What makes an ideal dinner date night spot for you? For us it’s great food and cocktails, attentive service, and a warm, inviting vibe. Throw in a great view and the magic happens. All of that is what Hearth ’61 at the Mountain shadows Resort offers – all of that and more. Date nights are few and far between for Tim and me so when we get one, wherever we go has to check all the boxes.

Hearth ’61 did not disappoint.

We enjoyed the restaurant during a recent stay at the resort and had an incredible meal with a breathtaking view of Camelback Mountain. We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect evening.

We started the evening off with a couple cocktails. Tim chose the Maple Manhattan, made with 3 Man Blend Bourbon, maple syrup, Carpano Antica and chocolate bitters. Whiskey isn’t my jam but he loved it.  The Apricot Vodka Sour was definitely my jam – just a hint of sweet and very refreshing made with Ketel One Vodka, apricot puree, lemon, turbinado syrup, aperol and orange bitters. With our cocktails we enjoyed the Spicy Queso and Guacamole with blue corn tortilla chips from the lounge menu. The queso dip had a kick and the guac was perfectly seasoned and tasted like it was freshly made.

For dinner Tim chose the burger, also from the bar menu. That’s a pretty basic choice but his burger tasted anything but basic. It was a thick and juicy patty cooked a perfect medium with crisp lettuce and tomato on a soft and buttery lightly toasted bun. I may have stolen a bite or two and I definitely stole a few of the hot, crispy fries that came with his burger.

My dinner was a work of art. The Niman Ranch Short Ribs served with roasted garlic polenta, pan jus, crispy Brussels and pomegranate arils. This beautiful dish was three of my very favorite things on one plate – short ribs, polenta and Brussels sprouts! The short ribs fell apart with just a touch of my fork, the pan jus was savory, well seasoned and kept the meat luscious and moist, the polenta was smooth and creamy and the Brussels were perfectly cooked with charred edges. Delicious.

A great date night deserves a sweet ending and we definitely splurged. We ordered the Flourless Chocolate Torte and the Vegan Doughnuts. The doughnuts are a good option and definitely an indulgence. They were pretty dense for a donut but the blueberry coulis and banana softened them to a nice chewy texture. They were super sweet and delightful, but our favorite of the two was the decadent chocolate torte. It was super rich and luscious and came with a scoop of salted caramel ice cream and caramel popcorn. The accompaniments offered a great contrast in textures – the creamy ice cream and crunchy popcorn along with the rich and smooth chocolate makes for a deliciously wonderful dessert.

The ambiance of Hearth ’61 is warm and inviting. It has an upscale feel with a relaxed vibe. The lighting and decor were pleasant and relaxing. Our server was top-notch. He kept our water refilled and was attentive and prompt the entire night. Everything about our dining experience was wonderful.

Hearth ’61 is truly a gem within a gem!

Hearth ’61 is located inside the Mountain Shadows Resort at 5445 E. Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253. Book your stay at www.mountainshadows.com.

We enjoyed a complimentary meal in exchange for this post. All opinions are entirely my own. 

A couple weeks ago my husband and I celebrated our 10 year wedding anniversary at a brand new restaurant called Tash. The beautiful ambiance, impeccable service, stunning views and incredible food made for a memorable celebration.

Tash is located on the third floor of the Talking Stick Resort and Casino in Scottsdale and offers breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain and the surrounding desert landscape. The interior decor is hip, welcoming and picture perfect. And the staff is knowledgable and friendly, our server made excellent suggestions and described the menu in delicious details.

The food was mouth watering. My husband is a relatively picky eater but he was feeling adventurous during and visit and has been raving about our meal ever since.

We started off the night with cocktails and a beautifully presented Mezze platter with hummus, roasted eggplant spread, goat cheese whip and skordalia served with warm toasted pita. All the dips and spreads were delicious but my favorite was the eggplant spread and the goat cheese and I could not get enough of that pita.

The Mezze was perfect to enjoy over cocktails while we watched the blazing sunset. We took our time enjoying the bites and sipping our drinks, I enjoyed the Verona Margarita made with tequila, amaretto., limoncello and bold orange. The margarita was a little bit sweet and tart, perfectly balanced and smooth. I loved it. My husband enjoyed the Toulouse Your Inhibitions made with whiskey, peach, basil and lemon. He said it was smooth and strong.

Tash takes pride in creating beautifully crafted, unique cocktails and the attention to detail is apparent in the taste and presentation. They also have a selection of alcohol-free drinks, cleverly called Free Spirits. I tried the Spiced Tea of St. Tropez and loved it. It was a creative and unique mix of chai tea, ginger beer and coconut. It was delicious, interesting and unlike anything I have ever sipped. It was very good and I highly recommend it!

The entrees on the menu are categorized as Agua (seafood) and Tierra (meats) and a selection of pizzas. We opted to carry on with the grazing and decided to order the Pirri Pirris Shrimp and a pizza, both ideal for leisurely noshing. The Piri Piri Shrimp was lightly battered and fried then bathed in a slightly spicy and smoky sauce. The shrimp was perfectly cooked and tender and the sauce was incredible. It hit all the right notes on the palette and was pretty addicting. It’s served with haricot vert and cous cous. My husband proclaimed the shrimp as his favorite bite of the night.

