publisher’s picks | must try arizona beer, wine, & more

Favorite Arizona Beer | A Taste of AZ Pilsner

We’re a bit biased, but our new collaboration beer with Simple Machine Brewing in North Phoenix is pretty killer! We teamed up with one of our favorite Arizona breweries to produce this super crisp and refreshing lager, just in time for the warming weather! We wanted to make a beer that pairs perfectly with food, and this brew goes great with everything from tacos to pizza! For more information on where to find it, subscribe to our newsletter or visit our website.

Must Try Mexican Restaurant in Scottsdale | Caliente Mexican Grill

We’re not ashamed to admit that our crew visits this family run Mexican joint a few times a week. After opening during the pandemic, the local crowd has definitely taken a liking to Caliente, and we can see why. Not only do they have amazing nachos, poblano enchiladas, and guacamole, they also have $4.50 draft beers on happy hour! It’s a must-visit for sure!

mangus by arizona stronghold

Arizona Wine Bottle Under $25 | Mangus from Arizona Stronghold

Looking for an affordable, but quality Arizona wine? Mangus from Arizona Stronghold is one of our go-to picks for local wine. This $20 bottle is widely available, but is best enjoyed at the Arizona Stronghold tasting rooms in Old Town Scottsdale or Cottonwood. It sports a flavor profile described as “cherries, currant, baking spices, and cedar on the nose. Red currants, cherries, chocolate, and plums on the palate.” We love this vino with steak, cheese, or simply out on the patio.

tequila corrido reposado

A Fine Summer Spirit | Tequila Corrido Reposado

We’ve been on a bit of a tequila kick lately. As we head into summer, there’s something to a fine agave spirit that gets us excited. Tequila Corrido Reposado is one spirit (with some local backing) that we keep stocking our bar with. The soft touch of barrel character in the reposado makes for a wonderful straight sipper, or with a large ice cube. If you’re looking for a splurge, bump up to the añejo offering for more of a barrel punch.

Sweet Indulgence | Salted Dulce de Leche Shake at The Stand

The Stand Arcadia Burger Shoppe is one of our go-to spots for quick yet amazing burgers and fries. Their Stand sauce is a treasure in and of itself. However, nothing brings relief to a sweltering Arizona summer day quite like their milkshakes. Our favorite, the Salted Dulce De Leche, is on another planet. This delicious treat brings the perfect blend of ice cream and the caramel-like sauce hits all the right spots. Bonus: extra wide straws give each sip a little extra oomph.

bone-in filet with crispy shrimp & the french old fashioned

A Dish to Die For | Bone-in Filet w/ Crispy Shrimp & the French Old Fashioned

There are few food items more quintessentially decadent than a fine steak. So a bone-in filet served with shrimp may seem like overkill. Spoiler, it’s not! Find this special meal at Dominick’s Steakhouse, a must-visit spot for your next big date or special occasion. The bone-in filet is just as tender as the boneless option, but comes with an extra bit of bold flavor. The crispy shrimp come as one of the several add-ons available, and bring an irresistible crunch to the plate. Complete your royal treatment with an order of The French Old Fashioned. This refreshed take on a classic cocktail features fine cognac, demerara, bitters, and a fresh orange peel.

 

written by: luke irvin & eric walters
photographed by: luke irvin