All the news that’s fit to nosh.
So You Think You Can Eat?: You might want to come with an empty stomach to Macayo’s Mexican Food Chimi Challenge. From now until September 16, you can put your chimichanga love to the test for $30 with Macayo’s five-pound chimi, filled with your choice of chicken or beef, refried beans and rice. Those brave enough to take on the challenge have just 20 minutes to power through the monstrous chimichanga. If you’re within the top 10 most successful contestants, you’ll compete in the Chimi Challenge Championship at Macayo’s Scottsdale location on September 26. The big winner will take home $2,000, and all championship contestants will receive Macayo’s swag and home products.
Desert Tequila Goes Country: Scottsdale-based Tequila Corrido is heading to Tennessee this month, launching its barrel-aged Blanco, Reposado and Añejo spirits in The Volunteer State. Sourced straight from Mexico, the Arizona company plans to expand its operations to Texas and New Mexico next.
Marvelous Mac: If you’ve been searching for the best macaroni and cheese in the state, look no further than Rusconi’s American Kitchen in Phoenix. Warm and comforting, chef Michael Rusconi’s white truffle scented macaroni and cheese was named the best mac in Arizona by LoveFOOD.com. With more than six million followers on Instagram, LoveFOOD’s endorsement is no joke.
Poké All Day: Celebrate International Poké Day on September 28 at Kobito Poké! Dine-in or take out at any of Kobito’s four Valley locations between September 26 and 28 to be entered to win free poké for a year. The first 10 customers in line at all locations will also be awarded a prize, and Kobito Poké’s Camelback Waterfront location is offering sake, beer and wine tasting from noon to 6 p.m. in celebration of the delicious dish.
Eligible Menu: Dapper & Stout’s Uptown location has revamped its menu in collaboration with celebrity chef Aaron May. Alongside its signature cocktails and coffee, the “Small Bites and Paninis by AM” menu features Southwestern Baby Gem Lettuce Wraps, Cinnamon Butter French Toast Panini, and Chicken Meatball and Mozz Panini.
New Restaurants on the Block:
- The Gastromé Market: The LGBTQ+ owned Gastromé Market opened its doors on September 3 in Gainey Ranch. The 5,000-square-foot space features a market supplied by local vendors, a wine alcove, a bakery, a deli counter, a cheese island, and gift basket stations for anything shoppers find within. The Market also features indoor and outdoor patio seating and an onsite classroom for the various lessons offered by vendors and culinary experts.
- Frutilandia: The beloved Phoenix-based franchise opened three new locations in Glendale, Chandler and Mesa this summer. Founded in 2006 by the Garfio family, the menu features Latin- and Mexican-inspired treats including frozen drinks, shaved ice and agua frescas.
$aving$:
Ling’s Wok Shop: From September 12 through 18, Ling’s Wok Shop in North Scottsdale will celebrate its one-year anniversary with delicious deals. Ling’s will offer free sides and discount drinks throughout the week including Chicken Lettuce Wraps, Ginger Lime Margaritas and Tom Kha Gai soup.
Streets of New York: What’s a better way to celebrate a touchdown than with a slice of cheesy pizza? Streets of New York Pizza will offer $5 off any 16-inch pizza for dine-in, takeout and delivery on Cardinal game days until the end of the season.