We also had the Due Pizza. The crust was light and very thin, with charred edges, just the way I like my pies. It was topped with artisan pepperoni, house made fennel sausage with red sauce and mozzarella. I am a pizza snob and this pie far exceeded my high standards.

The sweet ending to our wonderful meal were the most delicious cannoli I have ever had. The pastry shell was perfect, crispy and sweetly spiced and the cream inside was luxurious and velvety.  We were delighted with the sweet message too.

Thank you Tash for making our celebration so memorable!

Tash is mindful of the health and safety of both staff and employees. Masks are required until you are seated and tables are spaced accordingly. Temperatures are taken upon arrival and hand sanitizer is readily available. We felt safe and comfortable during our visit and appreciated the precautions.

If you are looking for a great date night destination or a great GNO spot, Tash is definitely worth a visit. Our visit was top notch and one of the best dining experiences we’ve had in awhile. The great attention to detail put into Tash is evident in everything from the beautiful decor and ambiance to high-quality food and drinks.

Tash is located at 9800 E. Talking Stick Way in Scottsdale.

We enjoyed our meal at Tash free of charge. All opinions are entirely my own. 

Before the Covid lockdown hit back in March, my family had plans to visit Medieval Times in Scottsdale. We were kicking off Spring Break with the feasting and merriment and we were so excited. Then just two days before our scheduled visit, we were notified the castle had to close due to the pandemic. While I really appreciated their initiative to keep their staff and guests safe and healthy, you can only imagine our extreme disappointment.

We counted down the days all spring and summer and our visit as soon as Medieval Times opened gave us a little bit of hope during those long, boring lockdown days.

Finally! It happened Medieval Times in Scottsdale re-opened and we couldn’t wait to get there. And they are going above and beyond all expectations to make sure everyone stays safe and still has a fabulous time. We certainly did!

My family has been particularly careful and cautious during these times. We are not going out as often as we sued to and we are very selective about the places we do visit. I definitely did my research about the precautions Medieval Times were taking and felt comfortable that they were taking safety and health seriously. The measure they have put in place really impressed me!

Before entering the castle everyone must have their temperature checked. Once cleared to enter you’re welcomed into festive fanfare!

Social distancing is important and everyone from guests to staff were mindful of respecting the guidelines. There is also hand sanitizer all around and the staff wears both masks and safety shields.

Tables to enjoy drinks and relax before the show are spaced out. Guests are invited to enter the arena by their seating areas to avoid crowding and guests are seated with their own groups with a minimum of six feet apart from other guests. Masks are mandatory until you are seated in the arena and anytime you leave your seats.

My family felt safe from the moment we arrived until we left. All the safety measures and precautions were so appreciated and allowed us to relax and enjoy our visit.

The show was very entertaining. A pageantry of gorgeous horses, a falcon soaring, a friendly, competitive joust and a little drama for some extra flair. Our daughter and her friend loved every second and it was good to see them enjoying themselves being kids and having fun.

The feast was surprisingly delicious! Sanitizing wipes are provided in the places settings so you can clean up before you dig in. The first course was a steamy bowl of tomato soup served with garlic toast. The main course included a half of a juicy roasted chicken, seasoned roasted potato half and a buttery cob of corn. Everything was delicious and fun to eat because there are no utensils! Guests slurp the soup right out of the bowl and tear into the chicken with their fingers. It’s messy but all part of the experience! Don’t worry because more wipes are provided as well as a warm moist towelette. After you clean up a cup or ice cream with caramel sauce is delivered and for that you do get a spoon. It was a sweet treat to a great meal!

If you’re planning a visit to Medieval Times rest assured they are doing it right and keeping everyone safe. My family had such a great time and look forward to visiting again.

Thank you Medieval times for caring about your staff and the community.

Medieval Times Scottsdale is located at 9051 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85258

Disclaimer: My family received a complimentary visit to Medieval Times in exchange for this post. All opinions are entirely my own. 

Francine is a newer dining concept that opened up in the luxury wing of Scottsdale Fashion Square over the summer. They offer French Mediterranean cuisine in a beautiful setting. For the past couple weeks I’ve seen picture of the gorgeous space and have been excited to plan a visit.

Then I discovered they just rolled out a new brunch menu and that excitement tripled. The offerings take brunch classics and elevate them to sublime.

I recently visited Francine and was blown away by the beauty of the interior. The space was bright and felt very open. Warm tones set the charming and refined vibe. The centerpiece of the restaurant is a gorgeous bar area, beautifully lit and welcoming.

They’re mixing up the usual brunch cocktails like mimosas and Bloody Marys and also a bevy of signature and classic cocktails.

