We are home to some of the best hiking trails in the Valley, so explore our backyard
ArtWalk Awakens
Art, music and more Modern Living
Creative urban atmospheres
Dine at Home
Catering for the holidays
Lara Broadrick
Shawna Warner
Rebecca Clayton
Robin Orscheln
PAGE 6 COVER STORY | FITNESS | NOV. 2015
A Walk in Nature
PAGE 9 ARTS & CULTURE | NOV. 2015 ArtWalk Out and About
Master the art of the casual walk.
3 What Happens at ArtWalk Stays at ArtWalk
A glorious view is but one reward for venturing on our Valley’s many trails. As writer Mike Saucier describes, hikes are thousands of steps in the right direction for your health And local spas and fitness centers provide the means for you to stay in shape off the mountain as well.
PAGE 4 IN THIS VICINITY | NOV. 2015
Scottsdale Santa Headquarters 3 Biltmore Ultimate Drive in Luxury
Local jewelers excel in fashioning treasures of art and style. PAGE 5 IN THIS VICINITY | NOV. 2015
Black, Starr & Frost Cornelis Hollander Designs Jewelry by Gauthier
PAGE 14
DINING & NIGHTLIFE | NOV. 2015 Catered to You
Find great local caterers to partner with this season.
PAGE 10 EVENTS | NOV. 2015 Chill Out in November
Spotlighting events right here in our vicinity PAGE 8
3 Hidden Art Enclave Is 30 Beach Time: Buck &Rider 3 Bring on the Mimosa
European Farmers Market
In recent years, the farmers market has become such a craze that grocers are hyping their farm-fresh produce and other great local products. The famed Vincent’s on Camelback has just opened another season of its gourmet farmer’s market that is fraught with European flare and inspired products, gifts and foods. Savor coffees from around the world, pastries, homemade jams and omelets to order for the early hours. Enjoy gourmet cheeses, Panini sandwiches, grilled items, meat and seafood paella and some great wines by the glass or bottles. Also available are homemade crafts and gifts. Local and imported from France are honeys, fragrant soaps, olive oil and so much more. Relax in quaint shaded eating areas with large tables — perfect for family and a gathering of friends and neighbors. The Market is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the front parking lot of Vincent’s on Camelback. Parking is available nearby.
THE CAMELBACK FARMERS MARKET
3930 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix (602) 224-0225 vincentsoncamelback.com
Hidden Art Enclave
Is 30
Arcadia is home to a well-known art education and community center. Shemer Art Center & Museum is set in the heart of our neighborhood and began life as the first home built in the area. Built to accommodate the foreman of the Arcadia Water Company in 1919, this Santa Fe-style home was later purchased by Martha Evvard Shemer and then donated to the City of Phoenix. Now known for its extensive art classes, exhibits, lectures, workshops and community events, the Shemer is an icon of the era and a reminder of the quaint community that we are lucky to call home. Open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, with extended hours on Thursday.
THE SHEMER ART CENTER
5005 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix (602) 262-4727 shemerartcenter.org
Beach Time: Buck &Rider
The latest restaurant to pop up in our the vicinity is Buck &Rider (the crab-fishing term for intertwined male and female crabs … ‘nough said). Built from the ground up at the location of the old Havana Café and Camelback Florist, this sure-to-be-hot spot was inspired by an Australian beach home. The menu is coastal-inspired and is flooded with simple, natural and flavorful dishes that include hand-rolled sushi, market-fresh seafood and a raw bar. It is a welcome addition in an area that has recently been inundated with new restaurant concepts — all of which are making residents happy. An expanded patio and a full, well-stocked bar will keep this place packed. Open for dinner only (for now), this new landmark is going to be on everyone’s tongue.
