Thursday, July 31, 2014

Westin Kierland Scotch Library

Westin Kierland Resort & Spa recently introduced a different type of library to Scottsdale, a scotch library. With over 160 different types of the golden liquid, there is something there for everybody. The Westin’s scotch ambassadors will take your palate on a journey through Scotland, the birthplace of Scotch. Come join in from 5-9 nightly.



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Wednesday, July 30, 2014

SMoCA: Exhibit Spotlight

SMoCA_entrance

The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, or SMoCA, has brought some of the top modern art exhibits from around the world to Scottsdale. This fall, SMoCA brings you the world of Covert Operations. The exhibit, Covert Operations: Investigating the Known Unknowns, brings to life the exciting world of a spy. Coupled with a Spy Studio, which takes a look into the future at some possible spy gadgets, SMoCA promises to be cooler than ever this fall.


Covert Operations: Investigating the Known Unknowns


On display from September 28, 2014-January 11, 2015, Cover Operations will take the visitor on a rich, conceptual tour of the spy themes like secrecy and disclosure, surveillance, and the visible versus the hidden. Thirteen international artists have used traditional methods and resources to reveal some of the governments past, unreported information. Come discover the extremely complicated relationship between freedom and security this fall!

Spy Studio


Students from three high schools around the state of Arizona were given the task to see into the future of spy gear. Pen cameras, umbrella guns and wire taps are all from the past, so what does the future hold? Find out on September 27 from 7-9 pm! For more information on the SMoCA and the exhibits, click here.



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Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Scottsdale: The Foodie City

In Scottsdale, eating is so much more than just basic means of survival. This culinary oasis was just named the No. 2 “Foodie City, 2014” by Livability.com, and we couldn’t agree more. Rankings were determined by exploring U.S. cities that had most established farmer’s markets (check), restaurants that use locally grown ingredients (check), and cities with the most critically acclaimed chefs, restaurants, and winners of James Beard Foundation Awards (check, check, and check!). Scottsdale’s restaurant scene is finally getting the recognition it deserves, but the city has been home to incredible restaurants for ages with more than 600 options to choose from. There’s a place for every taste bud in Scottsdale – old favorites and new spots alike. Now, let’s eat.


Old Favorites


Lons_Patio wide

LON’s is the culinary centerpiece of Scottsdale’s historic The Hermosa Inn. This celebrated Four Diamond restaurant open in 1994 is famous for its “artful American” cuisine, utilizing authentic Arizona flavors with cutting-edge trends. For a light bite, the Himalayan Salt Seared Ahi Tuna is a must. Or try the Roasted Duck Breast with duck confit, semolina gnocchi, roasted baby vegetables, and orange duck jus for a truly mouthwatering meal. LON’s boasts one of the finest wine programs in Arizona, recognized by the Wine Spectator’s coveted Award of Excellence continuously since 1996.


T Cooks interior

Characterized by the Mediterranean principles of fresh, seasonal, local, and ingredient-driven cuisine, T. Cook’s at Royal Palms Resort and Spa has received both local and national acclaim for two decades. Executive Chef Paul McCabe’s menu incorporates cooking techniques that reflect the evolving culinary scene in Scottsdale. Table 31, one of the most cherished tables at T. Cook’s, debuted a new and exclusive dining experience called #PM31, an improvisational multiple-course meal designed for a limited number of diners every Wednesday.


AZ88_foursome

Open since 1988, AZ88 is renowned for its great cocktails, quirky modern art, delicious food, and jaw-dropping washrooms. This contemporary restaurant is the ultimate “see-and-be-seen” spot, with a patio overlooking the outdoor Scottsdale Civic Center Mall in the heart of downtown. AZ88 keeps it simple and scrumptious with their extensive burger list and classic martinis. Try the sweet and sour Key Lime martini or the Salty Dog cocktail made with fresh grapefruit juice, Finlandia grapefruit vodka, and pink Himalayan sea salt.


