ANTHEM GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB; A CULINARY EXPERIENCE TO REMEMBER.
TASTY RECIPES AND FUN DIY IDEAS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
ROCK SPRINGS CAFE; A LOCAL LANDMARK.
Discover 36 holes of championship golf, two full-service practice ranges, premier dining and more at Anthem Golf and Country Club, in Arizona's high Sonoran desert foothills. Only a short drive away from Phoenix and Scottsdale, Anthem Country Club provides tennis, pickleball and bocce ball courts, a family pool, fitness center and spa.
DISCOVER UNMATCHED FACILITIES:
Extraordinary Golf: Members enjoy 36 holes of championship Scottsdale golf designed by Greg Nash
Racquet Royalty: Enjoy eight tennis courts, four pickleball courts, and three bocce courts.
Aquatic Oasis: Relax and rejuvenate at our two pools with aquatic fitness and seasonal programming.
Next Level Wellness: Elevate your fitness in our two state-of-the-art wellness facilities
World-Class Spa: Rejuvenate and relax as the spa professionals at Persimmon Fitness Club guide you to tranquility
Culinary Adventures: Savor fresh, seasonal fare at our restaurants in the Persimmon Bar & Grille and Barrel House
A Celebration of Culinary Delights
As the October issue of Sonoran Foothills Lifestyle Magazine arrives, we’re excited to introduce a theme that resonates with all of us: food and beverage. This issue is dedicated to the culinary experiences that bring us together, the flavors that define our region, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.
The North Valley of Phoenix, with its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers a unique culinary tapestry. From the fresh, vibrant ingre dients that flourish in our desert climate to the diverse influences that shape our local cuisine, every dish tells a story of community, tradition, and innovation. In this issue, we explore how food and drink serve as a bridge, connecting us to our past, celebrating our present, and inspiring our future.
We are particularly thrilled to feature the Anthem Golf & Country Club on the cover of this issue. As our new advertising partner, Anthem Golf & Country Club stands out not only for its world-class golf courses but also for its exceptional dining experiences. The club is a cornerstone of our community, offering an array of amenities that cater to both casual and fine dining preferences. Their commitment to quality and hospitality has earned them a stellar reputation, making them a beloved destination for members and visitors alike.
Inside, you’ll find an in-depth feature on Anthem Golf & Country Club, highlighting the variety of dining options they offer. Whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch after a round of golf or indulging in a gourmet dinner with friends, the club’s culinary team ensures that every meal is a memorable experience. The feature also delves into the club’s history, its role in the community, and how it continues to elevate the standard of dining in the North Valley.
In addition to our feature on Anthem Golf & Country Club, this issue also explores the broader food and beverage scene in our region. From local restaurants that are pushing culinary boundaries to time-honored establishments that have become community staples, we celebrate the people and places that make the Sonoran Foothills a destination for food lovers.
As you browse through this issue, we hope you are inspired to explore the culinary delights of our region, gather with loved ones, and savor the flavors that make life in the Sonoran Foothills so special.
MEL FONSECA, PUBLISHER
@SONORANFOOTHILLSLIFESTYLE
October 2024
PUBLISHER
Mel Fonseca | mel.fonseca@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Alexandra James | alexandra.james@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sonia Beckford, Lindsay Nelson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Ashley Hathaway
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Chill Out Body Lounge in Anthem makes an appearance at a fair. 2: The Sonoran Arts League team meeting. Sign up for a class today! 3: Great turnout at the Carefree Farmers Market, every Friday from 8 AM to 11 AM. 4: Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce event. Look closely and you’ll see our amazing publisher! 5: Police dogs participate in Desert Foothills Leadership Academy sessions, teaching about community safety. 6: PING fitting session with Master Club Fitter, Tony Lefevre, at the TeeBox Indoor Golf Club! 7: Local Jonny’s and Carefree Distillery team up to present Chakra Vodka at an event.
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business monthly
ROUNDUP
G’Day Mate Home Services
Have you seen the G’Day Mate Home Services van around town? As a certified homewatch provider and accredited member of the National Home Watch Association, G’Day Mate ensures the safety and condition of clients’ homes year-round. Emerging as a leader in Phoenix’s homewatch industry, they navigate industry growth and upcoming legislation while offering monthly maintenance and handyman services tailored for part-time Arizona residents, property managers, landlords, and anyone needing reliable property oversight. Visit gdaymate.us today!