BUCK &RIDER 4225 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix (602) 346-0110 buckandrider.com
Bring on the Mimosa
Meaning “yellow flower,” the Mimosa dates back to 1925 and is made of equal parts Champagne and fresh juice — with orange juice being the most common. Our vicinity is bubbling over with variations that include exotic juices, garnishes and more. Enjoy one at any of these area eateries: THE MARKET RESTAURANT & BAR
3603 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix (602) 626-5050 themarketphx.com CENTRAL BISTRO
3160 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix (480) 646-8560 centralbistroaz.com morningsqueeze.com
A Walk with Nature
Hikes are thousands of steps in the right direction for your health
BY MIKE SAUCIER
a Saturday morning to the 1.2-mile-long summit trail of Piestewa Peak and you will see a reflection of pure Phoenix, of true Arizona. In the quiet of the gathering light, hikers bearing water bottles emerge from cars in the fast-filling parking lot and on adjacent streets eager to walk thousands of vertical steps to the top, take in the view, recover on the rocks, and amble back down.
What you see on the way up and at the top is the Valley of the Sun in all its glory — levels of dazzling and dizzying panorama displaying a desert tamed by man, teeming with its street capillaries and highway arteries neatly woven around bare mountains and leading to and emerging from a cluster of downtown towers. In between, red and gray roofs, pop-up church spires and backyard pools dot the brown and green desert carpet. The view is the hard-earned reward for the pain being emitted from your quads.
Piestewa Peak, the second-highest point (2,600-foot summit) in the Phoenix Mountains after Camelback Mountain (2,700-foot summit), is a true gathering place for some. And for others, it is a gym or a place of reflection.
It doesn’t matter what the weather is, they will be there either trying to beat the heat or celebrating the fact that it is not there. And “they” isn’t just one type. Hiking is one activity that reflects accurately the soup of Phoenix
checking the boxes of Saturday morning cardiovascular accomplishment, with an added bonus of achieving sufficient introspection along the trail.
This scenario plays out all across the trails in or near Arcadia, Biltmore, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley. The naturalist John Muir may as well have been describing a Saturday morning Camelback Mountain hike when he said, “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” And hundreds of thousands are bent on receiving, year in and year out.
The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department estimates that 750,000 people hike Camelback Mountain a year (Echo Canyon and Cholla trailheads combined) and about 12 to 15 million visitors a year use the city’s 88 trails.
Piestewa Peak draws about a half million people a year.
Piestewa Peak, Camelback Mountain’s Cholla Trail and Echo Canyon Trail are designated by the city with a doubleblack diamond rating, meaning they are not for the casual or inexperienced hiker; the Parks people caution, “Take a Hike, Do It Right.”
Northern Avenue — less strenuous, more gradual inclines.
Whatever social and psychological benefits hiking offers (they are hard to measure but clearly exist), the physical benefits are more clear. Regular hiking leads to improved cardio-respiratory fitness (heart, lungs, blood vessels), better muscle fitness and weight control. For a 154-lb. person, hiking burns up to 370 calories an hour (and even more for steep summits like Camelback and Piestewa). Logging cardio via hiking can reduce blood pressure by four to 10 points, and cut the risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke at the same time.
He’s not a doctor, but Garrison Keillor, host of National Public Radio’s “Prairie Home Companion,” was onto something when he said, “There is no fever that a 10-mile hike can’t cure.” A 2007 study showed that 71 percent of hikers reported decreased levels of depression after hiking, 80 percent reported mood improvement and 90 percent reported their self-esteem increased after a hike.
So, take the advice of settled science and go take a hike.
Stay in Shape Off the Mountain
The Madison Improvement Club
Known for its infectious energy, hipness oozes from this Arcadia yoga and spin studio that boasts it’s “hooked on healthy” and offers to let its denizens blast away calories in classes like “Party on a Bike” and “Phenomenal Flow.”
3802 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix (602) 296-7118 • themadisonvibe.com
Orangetheory
The theory behind Orangetheory is this: Work out so hard that you keep burning calories after you’ve finished. It’s fitnessmeets-science, and sessions burn at least 500 calories and comprise treadmill interval training blocks, indoor rowing and weight room or resistance training.