ElChorro_CourtyardDusk


El Chorro is a Scottsdale culinary landmark featuring fresh, innovative cuisine using organic and locally-grown ingredients – including herbs and produce from the restaurant’s garden located just outside the kitchen. Since 1937, El Chorro has invited diners to take in the spectacular views nestled between Camelback and Mummy Mountains; an authentic Arizona setting. Don’t miss out on the Pan Roasted Giant Shrimp with banana chipotle polenta, crispy sweet potatoes, and citrus butter. Save room for the famous El Chorro Sticky Buns – they will not disappoint.


cowboy ciao Interior

Cowboy Ciao was just a neighborhood joint when it first opened in 1997, but over the years it has evolved into one of downtown Scottsdale’s most notable eateries. Its award-winning cuisine highlights American food with global influences from Italy, Mexico, and the American Southwest. Cowboy Ciao’s extensive wine list of more than 2,000 selections has received the prestigious Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for five consecutive years.


New Spots


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Sumo Maya Mexican Asian Kitchen , which opened in June 2014, offers the unexpected blend of tapas-style small plates and dim sum. The menu takes restaurant goers on a first-class trip from Latin America to Asia, with fusion recipes like the tasty Korean Beef Taco, Pad Thai Al Pastor, and Arroz Con Pato, a spicy poblano fried rice. After just a few bites, you’ll be hooked on this delicious cultural journey.


the-henrycvb-6

Another new kid on the culinary block is Fox Restaurant Concept’s latest installment, The Henry , which made its debut in December 2013. Think of The Henry as an extension of your own home with its open dining space that bursts with energy and warmth. It is the perfect spot to grab a quick coffee, a late lunch with friends, dinner with the family, or a cocktail. Simple yet hearty is the mantra at The Henry as the menu features everything from chopped salads and delicious steaks to homemade sodas.


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The classic tiki bars of the 1950s and 60s are making a comeback in the restaurant scene, and we welcomed Hula’s Modern Tiki in downtown Scottsdale in February 2014. Get a taste of Polynesian paradise with the Bali Hai BBQ Ribs with a mango barbecue sauce, sweet potato fries and slaw paired with their signature Hula’s Mai Tai. This fusion of Polynesian and American flavors brings the South Pacific to the Southwest.


second-story-liquor-bar-chan

Driven by passion and storytelling, The Second Story Liquor Bar features the art of savory, modern American cuisine and perfectly crafted cocktails. The vintage dining lounge opened in March 2014 and offers a 2nd story patio overlooking downtown. Executive Chef Josh Bracher puts on the ultimate show with the Sweet Corn Agnolotti, served with crab leg meat, truffle butter, lobster mushroom, and sorrel greens, and resident mixologist John Christie makes magic with his avant-garde cocktails. Try the Divine Intervention, made with 10 Cane Agricole Rum, strawberry balsamic gastrique, lemon juice and sparkling water.


hulas

The dynamic duo Dave Andrea and Payton Curry, who previously captured our hearts and our stomachs with Brat Haüs, unveiled their latest endeavor in January 2014. Taco Haüs puts a healthy spin on tacos, empanadas and ceviche. Diners won’t feel guilty diving into these delicious Latin dishes as Curry uses the only the freshest ingredients plucked straight from McClendon’s Select local organic farm. You won’t want to miss out on the side of StrEAT Corn, served with Sriracha aioli, lime, cilantro, and heirloom popcorn. Not to mention their wide array of mouthwatering tacos, all served on “haüs-made” tortillas paired with the “delicioso” Horchata.






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Free for Fall

Carefree_farmers market kids2 You don’t have to spend a lot of money to make the most of your Scottsdale fall getaway! Here are 10 fabulous freebies ripe for the picking this season.





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Monday, July 28, 2014

Accommodations You’ll Love

As any traveler knows, not all hotel rooms are created equal. From rooms with a view to rooms with, well, everything, these spacious flats, sweet suites and retro digs are sure to please.



