Downtown Phoenix Journal Magazine by Catrina Kahler

Inside! First Fridays Map Pullout Explore your core

our urban

playground

DO AS THE LOCALS DO Downtown trailblazers are creating a thriving culture

DPhxJ.com APR | maY 2011

welcome from the mayor Friends, As many across the country are just barely seeing the first days of sun, we have been enjoying the beautiful weather in our great city for months. If you have yet to take a full day just to explore what I am talking about, I urge you to do so. This is a perfect time to take a walk through Downtown to see what is new and different. There is no shortage of great coffee shops popping up all over Downtown — and trust me, I have been to most of them. There are also many new galleries, boutiques, restaurants and other great spaces to enjoy. A few months from now, my recommendation will be to find some of these great spots and hunker down for the day to stay out of the heat, but for now, get out there and explore. That is what so many innovative minds are doing to start up some very unique projects in our great city. Projects that will make our city just that much more memorable to visitors, and so much more enjoyable to our hometown friends. For example, take a look at The Duce. It is the only place in town that will pick you up in a school bus, drop you off at a renovated 1928 brick warehouse; feed you out of an Airstream trailer; let you shop for unique clothing, fresh fruits and vegetables and vintage bicycles; offer you a drink; then let you work it all off at their gym. This is just one example of true innovation in our city. There are countless others. I am not shy about even considering myself an innovator; in fact I am proud of it. Innovative minds join together to create and act on ideas that others may not have ever imagined. I have met so many of these minds who are doing amazing work throughout the city, especially in our Downtown area. I hope you take a look for yourself and see how great their outcomes have been. And who knows, maybe you will be the next person to come up with a new innovative idea for Downtown. I look forward to seeing it! Best, Phil Sinerely, Phil Gordon Mayor

A note from DPJ

What sets Downtown Phoenix apart from other communities is the entrepreneurial spirit and uniquely creative individuals who dare to dream. These inspired individuals have turned their dreams into action; creating thriving businesses, successful boutiques, one-of-a-kind dining experiences, a burgeoning art scene and unique entertainment venues in the heart of our city. This issue celebrates the true definition of “live, work, play,” and the urban pioneers who, through their spirit and passion, are helping to blaze the trail for us all. World-class musicians, architects and medical professionals who could live literally anywhere, yet choose to make the central city their home. Entrepreneurs who have followed their dream and invested not only their financial resources, but also their blood, sweat and creative energy into building our local business community. Passionate individuals who have parlayed a singular focus into building museum, theater and dining experiences for everyone in the Valley to enjoy. Greater Downtown Phoenix is reaping the benefits from these and many others who are making this a very special place. We invite everyone to come play with us!

Catrina Kahler Publisher 2

Downtown Phoenix Journal

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Si Robins Managing Editor |

DPhxJ.com

photo by EVAN WYLOGE

A community that is a place to live, work and play is an often overused and overhyped concept. One can make an argument that any community with tract homes, a business park and strip mall with a chain restaurant and multiplex can be described as “live, work and play.”

april may in this issue 06 09

The Buzz

District Beat Downtown: livinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for the city midtown: lifestyle redesigned

warehouse District: Bricks & mortar Preserves

History Revisited at Carver High

Pullout Map: First Fridays and Beyond

Cover Story: Cultivating Locals

Eats & Drinks

Interview: Jim Adkins Behind the cover story: Picnicking in civic Space Park is a great way to experience Phoenix on the ground level like the locals do â&#x20AC;&#x201D; catching some rays on a warm spring day.

EXPLORE YOUR CORE publisher catrina Kahler | managing editor Si roBinS

DPJ is supported by:

creative director eriK KarVonen | art director JaSon Garcia | web designer amanDa hawKinS dining editor JuStin lee | contributors J Seth anDerSon | courtneY mccune

@dtphxjournal

Phoenixcommunityalliance.com

facebook.com/urbanaffairphx

all rights reserved. copyright 2011. urban affair, llc is not responsible or liable for any misspellings, incorrect dates, or incorrect information in its captions, calendar or other listings. urban affair, llc assumes no responsibility for the loss of any unsolicited materials, or for the return of unsolicited manuscripts or artwork. the opinions expressed within Downtown Phoenix Journal magazine do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Downtown Phoenix Journal or urban affair, llc or any of its agents, staff, partners, employees, interns, volunteers, or distribution venues. Bylined articles and editorial represent the views of their authors. Downtown Phoenix Journal magazine accepts advertisements from advertisers believed to be reputable but cannot guarantee the authenticity or quality of objects and/or services advertised. also, Downtown Phoenix Journal magazine is not responsible for any claims made by advertisers. urban affair, llc reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter.

DPhxJ.com

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Downtown Phoenix Journal

the

buzz

Released earlier this year as a collaboration between the City of Phoenix Historic Preservation Ofﬁce and Ryden Architects, Inc., Midcentury Marvels: Commercial Architecture of Phoenix 1945-1975 is a 250-page depiction of Phoenix’s architectural golden era.

“There’s too much dirt Downtown!” is a common gripe echoed through our fair city. Indeed, the dirt lots throughout the central core, particularly in the Evans Churchill neighborhood, have been rearing their ugly faces for years now, and the Roosevelt Row Community Development Corporation is finally doing something about it.

d-backs gear up

photo by JORDAN MEGENHARDT

ditching the dirt

photo courtesy of TAZ LOOMANS

‘marveling’ at our built past

Though the book covers the entire city, a number of notable Central Phoenix buildings, both current and past, take center stage within its pages.

The nonprofit has created the Adaptive Reuse of Temporary Space (A.R.T.S.) program in an attempt to activate vacant lots for temporary, visually appealing uses.

Whether showcasing the “Space Age,” lowrising Helsing’s coffee shops of 1950s Central Avenue or the Stewart Motor Company Building at 800 N. Central Ave. (now the defunct Circles Records building), the book paints a picture of the post-World War II building styles that helped fuel Phoenix’s explosive growth.

The effort has already begun on a lot on Roosevelt Street between 4th and 5th streets, with plans to bring First Friday and possibly Second Saturday vendors to the space, as well as regular art installations, movie showings, arts markets, art performances and garden projects. If all goes well, Roosevelt Row hopes to expand the initiative to other dirt lots, creating possible farmers markets, community gardens and performance spaces, placing community assets like puzzle pieces in the Downtown core.

Other noted buildings include the Contemporary Lou Regester Furniture store (now Copenhagen at 16th Street/Camelback) and the Expressionist-style Wyndham Hotel, built in 1975 as the “grandson” of the original Adams Hotel, among countless others.

For more, see “Roosevelt Row’s A.R.T.S. Initiative to Activate Vacant Downtown Lot” by Taz Loomans on dphxj.com and visit rooseveltrow.com.

Midcentury Marvels is available for $20 at the Phoenix Historic Preservation Ofﬁce or online at phoenix.gov/historic.

Downtown Phoenix Journal

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DPhxJ.com

The Arizona Diamondbacks kick off their 14th season at Chase Field against the Cincinnati Reds on Friday, April 8. The first 50,000 fans through the gates will receive an opening day lanyard. Postgame fireworks follow. The game marks the first of 81 regular-season home contests, as Manager Kirk Gibson enters his first full season at the helm. The club looks to improve on last year’s performance, when they finished fifth in the division in 2010, with a record of 65-97. Notable early-season home series include the division-winning San Francisco Giants April 15 to 17, the Chicago Cubs April 28 to May 1 and NL West rival Colorado Rockies May 3 to 5. Of course, the MLB All-Star Game and corresponding Fan Fest will take place in Downtown Phoenix for the first time ever this summer, from July 8 to 12. Stay tuned to DPJ for further coverage.