10810 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix (602) 493-2002
5109 N. 44th St., Phoenix (602) 955-1798
7620 E. Indian School Rd., Scottsdale (480) 405-2683
7001 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale (480) 405-2737 orangetheoryfitness.com
Village Health Clubs & Spas
Known for beautiful facilities and a friendly vibe, The Village Health Clubs are among the most exclusive health clubs in the Valley. Whether it’s tennis, swimming, basketball, Zumba or the spa you seek, you’ll find it here.
4444 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix (602) 840-6412 • villageclubs.com
CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN CHOLLA TRAIL
Level: strenuous; recommended for experienced hikers
Trailhead: 6131 E. Cholla Ln., Phoenix
CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN
ECHO CANYON TRAIL
Level: strenuous
Trailhead: 5822-5886 N. Echo Canyon Pkwy., Phoenix
DREAMY DRAW NATURE TRAIL (#220)
Level: easy to moderate
Trailhead: Dreamy Draw Recreation Area, 2421 E. Northern Ave.; north of parking lot
PIESTEWA PEAK FREEDOM TRAIL (#302)
Level: moderate to difficult
Trailhead: Phoenix Mountains Park and Recreation Area, 2701 E. Squaw Peak Dr.; Apache picnic area at the far end of the parking area
PIESTEWA PEAK SUMMIT TRAIL (#300)
Level: extremely strenuous and difficult
Trailhead: Phoenix Mountains Park and Recreation Area, 2701 E. Squaw Peak Dr.; in the parking lot at the first driveway on the left
QUARTZ RIDGE TRAIL (#8A)
Level: moderate
Trailhead: northeast corner of 32nd St. and Lincoln Dr.
Private trainer Tracy Teitelbaum
If you want to look and feel your best, Teitelbaum can help. He avoids using a “one size fits all” approach to fitness, and designs a plan that fits your specific needs. He’s trained in muscle mechanics to flexibility and cardio. He can also help create a nutrition plan you can stick with.
4000 N. Central Ave., Phoenix (623) 206-4654 issacertifiedtrainer.com/tracy
Photos courtesy of Visit Phoenix (left), The Village Health Clubs, The Madison Improvement Club (right, top to bottom)
ECHO CANYON
MONDAY NIGHT CHEF’S TABLE
Four courses of exclusive off-menu dishes. Featuring a new winery every month.
COOL REDUX HAPPY HOUR
Every weekday from 4 to 7pm.
WHISKEY THURSDAYS
Every Thursday from 5 to 7pm.
HALF PRICE WINE BOTTLES
You pick! Sundays starting at 3pm.
FLAVOR FOR DAYS.
WINE WEDNESDAYS
Every Wednesday from 5 to 7pm.
BEER MASTER SERIES
Presented by the featured brewery’s Brew Master. Every month, on a Thursday night.
In jewelry, the hottest trend is personal statement
BY RAEANNE MARSH
“Jewelry is trying to be very wearable right now,” says Scott Gauthier, the creative force as well as the owner of Jewelry by Gauthier. In women’s necklaces, for example, the preference is pieces that are easy to put on and comfortable rather than big neckpieces — but still, of course, elegant, sophisticated and interesting. In addition to necklaces, he says rings are always popular but “there’s not the big bracelet push I’ve seen in the past.”
For men, he sees a trend in more significant pieces. “They’re wearing bold, dramatic jewelry,” he says, “including bold fashion rings.”
Although he points to increasing popular interest in tourmalines — varieties of which include greens and pinks — and earth-toned garnets, Gauthier believes jewelry is more of a long-term fashion statement than the seasonal variation of clothing designs. “In jewelry, the great thing is that nothing’s ever out of style,” he says. “It’s more of a personal fashion statement.”
