Tempe Conventions & Visitors Bureau

Abraham Lincoln once said, “All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.”

I’ve got to agree with wise Abe. Moms are the most special people on earth. Moms should be thanked daily for the countless hours they spend taking care of everyone in the family. But, officially, there is only one that that’s just for them. Mother’s Day.

Here are just a few places in and near Tempe where you can take your mom or grandmother on May 12. There are lots of excellent choices for brunch, lunch and dinner. Just remember to use your best table manners, just like she taught you.

ASU Karsten Golf Course

At the Trophy Room at ASU Karsten Golf Course, Executive Chef Andrew Brosten’s is preparing a fabulous Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet, including Rosemary Crusted New York Strip, House Smoked Turkey Breast, Spiced Braised Lamb Shoulder and much more. There will be bottomless bellinis or mimosas ($8) or try a spicy Habanero Bloody Mary ($7). All reservations will include a complimentary family photo. Call 480-921-8073 for reservations. Adults are $43 each and children (10 and under) are $15 each. 

Fiesta Resort and Conference Center

Milagro’s at the Fiesta Resort and Conference Center is another great choice for Mother’s Day Brunch. Their menu features cooked to order eggs and omelets, eggs benedict, seasonal fruit, build your own waffles, peel and eat shrimp, stuffed breast of chicken, spice rubbed prime rib hand carved to order, baked orange roughy and lots of delights for dessert.

Brunch is served from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and the cost is $25 12 & up, $12 ages 6-11. Call 480-804-5223 for reservations

House of Tricks

Everyone’s favorite Tempe restaurant, House of Tricks, isn’t normally open on Sundays, but they will be open on Sunday, May 12. Join them for a memorable meal for mom on their lush patio or in one of the cozy indoor dining rooms. Their chef will create special menus for the occasion:

3 courses with lots of fantastic choices within each course … $49 per person.
3 course children’s menu … $15 per child.

Make your reservations online or call 480 968-1114.

Phoenix Marriott Tempe at the Buttes

The Phoenix Marriott Tempe at the Buttes has two options for Mother’s Day;

Celebrate your mother with a specialty brunch at Market Café. This restaurant will have more than 40 buffet items, such as a carving station, breakfast entrees, seafood, salads, side dishes and a variety of sweet desserts. Call (602) 225-9000 and ask for Market Café to make your reservations.

Sunday, May 12, 2013 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Adults: $54.95; Ages 13-17: $18.95; ages 12 and under eat free.

Top of the Rock at Phoenix Marriott Tempe at the Buttes offers incredible views of Tempe and Phoenix, and a special brunch just for moms. The Top of the Rock buffet will showcase more than 50 items. The carving station will offer Carved Leg of Goat, Agave Baked Ham and Prime Rib. In true Southwestern fashion, there will be a Huevos Rancheros Station and an Arizona Omelet Station. Salads and sides will also make it hard to choose, with lots of breakfast items and brunch favorites like Mac and Cheese Bake and Smoked Chicken Popovers. Desserts include Cake Pops, Vanilla Crème Brulee, Flourless Chocolate Mousse Cakes and much more. Make your reservations today by calling (602) 431-2370.

Sunday, May 12, 2013 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
$69.95 per person; $24.95 for children 6-17 years; children under 6 are free

Rawhide Western Town & Steakhouse

What’s more fun than a bit of Western-themed adventure on Mother’s Day? Our friends at Rawhide will have Mother’s Day specials from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. along with the regular steakhouse lunch and dinner menus. Featured items include your choice of Southern Fried Chicken, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Vegetable Medley, Chipotle Dijon Crusted Pork Loin, Butter Braised Corn, Meyer Lemon Mahi Mahi and Peppercorn Filet. Dessert will be homemade Apple Pie or Chocolate Fudge Cake.

$17.99 plus tax. Gratuity added for parties of 8 or more.

Add any choice of drinks, Prickly Pear Margarita, Chocolatini or a glass of champagne for $7 more.

Reservations are recommended. Call 480-502-5600, ext. 1141.