For more, see Paul Martinez’s “D-backs Digest” on dphxj.com and visit dbacks.com for tickets and game information.

what’s the

stepping out

Get the latest. Follow @dtphxjournal Mingle @radiatephx Fan Facebook/UrbanAffairPHX Sign-up DPhxJ.com

Downtown Phoenix Journal April 1-10: Phoenix Fringe Festival (Downtown Phoenix) Small-venue live theater invades Downtown for the third straight year. Expect wacky performances, over-the-top characters and visual theatrics the likes of which you won’t see anywhere else. phxfringe.org. April 8-9: Stand Up Live Opening Weekend with Norm MacDonald (50 W. Jefferson St.) Hailed as the comedic savior of Phoenix, Stand Up Live makes its long-awaited debut with the former Saturday Night Live wise guy. standuplive.com. April 9: Spring Urban Wine Walk (Central Phoenix) Ready your palate for a tasty afternoon exploring Uptown and Downtown Phoenix’s best selections of wines and complementing bites. downtownphoenix.com. April 16: Super Happy Fun Time at The Duce (525 S. Central Ave.) The traveling burlesque troupe brings its “naughty, bawdy musical comedy show” to the Duce for a night you won’t soon forget, complete with local talents Provacatease and DJ Shane Kennedy. 21+ only. superhappyfuntimeburlesque.com. April 28-May 1: Ib Andersen’s Mosaik Ballet at the Orpheum Theatre (203 W. Adams St.) The sweeping non-narrative ballet that debuted in 2004 takes center stage at the Orpheum Theatre. Witness the meticulous costumes and elaborate scenery firsthand. balletaz.org May 14-15: Arizona Highways Travel Show at Phoenix Convention Center (100 N. 3rd St.) Learn about the vast attractions that Arizona has to offer in this weekend show. Exhibits will let you “escape, explore and experience Arizona” like never before, from Page to Douglas! arizonahighwaystravelshow.com.

Leaders for a Greater Downtown Phoenix

May 27-28: Phoenix Symphony’s Boogie Woogie Pops at Phoenix Symphony Hall (75 N. 2nd St.) Venture back to the 1930s and ’40s heyday of inspirational wartime singers and composers. As Memorial Day approaches, there is no better time to get in the patriotic spirit! phoenixsymphony.org.

Find us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter: @phxcommal www.phoenixcommunityalliance.com

For the most up-to-date selection of events, visit dphxj.com/calendar. DPhxJ.com

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Downtown Phoenix Journal

district beat

downtown

livin’ for

the city

by Courtney McCune

For many retirees, a master-planned golf community or a condo by the beach are ideal settings to enjoy their golden years. But longtime Phoenix residents Herb and Patty Simonson are not your typical retirees. After considering places like Southern California and the Pacific Northwest, they realized that everything they loved to do was in Downtown Phoenix. “We always sort of dreamed about a high rise, something with a little view,” says Herb, a retired doctor and resident at 44 Monroe at 1st Avenue and Monroe Street. The view that he and his wife, Patty, a retired nurse, have from their 25thfloor condo is anything but small. The scenes from their windows are dramatic, with Civic Space Park and Midtown buildings sweeping north up Central Avenue and Chase Field and Sky Harbor visible to the east.

“There’s plenty going on down here, but you just have to take advantage of it.”

The Simonsons live the walkable, high-risedwelling lifestyle that urbanites crave. As longtime patrons of Downtown’s theatres, museums and sports venues, their favorite events are now just a short stroll away. They know all the best happy hour spots and they speak of staff members at Downtown restaurants as if they were family. The couple has truly embraced everything that this urban setting has to offer. As Herb puts it, “There’s plenty going on down here, but you just have to take advantage of it.”

Since the Simonsons moved into 44 Monroe in 2008, they have had a unique perspective of Downtown’s development. They’ve witnessed the slow growth that has come with the economic downturn, even in their own building. Many of the initial sales in 44 Monroe fell through, but as things begin to recover, units are now being leased and more tenants will soon be able to follow in the Simonsons’ footsteps. For all of the setbacks, they still thoroughly enjoy the urban lifestyle they chose. “We can’t see why people don’t flock down here, but everyone has their own interests. Some people like to mow their lawn,” Herb says with a smile. 6

Downtown Phoenix Journal

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DPhxJ.com

warehouse district

bricks & mortar

preserves

Ask developer and designer Michael Levine what he likes about Phoenix and he’ll tell you he appreciates that it’s still the “Wild West and you can do whatever you want.” Levine, who has been responsible for preserving some of Downtown Phoenix’s oldest structures, knows a thing or two about blazing a trail.

by Courtney McCune

Levine relocated to Phoenix from Brooklyn in 1990, bringing along a background in sculpture and environmental design. Being from New York City, where history is displayed on every street corner, Levine also brought along his passion for historic preservation. His education and experience eventually led to the formation of his business designing metal store fixtures and art pieces. The growth of the business necessitated more space for production, thus leading to his purchase of the 1922 Arizona Cotton Compress Warehouse, located at 215 S. 13th St. Since then, he has continued to save historic warehouses from the wrecking ball and has poured his time, energy and financial resources into rehabbing them. Some have been sold and developed into other adaptive reuse ventures, like the 1918 Phoenix Linen & Towel Supply, which currently houses Bentley Projects. Another example is the 1928 Anchor Manufacturing Company building, better known today as The Duce.

Ideally, these spaces should be inhabited by, what Levine calls, “a creative class.”

Other buildings, like the 1905 Phoenix Seed & Feed Capitol Warehouse, are still awaiting the right buyer, which isn’t just anyone, according to Levine. Between 2005 and 2006, Levine had the opportunity to sell his buildings to condominium developers, but he ultimately declined. He felt they would be violating the integrity of his vision for these historic spaces.

Ideally, these spaces should be inhabited by, what Levine calls, “a creative class” — those who appreciate the historical value of a building and feed off of the inspiration it provides. Levine is a vocal advocate for the Warehouse District and its important connection to Phoenix’s past. He will give you an earful of details about the famous and infamous people and events associated with them. Though he hasn’t always agreed with the ways Downtown Phoenix has been developed, he is passionate about seeing these historic spaces put to their best use. DPhxJ.com

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Downtown Phoenix Journal

district beat

midtown

lifestyle redesigned by Courtney McCune

They chose One Lexington because of its “creative, restrained and classy” design. Originally built in 1974, the repurposed high rise once housed the Century Bank offices and was converted to condos in 2005. Bruder is a believer in Downtown and feels it is coming into its own as a city. Though his work has been a part of the Downtown Phoenix landscape since the 1990s with his design of the Burton Barr Central Library, he is looking forward to adding more to it. “I am more interested in Central Phoenix than anywhere else in the Valley,” he proclaims. “I want to contribute to the vibrancy.” Email Courtney at courtney@dphxj.com.

Many artists take their creative cues from their surroundings. For prominent Valley architect Will Bruder, his inspirational environment of choice is now Midtown Phoenix. After years of living in the East Valley, Bruder and his wife, Louise Roman, relocated to the sleek and stylish One Lexington condominium tower on Central Avenue. They wanted to be a part of the vitality of Central Phoenix.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Weekend Brunch

As an architect, Bruder is known for clean, modern designs that flow with their surroundings and harness natural light. Originally from Milwaukee, Bruder moved to Arizona in 1968 to study under world famous architect Paolo Soleri. After more than 40 years residing in the Valley, Bruder claims that living in Midtown has given him a whole new perspective of Phoenix.