Cornelis Hollander, award-winning jewelry designer and owner of Cornelis Hollander Designs, makes the same point. Although seeing interest in lighter earrings, mostly white metals, as well as casual bracelets and light-hearted necklaces, he sees jewelry as “long-term fashion” that will last 15 to 20 years, unlike clothing fashion, which changes every half-year. “If you buy an amethyst, it’s for the next 10 years; it’s not like next season you change your amethyst to pink.”
Noting that his main business is engagement and wedding rings, Hollander shares that many clients come to him when, having been married many years, they want to upscale their ring to a larger diamond. “Most of the time, they keep the little diamond from the past,” he says. Common choices are mounting the smaller diamond in a necklace or incorporating it into the next ring.
Addressing the choice of metal, Al Molina, owner of the exclusive Molina Fine Jewelers, notes the “best color” depends on whether you want to call attention to the metal design or to the stone in the setting. If the former, you want to contrast with the skin — platinum or white gold on olive or darker skin; yellow gold on fair. “But,” he continues, “if you concentrate on the stone, you want the mounting to disappear.” So the colors are reversed: yellow gold on darker skin and platinum on fair.
Cornelis Hollander Designs
With a special emphasis on engagement and wedding rings, Cornelis Hollander offers pieces designed and created all in-house. Prolifically sketching ideas, he then considers which would work best in production. The gems in his stunning collections exhibit shapes unique to Cornelis Hollander Designs.
4151 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale (480) 423-5000 cornelishollander.com
Jewelry by Gauthier
Always pushing himself to take his designs in new directions, Scott Gauthier is building anticipation for the unveiling of his latest collection — “Horizon” — this December. Current collections include examples of 2- to 3-carat rubies, emeralds and sapphires in settings that emphasize wearability.
4211 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale (480) 941-1707 jewelrybygauthier.com
Rendering courtesy
Black, Starr & Frost (top), Photos courtesy of Black, Starr & Frost, Cornelis Hollander Designs, Jewelry by Gauthier (bottom, l to r)
ArtWalk Out and About
Mastering the art of the casual walk
BY MIKE SAUCIER
To misquote a Dionne Warwick song: Do you know the way to Marshall Way? Well, if you don’t, and you enjoy viewing art amid irresistible ambience while strolling with drink in hand in friendly weather, then you might want to set your GPS to what has been called (by “Art Walk News” website) “The Mother of All Artwalks.” And because it’s so popular, it could even be called “The Mother of All People-Watching” events in Scottsdale.
Actually, because it’s a 40-year-old tradition, the year-round event is called “America’s Original ArtWalk,” and art lovers have been strolling every Thursday evening from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in galleries along Main Street and Marshall Way in downtown Scottsdale. Galleries open their doors, and music from local performers fills the casual air along with smells of food from local restaurants along the way. The eclectic stew on the street reflects the mix inside the galleries, which can feature
anything from Southwest landscapes to Russian Impressionism.
Local and tourist ArtWalk strollers may bump into a new show opening, an artist demonstration or an offer of a new food sampling. ArtWalk-ing can be part of a date night that includes dining at one of several restaurants or capping off the night at a downtown bar with a drink. A horse-drawn carriage ride awaits in case you want to go in style, and the Scottsdale Trolley operates in the area.
What Happens at ArtWalk Stays at ArtWalk
GET TO KNOW THEM: At receptions, openings and demonstrations, artists get to show off their work and discuss what went into creating them. Works range from Western traditional to cutting-edge contemporary.
TAKE A LOAD OFF: Horse-drawn carriage rides and trolley rides await those too weary to stand or wanting to explore beautiful downtown Scottsdale. Some ArtWalk-ers even trolley bar-hop after taking in some art.
EAT AND STROLL: Art and strolling can give you an appetite. Luckily, food samples from local restaurants abound and some of the galleries provide drinks, cheeses, crackers and chocolates (for free).