Rustler’s Rooste

Rustler’s Rooste offers terrific views of the valley and a fun, Western atmosphere that is perfect for kids of all ages. But even better than a cool Western atmosphere is the impeccable food and great service. For Mother’s Day, take in the delicious Western-style brunch, enjoy live music and for well-deserving moms, a glass of champagne or a mimosa. The menu includes Eggs Diablo (the Rooste version of Eggs Benedict with Spicy Machaca and Diablo Sauce), Biscuits and Country Gravy, Ham with w/ Rum Raisin Sauce, Chicken Monterey, side dishes and for dessert, Danishes, Muffins, Pies, Cakes, Cheesecake, Mousses, Cookies and a Chocolate Fountain!

Brunch will be served from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. with the last reservation taken at 1 p.m. Call 602-431-6474 for reservations.

Adults $32.95 & Kids 10 Under $12.95++
Kids in Highchairs are Free

Dinner will be served from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. from their regular dining menu.

Thirsty Lion Pub & Grill

The Thirsty Lion Pub & Grill at Tempe Marketplace is offering special menu options for Mother’s Day along with the tasty items on the regular menu. Specials include Parmesan Crusted Alaskan Halibut, Crab Stuffed Atlantic Salmon and Herb Crusted Flat Iron Steak. Call (480) 968-2920 for reservations.

Sunday, May 12, 2013 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. – pricing is ala carte

Z’Tejas

The Z’Tejas in Tempe on Sixth Street and Mill will offer their brunch menu for Mother’s Day. Moms will be treated to a free dessert and a complimentary photo with their family. Call for a reservation and more details:  480-377-1170.

I just love it when a great restaurateur opens up a new place. For years, Boulders on Broadway in Tempe has been a favorite local spot. It has a tasty menu, a great selection of beers and a casual, comfortable vibe.  The owners of Boulders on Broadway recently opened a new place that is sure to become another local favorite – Spokes on Southern.

Located just west of McClintock Drive on Southern Avenue, Spokes on Southern is a welcome addition to this Tempe neighborhood. It has a bicycle-theme, hence the name, which means that there are plenty of bike racks along with comfortable indoor and outdoor seating. The beautiful patio is adjacent to a lake that just happens to be home to ducks, koi and turtles. This was a bit of a surprise that makes Spokes even more special.

Spokes on Southern is perfect for bike riders, beer lovers and heck, everyone who loves good food. There are so many excellent choices on the menu here…I’m doing my best to work my way through it. The flavorful Pesto Turkey Sandwich and the Caprese Sandwich are served on soft ciabatta buns with an impeccable balance of ingredients. The Sirloin Tacos are my new favorite, with fresh chimichurri sauce, roasted poblano chiles and blue cheese. If there is blue cheese on anything, I am sold. But this was a particularly good combination that I haven’t seen anywhere else in town. I’ll go back soon to try the Bruschetta Planks, one of the burgers and the Southwest Turkey Quesadilla. Menu items are served with your choice of side, including French fries, sweet potato fries or a salad.

In addition to the food, Spokes on Southern takes their beer menu very seriously. They have 24 taps with a rotating menu of craft brews, some of which might be something that you’ve never heard of or tried before. That’s reason enough to check this place out, right?

The next time you’re looking for a casual spot to hang out with friends for lunch, dinner, happy hour or late night, definitely try Spokes on Southern. You’ll see why it’s my new favorite Tempe restaurant.

1470 E. Southern, Tempe
(480) 307-9920
www.spokesonsouthern.com

Whether you’ve lived in Tempe your whole life or you just love great food, it’s always a treat to dine at Monti’s La Casa Vieja. And now, you have a new reason to visit.

Monti’s La Casa Vieja just added a new patio to their historic building with seating for 130 people, three cozy fire pits and a fun urban bar. This new patio is called “Tempe’s Front Porch,” a name that was selected from hundreds of suggestions from the local community. This name is fitting, since Tempe’s Front Porch faces Tempe Beach Park and is the first thing that you see in addition to the mill when you drive across the Mill Avenue bridge from the north. It’s a great location for a sunny business lunch, happy hour with friends or a relaxing dinner with friends.

Tempe’s Front Porch has a completely different menu than Monti’s. It features a traditional lunch menu, along with a tapas style dinner menu of modern Latin cuisine by Executive Chef Jimmy Hernandez. In addition, guests can enjoy specialty drinks and a revolving menu of craft beers. Tempe’s Front Porch is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday – Thursday and 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. It opens today so here’s your chance to say that you ate there first!