JAM

Presidential Loft Suite at Hotel Valley Ho


Located on the fifth and sixth floors of the Hotel Valley Ho’s seven-story tower, the Presidential Loft Suite boasts 1,500 square feet of bright indoor space and 550 square feet of outdoor space, featuring stunning views of Camelback Mountain. The design of the suite is based on the idea of a modern desert loft with mid-century-modern influences. Neutral colors reflect the desert palette, with pops of color through accessories and locally made art. Signature furnishings include the Wing Chair and Footrest (Hans J. Wegner, 1960), B&B Italia Arne Sofa (Antonio Citterio), coffee table (Isamu Noguchi for Herman Miller), and Hope pendant lights above the Luceplan dining table.


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JAM

Signature Flat at Bespoke Inn


Scottsdale’s first and only luxury B&B, Bespoke Inn, has earned rave reviews since its opening in 2013. One visit to the Signature Flat and it’s easy to see why. The Flat’s contemporary design offers over-the-top luxury, spacious rooms and plenty of privacy. It includes a gourmet chef’s kitchen, luxuriously furnished great room, a king-size platform bed and a deep-soaking tub. And that’s just for starters. As with all the rooms at Bespoke Inn, the Flat’s daily rate includes access to the second-story infinity edge pool, a daily gourmet brunch and British Pashley touring bikes for exploring downtown.


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JAM

Presidential Suite at Canyon Suites


Equipped with a private outdoor Jacuzzi and fire pit, complimentary monogrammed bathrobes, and a full bar and kitchen, the Presidential Suite at The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician is ideal for couples looking for a luxurious escape from the everyday norm. And with the rose petal turndown service, the suite transforms into a romantic haven with dozens of crystal votive candles and a trail of colorful rose petals leading to the bedroom, where chocolate-covered strawberries and a bottle of Prosecco await. Guests can also benefit from a reserved poolside cabana and limousine transportation during their stay at the suite.


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JAM

Villa Retreat at The Boulders


If you’re looking for space, privacy and exclusivity, the 5,000-square-foot Villa Retreat at The Boulders, a Waldorf Astoria Resort may be exactly what you need. This “Estate-Away-From-Home” consists of two homes connected by a private infinity-edge pool, a grand terrace that hosts a Jacuzzi hot tub, and a natural rock lagoon pond with a cascading waterfall. Cuddle up with your love and enjoy marvelous views of the Sonoran Desert and the 12-million-year-old boulders for which the resort is named.


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JAM

Andalusian Presidential Suite at Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia


True to its name, the Andalusian Presidential Suite has served POTUS himself, President Barack Obama, as well as celebrity couple Jay-Z and Beyoncé. With two palatial bedrooms, expansive living areas, and a massage room, the 2,800-square-foot suite, is also the only suite on property with a private pool. You’ll also enjoy breathtaking views of Arizona’s unparalleled sunsets against neighboring Camelback Mountain.


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The Delightful Dozen: Scottsdale’s 12 Best-Kept Secrets

They’re the perfect addition to any itinerary – those off-the-beaten-path gems that take your vacation from great to extraordinary. In celebration of fall’s sunny skies and cooler days, we’ve opened our secret files and pulled out a dozen local favorites you won’t want to miss on your next trip to Scottsdale.
Sassi

Sassi


Nestled at the base of north Scottsdale’s Pinnacle Peak, Sassi is renowned for artisan cuisine inspired by the traditions of Southern Italy. The menu of fresh fish, meats, pasta and rustic bread is complemented by old-world architecture and stunning desert views.

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JAM

JAM


This eclectic boutique, located in the historic Charles Miller home, is chockfull of treasures that are handmade, homemade and repurposed by local and national artists. Goodies range from paintings and jewelry to home décor.

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Rusty Spur

Rusty Spur


Get your Western on at Scottsdale’s oldest cowboy saloon! Housed in the former Farmers Bank of Scottsdale building, where the old vault now holds liquor instead of money, the Spur features live music seven days and nights a week.

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FNB

Arizona Wine List at FnB


Wine made in Arizona? You bet your Cabernet! Our state is home to a premier roster of talented vintners. Sample the fruits of their labor with a selection from restaurant FnB’s exclusive Arizona wine list – it’s the perfect complement to Chef Charleen Badman’s sophisticated comfort food.