Low Tide Happy Hour 20% off Winner “Best Patio Dining” Phoenix New Times

According to Bruder, the move to Midtown has changed their lives. With the Osborn light rail station at their front door, walking and taking public transportation has become a way of life, allowing them to explore the restaurants, shopping and culture situated along the light rail line. Bruder claims that they have barely used a tank of gas in a month. 8

Downtown Phoenix Journal

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Indoor seating also available. 606 N. 4th Avenue 602-368-3613 www.localbreeze.com

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Find us on:

feature

history revisited

at Carver High by J Seth Anderson Carver High alumni did not want to see their former high school reduced to a pile of rubble. The historic main building, the shop and the stadium with the dirt field at 415 E. Grant St. in the Warehouse District were left standing 40 years after the school closed. The last graduating class had tossed their caps into the air in 1954, the year segregation ended in the country. Former students wanted to preserve the memory of their teachers, principals and coaches, as well as tell the story of the African Americans who called Phoenix home. Instead of watching the buildings be replaced with a marker, “Here stood the George Washington Carver High School,” the alumni beat the odds and acquired the land and the buildings in 1996. In the years since, the vision for the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center slowly became a reality. After being accepted to ASU, Princess Crump left her home state of Missouri and moved west, certain she was the first person in her family to live in Phoenix. She learned about the emerging museum and attended a small exhibit where she saw a photo of a man who shared her surname: William P. Crump. William came to Phoenix in 1897 and worked at the Adams Hotel before opening a hay and grain business in 1907. He spoke out when African Americans were overlooked as delegates to the territorial convention. He later became a delegate. A call to Princess’ father confirmed that William was in fact a relative, with their family line being traced through West Virginia. Princess recognized an opportunity to give back to the community and began to volunteer at the museum. With her background in nonprofit management, she helped rewrite the bond for the building in 2000 and soon after was offered a full-time position as Executive Director. When the bond money came through, the first priority was to bring the building up to code. The last time any work had been done was in 1954, and before that in 1926, the year the building was constructed. continued on pg 10 DPhxJ.com

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Downtown Phoenix Journal

continued from pg 9

The electrical system and plumbing had to be replaced, lead paint and asbestos removed, fire alarms installed and damage to the foundation caused by flooding had to be repaired. “Every time we thought we were close to being done, something else came up. It’s a 33,000-square-foot building — it has a mind of its own,” Crump explains. From 2001 to 2006, most of the bond money was eaten up by repair costs. Funds from Save America’s Treasures came through in 2006 and helped move the restoration forward. Today, structural work is nearly complete and the first floor of the museum is scheduled to officially open in the summer of 2012. Besides historical exhibits, the museum will also include a library, a gymnasium, a performance space, a bookstore, rooms for symposiums, local art exhibits, office space and outdoor events in the stadium. “The museum will tell the territorial story of the migration of African Americans to Phoenix up until the close of this school,” Crump says. “We want to weave it to talk about the professionals and the common person who made a difference.”

Shhh... The SecreT’S ouT Impeccable

The first documented African American in Phoenix, Mary Green, arrived in 1868 with the Columbus Gray family from Arkansas. Over the next three decades, others trickled into the Arizona territory from the South.

ServIce cuISIne

Life in Phoenix wasn’t as bad as in other states, but it wasn’t much better. Phoenix was a segregated city both legally and socially, which limited employment opportunities and housing. Restrictive covenants in real estate forbid the sale of property north of Van Buren Street. Three distinct African-American communities began to develop: The “east side” south of Van Buren to the railroad tracks, east of Central Avenue to 24th Street, the “west side” south of Grant Street to the Salt River, west of 7th Avenue to 19th Avenue, and the “south side” south of the Salt River to Southern Avenue, east of 16th Street to 28th Street. The majority found work in cotton fields and agriculture or in domestic professions as maids or childcare workers, while others worked in professional services as doctors or teachers.

SurroundIngS Phoenix Convention Center and its premier catering partner, Aventura, have quickly earned the reputation for being a top choice in the Valley for social and catering events.

In 1918, the Phoenix Union High School District voted to segregate the high schools and the few black students were moved to the basement of Phoenix Union High. Students were later moved to a two-room cottage on 9th and Jefferson streets, then into a house on the south side of Jefferson between 8th and 9th streets.

602-534-8600 aventuracatering.com

continued on pg 15 10

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DPhxJ.com

first fridays

First Fridays FAQ What is First Fridays? Artlink First Fridays is an art walk. It is a FREE monthly self-guided tour of galleries, studios, and unique businesses in downtown Phoenix, showcasing art by local, national, and international artists. When is First Fridays? On the First Friday of every month from 6 – 10 PM. (Many galleries are open even later) Where do I park? At the Phoenix Art Museum there is FREE PARKING, shuttle service, and Artlink Volunteers to answer your questions. There is also on-street parking and parking garages throughout Downtown. When about town, be mindful of “No Parking” signs, and refrain from parking on dirt lots, or you may be ticketed. Where do I start? Now that you have this map in your hands, you can start at any of the participating galleries. Where you start and where you go is up to you! If this is your first time out, you may want to start at:

Uptown Phoenix Art Museum 1625 N. Central Avenue 602-257-1880 phxart.org

Midtown

How do I get around? In most cases, you can simply walk, or you may prefer to bicycle, pedicab, drive, or use the FREE SHUTTLE BUS. Did you say SHUTTLE BUS? Yes! Check the map for shuttle stop locations. Shuttle service runs from 6 – 10 PM. Not just First Fridays! Many of the stops on the tour are full-time businesses that have regular hours throughout the month. Be sure to visit them throughout the month for all sorts of great events. Feel free to check out Third Friday as well. There is no shuttle service on Third Friday but many of the galleries are open 6 – 10 PM, just like First Fridays. Who runs First Friday? First Fridays is run by Artlink, INC., an all-volunteer grass roots organization of artists and supporters dedicated to showcasing the amazing variety of art in Phoenix. Artlink is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. No staff members are paid. Artlink relies solely on participants like you to make it successful. How can I help? By volunteering! Artlink needs volunteers not only on First Fridays but also throughout the month. It’s fun, and a monthly training session will help get you started. Call 602-256-7529 for more information. Become a member of Artlink, INC. First Fridays are made possible by the people who enjoy it. If you enjoy First Fridays please become a member. Your annual membership enables us to continue to offer the quality art events you have come to expect in downtown Phoenix. Call 602-256-7539 for more information. TIPS - Shuttles are a great way to get around and can really help save on gas, but keep in mind that many galleries are within walking distance of each other. - Bicycles are also a great way to explore First Fridays, but please don’t forget lights and a helmet! - You can’t see everything in one night, so see what you can and come out again next month! Don’t forget about the galleries off the beaten path; they will be marked at the map edges with major crossroads intact.

Downtown

An Explorerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Map

For First Fridays and every day in between Phoenix

Art Museum

McDowell Rd.

7th St.

3rd St.

Central Ave.

7th Ave. Margaret T. Hance Park

I-10 Moreland St.

Portland

3 3 St.

4 2

7 4 5 6

2nd Ave.

3rd Ave.

4th Ave.

5th Ave.

6th Ave.

7th Ave.

Garfield St.

6 10

Fillmore St.

10 11

Polk St.

Fillmore St.

Van Buren St.

Monroe St.

3 3

3rd St.

2nd St.

2nd Ave.

3rd Ave.

4th Ave.

5th Ave.

6th Ave.

7th Ave.

Washington St.

Pierce St.

7th St.

Van Buren St.

Adams St.

5th St.

Van Buren St.

3rd St.

University Park

38-40

Civic Space Park

Taylor St.

McKinley St. 3rd St.

2nd St.

21-27

16 17

15 14 1

19 13

Fillmore St.

2 29-36 37 41

McKinley St.

Pierce St.

9th Ave.

10th Ave.

11th Ave.

12th Ave.

15th Ave.

9 8

Portland St.

Roosevelt St.

3rd St.

Portland St.

2nd St.

1st St.

I-10

12 11 10

14 13

Washington St.

Jackson St.

Note regarding First Fridays shuttles: please be advised that shuttle routes are subject to change due to construction, street closures, etc. Shuttles must be back at the Phoenix Art Museum by 10pm. Please plan your last route accordingly.

7th St.

15th Ave.

5th St.

Madison St.

1st St.

Jefferson St. Madison St.

Central Ave.

Jefferson St.

