AKA Urban Enchantment
Planned by Orville A. Bell and designed and constructed by Broman & Chapman in 1939, North Encanto Historic District reflects contemporary American trends in street layout and landscaping, both pre- and post-war. RANCH DRESSING: The neighborhood has a tremendous concentration of ranch-style homes, an American architectural style influenced by Spanish colonial architecture. Characterized by elegant minimalism and typically stucco facades, these single-story homes appear throughout North Encanto. OLD SCHOOL: Although primarily residential, North Encanto also hosts Phoenix College. Founded in 1920, it’s one of the oldest community colleges in the country and serves 28,000 students a year with 150 degree and certificate programs. FUN AND GAMES: Enchanted Island Amusement Park, which dates back to 1948, might be the only island you’ll find in a desert. While the park rides are perfect for young children, the lush park setting serves as a pleasant space for company retreats or family reunions. Hosted events come complete with various menus, optional add-ons and assistance from Island staff.
Town Talk II
Town Talk II offers classic barbecued meats in generous quantities. Chris Rideau continues his father Burleigh’s mission to bring delicious, Southern home-style cooking to Phoenix. Prepared Creole-style, a traditional Louisiana method emphasizing slow-cooked meats with hot peppers, okra and citrus, the recipes at this restaurant are founded on family tradition. Try “The Papu” sandwich with 1/3 pound of pulled pork, shredded beef, chicken, ham or hot links smothered in sauce.
3509 N. 19th Ave., 602-234-4745, towntalkbbq.com
Purple Lizard Boutique
Purple Lizard Boutique is anything but traditional. Walk through the patio and into a cozy shop full of color, decorations and a collection of items to enliven any space. The shop specializes in traditional Mexican art, specifically pieces celebrating Día de los Muertos. The boutique, which will be expanding soon, also houses a collection of skeleton statues, festive scarves and vintage jewelry.
2827 N. 15th Ave., 602-728-0980
The Original Hamburger Works (pictured top)
A hallmark of the ‘hood since 1967, The Original Hamburger Works serves a variety of burgers, meal combos and generous sides. It’s not fast food, but Original Hamburger Works prides itself on taste meeting affordability. While the food is the star, the vibe completes the experience. Retro classic signs for Coca-Cola cover the walls, and besides noshing, customers can enjoy playing horseshoes, pool and ping-pong.
2801 N. 15th Ave., 602-263-8693, originalhamburgerworks.com/location.html
Encanto Golf Course
Constructed in 1935, Encanto Golf Course is one of the more historical parts of the North Encanto Historic District. The course has 18 holes of varied but manageable difficulty, suitable for golfers of all ages with a range of skill levels. Encanto Golf Course offers visitors both a driving range and practice green, and is ready to play year-round from before dawn to after dusk. The third oldest course in Arizona, this green addition to the area serves as a staple of the neighborhood.
2775 N. 15th Ave., 602-253-3963, phoenix.gov
