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Photo by Madison Rutherford   “Plant-based food with a rock star attitude” is the mantra at this new modern Mexican restaurant in Tempe where you’ll find trendy, vegan fare and a lively-yet-lowkey vibe. At GuacStar Kitchen & Cantina, waiters are hired based on whether their disposition vibes with the concept instead of their serving credentials. Is the restaurant populating its space with unqualified servers? Not in the slightest. According to co-owner Jimmy Carlin, it’s easier...

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Photo courtesy The Revelry   Patios are having a major moment right now. Chalk it up to our fabulous spring weather and our need to socially distance in open-air spaces due to COVID-19, but no real estate has been as prime for restaurants of late as their patios. This spring, one slab stepped into the ring to KO them all: The Revelry at Mesa Riverview shopping center, whose canopy clocks in at 20,000 square feet of covered outdoor patio.  The Revelry is a 62,000-square-foot mixed-use entertainment destination with...

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Photo courtesy Mediterra Bakehouse   Most people attribute soda bread to the Irish, but the quick bread was first made by Native Americans. “They were some of the first to combine soda in bread,” says Nick Ambeliotis of Mediterra Bakehouse. The Irish began making soda (baking soda) bread in the 1830s when baking soda was introduced to the United Kingdom and is now associated with St. Patrick’s Day. If you want to try baking the...

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Photo courtesy Four Peaks Brewing    Hard seltzer is having a heyday and while we love the thought of sipping a White Claw or Truly by the pool this summer, we’re also all about supporting local. So skip the big-name cocktails in a can and opt for one of these locally made hard seltzers. Four Peaks Brewing Sun Day Solar Seltzer The name of the newly released hard seltzers from Four Peaks isn’t just a...

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Photo by Paul Markow   Celebrated Valley chef Christopher Gross will open his highly anticipated eponymous restaurant at the Wrigley Mansion on March 23. Christopher’s at the Wrigley Mansion will not only highlight the James Beard Award-winning chef’s globally inspired gastronomic expertise, but will also showcase 180-degree views of the Valley via floor-to-ceiling windows and a retractable roof. Set adjacent to the historic Wrigley Mansion, the 26-seat restaurant will offer an intimate dining experience and...

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Local restaurants are getting in the St. Paddy’s Day spirit with special drink and dining deals. Whether you want a Kelly-green brew or some classic corned beef and hash, here’s where to dine in or take out this Wednesday, March 17.   Photo courtesy Evolve Public Relations & Marketing    Pedal Haus Brewery This East Valley (and soon-to-be Downtown Phoenix!) gastropub pairs elevated pub grub (think burgers and pizza plus an extensive gluten-free and vegan...

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J’Asada Tacos | Photo by Madison Rutherford   As a local reporter, I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with a slew of small business owners who have palpable passion and pride for their craft. It’s a pretty gratifying gig, one that I don’t take for granted. And when I see that mirrored in Valley restaurants, retail spaces and other institutions, it reminds me why I love what I do. One such inspiring instance is husband-and-wife...