For more information on Tempe’s Front Porch including location, hours and menus visit www.tempesfrontporch.com on twitter @TempePorch or facebook.com/tempesfrontporch or call (480) 967-7594.

With Easter right around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about who will cook brunch that day – that’s what I’ll be thinking about anyways! I’m not a cook in the slightest, so my first option is always dining out for the holiday. There are lots of delicious options in Tempe where you can go to relax on Easter Sunday while enjoying a delectable menu. Here are some recommendations in Tempe for an Easter brunch to remember:

Easter Sunday Brunch at Rustler’s Rooste
Brunch will be served from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on March 31, 2013, with the last reservation taken at 1 p.m.
Cost: Adults $29.95 & Kids 10 Under $12.95++, Kids in Highchairs are Free
Entertainment will be a Singing Duo

The special brunch menu includes:
-  Breakfast favorites: omelets to order, eggs diablo, scrambled eggs, bacon & sausage, biscuits and country gravy, hashbrowns and waffles with fresh roasted apples and fresh berries
- Carving Station – Baron of Beef and Ham with w/ Rum Raisin Sauce
- Chicken Monterey, Mahi Mahi with Tropica Salsa and Spanish Rice
- Cheese, Fruit and Veggies, Assorted Salads
- Danish, Muffins, Pies, Cakes, Cheesecake, Mousses, Cookies
- Indulge in a Chocolate Fountain!
- Also Includes Complementary Champagne

The Top of the Rock Easter Brunch
The Top of the Rock restaurant, located at the Phoenix Marriott Tempe at the Buttes resort is excited to announce its Easter Sunday menu. Executive chef Gregory Wiener has developed a bountiful spring brunch menu including savory specialties, roasted meats, breakfast and brunch favorites, enchanting sweets and confections and assorted artisan breads with wild honey comb and whipped butters.

The bright and colorful buffet features some not-to-be-missed items such as CakePop Easter Eggs, House Made Marshmallow Peeps, King Crab Legs with Drawn Butter, Carved Leg of Goat, Agave Baked Ham and even a Cadbury Egg Martini!

All menu items are made in-house by the resort’s crafty culinary team and several signature items give a knowing nod to local foods and Sonoran culture such as Huevos Rancheros,  cholla buds (served with the Sous-Vide Lamb Shoulder), Roasted Farmers Market Vegetables with Queen Creek Olive Oil, assorted Arizona honeys and local goat cheese.

Adult pricing: $ 69.95 per guest
Children pricing: 6 & under FREE, Ages 6-17 $24.95 per guest
*Two kids per adult. Additional Children $18.95

The Top of the Rock 2013 Easter Brunch is served 10 am-4 pm and reservations are required.
Call (602) 431-2370 to reserve your table today.

The Market Café Easter Brunch
Located at the Phoenix Marriott Tempe at the Buttes resort, The Market Café, is hosting an Easter Brunch offering an assortment of breakfast items and heartier fare, seafood, salads and carving and omelet stations.  This bountiful Easter Brunch in Tempe is available to resort guests and locals alike with family-friendly pricing:

Adults: $54.95 per guest
Kids ages 13-17: $18.95 per guest
Kids under 12 eat free!!

Reservations are required and can be made by calling (602) 225-9000 x2367

Celebrate Easter Brunch at Rawhide Western Town & Steakhouse
The world Famous Rawhide Steakhouse hosts a delectable Easter Brunch Buffet with a carving and omelet station on Sunday, March 31st from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. A wide array of western selections will be offered including:
- Marinated Artichoke and Buffalo Mozzarella with Pear Tomatoes Tossed in Fresh Basil and Roasted Pepper Pesto
- Mole Rubbed Pork Loin Mesquite Grilled and Finished with a Tomatillo Achiote Ragout
- Belgian Waffles with assorted toppings, such as, Fresh Strawberries, Wild Berries, Chocolate Chips, Chocolate Sauce, Whip Cream, Maple Syrup and Golden Raisins
- Petit Fours, Biscotti, Mini Cheese Cakes, Mini Cakes

COST: $31.95 ++ for an adult (Ages 12 & up)
$16.95++ for children ages 4-11 (a separate children’s menu will be offered)
Admission to Rawhide is FREE and Parking is $5.00 for this event.

