Since this restaurant is relatively new I’ve been wanting to go there for a while now. There are so many restaurants in my area I usually first go for HH. If their HH is good I’ll go back for a meal. I’m sorry to say, their HH failed big time for me and my husband.
I don’t want to go into detail since I don’t like trashing a new business — there’s always room to improve when you’re new. 3 stars because the service was great, even if a bit overly attentive.
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Breadcrafters Bakery & Cafe (Phx)
“Can’t Wait to Return”
4 of 5 Stars
Reviewed September 29, 2014
I happened on this tiny place after closing on our new home nearby. We wanted to celebrate and find a nice new Coffeehouse near our new house. We rode around and ended up in the parking lot and walked in. It was the best path we could have taken!
After having a perfect mocha coffee and scone (my husband had the chile & eggs) we were sure we found the right place. We looked around to see what else they had to offer. We purchased a fresh made ciabatta bread and some roast beef and turkey, which they actually bake themselves!
Prices are reasonable and so far, the food is amazing. I can’t wait to return for lunch. I have a feeling Breadcrafters will be seeing a lot of me!
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Blue Martini Lounge (Phx)
“Lamb Chops!
4 of 5 Stars
Reviewed September 13, 2014
My husband and I enjoy strolling around City North. I bought a Groupon for Blue Martini since I remembered seeing it there.
Let me first say that if you go here make it between 4pm – 8 as that is their Happy Hour every night. The food and drinks are close to half off! The only menu option NOT included is their lamb chops, which I think were $18. Of course that was what I was in the mood for, but it was well worth paying full price for them. They were fantastic – 4 meaty grilled chops with a delicious herb coating nestled around fried fingerling potatoes. My husband ordered the filet mignon, also served with the potatoes, which he raved about. We added a nice mozzarella tomato salad and glass of wine and were totally satisfied.
I had to hold back one star because of how terribly noisy the place was. I mean, we could barely have a conversation. But I’d still return for the great food and prices!
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Modern Grove (Phx)
Great Facility, OK Food
3 of 5 Stars
Reviewed August 26, 2014
The concept here is great — big open restaurant, nice bar, cool tables with high tops and good location. But the food was just average. I ordered pizza and salad which was good but everyone else in my party (there were 8 of us) had a complaint.
I must say our server was excellent, very attentive to our needs. If they paid more attention to their food and maybe added a Happy Hour, this place could be 5 stars. I’d give it another try.
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Two Brothers Kitchen (Anthem)
“Best Pancakes Ever”
4 of 5 Stars
Reviewed August 22, 2014
I ordered the banana granola pancakes and they were amazing. Can’t wait to get them again. My friend ordered the eggs benedict which were delicious. I also love their fresh fruit. They’re very expensive, but equally good.
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New York West Pastry & Bake Shop (Sun City)
“Best Pastry in the Valley”
5 of 5 Stars Reviewed August 19, 2014
Being from back East (NJ), my brother and I are always on a quest for great bakeries here in Arizona, but believe me they are few and far in between. We really hit it with this one!
Not only does New York West carry typical Italian pastries (and also ones not so typical), but it’s also a full service bakery. I mean, they carried items — like Kringle — that totally shocked me. But what’s in the case means nothing if they’re not flaky, buttery and perfectly delicious. That’s what these pastries are.
You can even sit down and grab a coffee for your breakfast…I had a cappuccino. The women working there were extremely friendly too. I can’t wait to go back and try their breads.
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Pro’s Ranch Market (Phx)
“What a Find!”
3 of 5 Stars
Reviewed July 12, 2014
My brother and I noticed a huge crowded Mexican grocery store on our way to Costco today and figured there had to be something great inside to attract such a crowd. When we finished at Costco we stopped for a look inside and so glad we did! The first things you see upon entering are the bakery, fresh juice bar and picnic table restaurant. That was all we needed.
After making our bakery choices to bring home we decided to have a little lunch. We had pork sopas with rice and beans. The pork was in a delicious spicy red sauce, never had it like that but loved it. There is also a free chips & salsa bar — nice touch. I ordered a watermelon drink from the juice bar which was fantastic and not overly sweet. Next time I’ll try a mixed juice, they will make them to order.
