Must Try Arizona Beers, Restaurants, Wines, & More

Local Spirit: John Shaw Whisky from Canyon Diablo Distillery

The story of the outlaw John Shaw is enough to make you want to buy this bottle. The spirit in the bottle makes you want to buy it again and again. Produced by Flagstaffs Canyon Diablo Distillery, this single malt mesquite smoked whisky is a must for any liquor cabinet collection. Light on smoke flavor, but filled with nuance, this is a bottle we bust out for ourselves, family, and friends.

 

Local Home Cooking Must Have: Saucy Luke’s Mullet Sauce

Buckeye’s Saucy Luke has a range of products including rubs sure to impress guests at your next backyard get-together. However, it’s his Mullet Sauce that shines brightest. A killer combo of sweet and spicy, this handcrafted BBQ sauce will soon become your favorite. Used as an ingredient or on its own as a dipping sauce, this “business in the front, party in the back” sauce should be a pantry staple.

 

The Bar at The Parlor Pizzeria in Phoenix AZ
The Bar at The Parlor Pizzeria in Phoenix, AZ

Local Happy Hour: The Parlor Pizzeria

Even without their incredible happy hour, The Parlor Pizzeria in Phoenix is one of our go-to local spots. The happy hour takes it to the next level. Running 2pm-6pm daily, choose from a handful of starters, $9 small pizzas, $8 cocktails, and $2 off beers. The highlight is the I-10 Old-Fashioned made with local Del Bac Whiskey, a mesquite smoked american single malt (just like our friend John Shaw).

 

Local Charity: Smokin’ Hope

The cookout that everyone is invited to, Smokin’ Hope, is feeding the hungry in Arizona. Started in 2018 by Jonathan Jones, this non-profit organization makes incredible bbq to share with those in need. In that time, they have served nearly 3000 meals and counting. Visit www.smokinhope.org to see how you can get involved. 

 

Restaurant Pick: Proper Meats + Provisions

Opened in 2014 by Flagstaff restaurateurs, Paul and Linda Moir, Proper Meats + Provisions has become a local staple. Highlighted by their house-made pastrami, this local meatery focuses on quality and sustainability. Get some great products to make at home or grab something from their incredible kitchen. We recommend sitting down in their historic location for a meal paired with one of their several local beers or wines. 

 

Local Beer: 928 Local Farmhouse Ale from Wanderlust Brewing

Utilizing a local wild yeast harvested from pressed cider, 928 Local truly provides a Flagstaff terroir. The addition of several pounds of local honey provides a sweetness and drinkability to this 8% local favorite. Don’t forget to get a good whiff of the amazing, flowery aromas before taking your first sip.   

Local Bite: California Burrito at Chula Seafood

Yes, a seafood-based burrito in the desert. Choose between grilled fish or shrimp (get the swordfish if it’s available), finished off with french fries, guacamole, spiced Oaxaca cheese, and Baja sauce. This gem is a must-try from local legends Chula Seafood and perfectly combines quality ingredients with southwest flavor.

*not available at the south Scottsdale location 

 

Local Wine: Rock Slide Wine from Javelina Leap Winery

Rock Slide is a Bordeaux blend of three grape varieties using 50% merlot, 40% cabernet, and 10% petite sirah. They make this wine right across the street from Oak Creek in Cornville, AZ, which happens to be the perfect spot to enjoy a glass. Approachable yet complex, grab a bottle of this Verde Valley wine to impress at your next social gathering.