Roosevelt Row 1) Roosevelt Church 924 N. 1st St. 602.495.3191 rooseveltchurch.org 2) Warehouse 1005 1005 N. 1st St. 602.258.1481 3) The Firehouse 1015 N. 1st St. 602.300.7575 strivedreams.com 4) Afida’s Hair Culture 116 E. Roosevelt St. 602.258.4992 myspace.com/afidashairculture 5) Golden Rule Tattoo 120 E. Roosevelt St. 602.374.7533 thegoldenruletattoo.com 6) Carly’s 128 E. Roosevelt St. 602.262.2759 carlysbistro.com 7) Art Awakenings 1014 N. 2nd St. 602.340.1675 artawakenings.org 8) Revolver Records 918 N. 2nd St. 602.795.4980 revolveraz.com 9) just breathe, a wellness sanctuary 828 N. 2nd St. 602.256.1400 justbreathewellness.com 10) FilmBar 815 N. 2nd St. 602.595.9187 thefilmbarphx.com 11) Monorchid Creative Studios 214 E. Roosevelt St. 602.253.0339 monorchid.com 12) Phoenix Center for the Arts 1202 N. 3rd St. 602.262.4627 phoenix.gov/PARKS/phxctr.html 13) Kitchen Sink Studios 828 N. 3rd St. 602.258.3150 kitchensinkstudios.com 14) Roosevelt Tavern 816 N. 3rd St. 602.254.2561 15) Gallery Red 812 N. 3rd St. 16) Phoenicia Association 821 N. 3rd St. 602.441.3385 wearephoenicia.com 17) Holgas 821 N. 3rd St. 602.487.5134 18) Hazel 724 N. 4th St. Punkouture 718 N. 4th St. 602.617.punk punkouture.com

22) MADE Art Boutique 922 N. 5th St. 602.256.MADE madephx.com

2) Sens 705 N. 1st St. #120 602.340.9777 sensake.com

23) JoBot Coffee 918 N. 5th St. jobot-coffee.com

3) Turf 705 N. 1st St. 602.296.5043 theturfpub.com

24) Jones Studio 916 N. 5th St. 25) The Lost Leaf 914 N. 5th St. 602.258.0014 thelostleaf.org 26) Chaos of the Earth Cafe 910 N. 5th St. 602.633.3008 27) Spread the Weird Animation Studio 906 N. 5th St. 602.441.5877 spreadtheweird.com 28) Conspire 901 N. 5th St. 602.228.7373 myspace.com/conspirephoenix 29) Galeria de los Muertos 905 N. 5th St. galeriadelosmuertos.org 30) Longhouse Studio 917 N. 5th St. 602.423.8396 31) Think Graphics 917 N. 5th St. 602.466.7311 thinkpro.net 32) Pravus Gallery 501 E. Roosevelt St. 602.363.2552 pravusgallery.com 33) Gallery Celtica 509 E. Roosevelt St. 602.252.2160 galleryceltica.com 34) Hayden Art & Design Studio 509 E. Roosevelt St. 602.252.2160 35) Daughters of the Frozen North 511 E. Roosevelt St. 602.252.4762 36) Five15 arts 515 E. Roosevelt St. 602.256.0150 515arts.com 37) Regular Gallery 918 N. 6th St./Alley 38) Butter Toast Boutique 908 N. 6th St. 602.258.3458 buttertoastboutique.com 39) The Roose Parlour & Spa 906 N. 6th St. 602.274.6942 theroose.com 40) Grow-Op Boutique 902 N. 6th St. 41) Perihelion Arts 610 E. Roosevelt St. 602.334.6299 perihelionarts.com

Garfield

gallery:SUHU 335 E. McKinley St. gallerysuhu.wordpress.com

1) CO+HOOTS 825 N. 7th St. incohoots.com

19) Bliss/ReBar 901 N. 4th St. 602.795.1792 blissonfourth.com

2) Welcome Diner 924 E. Roosevelt St. 602.495.1111 marthaandmary.net/welcomediner

20) Modified Arts 407 E. Roosevelt St. 602.462.5516 modifiedarts.org

3) Alwun House 1204 E. Roosevelt St. 602.253.7887 alwunhouse.org

21) eye lounge a contemporary art space 419 E. Roosevelt St. 602.430.1490 eyelounge.com

Evans Churchill 1) Moira 215 E. McKinley St. #102 602.254.5085 moirasushi.com

Downtown Core 1) First Studio 631 N. 1st Ave. #101 602.957.7760 firststudio.net

Sweets & Beats 1504 W Grand Ave. 480-650-8052 sweetsandbeatsphoenix.com

2) Artlink A.E. England Gallery 424 N. Central Ave. aeenglandgallery.com

The Trunk Space 1506 W Grand Ave. 602-256-6006 thetrunkspace.com

4) PHX Public Market Urban Grocery & Wine Bar 14 E. Pierce St. phoenixpublicmarket.com

3) Hotel San Carlos/Ghost Lounge 202 N. Central Ave. 602.253.4121 hotelsancarlos.com

2) Valley Pizza Downtown 1348 W Roosevelt St. 602-513-1248 valleypizzadowntown.com

5) Breadfruit 108 E. Pierce St. 602.267.1266 thebreadfruit.com

4) Downtown Phoenix Ambassadors 101 N. 1st Ave. #190 602.495.1500 downtownphoenix.com

3) Bragg’s Pie Factory 1301 W Grand Ave. Facebook > Bragg’s Pie Factory

6) Alta Space @ Alta Phoenix Lofts 600 N. 4th St. 602.374.7133 altaphoenixlofts.com

5) Wells Fargo History Museum 145 W. Adams St. 602.378.1578 wellsfargohistory.com/museums

7) Space 55 636 E. Pierce St. 602.663.4032 space55.org

6) Anderson Studio 805 W. Madison St. 602.369.7798 michaelandersonsculpture.net

8) Valley Youth Theatre 525 N. First St. 602.253.8188 vyt.com

7) Hanny’s 40 N. 1st St. 602.252.2285 hannys.net

Historic Roosevelt 1) Cheuvront Restaurant & Wine Bar 1326 N. Central Ave. 602.307.0022 cheuvronts.com 2) Irish Cultural Center 1106 N. Central Ave. 602.258.0109 azirish.com 3) Cycle 1100 N. Central Ave. Facebook > Cyclephoenix Jordre Studio jordre.com 4) Portland’s 105 W. Portland St 602.795.7480 portlandsphoenix.com 5) Fair Trade 1020 N. 1st Ave. 602.354.8150 azfairtrade.com 6) Cathedral Center for the Arts Olney Gallery 100 W. Roosevelt St. 602.254.7126 trinitycaa.org 7) Centurion Restaurant 214 W. Roosevelt St. 602.687.8796 centurionrestaurant.com 8) Lola Coffee 1001 N. 3rd Ave. 602.252.2265 lolacoffeebar.com 9) Pita Jungle 1001 N. 3rd Ave. 602.258.7482 pitajungle.com 10) Great Arizona Puppet Theater 302 W. Latham St. 602.262.2050 azpuppets.org 11) Cibo 603 N. 5th Ave. 602.441.2697 cibophoenix.com

8) Herberger Theater Center 222 E. Monroe St. 602.254.7399 herbergertheater.org 9) Galeria 147 - AZ Latino Arts & Cultural Ctr 147 E. Adams St. 602.254.9817 alacaz.org 10) Artlink Heritage Square Gallery 115 N. 6th St. 602.264.8232 artlinkhsgallery.com 11) First Fridays at Heritage Square 115 N. 6th St. 602.264.8232 ffinheritagesquare.com 12) Rossen House Museum 113 N. 6th St. 602.261.8063 rossonhousemuseum.org 13) Pizzeria Bianco 623 E. Adams St. 602.258.8300 pizzeriabianco.com 14) Nobuo at Teeter House 622 E. Adams St. 602.254.0600 nobuofukuda.com 15) CityScape 1 East Washington St. 602.772.3900 cityscapephoenix.com Arrogant Butcher Charming Charlie Designer District Five Guys Burgers and Fries Jimmy John’s Lucky Strike Oakville Grocery* Rasputin Vodka Bar* Republic of Couture Stand Up Live* Urban Outfitters Vitamin T West of Soho Workbench

My Goodness Cakes mygoodnesscakes.com Lady Luck Tattoo ladylucktattooaz.com Sticker Club Girl 623-221-6729 stickerclubgirl.com Barry Sparkman Studio 786-543-2207 barrysparkman.com Icaro Studio Moderncat Studio 480-203-6523 moderncatstudio.com Studio 8 602-252-0864 studio8phx.com 4) The Lodge Art Studio 1231 W Grand Ave. 480-329-7998 Facebook > The Lodge Art Studio 5) Shop Devious 1229 W Grand Ave. 602-330-5794 shopdevious.com 6) Paisley Town Paisley Violin Café 1030 W Grand Ave. 602-254-7843 thepaisley.com Lazy Lab Art Studio 602-485-0441 thepaisley.com Dragonfly Boutique 602-687-7649 funkydragonfly.com Wicked Wear 602-522-0625 thepaisley.com Be.Headed Salon 602-434-4224 beheadedsalon.com 7) La Melgosa 1023 W Grand Ave. Phoenix Fall Space 602-525-0643 phoenixfallspace.com Deus Ex Machina Gallery 602-487-0669 sites.google.com/site/improbableart Palm Reader Pottery PalmReaderPottery.yolasite.com Rusty Spoke Bicycle Collective

16) The Duce 525 S. Central Ave. 602.866.3823 theducephx.com *Pending opening

Gallery Serendipity 480-228-1500 Facebook > Gallery Serendipity

1) Grandevelt 1500-1506 W Grand Ave.