The rest of the grocery store had some interesting out of the ordinary stuff, especially all of the cheeses — an entire section. I could’ve spent hours checking the place out.
I will definitely go back for the bakery, authentic Mexican fare at a good price, the juice bar and to browse the grocery store. I would recommend it to others.
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Bario Queen – Old Town (Scottsdale)
“Ate There on a Bad Night?”
2 of 5 Stars
I couldn’t wait to try Barrio Queen since we always pass by it on our nights in Old Town. I must have hit it on a bad night because both my husband’s and my meal were terrible. Maybe it was because we ordered the Restaurant week meals and they were pre-made, I’m not sure.
My carne asada was soooo tough I could barely swallow it after like 5 minutes of chewing — literally! The mini carnitas taco was bone dry. The flan was OK — I’ve had much better. The 2 stars are for the delicious, chunky tableside guac.
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Wildflower Bread Company (Scottsdale)
“Wonderful Catered Brunch”
5 of 5 Stars
Reviewed April 30, 2014
After enjoying the food at Wildflower for many years I turned to this location for a catered brunch for the day after my daughter’s wedding.
The value was spot-on, the food delicious as usual, the delivery on time and the planning service top notch. I highly recommend using them for your next catered party!
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Grimaldi’s – DC Ranch (Scottsdale)
“Great pizza and great place for a party”
5 of 5 Stars
Reviewed April 28, 2014
I’ve always loved the thin, crisp pizza at Grimaldi’s. Even their salads and sides are great.
Now I owe them this wonderful review after having my daughter’s wedding rehearsal dinner at the DC Ranch location. Everyone raved about the NY style pizza (my fam is all East Coast) and I have to rave about the cost, the service and how smoothly everything went.
First off it is hands down the best value in Scottsdale if you need a place to feed a group. I searched high and low for a place for the rehearsal dinner and the costs were close to the wedding! My husband then suggested Grimaldi’s — why didn’t I think of them sooner!
Next, my guests and I were treated top notch by our servers. Everything was timely and done with a smile. I can honestly say that during a very stressful week-end this was a few hours that I was able to really relax and enjoy myself. Next time I have to host guests I will think of Grimaldi’s first!
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Virtu (Scottsdale)
“Didn’t meet Expectations”
3 of 5 Stars
Reviewed April 22, 2014
I wasn’t sure if I should write this review…because my expectations were so high. I read about the amazing grilled octopus from several sources and it was even named one of the Top Ten dishes in the Valley in the AZ Republic. Being a lover of that dish, I couldn’t wait to go and then rave about it afterwards.
But that particular dish ended up being pretty terrible. Maybe it’s because I’ve had so much better in the Ironbound section of Newark, NJ. Although it was tender enough, It was over-the-top charred which ruined it…and I like char. The rest of the dish was underwhelming as well.
We ordered most of the other small plates offered and they were all much better than the octopus. The ambiance was nice and drinks good. I might go again, but with all of the other great restaurants in the area, maybe not.
Original ChopShop (Scottsdale)
“I LOVE THIS PLACE”
5 of 5 Stars
Reviewed January 15, 2014
Great fresh food that is moderately priced. I’ll keep this real short and sweet. I could eat here every night of the week and order the Tri Tip sandwich every time. Finished!
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Maggiano’s (Scottsdale)
“Delicious Italian Moderately priced”
5 of 5 Stars
Reviewed January 15, 2014
I’ve gone to Maggiano’s several times before and liked it, but the past few times I’ve been there is causing me to rave.
Being an Italian cook myself I usually don’t go out Italian because I’m usually disappointed. Why go out and pay lots of $$ for what I can make better at home for a fraction of the price. Not so at Maggiano’s!
Their creamy vodka sauce was better than mine! The sliced sausage running throughout the rigatoni was delicious! I’ll order this again without question. Everyone else in my party raved about their meals as well. The house chianti wine was inexpensive and appropriate with the meal. (No need to order expensive, substantive wine when eating Italian in my humble opinion.) Dessert was delicious (profiteroles stuffed w/ice cream and drizzled in chocolate sauce).