Giordano’s Trattoria Romana Italian Restaurante
Giordano’s Italian Restaurant, located at 7275 Easy St in Carefree, AZ, offers an elegant dining experience with authentic Italian cuisine. Guests can enjoy dine-in, outdoor seating, or curbside pickup. With a reputation for quality and a 90% recommendation rate from 44 reviews, Giordano’s is a top choice for those seeking a refined meal in a charming setting.
Speedy Burger Tavern at the Tox Bar
Tox Bar and Speedy Burger Tavern, located at 100 Easy Street in Carefree, AZ, is a beloved spot offering a unique blend of American regional cuisine with an Italian twist. Known for its delicious burgers and extensive bar featuring wine and whiskey flights, as well as signature, craft, and smoked cocktails, it’s the perfect place to unwind. Enjoy their dog-friendly patio, pool table, darts, and other entertainment options.
El Encanto
Step into the romance of Old-World Mexico at El Encanto in Cave Creek, AZ. This enchanting restaurant, owned by Bill Nelson and his daughter Christine, offers authentic handmade Mexican cuisine in a picturesque setting, complete with a serene pond and playful wildlife. Dine under a covered patio, surrounded by intricate tile work and wrought iron accents. With over 40 tequilas and a distinctive wine selection, El Encanto promises an unforgettable dining experience.
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to be featured?
TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/SONORANFOOTHILLS
Discover Premier Dining and Unmatched Luxury at Phoenix’s Premier Golf and Recreation Destination
ARTICLE BY SONIA BECKFORD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY
Anthem Golf & Country Club stands out as a premier destination within its gated community, seamlessly blending luxury with a wide range of recreational amenities. The club features two 18-hole championship golf courses, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, and elegant clubhouses. Members have access to two pools, eight tennis courts, four pickleball courts, and three bocce courts. Monty Becton, the general manager, emphasizes the club’s unique value, noting, “Anthem Golf & Country Club is where luxury meets unbeatable value.”
One aspect that often gets overlooked is the club's significant financial impact on the community and the greater Phoenix area. Employing over 200 staff members, Anthem G & CC infuses more than $15 million annually back into the local economy through payroll and operating expenses, not including capital improvements. This substantial contribution highlights the club's role as not just a recreational hub but a vital economic engine for the region.
The club’s location in the Sonoran Desert further enhances the overall experience for members and guests. The natural beauty of the desert provides a stunning backdrop, with both clubhouses positioned to offer breathtaking views. Becton explains, “Our design was all about integrating the desert landscape into our amenities.”
Adding to its prestige, Anthem Golf & Country Club recently earned the Distinguished Club designation with special EXCEPTIONAL status this past August. This honor places the club among an elite group, including Desert Mountain, Desert Highlands, The Mirabel Club, Paradise Valley Country Club, and Superstition Mountain Golf & Country Club. To learn more about this prestigious recognition, visit www.distinguishedclubs.com
Incredible club staff.
General Manager, Monty Becton.
“At Anthem, we don’t just offer amenities; we create a lifestyle where every visit feels like coming home.”
— Monty Becton, General Manager of Anthem Golf & Country Club
Anthem Golf & Country Club distinguishes itself with a wide range of amenities and services. Members benefit from a strong sense of community and personalized service, including complimentary premium illy coffee available at both clubhouses. The optional XLife benefit adds further value, offering discounts on in-club dining, to-go orders, and access to various clubs and resorts across the country. Becton highlights the club's affordability, stating, “In a market where prices are soaring, we offer top-notch experiences without the hefty price tag.”
Community engagement is a key focus, with events like the Annual Charity Classic fundraiser supporting local charities and the Employee Care Foundation. The club aims to surpass last year’s donation of over $120,000 and emphasizes the role of the Member Advisory Board and Committees in shaping the club’s programming.
Members eagerly anticipate a variety of annual events, including the Holiday Cart Parade, Trunk or Treat, and Monthly Bingo. The Charity Classic, along with regular features like Italian Night, Seafood Market Fridays, and Prime Rib and Piano on Saturdays, provides ample opportunities for social interaction.
Dining at the club offers two distinct experiences. Persimmon Clubhouse provides an intimate setting with a curated menu, ideal for special occasions, while Barrel House at the Ironwood Clubhouse offers a relaxed gastropub atmosphere suited for watching sports. The club’s culinary team, led by Executive Chef Todd Berry, emphasizes seasonality and local ingredients, partnering with Strictly from Scratch Bakery to supply fresh, artisanal bread and baked goods.