8) Studio of Lara Plecas & Sergio Aguirre 1020 W Grand Ave. 602-367-4019 larakupcikevicius.blogspot.com

13) Coe House 365 N. 4th Ave. dphxj.com

Kooky Krafts Shop 1500 W Grand Ave. 602-391-4016 Facebook > Kooky Krafts Shop

9) Gallery Marsiglia 1018 W Grand Ave. 602-573-3933 gallerymarsiglia.com

14) Mercantile 828 N. Central Ave. 602.410.9475 phoenixmercantile.com

The Bikini Lounge 1502 W Grand Ave. 602-252-0472 Facebook > The Bikini Lounge Phoenix

10) Tilt Gallery 919 W Filmore St. 602-716-5667 tiltgallery.com

12) Local Breeze 606 N. 4th Ave. 602.368.3613 localbreeze.com

Grand Ave

Uptown 1) Postino Wine Cafe 5144 N. Central Ave. 602.274.5144 postinowinecafe.com 2) Practical Art 5070 N. Central Ave. 602.264.1414 practical-art.com

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3) Esprit Décor Gallery 5555 N. 7th St. #122 602.248.0700 espritdecor.com 4) St Francis 111 E. Camelback Rd. 602.200.8111 stfrancisaz.com

Camelback Rd.

4 1

7th St.

Central Ave.

7th Ave.

5) Frances 10 W. Camelback Rd. 602.279.5463 francesvintage.com 6) Stinkweeds 12 W. Camelback Rd. 602.248.9461 stinkweeds.com 7) Smeeks 14 W. Camelback Rd. 602.279.0538 facebook.com/smeeks.phoenix

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11 14

15 16

3rd Ave.

10 12

8) Maizie’s Cafe 4750 N. Central Ave. #B1 602.274.2828 maiziescafe.com

Steele Indian Park

9) Lola Coffee 4700 N. Central Ave. 602.265.5652 lolacoffeebar.com

Indian School Rd.

10) Hula’s Modern Tiki 4700 N. Central Ave. 602.265.8454 hulasmoderntiki.com

2 3

MidTown 1) LUX Coffee Bar 4404 N. Central Ave. #1 602.266.6469 luxcoffee.com 2) George & Dragon 4240 N. Central Ave. 602.241.0018 georgeanddragonpub.net

Osborn Rd.

3) FEZ 3815 N. Central Ave. #B 602.287.8700 fezoncentral.com 4) Willo North Gallery 2811 N. 7th Ave. 602.717.2499 willonorth.com 5) Wild Thaiger 2631 N. Central Ave. 602.241.8995 wildthaiger.com

Thomas Rd.

6) Durant’s 2611 N. Central Ave. 602.264.5967 durantsaz.com

6 7

Montgomery Park

7) Switch Restaurant & Wine Bar 2603 N. Central Ave. 602.264.2295 switchofarizona.com

5 6 7

Phoenix

McDowell Rd.

7th St.

3rd St.

Central Ave.

3rd Ave.

7th Ave.

Art Museum

8) Heard Museum 2301 N. Central Ave. 602.252.8848 heard.org

9 10 11

12 13 14

9) Garfield Gallery 316 W. McDowell Rd. 602.349.3049 garfieldgallery.com 10) After Hours Gallery 116 W. McDowell Rd. #120 602.710.2398 afterhoursgallery.com

11) Phoenix Art Museum 1625 N. Central Ave. 602.257.1880 phxart.org

7th Ave./Melrose 1) The Academy Gallery at the Junior Drama Club Academy 4805 N. 7th Ave. 602.434.9265 jdcaweb.com 2) Black Lantern Tattoo 4636 N. 7th Ave. 602.332.4419 blacklanterntattoo.com 3) HTC 4634 N. 7th Ave. 602.266.0088 htcaz.com 4) Olive in Paris 4624 N. 7th Ave. 602.266.0966 oliveinparis.blogspot.com

4) Bards Books 3508 N. 7th St #145 602.274.7530 bardsbooks.com 5) Urban Beans 3508 N. 7th St. #100 602.595.2244 urbanbeans.com

6) The Main Ingredient 2337 N. 7th Street 602.843.6246 tmialehouse.com 7) Living Room Wine Bar 2333 N. 7th St. 602.229.1289 livingroomwinebar.com 8) SuTRA Midtown 2317 N. 7th St. 602.252.9525 sutramidtown.com

5) Paris Envy 4624 N. 7th Ave. 602.266.0966 parisenvy.blogspot.com

9) MacAlpines Soda Fountain 2303 N. 7th St. 602.262.5545 macalpines1928.com

6) America’s Taco Shop 4447 N. 7th Ave. 602.515.0856 americastacoshop.net

10) La Piccola Cucina 2241 N. 7th St. 602.358.7415 andyslpc.com

7) Blueberry Deluxe Boutique 702 W. Montecito Ave. 602.717.8376 blueberrydeluxe.com

11) Seven Hookah Bar & Lounge 2237 N. 7th St. 602.252.2552 sevenloungeaz.com

8) Go Kat Go/Bo’s Funky Stuff 4314 N. 7th Ave. 602.234.2528 go-kat-go.com 9) Retro Ranch 4303 N. 7th Ave. 602.297.1971 www.RetroRanch.net 10) Home Again Antiques and Home Furnishings 4302 N. 7th Ave. 602.424.0488 cochrans.com/homeagain 11) Z Girl Club 4301 N. 7th Ave. 602.265.3233 zgirlclub.com 12) Bend-a-light 4232 N. 7th Ave. #C 602.278.6855 bendalightneon.com 13) Wag n’ Wash 4230 N. 7th Ave. 602.462.WASH wagnwash.com/phx 14) Exposed Studio & Gallery 4225 N. 7th Ave. 602.248.8030 exposedgallery.com 15) Copper Star Coffee 4220 N. 7th Ave. 602.266.2136 copperstarcoee.com 16) Flo’s on 7th 4116 N. 7th Ave. 602.254.7861 ocrit.org/oson7th.html

7th St./Coronado 1) Urban Cookies 4711 N. 7th St. 602.451.4335 urbancookies.com 2) The Collective at the Artery 623 E. Indian School Rd. 602.332.1849 3) studio 6 at the artery 623 E. Indian School Rd. 602.332.1849 studio6.mosaicglobe.com

12) Coronado Cafe 2201 N. 7th St. 602.258.5149 coronadocafe.com 13) America’s Taco Shop 2041 N. 7th St. 602.682.5627 americastacoshop.net 14) Vikki Reed Studio 2009 N. 7th St. 602.943.6173 vikkireedwatercolors.com/ chakramandalas.net 15) Young Arts Arizona Ltd. At SEAD Architecture+Construction 2009 N. 7th St. 602.852.3605 youngartsaz.org 16) Tuck Shop 2245 N. 12th St. 602.354.2980 tuckinphx.com

continued from pg 10

Eighty students were enrolled. Finally, in 1925, the school district began construction on a new school in an industrial area on Grant Street. Within a year, the Phoenix Union Colored High School opened, a modest building with a simple ziggurat-shaped roof and Art Deco symmetry. The school was renamed in 1943 in honor of George Washington Carver and the name remained until the school closed in 1954. The landmark case Brown v. The Board of Education ended segregation in the country in 1954, but two legal cases in Arizona, Heard v. Davis, No. 77497 and Phillips v. Phoenix Union High School and Junior College District, No. 72909, barred segregation in the state a year prior. On January 9, 1953, Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Fred C. Struckmeyer ruled, “There are no second-class citizens in Arizona.” The school district used the building from 1954 until the alumni acquired it in 1996.

