Urban Life

What to do in Downtown Phoenix

People often ask us what to do in downtown Phoenix? What are the best restaurants? Do we have a favorite nightclub or bar? Are there tours of downtown Phoenix. What cultural venues and events happen in downtown Phoenix? I think you get the idea.

Since we specialize in downtown real estate, it is natural to think we know where to go and what to do. In response, we've been putting together a list of over 100 things to do and places to go in in downtown Phoenix. I'll tell you, it is quite a project.

The initial phase is done and we have created our list that includes some of our favorite restaurants, bars, places to listen to music, places to shop, museums, theaters and lots more. Over time we will be adding individual posts on the different places with our thoughts.

In the meantime, you can check our the list on our sister site that specialized in all things downtown... www.UrbanConnectionRealty.com. For a direct link to the article simply go to,

What To Do and Places to Go in Downtown Phoenix Arizona

radiate phx gets arrogant in february

RadiatePHX will hold its February 22nd meeting at one of the latest additions to the downtown Phoenix restaurant offerings, The Arrogant Butcher. This new Sam Fox concept restaurant just opened its doors on February 21st and Radiators will be among the first to taste and experience it first hand.

Radiate Phx, or RadiatePHX or Radiate Phoenix, depending you how you spell it, is a group of people whose passion is the urban core of Phoenix. We meet monthly to learn about things downtown. We like to call it non-traditional networking since the emphasis is on learning about businesses and happenings in downtown Phoenix verses shoving your business card in someone’s face. We may shove a beer in your direction or ask your opinion about light rail, the mayor’s race or ask you your thought of the book Midcentury Marvels, but business relationships are casual and strengthened over time with this group.

WHAT: RADIATEPHX
WHEN: FEBRUARY 22ND FROM 5:30 – 7:30
WHERE: THE ARROGANT BUTCHER AT CITYSCAPE

To register go to our blog.  RadiatePHX

Hope to see you there,

Gene Urban
The Urban Team at Realty Executives
www.UrbanConnectionRealty.com
602-234-5777

CityScape Hosts Octoberfest Celebration

CityScape wants to add to the fun that is downtown Phoenix by hosting a big Octoberfest party on Friday October 22nd and Saturday October 23rd.

The Octoberfest celebration is both a fun event and a charitable one benefiting the Phoenix Sister Cites. Phoenix Sister Cities is a local organization that promotes relationships and understanding between people of many cultures. Today they work with 9 cities in countries such as China, Canada, Israel and more.

Below are the details we received about the festival.

A BIT ABOUT THE BEERS:

Spaten Oktoberfest Beer
Spaten Oktoberfest Beer, created in 1872, world's first Oktoberfest beer
Bitburger Premium Pils
200 year old brewery, #3 best selling beer in Germany, Bitburger Brewery founded in 1817.
Erdinger Oktoberfest Beer
Like all ERDINGER beers, Erdinger Oktoberfest-Weizen is refermented in the bottle and keg - rarely used for beer, similar to champagne method. 

GERMAN STYLE FESTIVAL DESIGN

Festival goers will find long rows of tables, cups of cold German beer, fabulous food from one of the top chefs in Arizona, sausage eating contest, along with a major stage and dance floor featuring music and, yes, polka!

FOOD
Arizona's own Aaron May of Vitamin T at CityScape (among other dining establishments) will offer Munich style sausages, brats and, of course, giant pretzels.

 

ENTERTAINMENT LINEUP
Friday
4-6pm, Christ Putrino Trio
6:30-8pm, Hans Olson
8:30-10pm, John Smoltz Polka Band

Saturday
12:30-2pm, Polka Dance Lessons
2:30-4pm, Bad Cactus Brass Band
4:30-6pm, Schreiner's German Sausage Eating Contest
6:30-8pm, The Elevens
8:30-10pm, The AfterDark Band

TICKETS
FREE while supplies last at CityScape businesses:  Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge; 5 Guys Burgers & Fries; Gold's Gym; CVS Pharmacy; Designer District; Par Exsalonce Salon; and West of SoHo.
*DAY OF: Tickets $10 at the gate

Enjoy your Octoberfest celebrations.

Gene Urban
The Urban Team
602-234-5777

Where to watch the 2009 Super Bowl in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Glendale, and Peoria Arizona

Everyone at the office was talking about places to watch the Cardinals and Giants play in the 2009 NFL Super Bowl game this coming Sunday. Oooh... a blog post idea in the making. So I called a few friends and thought about places I've gone to enjoy a game. I asked Fred the Dog for his suggestions too. So, here are some of the best sports hot spots in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Glendale and Peoria for your review.  By no means is this a complete list and I would love people to comment on their favorite sports hang.