Recently, our team had the distinct pleasure of visiting Anthem Golf & Country Club to capture the essence of its extraordinary dining experience for our cover story. The club’s stunning ambiance, delectable menu, and welcoming staff truly stand out. If you haven’t had the chance to experience it yet, become a member and indulge in their exceptional offerings. From the refined dishes crafted with local ingredients to the impeccable service that defines the club, Anthem Golf & Country Club promises a memorable and enriching experience that is not to be missed.
If you’re interested in touring the club and exploring membership options, please contact Jamie Wray, Membership Director, at jamie.wray@invitedclubs.com.
Pumpkin Cuties
• Cutie Mandarin Oranges
• Celery Sticks
Peel the cutie mandarin oranges and cut celery sticks into 1-inch long sticks.
Cut each slice of celery into thirds or fourths and insert celery sticks into the center of the peeled oranges.
Oreo Spiders
• Oreos
• Candied Eyes
• Chocolate Chips
• Pretzel Logs
Break pretzel rods in half and stuff them into the Oreo cookies to form the spider legs. Melt the chocolate chips until smooth.
Use a toothpick to place the melted chocolate onto the Oreos where the eyes will go.
Immediately place the eye candies onto the melted chocolate. Place the Oreos in the fridge until the chocolate hardens.
cuterie SPOOK-
A SPOOKY SPIN ON THE CLASSIC CHARCUTERIE
ARTICLE BY SAVANNA JAGGEARS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREGORY JAGGEARS
Spook-Cuterie is a cutie Halloween snack for pre- or post-trick-or-treating. This spooky spin on the classic charcuterie board will excite the kids and provide a few nutritious nibbles before they fill up on too much candy. Whether you bring this to the school party or set it up while everyone gets in their costumes, fun MUMMY-ries will be made.
Nutter Butter Ghosts
• Nutter Butter Cookies
• White Melting Chocolate
• Mini Chocolate Chips
Instructions:
1. Gather together the items.
2 .Arrange and style according to your party aesthetic.
3. Add extra items, such as crackers, chips and cheeses.
Melt the white chocolate in the microwave in 15-second increments. Stir between increments until the chocolate is fully melted.
Dip the top of each cookie into the melted chocolate and place the coated cookie on wax paper to dry.
Press the mini chocolate chip to make the eyes and mouth before the chocolate dries.
Blackberry Bats
• Bat Shaped Cookie Cutter
• Blackberries
• Candied Eyes
Place the cookie cutter on the charcuterie board and fill with blackberries. Place candied eyes to make the eyes of the bat.
4. Fan out additional fruits and veggies.
5. Celebrate and make the days leading up to October 31st memorable!
NON-ALCOHOLIC WHISKEY SOUR
ingredients:
• 2 oz Distilled Non-Alcoholic Whiskey (such as Kentucky 74)
• ¾ oz Fresh Lemon Juice
• ½ oz Agave Syrup
• ½ oz Aquafaba (liquid from chickpeas)
• Splash of Seltzer Water
• 1 orange wedge
directions:
Step 1. Combine the non-alcoholic whiskey, lemon juice, agave syrup, and aquafaba in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Crafted by The Nixer, Phoenix’s first NA pop-up bar promoting mindful sobriety.
Step 2. Shake vigorously until the mixture is frothy and well chilled.
Step 3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice
Step 4. Top with a splash of seltzer water.
Step 5. Garnish with orange wedge & rosemary sprig.
Tip: Aquafaba, the liquid found in a can of chickpeas or from cooking chickpeas, is a great substitute for egg whites to add frothiness to your drinks.
This mocktail is brought to you by The Nixer, Phoenix’s first NA pop-up bar promoting mindful sobriety. Perfect for Sober October!
ARTICLE BY ALEXANDRA JAMES
Rock Springs Café
Celebrating Over a Century of Community, History, and Legendary Pies
ARTICLE BY LINDSAY NELSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY
Rock Springs Café, Arizona's oldest restaurant, has been a cherished destination for over a century, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2018. Located just off Exit 242 on I-17, this iconic spot has been a part of Arizona’s landscape since the early days of dirt wagon tracks, long before the advent of modern highways. Richard Shaw, co-owner with Augie Perry, reflects on the café’s evolution: “Rock Springs has always been a place where travelers could find a bit of respite. From the earliest days, it’s been a stopping point, first on a dirt road and now on a six-lane freeway.”