During our visit we tried the Summer Cantaloupe and the Ah Oui Oui cocktails. Both were beautifully presented. The Summer Cantaloupe was light and refreshing, made with Pisco, St. George Basil, ginger, cantaloupe, lime and sparkling wine. It was lightly sweet and bubbly. A winner for sure. The Ah Oui Oui is made with Early Grey tea infused rum, St. George Pear, lustau amontillado passion fruit, pineapple and lemon. Both cocktails were as pretty as they were tasty, perfect to pair with brunch.

While we sipped our cocktails we noshed on the stunning Grilled Octopus appetizer. The octopus was perfection, expertly cooked and super tender. It was served with a savory spiced chorizo verde and bright romesco sauce. Our server said the Grilled Octopus was Francine’s most popular dish and it is no wonder why!

For our entree we opted for the Croque Madame, a sinfully decadent and rich French favorite. A sandwich made with a fried egg, ham, gruyere cheese, and creamy béchamel. At Francine you have the opportunity to add table side raclette to the already rich and filling sandwich; and while the option is truly gilding the lily, I highly recommend it! I don’t know of any other places in town that offer raclette and it’s a sublime experience to have your server scrape oozing, melty cheese onto your food, cheese makes everything better after all . YUM!!!

No brunch is complete without a sweet component and we satisfied that rule with the Lemon Ricotta Pancake. This pancake was HUGE and can easily be shared by a few people. Don’t miss it because it’s also wildly delicious. It’s more like a cake than a traditional pancake and it’s bright with the taste of lemon and sweetened with blueberry compote. It comes served with chantilly cream and maple syrup. It served as dessert and left us satisfied and happy.

As one of Scottsdale’s new premier eateries Francine offers something for everybody. It’s upscale but relaxed and comfortable. The brunch menu is perfect for a leisurely weekend morning spent with friends. It feels a little fancy and that’s what makes a dining experience there so special. Check it out and see for yourself, I promise you will not be disappointed.

Francine is located in the luxury wing of Scottsdale Fashion Square at 4710 N. Goldwater Blvd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251.

Disclaimer: We enjoyed a complimentary meal at Francine in exchange for this write-up. All opinions are entirely my own.  

Late last year OEB, a breakfast eatery out of Canada opened it’s first location in the U.S. Lucky for us, it’s in Scottsdale.

Our neighbors to the north certainly know how to do breakfast right as evident by the grub served up in this  casual and bright new hot spot. If you love to do brunch, you will love OEB!

Everything I enjoyed during my recent visit was delicious; but one dish stood out and I haven’t stopped thinking about it since — the Get Shorty Rib Breakfast Poutine. OMG! Poached eggs, duck fat-fried herb potatoes, cheese curds, Philly-style beef short-rib, bell peppers, red onions, mushrooms and brown butter hollandaise in one dish. It’s salty, and savory and meaty and so, so, so, SO GOOD. Those duck fat-fried potatoes are so much better than the plain fries you find in an ordinary poutine, they are divine, so crispy and addictive. The short ribs are tender and flavorful and that brown butter hollandaise is what my dreams are made of. The Get Shorty Poutine is a sinful dish but worth every single indulgent bite.

I was also very impressed with the Cluck Norris. It’s a chicken sandwich that will knock you out with tastiness. Hand pulled smoked chicken is mixed with pesto mayo topped with heirloom tomato and micro watercress with a dollop of cranberry jam on crusty artisan ciabatta. It’s a hearty sandwich with lots of flavor and so juicy and messy in the best possible way!

If you fancy a sweeter start to your day, OEB has you covered. The menu abounds with tasty sweets and treats, like crepes, waffles and even a French Toast Trifle. I opted for the Banana Cream Pie French Toast and was wowed when it arrived. It wasn’t quite as sweet as I thought it would be but it was amazing. Soft Brioche bread, banana cream, fresh banana slices, toasted almonds, and freshly whipped cream piled and layered into a concoction meat for sharing, although you may not want to!

I was very impressed with all that OEB has to offer. The chef-driven menu is fun and creatively delicious dishes offering something that will bring smiles all around. The vibe is friendly and bright and will practically guarantees a great day.

Thank you, Canada for giving us OEB!

OEB is located at 17757 N Scottsdale Rd #103, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

I enjoyed our meal at OEB free of charge in exchange for this post. As usual all opinions are entirely my own. 

North Scottsdale is booming with great new eateries and one recent addition is bringing something truly special to the line-up. Chauncey Social is equal parts swanky and comfortable and the perfect place to spend these cool spring evenings.

This new space has it all – hip, upscale vibe, innovative yet familiar bites and friendly service. You’re sure to be impressed upon walking in – we certainly were. Oversized booths and comfy chairs abound, the bar is the jewel of the space and they’re serving up some pretty fun and tasty cocktails.

I loved the Coco Chanel – a fun and light play on a pina colada. It was perfectly sweet and refreshing and the iconic logo of the drink’s namesake made out of dried pineapple slices was such a special touch.

That’s what makes Chauncey Social stand out – extra attention to details.