SCOTTSDALE ARTWALK Main St. and Marshall Way Scottsdale Every Thursday, 7:00p – 9:00p scottsdalegalleries.com
Art Classes
Outing the inner artist
THE BRUSH BAR Painting instruction for adults, plus beer and wine bar 4165 N. Craftsman Ct., Scottsdale (480) 947-8700 thebrushbar.com
ME THE ARTIST
Painting parties at your home (480) 822-7999 metheartist.com AND FUN FOR ALL
SCOTTSDALE ARTISTS’ SCHOOL Art classes for all, from beginner to professional, in historic building in downtown Scottsdale 3720 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale (480) 990-1422 scottsdaleartschool.org
SHEMER ART CENTER & MUSEUM shemerartcenter.org
Chill Out in November
10:00a – 9:00p
131st Annual Arizona State Fair offers family entertainment, animals, food, rides, top-notch concerts, exhibits, motorized events, rodeo, new attractions and rides. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
Arizona State Fairgrounds
1826 W. McDowell Rd., Phoenix (602) 252-6771 azstatefair.com
Thurs., Nov. 13 7:00p – 8:00p
Playing live, Phoenix-based singer/ songwriter Jay Allan performs what is known to his fans as funky-folk, blues rock. Channeling honest passion and raw emotion through his own life and observations, he combines heartfelt and memorable lyrics with genrebending styles and melodies.
Arcadia Tavern
4801 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix (602) 840-3950 arcadiatavern.com
NineBall
Fri., Nov. 6 • 7:00p – 8:00p
Local cover band plays live music.
Arcadia Tavern 4801 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix (602) 840-3950 arcadiatavern.com
Nicky Romero
Fri., Nov. 6 • 9:00p
Nicky Romero is a top-rated Dutch DJ and electronic dance music producer.
Maya Day & Nightclub
7333 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale (602) 810-0167 mayaclubaz.com
Scottsdale Grand Prix
Sat., Nov. 7 • All day
First annual vintage car race in Scottsdale.
Forty vintage cigar cars will race the streets of Old Town by sponsored teams. A charity race in the morning and the main event after with Mayor Lane as flag man for both. This City of Scottsdaleapproved event takes place on streets adjacent to Scottsdale Fashion Square.
Old Town Scottsdale (480) 527-9779 grandprixscottsdale.com
AZCentral Food & Wine Experience
Sat. – Sun., Nov. 7 – 8 • 10:00a – 10:00p
Ticketed food and wine festival includes local and national celebrity chef demos, expo and workshops, and a millennial party Saturday night. Scottsdale Fashion Square
Violin Extraordinaire
Mon., Nov. 9 • 7:30p
Combining performances with commentary from the stage, Violin Extraordinaire features students of ASU Professor of Violin Danwen Jiang performing classical music for violin and violin with other instruments. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts
7380 E. 2nd St., Scottsdale (480) 499-8587
Steven Wright
Sat., Nov. 14 • 8:00p
Known for his unique style and deadpan delivery, Steven Wright has earned his status as a legendary comic. Consistently voted a top comedian by his peers, he won an Oscar in 1989 for his work on the short live-action
Jackal
Fri., Nov. 13 • 9:00p
Jackal is one of electronic music’s most dynamic producers. His career erupted in 2013 with the success of “Shakedown,” a heavy beat-dropping original track with crunchy snares and 808s.
Maya Day & Nightclub
7333 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale (602) 810-0167 mayaclubaz.com
The Appointments of Dennis Jennings and has performed on numerous TV shows such as “The Late Show with David Letterman.”
Talking Stick Resort
9800 E. Indian Bend Rd., Scottsdale (480) 850-7777 talkingstickresort.com
Broadway: the Big Band Years
Sat., Nov. 14 • 8:00p
The Great White Way was a magnificent platform for a staggering number of hit songs during the Big Band Era that included classics like “Luck Be a Lady,” “I Got Rhythm” and “I Get a Kick Out of You.” Broadway: The Big Band Years is a thrilling musical adventure featuring beloved songs from numerous Broadway hits.
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts
7380 E. 2nd St., Scottsdale (480) 499-8587 scottsdaleperformingarts.org
Shawn Johnson
Fri., Nov. 20 • 7:00p – 8:00p
Local singer-songwriter Shawn Johnson performs acoustic rock live.