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Hotel Valley Ho

Magical History Tour at Hotel Valley Ho


Join the experts from Ultimate Art & Cultural Tours for an intimate look into the architecture and Hollywood past of Scottsdale’s Hotel Valley Ho, one of the best-preserved mid-century modern hotels in the country. The cost per person is $19.56 (the year the hotel opened).

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Proof

Proof


A casual ambiance and home-style comfort food sourced from the 50 states are the hallmarks of this new restaurant at the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale. Fried green tomatoes, beer can chicken and chicken and waffles with bacon brittle, bourbon syrup and maple butter are just a few of the tasty treats you’ll find at Proof.

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Super Chunck

Super Chunk Sweets & Treats


If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss this tasty downtown gem, which specializes in small-batch, handcrafted confections. Some of our favorites include the Mesquite Chocolate Chip Cookies, Honeycomb Ice Cream and Ancho Chocolate Caramels. Yummm!

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Scottish Golf

Scottish Golf at Kierland Golf Club


Give a nod to the game’s origins with this unique experience that includes kilt rental, Johnnie Walker beverage carts and a bagpiper who “calls in” golfers at the end of the day. After your round, stop by the Scotch Library at the Westin Kierland Resort and savor two-ounce pours of contemporary blends and rare 40-year-old single-malt whiskies (open 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. nightly).

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Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Aerial Hammock Yoga


Take your yoga practice to new heights with aerial yoga at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess’ Well & Being Spa. The class uses soft fabric hammocks suspended from the ceiling to assist with stretching and perfecting your postures – all while floating a few feet above the floor.

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Sphinx Date Ranch

Sphinx Date Ranch


As the name implies, juicy Arizona dates take center stage at this 60-year-old Scottsdale landmark. But you’ll also find an enticing variety of other locally sourced gourmet treats, including desert honey, prickly pear jam and syrup, nut butters and artisan crackers.

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Via at Royal Palms

Via Capello Dinners


Romance goes Mediterranean at the Royal Palms Resort where “lovers’ corners” like the Bell Tower and Garden of Love create the ideal setting for candlelit Via Capello dinners. Custom menus, fresh flowers and live music add to the ambiance.

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Spinners on the Green

Spinners on the Green


Located just steps from the Shelly Sharpe Memorial Disc Golf Course, Spinners on the Green can get you outfitted with everything you need for exciting game of disc golf. They also rent bikes if you’d like to take a tour of the lush parks along the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt.

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Thursday, July 17, 2014

Summer Night at Kierland Commons

Kierland Commons_lights

It’s mid-July. You’re on a staycation in Scottsdale and looking for something to do on a Saturday night. Kierland Commons fills that void with upscale shopping, outstanding dining and a summer concert series that runs from June through July. Still left wondering how you might spend a night at Kierland? Let us paint you a picture.


Start off the night browsing some of your favorite stores like Ann Taylor, J-Crew, Banana Republic, and Francesca’s. Maybe score some new headphones from Bose or a pair of the most comfortable golf shoes out there from Ecco. You’ll even find all-natural, deliciously scented bath and body treats at Lather.


After all that walking around, you’ll have worked up an appetite. Luckily for you, Kierland boasts a roster of fabulous restaurants. We recommend you sneak in to Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant & Bar for “Island Time” happy hour from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and grab a cold tropical drink and some appetizers. After that, take a few steps over to NoRTH for farm fresh entrees inspired by seasonal ingredients. (P.S There’s a Cold Stone right across from NoRTH…just saying). Other Kierland dining options include Morton’s Steakhouse, Mastro’s Ocean Club Fish House, Zinc Bistro.


By now, you’ll have heard the music filling the air. The summer concert series starts at 7 p.m. and go until 9 p.m. Find a table, groove to some summer tunes, and have a good time under the stars!


Now that you have an idea of the relaxing night you’ll have at Kierland, what are you waiting for? Come experience one of the hottest spots to spend a summer night in Scottsdale.






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August Calendar of Events

AUGUST calendar of events

Summer is winding down,but that doesn’t mean there’s a shortage of things to do in Scottsdale this August. Be sure to check out Wynonna & The Big Noise at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts on August 26! Print out the calendar so you’re never too far away from the hottest events in Scottsdale.






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