You’ll find those same details across the menu. Beautiful flourishes make an experience more memorable. The Kung Pao Cauliflower was a hit. The crispy cauliflower was perfectly dressed in a sticky sweet, slightly spicy sauce and gilded with micro greens for bright freshness. We also drooled over the Dumplings stuffed with 12 hour-braised short ribs and garnished with pink pickled onions, cashews, fig & chili marmalade and scallions. They were savory, sweet and just kissed with a touch of spicy heat. Delicious.

The showstopper of our meal was the Atlantic Salmon with chermoula yogurt, pearl cous cous and walnut cilantro relish. There is a lot going on in this dish and it was all delicious. The wild caught salmon was expertly cooked, moist and flavorful. The cous cous added interest and texture and chemoula was smooth and herby, complementing the fish perfectly. Every bite was a punched up with incredible flavors. This is a great dish worth the visit alone!

There is so much to love about Chauncey Social. It’s a great place for a night out with friends, date night, happy hour or just to enjoy a great meal in a cool setting.

Chauncey Social is located at 17767 N Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85255

We enjoyed our meal at Chauncey Social free of charge in exchange for this post. As usual all opinions are entirely my own. 

If you follow me on Instagram you know I have a love affair with ZuZu at the Hotel Valley Ho. It’s a great space with fantastic ambiance and so much fun. Jax and I visit regularly for their Show Stopper Shakes and our visit is something we look forward to every month; not only for that shake but also because we always enjoy a great meal there too!

I am here to attest that ZuZu is so, so much more than those over the top shakes! They have a diverse and delicious menu featuring some of the tastiest dishes I have ever had – like the best Mac & Cheese on the planet (pictured above; so creamy and filling, amped up with green chili pork. It is so damn good.

These days you can find poke and ahi tuna everywhere, but not quite like what you get at ZuZu.

Their Salmon Belly Poke is served with white bean hummus and duck fat crackers. It’s very decadent; the salmon is luscious and rich, the hummus smooth and creamy and the duck fat crackers kick it up a dozen notches. It’s a unique dish full of contrasting flavors and textures.

The Ahi Tuna and Avocado is light and delightful, served with crispy tortilla chips. The ahi is tender and fresh, brightened up with lime and dressed with scallions, sesame and the punch of jalapeño. Addictive is the best way to describe it!

Speaking of unique dishes – the Arizona Shade Farms Oyster Mushrooms are incredible! The meaty, savory mushrooms are served on roasted garlic toast with warmed goat cheese. This hearty appetizer is elevated comfort food and not to be missed. The mushrooms are savory and the goat cheese is creamy and earthy with a tart edge that contrasts deliciously with the garlic on the toasty bread.

The chef-driven entrees are something to behold as well. I love the Crispy Pork Shank with sour apple molasses glaze, cucumber yogurt and warm pita. Talk about a flavor combination! There is a lot going on in this entree and it’s a lot of deliciousness. First of all, this dish is enormous – be prepared to share, or better yet, eat what you can and have glorious leftovers. The pork is sticky, sweet and so tender it slides right off the bones. The tart yogurt adds a nice contrast to the savory sweetness. This is a show stopper entree!

The Jidori Half Chicken is also fantastic. It’s a confit leg and roasted breast with a chimichurri marinade served with corn on the cob seasoned with tajin. Again, this is a flavor party on the plate. The chicken is juicy and perfectly spiced and the corn is sweet with a hint of tangy heat from the tajin. You get savory, sweet, salty, and spicy with each and every bite.

Of course, as the place that comes up with monthly jaw-dropping, eye-popping, over the top milkshakes, you can expect other epic desserts – like the Donut Sundae served with two big donuts, two generous scoops of ice cream and two toppings; or the Butterscotch Pudding Cake served in a mason jar and topped with popcorn, cashews, bacon, chocolate and sea salt. WOW!!!

A sweet ending to an epic meal is always a good idea and ZuZu has the best ideas out there!

I love all that ZuZu has to offer, a newly renovated look that offers a fun and hip retro vibe and an incredible chef-driven menu, featuring unique and delicious diversity. Every visit is always a memorable experience.

ZuZu is located inside the Hotel Valley Ho at 6850 E. Main St., Scottsdale, AZ 85251.

I enjoyed a meal at ZuZu free of charge in exchange for this post. As usual all opinions are entirely my own. 

For the past three years Jax and I have enjoyed Breakfast with Santa at the Omni Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Montelucia and it has become one of our most cherished Christmas traditions. We absolutely love the beauty of the resort any day of the year but at Christmas time it really becomes magical.

There is plenty of festive and fun things to do around town, lots of family friendly activities and Santa photo opps this time of year but none quite like what the Omni Montelucia offers.

What makes this so special is how low key it is, making for a more personal experience; and what I mean by that is the one-on-one time kids get with Santa Claus! For a child filled with wonder any amount of time spent with Santa is priceless. The Omni Montelucia offers that wondrous joy to families.

The breakfast is held in one of the ball rooms, decked out in it’s holiday best. Seating is limited so it never feels overwhelming or crowded and because of this Santa can take time to visit families at their tables, pose for photos, answer questions about his Naughty and Nice List and make each child feel special. My little Jax certainly did.