Arcadia Tavern
4801 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix (602) 840-3950 arcadiatavern.com
ASU Big Band Night
Mon., Nov. 23 • 7:30p
The acclaimed ASU Jazz Studies Program presents Valley favorite ASU Concert Jazz Band in an evening of choice selections spanning the history of big band music and beyond, directed by Jeffrey Libman. The ensemble has recently appeared with jazz luminaries such as Benny Golson, Lewis Nash, Wycliffe Gordon, Bob Mintzer, Joe Lovano and Ingrid Jensen. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts
Thurs. – Mon., 9:00a – 10:00p
7380 E. 2nd St., Scottsdale (480) 499-8587 scottsdaleperformingarts.org
Building on previous years’ success, Scottsdale International Film Festival has partnered with Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts to expand it and make it even better. A greater emphasis on documentaries leads off with opening-night film Landfill Harmonic, about Paraguayan youth from an impoverished existence beyond imagining who, as the Recycled Orchestra of Cateura performing worldclass music on instruments fashioned from scavenged rubbish, epitomize the power of the arts to transform lives. The Recycled Orchestra is also scheduled to appear in person.
SCOTTSDALE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL scottsdalefilmfestival.com
Yes, the spa experience will set your mind at ease, relax you and rejuvenate you. But until the end of the year, the Sanctuary Spa will also help to make a difference in our community with the Spa for Good program. Spa-goers can benefit the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona while enjoying a Swedish massage or Sanctuary Jewel Facial treatment. Ten percent of all proceeds will be donated to the organization. Each treatment is 60 minutes and costs $99. Reservations are required.
THE SANCTUARY CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN SPA
5700 E. McDonald Dr., Paradise Valley (855) 525-0588 sanctuaryoncamelback.com/spa-fitness/service-for-good
Allen Edmonds
Upscale retailer with handcrafted leather shoes and accessories also sells apparel and golf gear.
502 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix (602) 267-1410 allenedmonds.com
American Apparel
Clothing label known for its made-in-the-USA cotton basics in modern and retro styles.
Classy-Jazzy Cutique
Women’s fashion outpost, stocks colorful, chic styles and bold accessories.
7111 E. 5th Ave., Scottsdale (480) 970-1894 classy-jazzy.com
4501 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale (480) 333-0090 americanapparel.net
Amy, Inc.
Exclusive shopping destination; owner Amy Yount has built a reputation for personally assisting every customer.
7154 E. Stetson Dr., Scottsdale (480) 425-1424 amyinc.com
Bischoff’s Shades of the West
Southwestern items range from hats to kitchenware, gourmet spices to moccasins and regional books.
7247 E. Main St., Scottsdale (480) 945-3289 shadesofthewest.com
The Clotherie
High-end men’s clothing store established in 1969 carries casual, business and formalwear.
2502 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix (602) 956-8600 theclotherie.com
Dolce Boutique
Designer women’s apparel from around the world, including dresses and jeans.
6107 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale (480) 991-0434 dolceboutiqueaz.com
Galina Couture
Limited-edition collection merges art and fashion into indulgent creations.
4151 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale (602) 516-2727 galinacouture.global
Poisoned Pen Bookstore
Comfy, independent bookshop spotlights fiction titles and hosts frequent author signings and events.
4014 N. Goldwater Blvd., Scottsdale (480) 947-2974 poisonedpen.com
Pucci Salon
Ranked in the top 200 salons in the country; offers the finest products available for hair, skin and nails.
7293 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale (480) 443-3030 puccisalon.com
Robert C. Wesley Jewelers
Fourth-generation, family-owned and -operated fine jewelry store.
7088 E 5th Ave, Scottsdale (480) 947-2416 robertwesleyjewelers.com
Stephanie’s
Women’s fashion and beauty products, plus home accessories and décor.