The museum PR committee is currently preparing the first leg of marketing, including the press kits, brochures, a Facebook page and mailers. The local African-American newspaper, the Arizona Informant, will be the primary voice of the museum. Crump says, “The name George Washington Carver is a draw to the museum, especially for people from the Midwest. He did so much for the country. Preservation is another draw. Few buildings like this remain in Phoenix.” Although still a work in progress, the museum is open Monday through Friday between noon and 5 p.m. for walk-in tours. There is no admission fee, but donations are appreciated. Donations can also be made through the organization’s website, gwcmuseumculturalcenter.org. “People can come see what’s been done and what still needs to be done,” Crump pauses and with a smile adds, “if these walls could talk.” Email Seth at seth@dphxj.com.

Cutting edge researchers discuss provocative topics in an informal setting...

START SMART LECTURE SERIES

CAFÉ SCIENCE LECTURE SERIES

7:30 a.m. April 21 – All about the Arizona Burn Center, with Daniel M. Caruso, MD, FACS,

Chairman, Department of Surgery; Chief, Burn Services, Arizona Burn Center, at the Good Egg, 50 E. Camelback May 12 – Stress and the Teen-age Brain, with Ron Hammer, PhD, Professor, College of Medicine – Phoenix, at UA Building, 714 E. Van Buren

5:30 p.m. April 25 – Discovery Triangle – Urban Shift of the Future, with Don Keuth, President

and CEO, Phoenix Community Alliance, and Sara Dial, Principal, Sara Dial and Associates, at Bliss Rebar, 901 N. 4th St. May 23 – What Happened to the Fight Against Cancer?, with Joan Shapiro, PhD, Associate Dean for Research, College of Medicine - Phoenix, at Bliss Rebar, 901 N. 4th St.

To RSVP, contact Brigitte Jordan-Mincks at bjordan1@email.arizona.edu or (602) 827-2018

DPhxJ.com

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Downtown Phoenix Journal

cultivating local In recent years, Downtown Phoenix has bolstered a new breed of entrepreneur: creatives looking to start a unique business while adding to the allure of the city center. by Si Robins “I found this space and was able to kind of have a multi-use thing,” Thibault says. “I did a big renovation right at the get-go, but I didn’t have a full-formed idea of what it was going to be. So, I just started doing hair.”

These designated few, willing to risk finances, time and reputation in the name of creating culture, are leaving distinct impressions of the city one customer at a time. DOWNTOWN ‘DOS In a compact string of storefronts just south of Roosevelt Street, a space is knee-deep in a remodel, a Greek restaurant dishes out gyros and, behind a nondescript glass storefront, one woman cuts and styles hair.

These designated few... are leaving distinct impressions of the city...

Thibault describes the reception of the newly branded space as “confusion, primarily,” with some longtime customers strolling in unaware of the business expansion. “A lot of pedestrians have noticed me doing hair in here for a couple of years, and then the sign went up and they wandered in,” she explains. “It’s nice to be a little bit more established.”

With no formal sign overhead — the glass façade advertises vintage goods and Styling • Cut • Color — one must wonder what it’s all about.

Before the name was added, it was a speakeasy for hair, if you will. Thibault didn’t even typically accept walk-ins. The space, vacant upon move-in, has housed any number of businesses through the years, from clothing boutiques to pet shops.

This is Mercantile, a project that Downtown resident Shauna Thibault has been working on for three years. A professional stylist, Thibault has morphed the space into her dream locale: a hybrid of funky hairstyling and hip vintage finds. 16

Downtown Phoenix Journal

Thibault had enough word-of-mouth work doing hair and makeup and set design for photoshoots to pay the bills. Now, with a bevy of new products in house, the space has filled out, but she still has ideas as to what it can become: Movie screenings, art shows, wine tastings and more have piqued her curiosity of late. |

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DPhxJ.com

arthouse flicks and a vast selection of craft beers and wines. The space itself is deceivingly large, especially after Aubey came in one day shortly after securing the venue and demoed a few walls to really open up the lounge area. The theater, which seats about 50, is thickly insulated and spacious, perfect for a range of different performance capabilities, including, Aubey hopes, some live music. Even the seats themselves are special: Aubey trucked them to Phoenix from a shuttered theater in Eldridge, IA.

CINEMA ‘N SPIRITS Another multi-functional space is the newly opened FilmBar, near 2nd and McKinley streets. If it feels like the concept came to fruition quickly, well, it did. Owner Kelly Aubey seemingly connected the dots between his former IT career and the indie movie theater overnight. “I’d been playing around with the idea of opening a mid-sized music venue Downtown,” Aubey explains. “I thought that’s what we needed down here.” But, for the first time in his life, Aubey decided to listen to somebody. After some sage advice from Local First Arizona’s Kimber Lanning, he had an epiphany that independent cinema done right was what was needed.

THE CITY ON TWO WHEELS Like Aubey, another entrepreneur realized a need within the city center and took advantage.

Aubey’s tenacious pursuit of the project comes as no surprise to anyone that knows him; if he is interested in something he always jumps in head first.

With the hustle of the central business core as his surroundings, Palmer Kelley tinkers away on a copper bike frame, working with fixed ferocity in his newborn space, PHX Bike, located in The Hub building near Central and Adams Street.

Aubey credits the team he amassed — from programmer Steve Weiss, to architect Taz Loomans and others — as the real reason why he was able to even open FilmBar. Having no experience opening (or running) a business, he needed all the help he could get.

Little more than a glorified closet, Kelley opened the space at the beginning of the year after he cultivated many relationships with several renowned bike companies throughout the U.S. for much of 2010.

“I’m doing this for the passion of it, and to make this a better place,” Aubey admits. “If I wanted to make money, I would’ve gone back to school and gotten another degree.” Since opening in early February, FilmBar has already garnered a reputation for offbeat

He is quickly gaining a reputation as the man that makes fully custom builds for clients that wander in. Now he is turning his attention to some complete bikes, like those you’d see in a bike showroom, for entry-level urban riders.

Each frame is customtailored, no different than a fine suit or gown, to fit the rider.

Pricing completely depends on the rider, the parts and the level of customization. Kelley is usually piecing together a few bikes at any given time, and turnaround is typically a few weeks from original consultation to completion. Kelley, a Phoenix native and lifelong biker, focuses on “city” bikes — mostly fixed-gear street bikes originally made popular by bike messengers in dense urban areas. And he practices what he preaches: As a Willo resident, he commutes solely by bike, oftentimes pedaling home for a quick lunch break.

continued on pg 19 DPhxJ.com

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Downtown Phoenix Journal

eats & drinks

homemade pride

by Justin Lee

Seemingly overwhelmed by the corporate and user-friendly at face value, it can take studied scratching at Phoenix’s veneer to find a pulse. To the increasing numbers who have come to know and love Phoenix’s more silent, urban personality, the central city is frequently referred to as a sort of insider’s paradise. The type of place that, if you know where to go, you can find almost anything. Within the local food community, amidst a universal fever of locavore ideals and farm-to-table concepts, the upward and deserving trend toward hyper-local has been marked with a growing number of establishments capitalizing on food and drink products sourced or crafted from well-intentioned origins.

Urban characters everywhere are beginning to push the art of goods homemade.

This is not to say such novelties are new to the neighborhood, however. Take Carolina’s, a Central Phoenix landmark for choice Sonoran-style Mexican eating since the late 1960s; an enduring outpost that has continued to make its signature, cult-instigating tortillas in house every day since. There’s Old Heidelberg Bakery, the decades-old must-stop for golden, salty pretzels and other sentimental Bavarian baked goods. Then, increasing the seniority is Schreiner’s Fine Sausage, the unmistakable Midtown legend for respective handmade meats since the 1950s.