The free bread they bring to the table is probably the best I’ve had in the entire Phoenix Valley. Not sure, but I’ve heard they make it themselves. I could order a salad, a glass of chianti and make my way through a basket or so of this bread and leave perfectly happy. I’m also happy when the check arrives. And, I almost forgot to mention, our waitress was top notch, if not a little overly sweet, but hey…I had a bad day so her smiles and soprano voice were welcome.
Maggiano’s checks everything off on my Restaurant Happy List — therefore 5 stars…which I hardly ever give.
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The Yard
“What Fun!”
5 of 5 Stars
Reviewed January 7, 2014
I love a place where part of your group can sit on couches and chat over drinks, part of your group can grab dinner or a snack and part of your group can play ping pong! What a fun birthday get-together this was. I’d definitely return.
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Bink’s Scottsdale
“Very Enjoyable, Despite being Pricey”
4 of 5 stars
Reviewed January 7, 2014
This was the first Binks my family has been to. We decided to celebrate after my daughter’s wedding — there were 5 of us.
I must say our waiter was fantastic. Very attentive, full of information about the food, but didn’t overdo it like some.
Yes, all of the plates were small but we didn’t mind since we decided to just order an array of dishes for sharing. This way we got to sample a lot of them.
Our choices from the Appetizer menu were all good — the foi gras, pupusa and bbq octopus. I’d go back tomorrow just to have the foi gras again.
Onto Local Produce — Very good kale salad and divine beet salad.
From the Hot — the fried red potatoes were really good.
Onto entrees — I was told the sand dabs were amazing. I had the pork belly but was a little disappointed that there was no crust on it and the sauce it was on was a little too salty.
Sweetbread nuggets and butternut squash soup were also ordered and enjoyed by others but I didn’t try them.
Afterward we all ordered cappuccino and 3 desserts — the donuts, cheesecake and lemon soup. I especially enjoyed the refreshing lemon soup. When all was said and done the tab came in at $199. Yes, a little high considering only 1 glass of wine was ordered but it was a really enjoyable dining experience. Plus I like leaving a restaurant not feeling stuffed to the gills. I’d definitely return to try out the rest of the menu.
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Armitage Wine Lounge (Scottsdale)
“Average Food, Great Atmosphere”
3 of 5 stars
Reviewed October 14, 2013
Since I love being at The Market Place @ DC Ranch my girls and I came here to celebrate 2 of our birthdays.
The atmosphere was great with couch and table seating along with traditional tables. We were seated in a nice quiet corner where we could talk, otherwise the music was too loud. The food here was a real disappointment. Since we like to share plates we ordered about 6 things, some of which were appetizers and some sandwiches and salads, and nothing really stood out…just average. The one thing below average was the prosciutto melt…it was pretty gross. The meat was thick and tasted like super salty corned beef or something. Our server had a bad attitude and made rude comments.
When there are so many amazing restaurants in the area I don’t think I’ll ever be returning here.
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The Mission (Scottsdale)
“Top Notch in all Areas”
5 of 5 stars
Reviewed September 7, 2013
My daughters brought me here for my birthday celebration. My kids are brilliant!
1. Service. It was impeccable. Our waiter was friendly, helpful, upbeat but not over-bearing. Just right.
2. Ambiance. OK, it was a little dark at first but you get used to it quickly. Besides, it makes you focus on the gorgeous chandeliers and lighting. I want the one above the bar in my kitchen! They also have outdoor seating and I can’t wait to sit there once the weather cools off.
3. Food. Wow — please do yourself a favor and start with the guacamole which is made table-side by a guy rolling around his delicious cart. Mild, medium, spicy — your choice on the spot. Genius! My daughter and I split the Duck empanada for an appetizer (which will be my main course next time I go) and the pork tacos. High marks for the presentation of the tacos served on a salt block. Those in our party had salads and scallops also and everyone loved every bit.
As we were discussing what to have for dessert, voila — our waiter appeared with a sparkler and pumpkin bread pudding topped with ice cream and a sauce which was like a caramel sauce with maybe with a whiskey kicker. It was great. On the side to wash it down? Mini chocolate shakes with a chocolate chorro. Coma time!