4142 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale (602) 508-0848 shopstephanies.com
Urban Outfitters
Chain with a hipster vibe known for on-trend fashions, accessories and quirky home-décor items.
7135 E. Camelback Rd., Scottsdale (480) 947-3252 urbanoutfitters.com
Vintage by Misty
Designer vintage clothing, jewelry and accessories, largely dating from the ’60s to early ’90s.
7046 E. 5th Ave., Scottsdale (480) 522-6875 vintagebymisty.com
Modern Living: Urban Style Among It All
BY ANNA MACKEY
Undeniable charm is attracting more and more people to our neighborhoods, and the demand for housing continues to grow. Breaking away from the trademark stucco suburbs so blandly prevalent in the Southwest, these pioneers in luxury living break tradition and create new guidelines for “modern living.”
Because of the local amenities and convenience to everything happening in this vicinity, developers have been bringing some great concepts and projects to our area. Safari Drive, a unique modern property, was a game-changer when it went up on the canal in Old Town Scottsdale years ago. To its modern, urban style and its artistic mixeduse concept, residents flocked, eager to occupy this work of art — although it was slow to start.
Since then, we have seen Scottsdale Waterfront, the tallest properties in Scottsdale, at the corner of Camelback and Scottsdale roads. Properties of this type are seen elsewhere in America and are common among beachfront properties, but are a first for Scottsdale — at least to their extent. They include urban shopping, dining and services to accommodate residents and provide them every amenity.
The Optima properties, of which we have three in our vicinity Village and the new Sonoran Village — are each architectural wonders that boast awardwinning design. Both Camelview and Sonoran Village are draped with vegetation that creates a “park-like” atmosphere for each unit, and both include public space, businesses, cafes and more.
Living
It Up: The Latest Enclaves
Poolside Luxury
In addition to sleek and streamlined interior designs, The Moderne boasts fabulous but functional outdoor amenities. The complex has a resort-style pool and Jacuzzi, but adds something new: in-water lounge chairs. Beyond the pool, residents can use a clubhouse perfect for barbeques. And of course, there is free Wi-Fi.
THE MODERNE
4848 N. Goldwater Blvd., Scottsdale (888) 927-5114
themodernescottsdale.com
Optimize Fitness
The fitness center at Optima has full-sized basketball and racquetball courts, and is fully stocked with the newest cardio equipment and weights. There is a lap pool, a hot tub, locker and steam rooms, personal trainers and even towel service. The only thing the residents have to bring is motivation.
OPTIMA
6895 E. Camelback Rd., Scottsdale (480) 990-7400 optimaweb.com
Catered to You
Great local caterers to partner with
this season
BY CHRISTOPHER ADAM
Let’s face it — fall is the party season in Phoenix. It’s a good time for parties of all types, with family, friends and even work. Chances are you’ll be planning one of these events, and it’s important to have a network of people and companies to rely on. Here are local caterers that are easy to work with and that you can trust to help deliver an awesome party.
Flexibility is always a good thing, and that’s where AJ’s Fine Foods comes in. With catering menus for appetizers, seafood, salads, buffets, dinners and desserts, its food choices can almost be more intimidating than its in-store iced tea selection. The good news is, you have a onestop shop for any and all types of events. The “Elegant Dinners” option offers classic cuts of meat like prime rib, roast and even lamb. Add a chef station to carve your meat and a few bartenders, and you’re free to enjoy your party. For events big and small, AJ’s is the wise obvious choice.
When entertaining for people you’re really looking to impress, make the call to Jennifer’s Catering. Under the
direction of Jennifer Russo, all of the culinary delights here are meticulously cooked, assembled and presented in a meaningful way. There are plenty of light options as well as options to stuff you silly. If you’re looking to be unique, try the Mongolian barbeque, where your guests can fill their bowls with a protein, choice of vegetable, noodles and sauce while one of Jennifer’s chefs stir-fries on the spot. She also does box lunches and brunches with just as much attention to detail.