The food is excellent and served buffet-style. All the favorites in abundance, fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, sausage, hashbrowns, pastries and breads, pancakes and French toast, plus cereal, yogurt, juices, coffee and hot chocolate! There is something for everyone and bellies will be full.

Jax enjoyed it all and we enjoyed watching her revel in the festive morning. She decorated Christmas cookies and made an ornament and kept making detours to visit with Santa, she had plenty to fill him in on!

Breakfast with Santa at the Omni Montelucia is definitely something we look forward to every December. It is sold out this year, but I highly recommend putting it on your radar for next year. It’s magical for the entire family. The low-key, relaxed atmosphere makes the experience feel a little more intimate and there aren’t long lines so it doesn’t get overwhelming. And like I said, any amount of time children get with Santa is absolutely priceless and they will get lots her. It’s perfect for memory making.

The Omni Montelucia is located at 4949 E. Lincoln Dr. Scottsdale, AZ 85253

Disclaimer: We enjoyed Breakfast with Santa at the Omni Montelucia free of charge in exchange for this post. As usual all opinions are entirely my own. 

The Grand Afternoon Tea at the famed Arizona Biltmore has been a renowned affair for nearly a century. A cuppa taken in with dainty sandwiches and sweet treats among the luxe setting of the historic resort that has welcomed movie stars and presidents for decades.

It’s truly something remarkable, often reserved for special occasions, and nothing is more special than the Gingerbread Tea offered daily the month of December. A warm, cozy and delicious tradition.

I’ve enjoyed afternoon tea with my own mother for special occasions throughout the years, but never for Christmas. And I have been waiting for just the right time to share the experience with my little girl. No time like the  present and no place like The Arizona Biltmore.

The property is all decked out in its holiday best, making the tea experience festive and magical. A huge glowing Christmas tree serves as the focal point in the resort’s lobby and makes a splendid backdrop for afternoon tea.

Everything was absolutely splendid. When Jax is excited about something she shivers from head to toe, so she basically spent the entire time shivering with joy. She ooh’d over the tiny sandwiches, and ahh’d over the petite sweets. She kept her pinkies up with every sip and felt very pampered.

Tea Sommelier, Kevin Doyle and his assistant Brianna kept our cups full and our smiles present. The courses flowed and they took the time to explain the details and made us feel welcomed and happy.

To get things started we enjoyed Lemon Ginger Scones with Kumquat Jam, Devonshire Cream, Lemon Curd and Raspberry Cream. Kevin brought out a pot of the Nutcracker tea blend, steamy and warm with the rich scents of the season.

Jax was extremely pleased that she got her own plate of kid-friendly finger sandwiches that included ham and cheese, turkey and cheese, peanut butter and jelly and Nutella and banana, all familiar tastes impeccably presented for the occasion. My sandwiches were as lovely and they were tasty — Black Pepper Beef Tenderloin and Juniper Berry on Brioche, Turkey and Kumquat with Cranberry Marmalade on 12 Grain Bread, House Smoked Salmon with Tiny Shrimp Salad and Creme Fraiche on a Profiterole (my favorite), Grilled Chicken and Caramelized Apple Jam, Brie and Spiced Pecans and Cucumber and Boursin with Pickled Onion on Pumpernickel. They were delicate miniature works of edible art.

When the dessert tower arrived Jax’s shivers turned into full-blown shakes. She was beside herself with sweet bliss at the mere site of the teeny confections presented to us. A chocolate Peppermint Gateau, Vanilla Cranberry Verrine (our favorite), Cinnamon Pecan Pie, Pumpkin Cake with with White Chocolate Eggnog Cream and Two Frosted Gingerbread Stars. All so tiny and sweet. We both loved them.

It was a truly magical experience. Kevin and his team were gracious and welcoming – the epitome of customer service, all the food was delicious, the setting was exquisite and festive. It was pure enchantment for my little girl, and as if that wasn’t enough she was presented with a keepsake Gingerbread Teddy Bear to commemorate her first tea experience. She shivered and beamed with happiness.

The Arizona Biltmore’s Grand Afternoon Tea is truly an experience to behold, but in December it becomes magical and even more memorable.

I am so happy to have finally taken my daughter to tea and I’m thrilled it was the Gingerbread Tea. She will remember this for years to come and we’ve definitely created a new mommy and me holiday tradition.

Gingerbread Tea at The Arizona Biltmore is served daily through December 24 from 11am-2pm. Call 602.955.6600 or visit https://www.arizonabiltmore.com/holiday-dining/ for reservations and more information. 

The Arizona Biltmore is located at 2400 E. Missouri Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona, United States, 85016

Disclaimer: We enjoyed a complimentary Gingerbread Tea experience in exchange for this post. As usual all opinions are entirely my own. 

Have you been to Prep & Pastry at the Scottsdale Waterfront yet? If you have, then you know it’s amazing and understand why their locations in Tucson regularly have long waits for a table. The food is so good!