Can’t wait to go back once the weather breaks to take advantage of their outdoor dining. Highly recommended.
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Roaring Fork (Scottsdale)
“Happy Hour a Real Winner”
5 of 5 stars
Reviewed July 27, 2013
I’ve been here only 1 time and it was for happy hour. I wanted to try their Big [–] Burger I’d heard about. Wow — what a value!! And it was delicious to boot.
First off, this burger was huge…and cooked to a perfect medium as ordered. It was topped with bacon, red onion, tomato, pickle and came with a special sauce. There was a little cauldron of crispy french fries on the side. Cost was $10….yes, I said $10. An unheard of bargain in Scottsdale. Everyone else at the table raved about the pork green chile. The best news from our waitress was that happy hour runs all night during the summer. So happy to be a local 
I can’t wait to go back…maybe even for dinner.
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Original Breakfast House, (Phx)
“Get the OBH Burger!”
4 of 5 Stars
Reviewed June 26, 2013
I went today with my groupon in hand. I live in the NW Valley but thx to Groupon I go out of my comfort zone to try new places.
It has a nice diner feel. I wasn’t sure if I wanted breakfast or lunch, so I went for both. I ordered the OBH Burger (a cheeseburger topped with thin sliced ham — which I switched out for bacon — caramelized onions and an over easy egg) It was nothing short of amazing. I switched out my french fries for deep fried home fries. Let’s just say I didn’t speak much over the next 15 minutes 
OK, I’ve only been here once so I can’t give it 5 stars, but I definitely will return. The hostess and waitress were above and beyond friendly and pleasant, and my ‘complicated’ order was met with a smile.
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Kazimierz World Wine Bar (Scottsdale)
“True Hidden Gem”
4 of 5 stars
Reviewed May 28, 2013
When I say hidden gem I’m not kidding. Someone from the group we were meeting there had to meet me on the street so I could find it as it had no signage and you were let in at a side door. Had the cool feeling of a SpeakEasy.
Once inside it was kind of cave-like and dark and had great live entertainment. I felt like I was in NYC back in the day. Wines were great, food the same.
My one complaint and why I couldn’t give it 5 stars — the ladies room. Without getting too gross, let’s just say this. When I got home that night I literally had to wash the bottom of my Tory’s before walking into the house. Yea, that bad…
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The Herb Box (Scottsdale)
“Consistently good food”
4 of 5 stars
Reviewed May 26, 2013
Came several Saturdays in a row with a group after working out. Our large group was always accommodated with a smile, even though we gave special orders.
Food is always solid. The blackened salmon on a bed of greens always delicious Saturday after Saturday. Blackened yet juicy with nuts and dried fruits mixed in with the greens. I could eat this for lunch every day and not get sick of it.
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Cartel Coffee Lab (Scottsdale)
“Best Cappuccino in Phx”
5 of 5 stars
Reviewed May 24, 2013
I went to the one in Old Town, Scottsdale. I ordered a decaf cappuccino as it was late and did not have high expectations but was really wowed! Service was exceptionally friendly and the cappuccino is rivaled only by the ones I’ve enjoyed in Europe.
Will go back to Cartel whenever I have the opportunity.
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Mimi’s Cafe, Bell Rd. (Glendale)
“My Fave for Breakfast”
4 of 5 stars
Reviewed December 7, 2012
Love their breakfasts, especially the stuffed french toast.
Great atmosphere and the service is always pleasant. Good muffins and sweet breads too. Breakfast is always solid here.
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Pappadeaux (Phoenix)
“Wonderful every time”
5 of 5 stars
Reviewed December 7, 2012
I love this place. Have dined here many many times with large groups and never has anyone had anything but high marks for their dinner. My personal favorites?
– Crawfish bisque
– Mediterranean Calamari – the best anywhere
– Crab cakes
– Any of the Chef Selections
– All of the desserts.
Come hungry with a group!