Below is our list; Click on the highlighted link to visit the individual web sites. Many of these places have Super Bowl events going on all weekend... all well be jammed, so plan on arriving early.

Downtown Phoenix:

You know I love downtown Phoenix. You may want to take the light rail and catch the game at one of the many sports venues downtown offers:

MAJERLE'S SPORTS GRILL:  Majarle's was probably the first sports bar to open downtown. The food is above par and always one of my favorites before a DBacks game. AJ, one of the owners, is a good man and his staff is always easy on the eyes and enthusiastic about their work.They will have Super Bowl specials I hear.

ALICE COOPERSTOWN: This is shock rocker Alice Cooper's place with wide variety of food, over 20 beers on tap and they definitely know how to party.

STOUDEMIRE'S DOWNTOWN:  The place is sweet and a bit more upscale than your usual sports bar. The food is said to be good but it's not cheap... nor are the drinks.

Other Phoenix Sports Hangs:

16TH STREET SPORTS BAR: One of the agents in our office likes this place. He says it's a classic neighborhood sports bar. Not fancy, but a good burger, killer wings and friendly people... well maybe not if your a Giants fan on this day.

HAZELWOODS:   Another neighborhood sports bar. The wings are good, the drinks are cheap, and the Famous 10" burger is just huge. Service tends to be unreliable and not as friendly or well trained as we expect in this resort-industry town.

GALLAGHERS: Gallagher's has 4 locations in Phoenix, 1 in Chandler and 1 in Peoria. I've been known to frequent the 16th & Morton location since it's walking distance from our Realty Executives office. The food is good and the service is generally prompt. They have a lot of regulars so they must be doing something right.

ZIPPS SPORTS GRILL: Zipps is another multi-location sports bar. They are traditional style sports bars with good drink specials, cheap and plentiful food (the fries are darn good) and lots of screens for good viewing. Zipps will be hosting a variety of Super Bowl parties this weekend.

Scottsdale Possibilities:

FOX SPORTS GRILL:  Fox Sports Grill is one of Scottsdale premium sports nightclubs. It's a big place with a variety of rooms, large and small. The place is pricey... not a surprise for where it's located and the amenities, decor and large staff. Food is not typical sports bar either. They usually take reservations but not for this Sunday. It's going to be packed so plan ahead.

FARRELLI'S CINEMA SUPPER CLUB: This option came as a surprise to me. Farrelli's is noted for it's dinner and a movie concept. For Super Bowl Sunday they will be projecting the game on its 12' x 26' screens with food and beverage service as usual. This won't be a sports bar atmosphere but it could be interesting.

SANDBAR MEXICAN GRILL: Sandbar has locations in both Scottsdale and Peoria. They are kind of a Mexican grill/sports bar fusion. Sand is the thing here... just check out the patio. Ladies, don't wear heels though. The fish tacos and nachos generally get raves. They have a lot of screens and service is usually pretty friendly.

Tempe:

THE LIBRARY: This is a great place... definitely a college bar and noted for its eye-catching staff. They have a lot of TV's, if you can keep your eyes on them,  and the best web site I've seen.  

THE TAVERN:  The Tavern is a really big place on Mill Ave. It boasts 7000 sq. ft., 37 HD widescreen TV's, 2 patios and a full menu and bar. Super Bowl 2009 specials will be happening they say.

Glendale and Peoria:

I don't get to the West Valley for sports so I only have a couple suggestions given by a friend. If you know others, let us know in the comment section.

MCDuffy's: This is an offshoot of Roger Egan's original sports bar in Tempe but under new ownership now. It's a sports bar on steroids. Big place with loads of screen, comfortable seating, a patio and good food.

Well, we hope this gives you some ideas for your SuperBowl fun. Go Cardinal's and have a great time.

Gene Urban
The Urban Team at Realty Executives
602-234-5777

FORMER MCCAIN HOME UP FOR AUCTION... N. Central Phoenix should benefit

Many have heard the former home of John & Cindy McCain is going to be auctioned today, October 24th.  The home has been extensivly remodeled and hardly resembles the original residence sold in December of 2006 to Jan Popple.

The auction event has received a lot of press and we think this is a good thing for the Central Phoenix region. Most of the articles have had a positive spin, a rare occurrence in anything real estate these days.

We are equally excited, as agents who work in Central Phoenix, about the exposure this incredible part of town is receiving. The mere fact that a home in the 10+ million range exists outside the Biltmore and Paradise Valley is news to many Phoenicians.

We have long promoted this region of the valley for the many positive aspects of Central Phoenix life. Easy access to the many downtown venues, drive time to the airport is mere minutes, Central Phoenix has a culture and sense of neighborhood unlike any other part of the Valley. Historic estates are prevalent as well as spectacular ranch style homes and simple bungalows. Diverse is the word that comes to mind.