RESERVATIONS: Call (480) 502-5600 x1204 or email reso@rawhide.com

Enjoy Easter Sunday at Monti’s La Casa Vieja
Celebrate Easter Sunday on March 31, 2013, by enjoying a  delicious meal at one of Tempe’s most historical buildings. Whether you are looking for an intimate dinner with that special someone or a family affair, Monti’s is your destination.

Appetizers
- Smoked Salmon Rolls: Cream cheese, capers, pickled red onions, red chili oil – $8.00
- Stuffed Squash Blossom: Crab, cream cheese, red chili oil – $10.00
-Arugula Salad: Grapefruit, pecans, feta cheese, citrus dressing – $7.00
Main Entrées
- Lamb Chops: Pomegranate ancho chili sauce, butternut squash, spinach – $25.00
- Salmon & Surf Wild caught pacific shrimp, roasted fingerling potatoes, candied snap peas, bacon, truffle cream sauce – $20.00
Dessert – Strawberry Shortcake…$6.00

For reservations, call (480) 967-7594

Top of the Rock at Phoenix Marriott Tempe at the Buttes

Last week I had the opportunity to dine at Engrained Cafe with my co-worker, which is located on ASU’s Tempe campus, inside the MU on the second floor. From the moment you enter Engrained, you realize this place is unique.

The hostess give us a table number, and then sends us off towards the kitchen to take a look at the dishes to choose from that day. We are told that the menu changes frequently based on what’s in season. My co-worker and I take some time looking through all our options – everything looks amazing! There are several salads, sandwiches, pizzas and even sushi rolls to choose from. We decide to split two dishes – the pepperoni pizza and the black bean quinoa burger with French fries. We quickly pay and head to our assigned table where our dishes will be brought out to us. In the meantime, the hostess has shown us where to get our beverages – which are complimentary with every meal!

While we are waiting for our lunch to arrive, we take a moment to look around and start to read the informational placards hung on the walls. We learn that most of the materials used inside of Engrained Cafe come from recycled goods. For example, the chairs are made from recycled seat belts. We also learn that the appliances and lighting are all energy efficient and the bamboo wall finishing and grass mats used in the restaurant are naturally renewable resources.  An educational thread runs throughout the restaurant featuring eco-friendly products and eco-saving techniques.

We also discover that all the seasonal produce is harvested within 150 mile radius – how awesome is that? Organic produce, Fair-Trade coffee, cage-free eggs and all-natural chicken, and sustainable seafood are available from the seasonal menu. We get even more excited about trying our dishes!

Our mouths start to water the moment our food arrives. I start off with a slice of the pepperoni pizza – it is heaven! Really, it’s the best pepperoni pizza that I’ve ever had. The cheese is fresh and gooey, and the pepperoni is seasoned and browned to perfection. Next I try a bite of the black bean quinoa burger. This veggie burger is so flavorful it’s almost impossible to describe. In addition to the tasty black bean and quinoa patty, I can taste Swiss cheese, avocado slices and grilled red peppers in every bite! The French fries are an added bonus to this already delicious meal.

So, as we waddle out of the restaurant from over indulging, we decide that Engrained Cafe both tastes good, but also makes us feel good! The ingredients are fresh and local, and the restaurant is helping the community one day at a time by minimizing their environmental footprint. What more could you ask for from a lunch spot! This place is definitely worth checking out the next time you’re in the mood for something unique and yummy.

Engrained Cafe
2nd Floor, Memorial Union Building
ASU Tempe Campus
1290 S. Normal Avenue, Tempe AZ 85287
(480) 965-4239
HOURS: Monday – Friday: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Engrained Cafe

Looking for a unique spot for happy hour in Tempe? Top of the Rock, located at the Phoenix Marriott Tempe at The Buttes, is the place! Delicious flavors, tasty cocktails and unbeatable views make Top of the Rock a sure crowd-pleaser for your every happy hour desire!

New this year – Top of the Rock is offering a special spring training happy hour menu on game days at Tempe Diablo Stadium! Head over after the game from 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. for spring training happy hour specials to quench your thirst and taste buds in the best way possible! Drink specials include a variety of house wines, draft beers and hand-crafted cocktails. The hot dog sliders are not to be missed and the ceviche is delicious with flavor to spare.

