Phoenix Relocation Guide

S H O P P I N G A N D D I N I N G

From spunky upstart bistros to mom and pop eateries to classic haute cuisine dining, Phoenix and Tucson are virtual paradises waiting to be discovered. Arizona’s global cuisine allows diners to sip and sample the best of edible delights from around the world without ever leaving. Exotic fare and dishes from faraway Asia, the Pacific Rim, Europe, the Middle East are just a few of the choices on the menu. Those whose tastes run a little closer to home, will find plenty of places to choose from when searching for Sonoran, Mexican, barbecue or even home cooking like mama used to make. Look around, and find every imaginable fare, and even a few never thought of before. Get out and see what the fuss is all about in Phoenix and Tucson. Allow taste buds the opportunity to explore new culi- nary delights, and find new favorite dishes while savoring old favorites. Arena Bar & Grill 6245 E Bell Rd # 101, Scottsdale, 85254 480-948-0008; www.arenasportsgrills.com The Arena Sports Grill is a local, Scott- sdale family oriented neighborhood restaurant that offers great food in a fun environment. From personal-sized pizza and wings, to steak, pasta & salads, the Arena offers something for everyone. The Arena has over 20 high-def televi- sions to watch all your favorite College & NFL Football Sports Teams. With a great selection of draft and bottle beer, off-track horse betting, pool tables and dart, you are guaranteed for a great time at The Arena Sports Grill. PHOENIX

Tapacubo. Photo by Doug Stremel courtesy of Visit Phoenix

China Chili 3501 North Central Ave., Phoenix 602-266-4463

cuisine with influences from the Yucatan has created a menu worth investigating.

Benihana 3025 W.Chandler Blvd., Chandler 85226 480-812-4701 16403 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale 85254 480-444-0068; www.benihana.net Where else does dinner come with a show? Masterful chefs prepare your dinner right at the table in this traditional Japanese-style hibachi steakhouse. Diners can choose from a variety of fresh sushi and other Japanese favorites, while the chef performs his culi- nary art in a way that has to be seen to be believed.

China Chili lives up to its name as it serves spicy Chinese that has won the hearts and the taste buds of Phoenix. While the spicy garlic eggplant is definitely a menu favorite, feel free to explore the rest of the menu featuring soups, meat and seafood dishes.

Cheesecake Factory 2502 E. Camelback Rd # 114 Phoenix 85016; 602-778-6501 www.thecheesecakefactory.com

The Cheesecake Factory serves so much more than just its world-famous cheesecake desserts. Diners can choose from a wide and varied menu that includes pizza, pastas, fish and seafood, steaks and salads. The Cheese- cake Factory also hosts a delicious Sunday Brunch until 2 p.m. that includes such breakfast delights as Belgian Waffles and a Smoked Salmon Platter. Eddie V’s Edgewater Grill 20715 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale 85255 480-538-8468; www.eddiev.com

Carolina’s Mexican Food 1202 E. Mohave, Phoenix 85034 602-252-1503

A landmark in South Central Phoenix, Carolina’s excellent tortillas are worth the trip alone. The plain atmosphere in this place totally belies the fabulous foodie find that awaits inside, with delicious tamales, tacos and enchiladas. The salsa here is the real thing – made fresh daily, and residents here know to pick up a pound of chorizo to take home.

Barrio Café 2814 N. 16th St., Phoenix 85006 602-636-0240; www.barriocafe.com

Chef Silvana Salcido Esparza’s take on exotic Mexican food has caught the atten- tion of Phoenix diners at this cozy little eatery. This definitely is not your abuela’s home cooking: Esparza’s Mayan-inspired

Bringing together an award-winning combi- nation of the freshest seafood, prime steaks

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