2011 Downtown Dining Guide 2011 Downtown Dining Guide : Page 1
2 3 original in Chicago. Nearby, look for a new location of the popular Asian spot Thai Basil , and a casual Mediterranean restaurant, Bowl of Greens , situated in the former Sbarro’s in the ASU Cronkite School of Journalism building. The nightlife circuit is revving up, with District and Hanny’s (both known for eclectic eats and drinks) now joined by restaurateur Sam Fox ’s vibrant newcomer, The Arrogant Butcher . With creative cocktails, eclectic American fare, and a primo CityScape perch just down the street from US Airways Center, this instant hit is the first Fox Restaurant Concepts endeavor in the city core, and it’s quickly generating interest from other culinary entrepreneurs. Chef Christopher Gross , another James Beard Award winner, is one of them. Likewise, restaurant owner Kyle Shivers plans to expand his morning hangout, The Breakfast Club , to CityScape this fall, while Jimmy Carlin — creator of The Cajun House , Blue Wasabi , The Velvet Room , and more — has recruited chef Matt McLinn ( The Grind , Methode Bistro ) as corporate chef for two high-profile projects in the works. The Strand Urban Italian , which is already under “People need to take chances, especially restaurateurs. Downtown deserves it.” Jimmy Carlin construction and set to open in September, will “take fast-casual Italian to the next level,” says Carlin, who promises unique pizzas, a bruschetta bar, and homemade zeppoles (Italian doughnuts). Coming in November, he’ll unveil an “over-the-top” sushi, seafood and steak spot, Silk Asian Chop House & Sushi Lounge . Carlin, a native New Yorker, calls himself a “big-city guy” and says he’s always wanted to do something in Downtown Phoenix. He’s an avid concertgoer and Diamondbacks fan, but used to go to dinner elsewhere before heading to events Downtown. “Now, you can actually plan a night down here,” he explains. For Carlin, CityScape was really the catalyst for his $2 million investment. “People need to take chances, especially restaurateurs,” he says. “Downtown deserves it.” Food-obsessed writer Michele Laudig covers Phoenix dining and cocktail culture for a variety of publications and blogs daily at michelelaudig.com. You can find her on Facebook at PhoenixFoodBlog and on Twitter at @michelelaudig. “I’m liking the vibe Downtown,” confesses Gross, who’s long been a marquee name at Biltmore Fashion Park, but is nevertheless exploring his options. Popular pub The Tilted Kilt , grocery/wine bar Oakville Grocery , and cozy American tapas spot Copper Blues , are all open at CityScape. Copper Blues, located inside the Stand Up Live comedy club, features a menu by prolific chef Aaron May , who owns nearby taco joint, Vitamin T , and several other Valley concepts. Diverse dining experiences are a trademark of Downtown’s dining scene. PHOTO BY JAMIE PEACHEY
Publication List
Using a screen reader? Click Here