I’ve been a few times since they opened up shop in Scottsdale a couple months ago and every time I go I get giddy with excitement over the menu! It’s pretty diverse — offering classic breakfast foods with a little  oomph and lots of pizazz!

The spot is bright and airy, with beautiful natural light flowing in. It’s perfect for taking great photos of some very Instagram-worthy dishes. Like the Steak & Eggs Sandwich pictured above. That was one hell of a sandwich and tasted just as good as it looks. And it was huge! I was stuffed after eating less than half of it. It’s a giant croissant piled with chimichurri marinated, thinly shaved steak with scrambled eggs, white cheddar, roasted tomatoes, arugula and herb aioli. It comes with crispy breakfast potatoes and those are to die for as well!

I’m also quite impressed with the Biscuits & Gravy! Yum. Again, a huge serving, but this time of cheddar herb biscuits and duck fat gravy – WOW! I highly suggest adding fried chicken for an extra indulgence. The chicken is so juicy inside and extra crispy outside. This is like three meals in one!

Don’t forget a cocktail. Prep & Pastry has some pretty great ones — from mimosas and sangria to Bloody Marys, bubbles and beers on tap they have what you need to get your day started with a little kick in the right direction!

Be sure to save room for a pastry! Because wow!!!! They have some confections and baked goods that are sure to have your jaw on the ground. Huge donuts, croissants, cookies and more! So much more. And they rotate daily. Hopefully you’ll go on a day when they have the chocolate mocha scones because they are epic but you can’t go wrong with anything in that bakery case.

If you haven’t yet been to Prep & Pastry what are you waiting for? It’s well worth a visit for the pastries alone – but they are so much more than pastries!

Prep & Pastry is located at 7025 E Via Soleri Dr #175 , Scottsdale, AZ 85251

Hand Cut Burgers & Chophouse, one of the hippest (and tastiest eateries) in Scottsdale just got a whole lot tastier with the introduction of some pretty amazing new menu items.

They added a pasta section to the menu that includes Scallop & Wild Mushroom Fettuccine, Fettuccine Genovese, Crab Mac & Cheese and Meatball Mac & Cheese, all available with a gluten-free rice pasta option.

I tried the Meatball Mac & Cheese and found it absolutely delicious. Cavatappi pasta in a red pepper cheese sauce with grass-fed meatballs and a crispy basil garnish. The pasta was cooked al dente and had a nice bite which stood up against the robust sauce and hearty meatballs. The heat was subtle but really creeped up on you with a slow burn. The meatballs were excellent, expertly seasoned and tender. This is a dish worth coming back for!

Those same meatballs are also found on the appetizer section of the menu. The Grass-fed Meatballs make a wonderful starter! It comes as a generous order of five meatballs in tomato sauce and served with buttery, toasted garlic bread. The meatballs are perfect for sharing, although you may not want to!

I also enjoyed the Filet Sandwich on my visit. The sandwich had some interesting flavors — spice-rubbed steak with bleu cheese, arugula pesto and bacon jam served on a soft toasted hamburger bun. The filet was very tender, it practically melted in my mouth. It offered a savory sweetness from the bacon jam, herby and peppery from the pesto and a pungent bite from the bleu cheese. If you’re looking for unique take on a steak sandwich, order this!

I love Brussels sprouts and consider them my favorite vegetable (maybe even one of my favorite foods), so when I saw the Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Golden Beet Salad on the menu I had to order  it. It did not disappoint! The brussels sprouts were perfectly roasted and shaved, they made a nice contrast to the soft, sweet golden beets. The salad is tossed with parmesan cheese, red cabbage, herbed crouton and a tangy garlic dressing. It was a wonderful, hearty salad with great flavors and textures.

New menu items also include Crab Cakes, Baby Iceberg Wedge, Vegetable Chopped Salad, an 18 ounce Bone-in New York Steak, a Bison Loin, Seasonal White Fish, and for dessert a Seasonal Cheesecake and Affogato!

The Affogato is like dessert and after-dinner coffee combined. I chose salted caramel ice cream and it melted into the hot, rich espresso to make for a creamy and delightful pick-me-up after a satisfying dinner.

Hand Cut never disappoints in taste and quality and the new items are a great addition, nicely rounding out an already impressive menu! I recommend a visit to check them out!

P.S. I have to mention two OG menu items that are truly amazing and an absolute must when dining at Hand Cut – the Salt & Vinegar Fries (they are to-die-for and addictive, get the large order and eat them all yourself!) and the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bread Pudding, do I even need to elaborate on that one? YUM!!!

Hand Cut Burgers & Chophouse is located at Scottsdale Waterfront, 7135 E. Camelback Rd.

Disclaimer: We enjoyed a complimentary meal at Hand Cut Burgers & Chophouse to try out the new menu items in exchange for this post. As usual all opinions are entirely my own. 

Giordano’s has fast become my family’s go-to for awesome apps, excellent pizza and a great time out. We love the casual vibe, laid back ambiance and neighborhood feel; and the variety ensures there is something for everyone on the menu.

Recently, Giordano’s added a few new items to the menu and all are sure to please.