All of these examples highlight the sprightly hum of like-minded businesses in the area that have been operating below the radar for generations, marching to their unique beats — regardless of trend. “Being here in Central Phoenix, we have seen many changes over the years,” Nancy Schiller of Schreiner’s Fine Sausage sages. “Customers are now more educated than ever on the economic benefits of supporting locally owned businesses,” she adds, referring to the current, localleaning industry. “This has helped our business to prosper even more so.” 18

Downtown Phoenix Journal

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Now, new generations of local food players are building upon the continued success of their pioneers, helping to establish a more fluid quilt of independent, native products. Countless artisan-baked shops are surfacing in corners citywide, sharp coffee spots are opting to house roast their selective beans, and beloved craft breweries are finally beginning to shine on a bigger stage. We can now even claim our very own brand of vodka. Arroyo Vodka, a premium wheat-based variety distilled in a facility just east of Downtown, is accumulating newbie buzz for its one-of-a-kind pedigree. The summary? Urban characters everywhere are beginning to push the art of goods homemade. Another young outlet in the community is Urban Cookies, a bright business that holds value in not only its products’ quality, but also the neighborhood fabric it’s a part of as well. Serving high-fashioned cookies produced nearly entirely of ingredients organic and seasonal, baked on site, the observant retail shop and catering business is proud of its ripening roots. DPhxJ.com

eats & drinks

“We knew we wanted to be part of Central Phoenix before we ever opened our doors,” Shaun Breese, co-owner of the gourmet cookie shop, says. “The area has such a high concentration of small businesses, there are many support organizations in place that you won’t find anywhere else. We really felt like being in the city was part of our overall brand.” Hunting south of Downtown along Buckeye Road, just west of 7th Street, sprouts another young food enterprise benefiting from not only its efficient central location, but also the community’s increased awareness of properly sourced eating: The Meat Shop. Located in a repolished bunker that used to house an old welding shop, owners Tim and Beth Wilson created The Meat Shop as a home base for what they say essentially grew out of an “expensive hobby,” where periodically selling their prized American breeds of pigs, nurtured from their family farm in Palo Verde, became too much of an expensive — and time consuming — endeavor to maintain as a side project.

Since opening in 2009, The Meat Shop’s success hasn’t gone unnoticed, either. Now supplying some of the most lauded pork products in the region to bucket-list restaurants citywide, Tim and Beth aren’t looking back. “We listened, we learned and we practiced,” adds Beth, alluding to their accelerated learning curve. “We sometimes wonder if the idea of ‘local’ will die out, but we don’t really see local, fresh and old-fashioned being rejected anytime soon. The meat is too good and vastly different from any others. We can’t wait to expand in some way.” An urban center at times so glaring on its surface to the naked eye, Central Phoenix continues to fortify an undertow of independent assets worth celebrating. Though it may require routine locals to veer off their daily routes more frequently to truly reach any form of critically massed appreciation, to more seasoned compatriots, bounty definitely exists within the monotony — a paradise insiders will continue to support, and appreciate, regardless of trends.

“We are selling meat that is fresh from the farm every week, brought into our shop whole, cut the way you want it,” Beth says. “We didn’t really know the importance of ‘local’ until the positive feedback started coming in.”

Email Justin at justin@dphxj.com.

continued from page 17 “I like to get to know the client, show them some ideas and get their reactions,” Kelley explains of the building process. “I ask them where they live and what they’re going to use the bike for.” Each frame is custom-tailored, no different than a fine suit or gown, to fit the rider. Then Kelley goes back and forth with the client on every minute detail to make a bike that will be absolutely adored. PHX Bike is here to truly build your bike, as you’ve never experienced before. BUILDING A FOLLOWING Yet, with these unique ventures with admittedly niche audiences, how does word get out to the general public?

oenix... Only on Only in Downtown Ph

m o .c ix n e o h P n w o t n w o D book / Flickr : Blogs / Twitter / Face

Thibault, for one, has been spreading the news via Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, good old word of mouth and a soon-to-be-launched online store at Etsy.com. Kelley has taken to a picture blog detailing the bike-building process, and has hosted riders from out of state to come check out the urban Phoenix landscape. Aubey had been utilizing social media since he secured the space — months before the doors ever opened — creating quite a buildup of buzz.

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Visit us online for • A schedule of events • Maps • Coupons + deals • Dining guide • What to do • Directories

The small strip that houses Mercantile is starting to gain attention, with Athenian Express serving a growing lunch crowd and a complementary vintage store, Vintage by Misty, set to relocate this spring from Scottsdale. Thibault is hoping the opening will bring a different demographic to the area. “The more the merrier,” she proclaims. “If people are coming to this little strip to buy something vintage, that’s great. At least they’re here.”

The Urban Heart of Arizona

Email Si at si@dphxj.com. DPhxJ.com

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Downtown Phoenix Journal

eats & drinks

the hungry

insider’s

by Justin Lee Fuego Bistro A hidden gem by every sentiment of the term, Fuego Bistro is probably not a restaurant you’d visit by merely passing it by. Camouflaged in a courtyard toward the back end of an otherwise suburban, humdrum office complex off 7th Street and Montebello Avenue, Fuego Bistro is a business that has survived almost entirely by virtue of genuine, deserving lip service. Popular for its slow-roasted meats and empanadas to, well, fight over, Fuego Bistro’s menu is known as a playful marriage of Cuban, Puerto Rican and Southwestern influences. Add in the very well-priced wine list and you’ll see why it is worth the easy hunt. 713 E. Palo Verde Dr.

bounty It’s been known that the well informed opt for the unassuming back entrance when going out on the town. Next time you visit these spots, skip the front door and try the discrete entryway instead.

Durant’s Durant’s is the preeminent Central Phoenix standby for the classic steakhouse experience. Dark and brooding, this “old Phoenix” hideout continues to mix genuine old-school character with a modern sentimentality for a bygone era. Widely accessed by the entrance through its back kitchen, Durant’s has been a popular haunt of entrenched locals, area power players and tourists alike. In fact, using the back entrance via the parking lot is so assumed, front-door visitors are likely to generate curious glances as they enter the restaurant for (obviously) the first time. Stiff and full of character, Durant’s does best when straightforward, with marked loyalty to no-fuss cuts of meat; simple, sturdy sides; and of course, the cocktail classics. 2611 N. Central Ave. Cibo If it weren’t for low-lying signage along its perimeter wall or overflowing crowds enjoying favorably weathered evenings within its quaint front courtyard, many would probably race past Cibo unknowingly. And, though a front walkway off 5th Avenue leading to the main entrance exists, it is not necessarily the most utilized access point — a more nondescript side pathway, pulling from a small back parking lot, often provides just as steady foot traffic. Operating inside a historic home restored and refreshed just enough, Cibo continually buzzes with the glow and hum of a packed house. Charming and intimate, the ever-popular restaurant serves some of the best pizza anywhere in the city, sidelining the experience with a thoughtful wine list and, surprisingly, delicious and creative desserts. 603 N. 5th Ave. Dick’s Hideaway You wouldn’t know it otherwise, but behind an unmarked doorway, in a refashioned Uptown strip mall, exists one of the city’s best kept dining in-theknows. The pocket-sized eatery, accessed either by said mark-less doorway to the front or a second doorway leading from a back parking lot through the kitchen, Dick’s Hideaway was once considered overflow dining space for the now-shuttered next-door Richardson’s Cuisine of New Mexico, lost to a fire in 2009. Post-fire, Dick’s has reemerged as a spot worthy of standing alone. From its near-infamous brunch service (best Bloody Marys in town?), spicedup rendition of posole, full-frontal carne adovada (pork marinated in a chile adobo) or slow-roasted chicken, Dick’s earns acclaim for its rugged take on New Mexican grazing. 6008 N. 16th St. Email Justin at justin@dphxj.com.