Spring Training Happy Hour Menu – 3:30-5:00 p.m. on game days:
CEVICHE  - Shrimp, Calamari, Avocado, Tortilla Chip
AZ “POUTINE” - Sweet Potato Fries, Schreiner’s Chorizo, Cotija Cheese, Pico de Gallo, Anaheim Chile “Gravy”
FRIED MAZATLAN SHRIMP (2) - Jumbo Sweet Prawns, Sriracha Aioli
HOT DOG SLIDERS - Sonoran, Chicago, Angel’s Dog’s
CHIPS AND SALSA - Shrimp, Calamari, Red Onion, Cilantro, “Crackers”
CRAB “TOAST” - Maryland Crab, Toasted Sesame, Pretzel Bun, Lime Aioli

If you’re having too much fun and want to enjoy the view a bit longer, never fear! Top of the Rock continues the fun as the sun goes down with happy hour drink and menu specials from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. daily. My personal favorite is the pulled pork sliders, served with an ancho BBQ sauce – oh so good!

Daily Happy Hour Menu – 5:00-7:00 p.m.:
AWARD-WINNING SALSA & CHIPS
AZ “POUTINE” - Sweet Potato Fries, Schreiner’s Chorizo, Cotija Cheese, Pico de Gallo, Anaheim Chile “Gravy”
FRIED MAZATLAN SHRIMP - Jumbo Sweet Prawns, Sriracha Aioli
PULLED PORK SLIDERS - Ancho BBQ Sauce, Pickled Red Onion, Lime Aioli
CHEF “G” CEVICHE CAMPACHENA - Shrimp, Calamari, Red Onion, Cilantro, “Crackers”
ARTISANAL CHEESE PLATE - Selection of local cheese & Artisanal, Dried Fruit, Candied Pecans

To learn more about spring training game schedules, stadium maps and ticket information, visit www.tempebaseball.com or call the Tempe Tourism Office at 800-283-6734.

Top of the Rock
2000 Westcourt Way
Tempe, AZ 85282
602 – 431 – 2370

Top of the Rock

I called my dad on my way home from work the other day to see if he watched a movie I bought for him.  I consider my father to be older than the Earth itself, so I’ve decided that it’s my responsibility as his firstborn and namesake to try and keep him hip and cool.  Movies are something we have differing opinions on.  What I like, he hates and vice versa.   But the one thing we both have the same exact taste in is food.  We both love the same restaurants and for the most part, the same dishes at each.  Once we both find a place we like to eat, we become very loyal customers, regardless of how far away it is.

When my parents came to Arizona about year ago, they happened to stay at Phoenix Marriott Tempe at the Buttes.   It’s here where you’ll find one of the best restaurants in the valley, Top of the Rock.  Did you know that Top of the Rock was just mentioned in an article about the 25 most romantic cities to dine in by the Huffington Post?  If you’ve been there, it’s easy to see why.  The view the restaurant offers of the valley is incredible and the food is just as good.

The man responsible for creating these mouthwatering dishes is Executive Chef Gregory Wiener.  I had the opportunity to speak with him a few times and he’s the nicest guy in Arizona.  He’s originally from Chippewa Falls, WI, where he grew up helping his family, who owned and operated a small restaurant.  Safe to say he was born to cook.  At 15, he started cooking and knew that was what he wanted to do with his life.  He’s worked for Marriott Corp. in a variety of cooking roles, here and in California.

Top of the Rock supports local farmers so he visits a lot of farmer’s markets, looking at ingredients that are in season.  Gregory says that the food “talks to him”, so he keeps his dishes simple and highlights an ingredient.  With spring training here for the next month, he has a game day happy hour at the restaurant.  He loves the idea of finger foods, so they’ll be showcasing hot dog sliders — mini hot dogs and a variety of toppings.

Why is he a chef?  The answer is simple – he likes to cook for other people.  “I will seldom just cook for me,” he said.

Chef Gregory also wanted me to know that Top of the Rock is not just great views and great food.  They are also active in community involvement. Every month, they choose a local charity and they create a prix fixe charity of the month menu. Part of the proceeds from that menu goes to the chosen charity. “We try to get out in the community and do as much local work as we can,” he said.

Whether it’s for dinner or happy hour, Chef Gregory and his Top of the Rock cuisine is a view that isn’t worth missing. For more information, visit the Top of the Rock online or call 602-225-9000.