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Vivace Restaurant (Tucson)
“Best Pizza in AZ”
5 of 5 stars
Reviewed November 19, 2012
My entire family loves everything about this restaurant — the friendly owners, wait staff, incredible happy hour drink deals and especially the pizza! They’re all fabulous but our favorite is the Sausage and Roasted Cipollini Onion pizza. It almost makes me sad my daughter moved to Phoenix – we never go anymore. I vow to make a special trip this year 
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Union Public House (Tucson)
“Perfect Place for Sharing”
4 of 5 stars
Reviewed November 19, 2012
While my daughter lived in Tucson this was our favorite spot for drinks and shareable plates. My favorite is the BBB – Brussels sprouts, beets, bacon and honey – a perfect sweet & salty way to get my veggies in. We’ve also enjoyed the salads, chips, pretzels, you name it. Other guests I’ve been with who ordered meals such as fish and chips and Chicken & Waffles were amazed as well.
Great beer list too. Expect for it to be a bit noisy — its 1 big open room but its fun when you’re with a group. I would recommend it.
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Pita Jungle (Phoenix)
“A Happy Hour Disappointment”
2 of 5 stars
Reviewed November 5, 2012
I went to the Norterra location close to my house, as always, looking for a closeby Happy Hour. No luck here. My husband and I ordered everything on the HH menu with maybe 1 or 2 that were OK. We didn’t want to short-change the place, so we ordered a chicken topped flatbread as well. No help there either. Very friendly attentive waitress.
I won’t be going back.
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Fair Trade Cafe (Phoenix)
“Go for the Coffee & Sweets”
3 of 5 stars
Reviewed November 5, 2012
Went here for breakfast with my daughter. My mocha and her iced soy latte were great. To satisfy my sweet tooth I ordered the ginger cookie which was amazing — truly. Points for the free cucumber water.
The savory dishes were my only complaint. An egg, ham and cheese for my daughter and a tomato, egg and avocado on a sundried tomato bagel for me. Daughter said hers was good, mine was terrible. It came absolutely undressed, I mean no flavor at all. The only thing that helped me eat half of it was salt, pepper and hot sauce.
I might go again for a coffee and sweet treat — only if I’m in the area.
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Elements at Sanctuary, Camelback Mountain (Paradise Valley)
“Beautiful Setting & Views, Great Food”
4 of 5 stars
Reviewed October 30, 2012
We came here for my daughter’s 27th birthday. The setting and views stole the show. The up-close mountain views and lighting were amazing.
The food was very good…not spectacular. Everyone really enjoyed what they ordered — we had a real assortment. My short ribs served on a bed of truffled mac & cheese was delicious but not fall-apart tender. I shared the fois gras appetizer which was sweet, salty, rich and sat in a tender buttery crust. Please don’t pass it up, it was worth every penny! Our shared desserts were very good as well, but again, nothing spectacular. Our waiter was attentive but not as professional as I’d expect at a restaurant of this caliber.
So when everything was said and done — of the 5 adults in the party, a few ordered drinks and appetizers along with our entrees and we shared 3 desserts so the bill was really up there — Including tax and tip it was around $450. Pretty steep but I felt that when you consider the setting and views, the value was still there. I would definitely go again for a special event and can’t wait to try out their Happy Hour for a real value!
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Tammie COE Cakes MJ Bread (Phoenix)
“Top Notch Out of the Ordinary Desserts”
5 of 5 stars
Reviewed October 20, 2012
I’ve been ordering specialty cakes and treats from Tammie Coe since I moved here 9 years ago. If you’re looking for a customized dessert with an artistic flare for your special event, this is the place to go.
Ever since we ordered a Louis Vitton handbag cake for my daughter’s wedding shower we were hooked! The best part is that her creations not only look awesome, but taste amazing. Fresh moist cakes, delicious fillings and fondant that is never overly-sweet like most.
We also like her cupcakes and out of the ordinary cookies. The rosemary polenta sables are my favorite 
Visited October 2012
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This establishment has closed 
Modern Steak (Scottsdale)
“I go for the Burgers!”
4 of 5 stars
Reviewed October 20, 2012
The only reason I feel I can’t give Modern Steak 5 stars is because every time I go I order the Kobe burger — yes its that good. Topped with cheddar, smoked bacon and a thousand island sauce it always hits my burger craving spot. Oh…and always remember to upgrade the regular fries to the parmesan truffle fries — you won’t be sorry.