One crowd-pleaser is the Spinach Artichoke Dip with Toasted Ravioli. The creative folks at Giordano’s have taken two familiar small-plates and combined them into one epic appetizer! The spinach artichoke dip is full of fresh spinach, artichokes, herbs and cheese and unlike most spin dips it isn’t overly rich and creamy. I love the addition of toasted raviolis for dipping instead of the usual chips. The ravs come out piping hot, perfectly crispy and filled with a savory mix of spinach and herbs. It’s a creative, yet familiar appetizer that will get any meal started out with a bang!

Also new to the appetizer menu are the Parmesan Breadsticks, made with Giordano’s famous pizza dough and encased in a savory crust of parmesan cheese. Served with a side of garlicky ranch dip, these breadsticks were crispy, flaky and absolutely delicious. They would make a great accompaniment to any of Giordano’s pasta dishes or salads!

An if those Parmesan Breadsticks sound delightful, get a load of Giordano’s new Parmesan Crusted Pan Pizzas! All I can say about these new pies is, wow – JUST WOW!! Imagine Giordano’s famous deep dish in a mash up with their excellent thin crust pizzas. The Parmesan Crusted Pan Pizzas are the best of both worlds, a pan pizza, with a high, flaky, cheesey crust loaded with toppings and just the right amount of cheese. You can build your own or choose from Margherita, Spinach Mushroom Alfredo or Double Pepperoni. We opted for the latter and man, it was incredible – YUM!

One of my favorite new dishes on the menu is the Chicken Pomodoro pasta. It’s a hearty dish of seasoned grilled chicken breast atop a bed of al dente spaghetti with baby heirloom tomatoes, fresh spinach tossed in olive oil and a sprinkling of parmesan cheese. The dish was well-seasoned, the chicken juicy and tender and the sauce created by the olive oil and fresh veg was perfect for sopping up with one of those parmesan breadsticks! This is a not-to-be-missed menu item.

Like I said, Giordano’s is a family favorite and on regular rotation when we eat out and now they’ve added more reasons we love them! Giordano’s is always worth a visit.

Plus, they serve the best Skillet Cookie I have ever had. It’s pretty much my favorite dessert and theirs is the best!!

Disclaimer: We enjoyed a complimentary meal at Giordano’s to sample the new menu items in exchange for this post. All opinions are entirely my own. 

Over the summer my best girl and I had a mama and mini getaway to the beautiful Civana Resort, Spa and Sanctuary in Carefree. 

Just me and my little girl, enjoying the beauty and calm of the resort set in the scenic desert landscape, lounging at the pool, relaxing in our beautifully appointed room and dining at Terras, Civana’s on-site restaurant serving up a seasonal menu using local ingredients.

During our stay we enjoyed breakfast, lunch and dinner and every meal was incredible. Chef Justin Macy uses only the freshest produce and ingredients so the menu changes regularly as the seasons progress and change.

Jax and her picky palette stuck with buttered pasta with parmesan cheese and a side of fresh fruit, she said it was delicious and devoured every bite. For dinner the night we checked in, I enjoyed a Grass-fed Burger with a side of sweet potato fries. The burger was thick and expertly cooked and seasoned. It came dressed to impressed with onion, crisp lettuce, avocado, and a thick slice of juicy heirloom tomato. Delicious! And the sweet potato fries were some of the best I have ever eaten. So crispy they were addictive.

Breakfast was equally enjoyable. Jax opted for the Happy Cakes off the kids menu and the portion was generous! Two big, fluffy buttermilk pancakes served with whipped cream and real maple syrup. She ate her breakfast quietly which is a sure sign she was enjoying her food!

I was wowed with the Ranch Breakfast Burrito! An organic whole wheat tortilla stuffed with cage-free scrambled eggs, diced heirloom tomatoes, spicy Arizona chorizo, breakfast potatoes, black beans, onion, cilantro and organic pepper jack cheese. The burrito was filling and fantastic — full of great flavor, mellow heat from the chorizo and lots of texture from the fresh veg. I was stuffed and happy, ready to start my day of relaxation at the resort.

After some swimming, a yoga class, so rock painting and a fun kid’s cooking class it was time for lunch! Jax again enjoyed her buttered pasta and I opted to enjoy the Chef’s Soup of the Day, which that day was Creamy Broccoli. It was incredible and pretty spicy from the addition of red pepper flakes. Even though it was a creamy soup it wasn’t too heavy but it was rich and filling, served with fresh-baked sourdough bread it made for a perfect, tasty lunch. Oh, and I may have also had another order of those killer sweet potato fries.

Dessert at Terras is not to be missed. Like the regular menu, the chef changes things up regularly. During our visit we indulged in the Strawberry Shortcake and the Coconut Sorbet.

The strawberry shortcake was a delightful take on the classic summer dessert. A slice of vanilla sponge cake is accompanied by fresh strawberries, strawberry sauce, whipped cream, and graham cracker crumbs. It was a sweet ending to a wonderful meal.