The café has grown from its modest beginnings, adapting to the times while preserving its historical charm. “The original building has been modified and expanded several times, but we’ve always been careful to maintain its unique history,” Shaw shares. One of the most significant changes came in 2006 when air conditioning was finally added, transforming the café into a year-round destination. Despite these updates, the spirit of Rock Springs remains intact, with its garden area, continuous water features, and, of course, its famous pies.
Speaking of pies, Rock Springs Café has long been known as "The Pie Place" on I-17, a reputation solidified by its recent accolade from Phoenix Magazine, which awarded the café “Best Pies in the Valley.” Shaw notes, “Our Bourbon Pecan and Apple pies are always crowd favorites, but we’ve also expanded our bakery offerings to include pastries and homemade fudge.” The café’s menu has evolved over the years, but certain items, like the Rock Springs Burger and the biscuits and gravy, remain staples that keep customers coming back.
Beyond the food, the atmosphere at Rock Springs is what truly sets it apart. Shaw describes it as a place where “you might see a new BMW parked next to an old pickup truck, a couple of expensive motorcycles, or even a Bentley.” The variety of customers is as diverse as the experiences they seek. Some come just to pick up pies, while others stay to enjoy the rural charm of the garden or explore the nearby hiking trails.
The café’s deep roots in the community have always been important to Shaw and his team.
“We’ve always been supportive of local businesses and charities,” he says, noting their involvement in fundraisers and special recognition events for local residents. Over the years, Rock Springs has become more than just a café; it’s a part of Arizona’s cultural heritage, serving generations of travelers and locals alike.
Looking ahead, Shaw is excited about the future.
“Like they say about Disneyland, Rock Springs never stays the same,” he says with a smile. Plans are in the works to expand the customer experience with more special events, outdoor dining, and new attractions like a desert tortoise sanctuary. Yet, despite the changes, the essence of Rock Springs Café remains the same—a place where history, community, and great food come together in perfect harmony.
“Rock Springs has always been a place where travelers could find a bit of respite. From the earliest days, it’s been a stopping point, first on a dirt road and now on a six-lane freeway.”
— Richard Shaw, Owner of Rock Springs Café
SER VI NG UP S OUP
Fall’s most notable comfort meal
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
JANIE JONES
CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP
This hearty chicken noodle soup is the perfect comfort food that is packed with nutritious goodness. This pairs perfectly with homemade beer bread or a sourdough loaf.
INGREDIENTS:
• 8 cups chicken broth (add more if desired)
• Whole fryer chicken, cut in chunks or shredded
• 5 celery stalks, sliced
• 8 carrots, sliced
• ½ onion diced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
• ¼ cup half and half (optional)
• 1 package egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
• DIRECTIONS:
In a large stock pot, add 8 cups of chicken broth. Dice carrots, celery and onion and add to the broth. Bring to a boil, and reduce to medium heat until the vegetables are soft. In the meantime, skin and cube 1 whole fryer chicken and add to the stock pot. Next, add egg noodles (frozen Reames homemade egg noodles are my favorite) and let boil until noodles are cooked. Add butter, half and half, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer on low until ready to serve.
This classic tomato basil soup is easy and quick to make and is the perfect way to get the rustic, tangy and savory flavors of this italian dish.
DIRECTIONS:
Toss the butter or olive oil in the pan. Add onion, and saute until the onion is translucent and soft. Add minced garlic, and saute for 2 minutes. Next, add canned tomatoes and simmer. Transfer to a blender, and puree until smooth. Add the fresh basil and heavy cream. Transfer mixture back to the pan to thoroughly heat, and salt and pepper to taste. Top with fresh parmesan and chopped basil, and serve with toasted italian bread.
Cozy Autumn Cookbooks
After a sizzling summer, when the last thing we wanted to do was turn on our ovens or stovetops, autumn has finally arrived. Shorter days and cooler temperatures draw us back into our kitchens to create our favorite comfort foods, but we often find ourselves stuck when it comes to new ideas. Whether you’re the family chef, an entertainer who loves to feed a crowd or a solo cook, you’re likely looking for some seasonal cooking and baking inspiration.
Filled with perfectly curated recipes, mouth-watering photos, cooking tips, and personal insights, the following four new releases are here to help. They offer solutions to your daily dinner dilemmas, celebrate our nation’s vast culinary history, teach you how to bake the best biscuits and satisfy your sweet tooth. Add these amazing cookbooks to your personal collection and you will add hundreds of new recipes to your repertoire, creating an endless array of delicious dinners and desserts. Spend a chilly night expanding your cooking talents or learning a few new baking tricks and watch how a quiet evening at home can quickly transform into something truly special. It’s time to celebrate the season, so put down that delivery app and pick up these tasty new cookbook releases, filled with recipes to keep you happy and cozy all season long.