My favorite time to go is when taking a break from shopping at Fashion Square Mall. Wash your burger down with a Retail Therapy cocktail and you’re set!
Visited October 2012
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Zinc Bistro – Kierland (Scottsdale)
“Lovely French Restaurant”
4 of 5 stars
Reviewed October 20, 2012
I’ve dined at Zinc Bistro many times — sometimes while shopping at Kierland and sometimes with Zinc as a planned destination. I can honestly say I’ve never been disappointed or had a less then wonderful experience.
The wait staff is always attentive and above average and the food is top notch. My favorites are the flat iron steak salad, basil grilled chicken sandwich and smoked tuna salad on olive toasts (an amazing new addition) from the lunch menu. For dinner I usually enjoy the cheese and charcuterie platter with a glass of wine or any of their delicious salads. Always make sure to include an order of their amazing house frites with marjoram, paprika and fleur de sel, and if you have room for dessert their chocolate souffle is a ‘to die for’ must!
Visited October 2012
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Arcadia Farms Restaurant (Scottsdale)
“Worth every Penny”
5 of 5 stars
Reviewed October 20, 2012
I’ve been waiting for a long time to try this place and when I found myself having to treat a friend of mine for sewing my drapes and I thought, why not treat myself as well! So we headed on down to Old Town for a leisurely breakfast. It doesn’t look like much from the outside but when you walk through those doors you’re in for a treat — this place is truly a hidden gem. There are nooks and private rooms galore, both indoor and out. We decided to eat outdoors in the back of the restaurant.
Let me start with the coffee which was deep and delicious and served with cream — always a good first sign. We usually like to order a sweet dish and a savory one to share and satisfy our sweet and salty urges. We decided on the Fresh Berry Crepes and the Breakfast Quesadilla. Both were nice sized portions and simply delicious. The quesadilla was filled with eggs, sausage, cheese and crisp roasted veggies. It came with a side of guacamole and salsa that rounded it out nicely. The berry crepes were even better — light crepes filled with sweet mascarpone cheese in a pool of fresh blueberry/strawberry sauce and topped very lightly with a sweet whipped cream. What could have easily been an overly sweet dish was prepared perfectly with just a touch of sweetness. These 2 dishes together made for a great balanced breakfast 
OK, the $30 tab was a little pricey for breakfast for 2 but SO well worth it. When you eat amazing food in an awesome setting you don’t mind, or at least I don’t. I can’t wait to go back for lunch.
Visited October 2012
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Kona Grill (Phx)
“Surprisingly good”
4 of 5 stars
Reviewed October 2, 2012
I always have low expectations when eating out in a corporate chain, but was pleasantly surprised this time. We met our visiting family there since they were staying in the area. Everyone really enjoyed their meals — especially those of us who ordered fish. Fresh, delicate and prepared very well.
I will definitely return and this time save room for dessert as the dessert menu looked awesome.
Visited November 2011
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Upper Crust Pizza & Wine Bar (Phx)
“Excellent Pizza in Phoenix”
4 of 5 stars
Reviewed October 2, 2012
I had to meet my daughters at the Cave Creek and 101 Costco around dinner time so before I left I dutifully searched TA for reviews on restaurants in the area. What a find when it came back with Upper Crust!
First I love the idea of 2 separated rooms — one for the bar crowd and another quieter room for families. We chose the quiet family room which was appreciated
We ordered a med pizza which was huge and a small antipasto which was also huge! Not only do they serve large portions but the food was actually great — this is my kinda place. We ordered a regular pie — which had a thin crust and surprise — fresh mozzarella.
I had to hold back a star since that was all we ordered. I look forward to going back, maybe to sit in the bar room for happy hour. If you’re looking for great pizza, go here.
Visited September 2012
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Hungry Howie’s Pizza (Phx)
“Low Quality Pizza”
2 of 5 stars
Reviewed September 15, 2012
Very low quality but the price is also really low. Even worse than Domino’s. Eat here when you’re on a strict budget only.
