by Jason Keil | photography by Brian Mecinas
Stretching roughly from Highland to Missouri avenues and including everything “between the Sevens,” Uptown is home to beloved local favorites such as the Phoenix location of Changing Hands and the record store Stinkweeds. However, its epicenter is Uptown Plaza on Central Avenue and Camelback Road, which celebrates its 70th anniversary this year. Phoenix’s first shopping center has evolved into a high-end strip mall boasting a diverse collection of local shops and restaurants, including the newest location of The Henry.
3 PLACES TO EAT
The Toasted Owl Cafe
This beloved Flagstaff brunch spot is known for its signature Bloody Marys, bellinis and extensive vegan options. Arrive early on the weekend, as the line often stretches out the door.
300 W. Camelback Rd.
602-612-4930, thetoastedowl.com
Horse and Hyde
Southern cuisine meets Southwestern flavors at the second location of Aaron Lopo’s Nashville-esque restaurant. Come for happy hour from 2-6 p.m., then stick around for some live local music.
100 E. Camelback Rd.
480-550-5179, horseandhyde.com
Tesota
Known for the iconic Valley restaurants Otro Café and Gallo Blanco, chef Doug Robson took over the former Southern Rail space to give foodies satisfying fare with an international bent, ranging from rice paper dumplings to a chorizo pizzetta with goat cheese.
300 W. Camelback Rd.
602-989-8456, tesotaphx.com
3 THINGS TO DO
Sweatshop
Kick off your day with a rejuvenating yoga, barre or spin class at this family-owned fitness studio. Then treat yourself to a new workout ensemble from local brands like Uptown Hippie.
100 E. Camelback Rd.
602-603-1891, sweatshopcentral.com
Local Nomad
Perhaps the Phoenix equivalent of Schitt’s Creek’s Rose Apothecary, this curated boutique carries sustainable clothing from local designers, handcrafted jewelry and rejuvenating skin-care products.
100 E. Camelback Rd.
602-441-4378, localnomadshop.com
Manor
If you’re looking for some sneakers to complement that stylish outfit of yours, the staff at this local footwear spot will help you find the right kicks to add to your collection.
100 E. Camelback Rd.
602-795-7378, manorphx.com
OVERNIGHT OPTION
Rise Uptown
Cap off your visit with a stay in a swanky, spacious room that features in-room record players. Grab a handcrafted cocktail and a bite poolside at Lylo Swim Club or at Don Woods’ Say When rooftop bar featuring an awe-inspiring view of the neighborhood. It’s a scene, man!
400 W. Camelback Rd.
480-536-8900, riseuptownhotel.com
PHOTO OP
“Landmark (the Crossing)” by Ilan Averbuch
If this sculpture at the Camelback Road/Central Avenue light rail station resembles something out of a ’90s sci-fi movie, that was the artist’s idea. As Averbuch notes on his website, “It is a gate through which a line of abstract figures crosses a monumental threshold.”