For more information about Tempe restaurants, visit TempeTourism.com or call 800-283-6734.

I grew up playing baseball through high school, so it’s safe to assume that I’m pretty excited about the start of spring training.  Growing up, my dad used to take me to games at Shea Stadium (R.I.P.).  I remember when we drove up to Queens, the topic of food would always come up.   We would discuss how many hot dogs we planning on eating that game, whether or not nachos sounded pretty good and what inning my dad would go and get his usual box of Cracker Jacks.  To us, “baseball food” was almost as important as the game itself.

To me, baseball food is what officially ushers in spring.  Two of the main staples are, of course, hot dogs and hamburgers.  If I can’t get a hot dog at the ballpark (the old Yankee Stadium had the best ones) then I want to go someplace that is just as good.

If you can’t make it over to Tempe Diablo Stadium but still want the other ballpark experience (great baseball food) be sure to check these two restaurants.

Ted’s Hot Dogs, located on Broadway and McClintock, is here in Tempe.  Ted’s has been around for 85 years, so it’s safe to say they know what they’re doing.  They have everything from hot dogs, to polish sausages to hamburgers.  They also have incredible onion rings and their shakes are some of the best around.  Last time I was there, I got an Italian Sausage with onions, peppers and Dijon. It was amazing.

Another great place to grab a bite is The Chuckbox.  Their hamburgers are out of this world.  I always get the same order whenever I go – bacon cheeseburger and onion rings.  The Chuckbox is located on Mill Avenue and University, on the northwest corner.

Find more information about Tempe restaurants on the Tempe Tourism Office website, or call 800-283-6734.

My favorite time of year is just around the corner. Spring.

Spring means perfect weather in Arizona and lots of chances to get outside and have fun. Spring also marks the return of Cactus League Spring Training. I’m excited about Cactus League, but it’s not because I’m a baseball fan. (I hate to admit that I’m really not.)

I like spring and spring training because of all of the fun things that happen during this time of year. Here are my top 6 ideas for springtime bliss in Tempe.

1. Angels games at Tempe Diablo Stadium. Sure, you already know that I’m not a big baseball fan. And, for those of you who are, of course there are lots of exciting things to look forward to on the field this year. But, what I really like is the chance to soak in some sunshine, eat a freshly grilled burger and catch up with a few good friends on a casual afternoon. I love Tempe Diablo Stadium because it’s centrally located and because the views of the mountains from here really remind you why Arizona is such a beautiful place. And, if you want to beat the traffic after the game, take a quick drive up those mountains to Top of the Rock at the Phoenix Marriott Tempe at The Buttes. They have a terrific happy hour.
2. Hiking. Now is the perfect time to dust off those hiking boots. Spring brings lots of color to the desert making a perfect backdrop for exercise. I love the ease of the quick hike up “A” Mountain after work. And, I also love the variety of scenic trails at South Mountain Park and Preserve. There are hikes that last 20 minutes and hikes that will take you all day. And, you’ll love every minute, with the exception of a few tough uphill climbs. The views of the city from the top will be your well-deserved reward.
3. Festivals. Tempe is one city that knows how to throw a party. Try the Great Arizona Beer Festival on March 2, the Arizona Aloha Festival on March 9-10, the Arizona Dragon Boat Festival on March 23-24 and the Tempe Festival of the Arts on April 5-7.
4. Patio dining. There’s a good reason why so many restaurants in town invest in patios. Eating tasty food and enjoying Arizona’s warm temps are two of my favorite things. Put them together and you’ve got a slice of heaven. My favorites are House of Tricks, Canteen Modern Tequila Bar, Four Peaks Brewing Company and Thirsty Lion Pub & Grill. But, really it’s hard to go wrong in Tempe.
5. Desert Botanical Garden. The Desert Botanical Garden is always gorgeous, but spring is when it really comes to life. Wildflowers will be in bloom, there’s a new on-site restaurant to try called Gertrude’s and they are hosting some of their best annual events such concerts and the Philip Haas: The Four Seasons sculpture exhibition.
6. Paddle boarding on Tempe Town Lake. I am absolutely obsessed with paddle boarding and if you try it, you’ll be hooked too. It seems difficult, but really it isn’t. And, gently paddling around the lake without a care in the world is one of my moments of zen. Check out Tempe Boat Rentals for pricing and details about their other watercraft options.

