Power Lunch
by Mike Hunter
Meals that matter
Best of 2012 Reminiscing on top business lunch spots, here are our reminders of some of the best lunch spots that opened in 2012.
Blue Hound Kitchen & Cocktails
Described as a contemporary American gastrolounge, this “off the lobby” eatery at the Palomar Hotel is a downtown urban delight with a creative and flavorful menu. Go back after the day and enjoy the hand-crafted cocktails. 2 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix (602) 258-0231 bluehoundkitchen.com
Chick Rotisserie & Wine Bar
Known worldwide for his culinary creations and restaurant concepts, Christopher Gross offers up an eventful meal in an urban contemporary atmosphere that will please anyone looking to enjoy the perfect lunch. Located in the Biltmore Fashion Park at 24th Street and Camelback, this upscale/casual daytime eatery (also open for dinner and late-night noshing) is a culinary masterpiece. Graze at the bar overlooking the exhibition kitchen, watching Gross and his well-trained counterparts at work. Wood-oven pizzas, which rival pizza creations anywhere in town and beyond, are a specialty and a popular item at lunchtime. Named one of the best hamburgers in town, Gross’s gourmet burger is made of the finest beef and can be topped with any of Gruyère, Mimolette, cheddar or blue cheeses; mushrooms; shallots; egg; or bacon. Try the foie gras or lobster on a burger for a delectable indulgence that will please any palate. Sides will add to this lunch event with Mac ’N Cheese au Gratin with Ham, any number of special fries, among which are Pommes Frites, Truffled Frites, Yam Frites or the Mixed Frites. Salads are concocted with flavor using house-smoked salmon, poached pears, roasted fennel and gourmet cheeses. Simple and contemporary come together in the décor, with bursts of orange and the use of glass and textured wood, making Christopher’s Restaurant a memorable spot at which to dine for lunch. The patio is open, allowing diners to enjoy the hustle and bustle of the park-like walks at this Biltmore shopping hot spot. Three private dining rooms are available as well for intimate gatherings among business associates or colleagues.
Italian Restaurant
From antipasti to salads and sandwiches to savor y pasta dishes, Chris Bianco’s Italian eatery is a downtown culinary hot spot that is all about authentic flavors and sophisticated creations from one of the Valley’s premiere chefs. 4743 N. 20th St., Phoenix (602) 368-3273 pizzeriabianco.com Blue Hound Kitchen & Cocktails
Christopher’s Restaurant and Crush Lounge 2502 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix (602) 522-2344 christophersaz.com
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inbusine ssmag.com
Photo courtesy of Christopher Gross (left), Blue Hound Kitchen & Cocktails courtesy of (right)
Christopher’s Restaurant: A Midday Gourmet Meal
American rotisserie comfort food means spitfired roasted chicken and some great side dishes that will fill up even the most discriminating diner. Also attracting the lunch crowd are rotisserie pork, ribs, duck, brisket and prime rib. Enjoy with salads and sides. 3943 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix (602) 396-4690 chickrotisseriebar.com