With Valentine’s Day approaching quickly, I am starting to think- what are my plans and how do I want to celebrate? With the influx of new restaurants in Phoenix recently, there are almost too many options to choose from. Whether you are the type that likes the upscale nightlife experience in Scottsdale or the laid back cultural offerings of Tempe or Downtown Phoenix, there is a little something for everyone in this amazing city. Below you will find a list of some of my favorite hot spots perfect for a night out with friends, family or that special someone.
I couldn’t be more pleased to announce the recent opening of Upward Project’s Postino Winecafe to my neighborhood. Yes, it’s true you no longer have to travel to Gilbert or Central Phoenix to indulge in the most lavish bruschetta in town. The new location modern, rustic and contemporary like the others is located on College and University in the up-and-coming Annex district. On the patio you can sit in a garden-like setting with strung up lights and heaters galore (much needed for an AZ winter night.) The ambiance inside is just as worthy with an array of Edison lightbulbs, artistic chandeliers and the best alternative music on the block. The food can be best described as American with an Italian twist providing cheese boards, marinated olives and a variety of fresh sandwiches on focaccia or ciabatta bread. On any regular night, you can expect to wait 20-30 minutes to be seated due to its sustainable popularity. I would bring a pop-up chair for Valentine’s Day because you will most likely be there a while; it’s definitely worth the wait.
This Downtown Phoenix destination holds a special place in my heart. Unfortunately, I don’t get to go here as often as I would like due to the travel time involved but Valentine’s Day is the perfect reason to pay a visit. Under the same ownership as AZ/88 in Scottsdale, Hanny’s has similar vibes with a regular DJ spinning beats and an artistic flair. The restaurant preserves its history as a department store from the 50’s, using the vacant elevator shaft and dressing rooms disguised as bathrooms for decorative appeal. The food is semi-gourmet all American for an affordable price. My go-to is the margeherita pizza with a classic copper mug Moscow Mule. If you aren’t a lime and ginger beer fan, Hanny’s might just change you. Oh, and make sure you go downstairs to see an eerie doll setup with an arrangement of pennies behind a chain link fence. No, we can’t explain it but that’s just makes it oh, so Hanny’s.
I recently discovered this Old Town gem and I am very happy that I did. This lush bar and restaurant exudes 20’s era glamour and sophistication. With a dark speakeasy vibe The Beverly takes you straight back to the prohibition days. Take your pick of an overstuffed leather booth surrounding the perimeter of the restaurant or a seat up at the bar where you can order handcrafted original cocktails. The walls are made of vintage red brick and you can watch black and white films play continuously as you sip on a “Vanity Fair.” It’s likely that you will find me here on Valentine’s Day because I can’t get enough of this blast from the past.
A combination of flavorful Mexican food mixed with a colorful mod ambiance, Diego Pops is a great location for lunch or dinner in Old Town Scottsdale. Ryan Jocque, the creative mind behind The Original ChopShop Co. and The Montauk own this new hotspot on the block. Here you can find bright pink pineapple walls, a customizable ice cream bar and a patio with a fireplace. The menu lists everything from an assortment of fresh salads, tacos, enchiladas and rice bowls much like ChopShop’s offerings. I always resort to the Braised Green Chili Chicken Bowl with coconut rice and drizzled with their pink garlic sauce. Pop art or delicious food meal? I would say a little bit of both.
Dining out should be an engaging culturally stimulating experience. This Valentine’s Day, break from the usual routine and break into a new culinary dimension. I hope to see you there.