No matter how you choose to spend a sunny spring afternoon, you’re sure to have an awesome time in Tempe. For more ideas, visit the Tempe Tourism Office website, connect with us on Facebook or call us: 800-283-6734.

Paddle boarding on Tempe Town Lake

I recently got to check out a pairing tasting at Tempe Marketplace’s Smashburger and literally felt like I was in hamburger heaven. Melt in your mouth burgers matched with the perfect selection of local beer…you can’t pair any two items better than this! The greatest news is that this great pairing, just the burgers, or even the beer, are all now available to the public at any Smashburger in town!

The Founder of Smashburger, Tom Ryan (recognized by Gourmet Magazine as one of the “Top 25 Food Entrepreneurs of the Last Quarter Century”), joined Four Peaks Brewing Company Owner and Brew Master, Andy Ingram, to launch new burger and craft beer pairings for all Phoenix-area Smashburger restaurants. The new pairing offering is a localization initiative and push toward beer and burger pairings in larger markets across the U.S. Smashburger is the first national fast-casual concept to make this move.

Here is a list of the famous pairings now available:

Classic Smashburger + Kilt Lifter(Scottish Style Ale)
The roasted barley, caramel and malty flavor embrace the fresh produce and rich beef flavors of the classic burger. Can’t go wrong with the classic.
Mushroom Swish Burger  + 8^th Street(English-Style Pale Ale)
Mushrooms are my favorite so I was partial to this one-Mushrooms sautéed in garlic, Swiss cheese and mayo on an egg bun paired with a hoppy flavor of the 8^th st.
BBQ Bacon & Cheddar + Kilt Lifter(Scottish Style Ale)
Hands down, my favorite one of the night. They should call this the “Melt in your mouth Smashburger”. Apple wood-smoked, thick cut bacon with cheddar cheese and spicy BBQ sauce topped with haystack onions are ignited flavors once you sip the Kiltlifter, which has a balanced malt finish.
Avocado Club Burger + 8^th Street(English-Style Pale Ale)
The fresh one- This lighter floral beer compliments the fresh avocado, crisp lettuce, tomato, and creamy ranch on a multi-grain bun. Yum.
Arizona Burger + Hop Knot(American-Stlye IPA)
Blended hops create a refreshing contrast to this burger topped with fresh guacamole, habanero jack cheese and chipotle mayo with a chipotle infused bun!
Cucumber & Goat Cheese Chicken Sandwich + Sunbru(Kolsch Style Ale)
The light beer that won 2012 World Beer Cup Gold Medal is a fitting partner to a tender chicken breast topped with tastes of bitter goat cheese, sweet cucumbers, spinach, tomato, onion, and tangy balsamic vinaigrette.
Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwhich + Hop Knot(American- Style IPA)
Franks RedHot Buffalo Sauce, blue cheese, and a robust Hop Knot is the perfect pair! I don’t even like blue cheese and this crunchy, juicy chicken sandwich was calling for me! The flavors in this one blend and match so well.
Veggie Black Bean Burger + Sunbru(Kolsch Style Ale)
A homemade Smashburger vegetarian patty seasoned with cumin and topped with cheddar cheese and Cholula sauce. Ask for added sautéed onions and pair it with the light Sunbru and you got yourself a delightful burger.

To top off the tasters, like that all wasn’t enough, each bite came with baskets of sides: unique fried pickles, sweet potato fries and Smashburger fries. I always favored Smashburger over other burger spots because of their sweet potato fries that you can’t find everywhere. Not until I tried the Smashfries was my mind completely changed. Yes I still love the sweet potato fries but when you try the crunchy Smashfries that are tossed in rosemary (one of my favorite herbs) and olive oil with garlic, you will be convinced too!

Smashburger has something for everyone on their menu and the founder really showed his passion for the business and burgers. He took us to the back and showed us how to make a true Smashburger. They literally smash the patty on the grill which locks in all the flavors to keep it tasty and juicy! That was my ah-ha moment on how they got their name! When you pair this with the best known local brewed beer in town, you have mastered the art of eating.

Visit the Smashburger locations in Tempe as soon as you can. You’ll be glad you did!