Downtown Phoenix Journal

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DPhxJ.com

eats & drinks | destination dines Aiello’s Backdoor Pizzeria [Pizzeria] Uptown As their menu states, only 50 pies are sold a night, and all orders must be called in ahead. What it doesn’t suggest, however, is that you should also call as early as possible, as this popular pizzeria frequently sells out. Apart from the larger and more formal Italian restaurant Aiello’s on Central Avenue, just north of Camelback, the tiny, separate pizzeria operates through a second doorway at the restaurant’s backside. Phone ahead, ring the doorbell, pick up your bubbling, perfectly blistered 18-inch New York-style pizza. Sincerely: easy as pie. 5202 N. Central Ave. Barrio Café [Regional Mexican] Coronado Lively, beloved Midtown hot spot known for lovingly authentic, regional Mexican fare. Barrio Café is an intimate, casually hip spot that serves a diverse menu of inventive, gourmet eats of the highest quality. Standouts include one of the best mole in the city; cochinita pibil (marinated slow-roasted pork); guacamole made table side, served with sturdy, homemade tortilla chips; and of course, cinnamon-dusted churros for dessert. Never to be outdone, Barrio Café also offers a very worthy selection of housemade margaritas — some of the most satisfying in town. 2814 N. 16th St.

Los Dos Molinos [New Mexican] South Phoenix Though locations now exist throughout the Valley, including one right Downtown, it’s the South Phoenix flagship of this popular New Mexican restaurant that still rings dearest to diners. A destination in its own right, thanks in no part to its isolated location, residents Valleywide find themselves making the journey to Los Dos Molinos regularly for its hearty, fire-breathing menu. Known for sourcing the hottest chilis while in season, relaying their heat into every salsa, sauce and marinade found on the menu, routine diners know well that that Los Dos Molinos doesn’t do “mild,” which many unsuspecting pilgrims find excessively perfect. 8684 S. Central Ave.

Fattoush [Middle Eastern] Uptown Hidden in plain sight in a strip mall along 19th Avenue just south of Campbell, the familyrun Fattoush has become a popular pit stop for diners hankering for high-quality Middle Eastern eating. Generally health focused, and purposefully full of vegetarian-friendly options, Fattoush has become an outpost for all edible persuasions. From lamb dishes to salads, falafel to baklava, the menu is full of the crave-inducing specialties we’ve all come to know so well. 4426 N. 19th Ave. Gourmet House of Hong Kong [Chinese] Coronado Forget the weathered Formica tables and the general ambiance of a 1960s diner, unchanged. Gourmet House of Hong Kong is known well for its encyclopedia-sized menu of old-school Chinese fare done well. Beyond its tall, yellow sign overshadowing McDowell Road, many may never take notice of this homely looking outpost if it weren’t for word of its seriously delicious eats. Whether for takeaway or dining in, its Americanized menu or more authentic Chinese-language option, Gourmet House of Hong Kong is the type of dive you search out — cheap, tasty, sizable portions and absolutely zero fuss. 1438 E. McDowell Rd.

Mrs. White’s Golden Rule Café [Southern/Soul] Downtown Phoenix’s original temple to serious Southern cooking, Mrs. White’s today remains one of the best outlets for soul-enriching fried chicken, greens and other Southern mainstays in the city. Though geographically central, located along a major thoroughfare and bathed in bright yellow paint, many speeding by don’t take notice of Mrs. White’s without first being directed. After said introduction, however, there’s little question as to why this local institution has withstood the years. 808 E. Jefferson St.

LUNCH Monday - Friday 11am - 2pm

DINNER Monday 5pm-9pm Tuesday - Thursday 5p-10pm Friday+Saturday 5p-11pm 603 NORTH 5TH AVENUE | PHOENIX

602.441.2697

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A P R / m aY 2 0 1 1

Downtown Phoenix Journal

interview

jimmy eat downtown

Jim Adkins has toured the world time and time again, yet the comforts of home draw him back.

by Si Robins

Adkins has fronted Mesa-based Jimmy Eat World since 1993, and despite selling millions of records, he never really considered ditching Phoenix. He and his family moved to a home near the Biltmore in 2006, and he now spends most of his time in Central Phoenix when he’s in town. “For all of us ‘eastside kids,’ it’s a natural progression,” he says of the move. “You grow up on the eastside, you do some time in Tempe, and then if you’re 30 and you’re still here, you’re living in Phoenix.” The band has long had a soft spot for Central Phoenix, squeezing in secret appearances before the Mason Jar closed in 2005 and before Modified Arts switched formats in 2009. They’ve played gigs at the former Dodge Theater and US Airways Center and threw CD release parties at defunct venues The Web Theatre and The Brickhouse. “I’ve always been rooting for Downtown,” Adkins explains. “For as long as I’ve been here, it seems like Downtown is always on the cusp of going off. Now I think it finally is.” As a teenager in Mesa, Adkins bounced from band to band, playing suburban stages, but Tempe was typically the furthest west he traveled. It wasn’t until he toured the globe with Jimmy Eat World that he really gained a respect for Phoenix. “Traveling a lot has really helped me become supportive of Downtown,” Adkins explains. “You go to other places that have a certain vibe or scene — places that feel alive — and it makes you want to carry that home.” He is encouraged as of late in the musical progress the city is making. He cites Kinch as a band to watch, and he follows the musical rumblings going on around Grand Avenue. “There are a lot of people doing creative, interesting things, but it’s hard to rally support for that,” he continues. “It’s rare that local bands can draw 1,000 people to a show. There are kids on the north side [of Phoenix] and kids in Mesa doing great things [musically], but they’re probably unaware of each other’s existence. Downtown could be that place to bring people together.” As Adkins hits the road again, this time prepping for jaunts through Australia, Canada, the U.K. and the band’s fourth trek around the U.S. in less than a year, he dishes what is best after a long time away from home.

photo by @grtaylor2

“Burritos,” he says without a hint of sarcasm. “Mexican food is the best thing about coming home. I’m partial to it. I don’t think I could live somewhere that didn’t have solid Mexican food.”

He also hits the likes of Stinkweeds, Pane Bianco and the Phoenix Art Museum soon after returning for his Phoenix fix. “It takes some exploration,” Adkins says, “but there’s definitely something for everybody in Downtown Phoenix.”

Downtown Phoenix Journal

Email Si at si@dphxj.com. |

A P R / m aY 2 0 1 1

DPhxJ.com

ONE LEXINGTON NOW OVER 70% SOLD!

$159,900 Two bedrooms starting at $209,000

5 REASONS TO CHOOSE

One bedrooms starting at

ONE LEXINGTON

1601 1602 SOLD 1604 SOLD 1606

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COMPELLING LOCATION

We’re directly across the street from Osborn station, so you can easily head north or south on the LRT. Hit the Central Library, Chase Field, the Convention Center, First Fridays, the list goes on and on…

SUPERIOR STRUCTURE

A monument to visionary urban design, and a landmark of the new Midtown Phoenix, ONE Lexington features soaring-loft style condos with 11’10” ceilings, wall-to-wall low-E windows and solid concrete and steel construction.

UNObSTRUCTEd VIEWS

Uniquely perched over the Central Avenue corridor, you’ll enjoy spectacular views in every direction—from Central Avenue to Camelback Mountain. Our balconies are fitted with floating tempered glass panels to ensure those unobstructed views remain.

bRANd NEW INTERIORS

Eco-friendly, durable bamboo flooring, CaesarStone countertops and breakfast bars and walk-in closets in the master bedrooms— just some of our standard interior features.

RESORT-INSPIREd AMENITIES

An on-site concierge, a resort-style pool and spa area, fire pit, putting green, owners’ lounge, spacious fitness center and “Urban Yoga Studio.” Yes, you’ll find all of this as well as eight secured visitor-parking stalls at ONE Lexington.

SALES CENTER OPEN Mon – Sat: 10am – 6pm Sun: Noon – 5pm

One East Lexington Avenue Phoenix, Arizona 85012 At the corner of Central and Lexington

OneLexington.com This is not an offer to sell, nor a solicitation of an offer to buy, to residents of any state or province in which registration and other legal requirements have not been fulfilled. Void where prohibited by law. All plans, amenities, availability, completion dates, prices, improvements and incentives are subject to change without notice. No binding offer to sell may be accepted until the Arizona subdivision public report is issued. Sales and marketing by Russ Lyon/Sotheby’s International Realty.

602.277.8500