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Tutti Santi Ristorante (Glendale)
“Expensive but worth it”
5 of 5 stars
Reviewed September 15, 2012
Great wood-fired pizza, appetizers and entrees. Love going here for a girls night out for apps and wine or for birthdays. Delicious thin crust pizza. Not cheap, but a good value. Save for a special occasion.
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Hot Bagels & Deli (Phx)
Great NY Style Bagels”
4 of 5 stars
Reviewed September 15, 2012
Delicious chewy NY style bagels. One of my favorite places for breakfast.
Great specials, can’t beat the value.
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Betty’s Nosh (Glendale)
“Always count on a decent meal here.”
3 of 5 stars
Reviewed September 15, 2012
The food is average and the service is above average, but not worth the high price. Go here when you’re in the mood for mushrooms as that is their specialty. My fave is the one stuffed with angry shrimp.
Don’t skip dessert — I’ve never had a bad one here 
Visited September 2012
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Oggi’s Pizza and Brewing Co. (Glendale)
“Low Quality Food”
2 of 5 stars
Reviewed September 15, 2012
I really wanted to like this place for good ‘go-to’ bar food in my neighborhood. No such luck. Soggy flatbread, buffalo chicken sliders which featured a rubbery chicken patty and cold fries. Save your money and go to McDonald’s for similar food…scratch that — McDonald’s always has hot fries. It earned 2 stars because the service was very good.
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La Grande Orange Grocery (Phx)
“Average food”
3 of 5 stars
Reviewed September 4, 2012
I was a little disappointed as I heard so much about this place. I went for breakfast on a Saturday. It was crowded, noisy, and you had to order and then wander around for an open seat to pounce on. Our breakfast fare (muffin, yogurt with granola, egg sandwich) was just average.
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Seasons 52 (Phx)
“Great place for business luncheon”
4 of 5 stars
Reviewed September 4, 2012
I attend a monthly business luncheon here. The private room is well appointed and the food is always good as is the service. There is always a salad, a chicken dish and a flat bread — all very good. They also have single serve desserts in tiny glass dishes. Just enough for the sweet tooth.
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This establishment has closed 
Del Frisco’s Grille (Phx)
“A Great Time at DelFrisco’s”
4 of 5 stars
Reviewed September 4, 2012
This was my second time here — the first being a private party, after which I vowed to return. The private room was beautiful with walls lined in their wine stock and was well attended to by the servers. I’m assuming the Host made arrangements for the food ahead of time which was continually being re-stocked at a buffet table. The food was all very good and everyone raved about the tuna tacos which I didn’t have since I’m not a big raw fish fan. Everything else I had was perfect.
My second time here was for a girls night out where we celebrated 2 birthdays. When I made the reservation I was asked if it was a special occasion and I told them of the birthdays. First off, we’re not an easy group to serve, lol. We were seated by the bar which we found to be too noisy and we were given another table. We like to order plates for sharing and our waitress was more than accommodating — even cutting sandwich platters into 4. The cheese steak eggrolls are simply delicious as was the mushroom flatbread and burrata & heirloom tomato salad, We ordered a half carafe of wine. The service throughout the night was impeccable and we never felt rushed, as we like to linger.
A nice surprise followed our meal when they came out with 2 large martini glasses filled with rum cake balls and a candle for the 2 birthdays. I look forward to coming back to Del Frisco’s.
The downside was the noise factor. If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic night out don’t come here. If you’re looking for a great night out sharing food with friends with attentive service, do come!
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The Herb Box (Scottsdale)
“Wine and appetizers with the Girls”
4 of 5 stars
Reviewed August 20, 2012
Loved all of the small plate offerings. We ordered the Market cheese board a flatbread and a few small plates with our wine. A nice friendly environment for a girls night out with awesome food.
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Local Bistro & Bar (Scottsdale)
“Order the Drunken Bread”
3 of 5 stars
Reviewed August 20, 2012
Went here for dinner on a double date. I read reviews about the drunken bread so of course that’s how we started things out with a glass of wine — great choice! Crusty bread soaked in wine, topped with gruyere and then sent to the broiler. 1 order was plenty for 2 as an appetizer.
I split the chicken parmigiana, which was disappointing. It was pounded thin – milanase style, don’t know why – topped with cheese and a terrible, sour tasting red sauce. I always feel that if a restaurant is going to serve something Italian they need a good sauce, or all else fails — which it did.