Warm up your kitchen and celebrate the season
ARTICLE BY RHIANNON JOHNSON
Still We Rise: A Love Letter to the Southern Biscuit with Over 70 Sweet and Savory Recipes
BY ERIKA COUNCIL
Bomb Biscuit Company’s founder and head baker Erika Council pairs her heritage (she’s the granddaughter of legendary soul food chef Mildred Council aka “Mama Dip”) and immense skill set to deliver a heartfelt and tasty tribute to the Southern biscuit. Featuring classics and new favorites, this recipe collection is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Sweet Little Cakes from Mrs. Zabar’s Bakeshop: Perfect Desserts for Sharing
BY TRACEY ZABAR
Smaller size, same big flavor! Tracey Zabar has edited her famous recipes to allow home bakers the opportunity to create their own smaller versions of her famous cakes in the comfort of their own kitchens. Each seasonally organized recipe serves two to six people—perfect for creating a tiny treat to share or to satisfy your own sweet tooth.
The Great American Recipe Cookbook Season 2 Edition:
100 Memorable Recipes to Celebrate the Diversity and Flavors of American Food
There’s something for everyone in this companion cookbook to the second season of The Great American Recipe . The fun, feel-good cooking competition highlights some of our country’s most talented home cooks and captures the rich culinary history of America. From generational family treasures to regional cuisines, this recipe collection exemplifies how food represents and unifies our communities and cultures.
Skinnytaste
Simple: Easy, Healthy Recipes with 7 Ingredients or Fewer
BY GINA HOMOLKA, HEATHER K. JONES, R.D.
Streamline your dinnertime routine with these easy, delicious, and healthy recipes, each requiring seven ingredients or fewer. Featuring 105 original recipes plus 15 beloved fan-favorites from the website, Skinnytaste Simple focuses on using minimum ingredients while delivering maximum flavor and nutrition.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
SEPTEMBER 27TH
Retro Reels; Outdoor movie nights in Carefree
101 Easy St Carefree, AZ 85377 United States | 7:00 PM
Celebrate the town’s 40th anniversary with a Retro Reels screening of Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom on September 27, 7:00-9:00 PM. Enjoy snack boxes from local businesses or bring your own. Chairs are provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Don't miss this classic 1984 adventure!
OCTOBER 5TH
Dark Skies: Stargazing.
36811 N Pima Rd Carefree, AZ 85377 United States | 7:00 PM
Join us for Dark Skies: Stargazing on October 5, from 7:00-9:00 PM at Our Lady of Joy Church, 36811 N Pima Rd, Carefree, AZ. NASA Ambassador Mark Johnston will present real-time deep space images on large screens. Bring your own chair and snacks for a magical night under the stars. For more information, call (480) 488-2229.
OCTOBER 17TH
Maria Muldaur – Way Past Midnight Tou
4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85050 | 7:30 PM
Join us on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. for an unforgettable evening with Maria Muldaur as she presents her “Way Past Midnight” multimedia retrospective. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of her iconic hit "Midnight at the Oasis," Muldaur will showcase her incredible journey through American roots music, blending folk, blues, jazz, and more.
OCTOBER 19TH
Musical Theatre of Anthem's The Wizard of Oz
42201 N. 41st Drive, Suite B100, Anthem, AZ 85086 | 5:00 PM
Join Dorothy and Toto as they journey through Oz, meeting unforgettable characters on their quest to reach the Emerald City. Performances run from October 17-20, 2024, featuring both the Emerald and Ruby casts. Tickets are $25. Visit
OCTOBER 25TH
Trunk-n-Treat & Car Show
3715 W Anthem Way, Anthem, AZ, United States, Arizona
Don't miss the Trunk-n-Treat & Car Show on Friday, October 25th, from 5-8 PM at Palmcroft Church, Anthem, AZ. Enjoy costumes, candy, cars, crafts, games, and more. Free admission
NOVEMBER 10TH
Blue Wind School of Botanical Studies herb walk
Sunflower AZ | 9:00 AM
Discover the edible and medicinal plants of the Sonoran Desert with Blue Wind School on November 10th near Sunflower, AZ. Join this insightful field class exploring plant identification, uses, and preparation methods in the Phoenix area. Perfect for plant enthusiasts, this session offers a hands-on learning experience in Arizona’s most botanically diverse desert. Secure your spot for $55. Contact: bluewindbmc@gmail.com to register.
