 3,500 to 4,000 barrels of craft beer every year, with six to eight core brews on tap at all times. The space also has a large beer garden and patio facing Scottsdale road.
- Urbane Manner, Scottsdale
Previously BRKFST, this location's made a few quick turnarounds since its days as American Junkie in Old Town. Urbane Manner calls itself "suave, courteous, and redefined in manner."
- Abyssinia Restaurant and Cafe, Phoenix
Phoenix could always use more Ethiopian food. This family-owned restaurant is on Indian School Road and 7th Street, with a ton of vegan and vegetarian offerings.
- Speedy Street Tacos, Phoenix
The new taco joint replaces iconic Phoenix hot dog stand Franks A Lot, which closed earlier this summer at 40th Street and Washington. According to Yelp, the new joint is open 24 hours for the late-night crowd.
Closings
- Nabers, Chandler
The bar on 54th Street in Chandler said farewell to the community in late August, after two years of live music, comfort food, and craft beer. The casual spot was all about bringing neighbors together.
- Los Sombreros, North Scottsdale
The North Scottsdale location of this restaurant is now closed — though you can still get your Los Sombreros fix in South Scottsdale, on Scottsdale Road near Thomas.