Service was overly attentive as they removed dishes before some were even finished…that bugs me. The large open room was loud so don’t go here for a quiet evening.
Everyone else seemed to really enjoy what they ordered, but personally I don’t think I’ll go back. Too many other good restaurants in the area. I will however try to duplicate the drunken bread in my own kitchen!
Visited August 2012
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Cafe ZuZu (Scottsdale)
“Great Bloody Mary Bar Brunch”
4 of 5 stars
Reviewed August 13, 2012
I finally made it here for Sunday Brunch after hearing that they had a Bloody Mary Bar and I am a Bloody Mary hound!
At $5 each this was a great value. They bring you a tall glass with vodka and ice. A trip to the well-stocked Bar offers 2 kinds of bloody mary mixes, plain tomato juice, clamato juice or V8 as your base. Add-ons include cocktail onions, celery stalks, cuke speaks, stuffed green olives, spicy salami, lemons, limes, several hot sauces and a host of spices. Hope I’m not forgetting anything… Mine was divine and since I’m not a big drinker, the amount of vodka was enough to make 2 drinks!
I opted for more of a lunch meal (the chicken breast and brie) which was delicious and went perfect with the bloody mary. Everyone else had breakfast dishes and I didn’t hear a complaint from anyone!
I’ve always enjoyed Cafe Zuzu for dinner and now will definitely return again for their brunch. The atmosphere, food and drinks can’t be beat!
Visited August 2012
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5th and Wine (Scottsdale)
Great place to get together with friends”
5 of 5 stars
Reviewed July 20, 2012
This was my first time here and I hope to come back again and again.
The setting was perfect for getting together with friends — we sat at a large couch with chairs and table in the middle so no one felt left out at the end of a table.
The food was nothing short of amazing. We all pretty much ordered an array of appetizers with the exception of a prime rib dinner. Everyone raved about their dish. I had 2 of the bruschetta choices — brie, fig and apple & mascarpone, fig and prosciutto. I have never had such melt in your mouth prosciutto and believe me, I’ve had my share of the stringy variety. Next I ordered the buratta mozzarella and tomato which came with a basil pesto and more bread than I could handle. The cheese was perfectly runny and delicious.
Wine list is extensive and prices are reasonable enough to buy a bottle or 2. The service was attentive and pleasant.
I can’t wait to go back to 5th and Wine and will recommend it to everyone.
Visited July 2012
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El Chorro (Paradise Valley)
“Great Food – Top Notch Service”
5 of 5 stars
Reviewed June 13, 2012
We were literally on the road after Sunday services looking for a nice Sunday Brunch. After searching Sunday Brunch in Phoenix on our phone, El Chorro came up as an option. I remembered seeing it on my last stay at the Monte Lucia and it looked beautiful and private, so off we went.
Thank goodness a complimentary basket of cinnamon buns came with entrees as we were starved — my husband claimed they were the best cinnamon buns in Phoenix. I agreed – sweet, gooey, salty and not at all doughy.
I ordered their Bloody Mary, eggs/sausage/potatoes. The drink was delicious, although a tad on the spicy side for me, but that was quickly taken care of when my server, Alec, brought me a small tomato juice. May I say that these potatoes were the best breakfast potatoes I’ve ever had. They were dark, crispy and perfectly seasoned — just how I like em!
My husband ordered the BLT&A – the classic with the addition of avocado. He requested a fried egg on top which he said made the perfect sandwich.
So OK, a grade of A on the food, but what really made this a great experience was the setting and the service. The grounds were gorgeous and the view of Camelback Mountain breathtaking! I was sorry we went on such a hot day and couldn’t enjoy sitting outside to soak it all in, but our high top table in the airy Bar was also very nice. Our server Alec was the icing on the cake here. The word ‘attentive’ just doesn’t come close to how we were treated. Besides showing up at the right times to ask, refill, serve, etc. he also gave us a history of the place and encouraged us to take our time when we finished and walk the grounds. I’m glad we did. We can’t wait to go back for their Happy Hour and perhaps another Sunday Brunch.
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