The dining and shopping options are quite special in this part of Phoenix. Many home grown, and operated, businesses are minutes away; The light rail will add mobility; Downtown Phoenix is growing with activities, jobs and culture as has not been seen since the beginning of the 1900's. 

So we extend a big thank you to Jane Popple for creating this event and the associated exposure to one of Phoenix's best kept secrets... life in the central corridor. 

Gene Urban and Ron Urban
The Urban Team at Realty Executives
www.UrbanTeamAZ.com

PORTLAND'S RESTAURANT PHOENIX... A REVIEW

Our Local First Arizona member review this week is Portland's Restaurant & Bar located at Central & Portland in downtown Phoenix.

I arrived at Portland's a little before the lunch hour to have a sit down with owner Dylan Bethge. Unlike many privately owned downtown restaurants, Portland's exudes an upscale richness rather than downtown funk. Dark woods and deep color schemes invite a feeling that this is a deal-making hangout... a bit like Victor's in the old days of Phoenix. It's classy without being too pretentious and has a comfortable, neighborhood feel.

Dylan joined me and we talked a bit. He and his wife Michelle opened the place in 2001. Michelle grew up in the food business and Dylan too has a rich background having been in management with Tarbell's, Starbuck's and Houston's. 

I started out asking about how the light rail had affected his business since he's located right on Central near one of the stops. He said it was "pretty ugly" for a while. However, many of their clients work downtown... lots of politicos, attorneys and such. (My initial thought of this being a "deal-making place" turned out spot-on.) In addition to the executive clientèle, Portland's has a strong neighborhood following.

The menu is pretty down to earth with just the right amount of flair to excite the taste buds. Dylan says their food choices are customer motivated. He and Michelle focus on wowing their clients, not the gourmet food critics. When asked about the chef he told me that he and Michelle take care of the back end. Both are passionate about good food and have the skills to ensure a consistently fine product.

I can't forget to mention the bar side of Portland's. Although talked about as a wine bar, they actually have it all including a fine assortment of scotch... the always popular choice of business types. The wine bar is extensive with a variety of solid names and many boutique wines including Joel Gott, A to Z Wineworks  among others.

I really like the Bethge's commitment to community. Having grown up in Phoenix, Dylan cares about this town. He and Michelle buy as much of their fare as possible locally. Schreiner's Sausage and Four Peaks Brewery are but a few of their local suppliers. In addition to vendors, they support local artists by rotating a variety of artwork on Portland's walls. Luis Gutierrez's thought provoking work was there on my visit.

Dylan and Michelle have a great place... one that makes our downtown better and offers a bit of distinction. Next time you are wondering where to have a fine meal with great ambiance, give Portland's a try. Having tried it once, it will be on your short-list of places to dine when heading downtown for an event or work.

Gene Urban
The Urban Team

MAIZIE'S CAFE IN DOWNTOWN PHOENIX.. A REVIEW

In our on-going series featuring locally owned and operated businesses, we bring you Maizie's Cafe and Bistro.

I sat down with Joel Miller this morning and chatted about his family's newest adventure... Maizie's Cafe. Named after his business partner and daughter, this neighborhood restaurant is destined to be an urban dining destination for a long time to come.

Maizie's has a lot going for it. Careful planning and execution are evident. The decor is contemporary without being trendy. Joel says they were fortunate to find a designer who really understood how to create an urban environment where people could talk, eat, hang-out and enjoy the downtown life. An assortment of seating: highboy tables, traditional, couches and an outdoor patio give patrons a variety of choices. Plus, it is well located at street level in front of the Landmark Tower Condos.

Brother Ron and I returned to test the food during our lunch break. At 1:00 on a Monday the place was a bevy of activity. Sara, our server was authentic and personal... not the typical corporate personality seen in too many chain restaurants. I chose a burger with cheddar cheese while Ron ventured to the south and tried their Shrimp Orleans pasta dish. Both were served promptly and delicious. The burger was flavorful and the frys among the best I've had. Yummy stuff. Ron let me have a taste of his meal and I liked it a lot too; the shrimp were juicy and BIG; the sauce was tangy and complemented the fettuccine. Click here to view the menu in PDF form.

During my earlier interview, Joel said their chefs were special. Mike Kirk came from a local country club and brought along sous Chef Matt Higdon. Together they are producing a good product that invites you to come back and try another item off the menu. (I've only tried two so I have a lot to go.)