Jax especially enjoyed the Coconut Sorbet encased in a dark chocolate shell and served with prickly pear sauce, candied pepitas and toffee crisp. It was a unique dessert with lots of different tastes and textures, creamy sweet coconut, bittersweet chocolate, and crunch from the toffee and pepitas. Jax proclaimed it the best dessert she’s ever had!

Jax and I loved everything about our Civana getaway. It was great to relax and unwind with my daughter in a beautiful setting and enjoy delicious meals. We definitely indulged but everything was fresh, consciously made and nourishing , so we splurged without the guilt.

Civana definitely nourishes the soul, mind, body and bellies.

Disclaimer: We enjoyed a complimentary night stay at Civana and Kids cooking class in exchange for this post. As usual all opinions are entirely my own. 

Tucked into the first floor corner of the Found:RE Hotel in downtown Phoenix sits one of the areas hottest dining hotspots – Match Restaurant and Lounge.

Serving up creative cocktails and uniquely delicious eats, this neighborhood eatery is the perfect destination for an after-work happy hour, date night dinner or to grab some grub before or after a game or show.

I can’t recommend their pizzas enough! Some of the tastiest I have ever had with a thin, crisp crust and high quality meats and veggies for toppings. My favorite was the Marco Pizza (pictured above) layered with house-made tomato sauce, mozzarella and gruyere cheeses, sweet peppers, fennel, spicy calabrese salami, chorizo and prosciutto. There were lots of tastes and textures on that pie but each complimented the next.

For a simpler offering opt for the Margherita with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, heirloom tomatoes, basil. It was a familiar take on the classic pizza using only the freshest ingredients.

I am obsessed with cruciferous vegetables! Give me all the broccoli, brussels sprouts and cauliflower, especially if it is Match’s amazing Buffalo Cauliflower. Amongst the mouth-watering pizzas, and delicious dinner entrees I enjoyed during my visit that cauliflower was the best thing I ate all night. It was so damn good; crispy battered and fried tri-colored cauliflower, tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, and topped with pungent bleu cheese, green onions and micro cilantro. A delicious appetizer meant to be shared but you won’t want to!

Speaking of delicious entrees the Pesto Alfredo was fabulous. With perfectly al denté pasta and a luscious sauce. The addition of broccolini lightened things up a bit and added great texture and taste to the creamy dish. The pasta was served with hot, toasted garlic bread making for a generous portion.

And the Coconut Rum Cream Salmon had our entire table buzzing about how delicious it was. The fish was seasoned just right and expertly cooked, then set atop a bed of rice pilaf and dried with the most decadent and rich coconut sauce. It was such a creative dish and had every swooning.

If salads are your jam, Match’s offerings will not disappoint. I sampled the Chicken Thai Bowl with
pad thai noodles, shredded cabbage, carrots, cucumbers, peanuts, wontons, black sesame seeds, lime cilantro vinaigrette, and peanut sauce; as well as the Southwest Chopped Salad with sunflower seeds, roasted corn, tomatoes, cotija cheese, black beans, romaine, and chipotle ranch. Both salads were hearty, fresh and satisfying.

Match Restaurant and Lounge is a downtown gem perfect for any occasion. Pick a seat by the windows and watch as traffic bustles down Central Avenue, people watching is prime and your experience will be unparalleled; enjoy excellent food with superior service to match. 

Match is located inside the Found:RE Hotel at 1100 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003.

Disclaimer: I attended a media dinner and enjoyed my meal at Match free of charge to help facilitate this post. As usual, all opinions are entirely my own. 

Great news! Breakfast with the Bunny is returning to the Omni Scottsdale Resort at Montelucia on Saturday, April 20, 2019!

Last year, Jax and I enjoyed this beautiful and bountiful brunch set amongst the breathtaking scenery of the resort. The brunch was held outdoors on the lush lawn and every table was smartly dressed for the occasion. The buffet included traditional breakfast items like bacon, eggs, sausage, French toast and more.

After breakfast Jax decorated sugar cookies and made fun Easter crafts before heading over to the Easter Egg Hunt. It was a great spring morning!

One of my favorite things about this Easter brunch is the intimate feel it provides, allowing for an enjoyable holiday celebration with lots of interaction with the Easter Bunny for the kids.

And in comparison to other Easter Bunny Brunches at luxury resorts around town, the Montelucia’s Bunny Breakfast is more affordable at only $60 for adults and $35 for kids (ages 3-12 years). But there is still all the festive fun, delicious food,  great activities, beautiful scenery and 5-star hospitality!

Check out the scenes from last year and then hurry up and make your reservations for this year’s Bunny Breakfast at the Omni Montelucia. Just like last year it will be held the day before Easter on Saturday, April 20 with seatings from 9 a.m.-noon. Hop to it! Call (480) 627-3039 for reservations.

The Omni Scottsdale Resort at Montelucia is located at 4949 E Lincoln Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85253.

Disclaimer: Jax and I will be attending Breakfast with the Bunny at the Omni Montelucia free of charge in exchange for this post. All opinions are entirely my own.