I really like downtown dining and Maizie's is definitely being added to the list of fun places to take in a lunch or dinner. I can't wait until the light rail is in and we can do a light rail dine-around/happy hour. In the meantime, take a look at their website to see what special events like "Taco Tuesday" are happening and make the trip to Maizie's. Please post a comment about your experience here at UrbanLifeBlog.com.

Maizie's Cafe & Bistro
4750 North Central Avenue
Phoenix AZ  85012
602-274-2828
http://www.maiziescafe.com

link to another review of Maizie's in North Central News.

Enjoy... Gene Urban

 

LOCAL FIRST ARIZONA... MAKE IT YOUR WAY OF LIFE

Local First Arizona, the Kimber Lanning organization that promotes buying from locally owned businesses is celebrating Independence Week. Yes, I said week. This is due to a Governor's proclamation celebrating locally owned, independent businesses.

What does this mean to you?  It is simply an opportunity to remind people to buy from locally owned businesses. There are many reasons including the fact that it's good for our economy since 45 cents of each dollar you spend stays to work in Arizona verses the 13 or cents we keep from out of state based businesses. Other reasons are plentiful including adventure... I can't tell you the number of amazing experiences we've had visiting small shops, cafes and businesses owned and operated by locals. These people have a lot of "skin in the game" and their passion is evident.

If you are impressed by savings, then this weekend is for you. Check out the Local First Website for participating members who are offering 20% off specials celebrating their independent businesses. Take a drive and visit some of these great places.

Amy and I like to do the dine around thing. That's where you choose a bunch of places and have an appetizer at one, a glass of wine at another, an entree at the next and desert followed by a little dancing and such. I recommend Chez Nous for a nightcap and dancing.

Whatever you choose, I am confident you'll have fun, learn more about this fantastic city and do something good for our locally owned businesses. Call a few friends and make it a party.

Enjoy,

Gene Urban
The Urban Team... a Local First Business
www.urbanteamaz.com

IGNITE PHOENIX MEETS AT CHEZ NOUS

Ignite Phoenix, the non-traditional downtown activists group gathered
at the new Chez Nous lounge on Grand avenue for their June meeting.

Rolling Stone magazine once described Chez Nous as, "Unchanged since the early '60s, this low-lit cocktail palace comes complete with a lava-rock waterfall behind the bar.

For those of you who don't know, this classic hang recently relocated to Grand Avenue, just above Polk. The magic of the move is that Amina Uben, Chez's owner since 2001, recreated the original lounge with incredible detail (even the classic wallpaper) so one thinks he/she is at the old place. Pretty darn amazing.

The Ignite Phoenix gathering began at 5:30 with the usual eclectic mix of downtown enthusiasts... architects. designers, activists and a many new faces including some from the City of Phoenix. Conversations about the future of downtown, suggestions to the City's representatives and dialog coursed the air until Amina gave a talk about the new Chez Nous.

Amina's underlying theme was to go for your dreams. Dare to live BIG and then surround yourself with knowledgeable, caring experts... oh yeah, listen to them too. In addition she praised the work of the Grand Avenue Merchants Association members and the inspiring change in the region.  (For more on what's happening on Grand Ave click here)

Next time you are wondering what to do, take a trip to Grand Ave.  It's a lot closer than you think, safer too. Chez Nour has live music and dancing 5 nights a week. Amina laughter is contagious and her daughters mix a great drink at a good price.

Gene Urban
The Urban Team
www.UrbanTeamAZ.com

COPPER STAR COFFEE... A NEIGHBORHOOD WINNER

This post is part of an on-going series featuring Local First Arizona members.  I went to the Local First Arizona web site and choose a member at random. I was in the mood for a great Latte and choose Copper Star Coffee on 7th Ave.

You know a place must be good when, at 11:00 A.M. on a 110 degree day, it's packed to capacity. The place is a collective of funky stuff housed in a former gas station. It even has a working garage door that they open to the elements... well not on 110 degree days and a drive-thru lane. Don't you love creative business recycling?

At the counter I was greeted by Mike the Barista. I ordered a large Latte and moments later I was sipping on one of the best I've ever had. They say it is the locally roasted beans. Whatever the reason, it was darn good.

Not being the shy type, I sat down and asked a few of the patrons why they came to Cooper Star. The first answer was the coffee itself.  Second was the place... it's a neighborhood hangout. Bill Sandweg, the owner, features local artists on the wall, has a community bulletin board, offers free WIFI, hosts events and was out buying a new misting system during my visit.

Cooper Star Coffee represents all that is good in locally owned, neighborhood business. Likely, it is not near your neighborhood. Don't let that stop you from enjoying a fine cup of java, some fine local pastries and a good time.

Copper Star Coffee
Just North of Indian School on 7th Ave.
4220 N 7th Ave. 
(602) 266-2136