The classic neighborhood restaurant The Vig does catering with the same spirit you find in the restaurants — friendly, affordable and uniquely Arizona. The local flair of this Genuine Concepts restaurant translates to its food. Although The Vig doesn’t offer a huge catering menu like the others, it does have a simple selection of crowd pleasers that include bruschettas, sliders and the hot vings (yes, the hot vings are the same deliciously moodboosting chicken wings served in-restaurant).
Avoid the headaches and stress. Enjoy the party, and leave it to the caterer to have your back.
HOSTING HITS
AJ’s Fine Foods
We’ve come to learn that AJ’s is the “Purveyors of Fine Foods,” and that speaks clearly through its extensive catering options. With menus designed for small and large events, AJ’s makes it easy to pick and choose what fits for your party and your budget.
4430 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix (602) 522-0956 ajsfinefoods.com
Jennifer’s Catering
Since moving to Gaslight Square back in 2013, Jennifer’s has expanded beyond catering into the restaurant business: Jennifer’s RESTAURANT+BAR. With many different types of cuisine, Jennifer’s is perfect for your corporate and social events.
3603 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix (602) 579-5327 jenniferscatering.com
The Vig
For catering that’s simple, call The Vig. Its smaller catering menu makes it easy to get genuine food at your party. Enjoy your favorite menu items from inside The Vig at your very own party.
4041 N. 40th St., Phoenix (602) 254-2242 thevig.us
All photos courtesy of AJ’s Fine Foods
(left and top right),
Jennifer’s Catering
The Vig (right, top to bottom)
DINING LISTINGS IN OUR VICINITY
Bluewater Grill
Local chain serving a wide variety of seafood dishes in a relaxed, nautically themed space.
1720 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix (602) 277-3474
bluewatergrill.com
Café Monarch
Classy New American café features a market-driven fixed-price menu plus a butterfly garden.
6934 E. 1st Ave., Scottsdale (480) 970-7682 cafemonarch.com
El Chorro
This 1937 landmark offers upscale American fare, a bocce ball court, big patio and occasional live music.
Geisha a Go Go
Creative cocktails and sushi rolls are served at this high-design lounge with private karaoke rooms.
7150 E. 6th Ave., Scottsdale (480) 699-0055 geishaagogo.com
Grassroots
Outpost of a small chain serving thoughtfully sourced, seasonal American fare with a Southern twist.
5550 E. Lincoln Dr., Paradise Valley (480) 948-5170 elchorro.com
First Watch
Café chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch and lunch options such as omelets, salads and soups.
3215 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix (602) 955-3447 firstwatch.com
Sushi Brokers
Creative Asian-fusion cuisine is the draw at this lively, contemporary eatery and cocktail lounge.
4419 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix (480) 515-5000 sushibrokers.com
2119 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix (602) 368-8766 grassrootsaz.com
MOD Pizza
Individualize an authentic, fresh, hand-made product, made super fast by a team that cares about serving you.
4280 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix (602) 314-8379 modpizza.com
Rehab Burger Therapy
Relaxed bar and restaurant with beach theme features an expansive menu of creative burgers.
7210 E. 2nd St., Scottsdale (480) 621-5358 rehabburgertherapy.com
Taco Blanco
Puts you in the mind of afternoons south of the border, barefoot, with margarita salt on your lips.
2502 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix (602) 429-8000 foxrc.com/restaurants/blancotacos-tequila
Tee Pee
Family-run, circa-1958 eatery serves Mexican eats in cozy surrounds with red vinyl booths and a bar.
4144 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix (602) 956-0178 teepeemexicanfood.com
Wally’s
This relaxed pub provides an eclectic mix of comfort food, from burgers to Cuban sandwiches.
5029 N. 44th St., Phoenix (602) 954-2040 wallyspub.com
Dakota Bar
Restaurant transforms at night, as local DJs spin live music under LED lighting and video projection.
7301 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale (480) 361-1030 dakotabar.com
Linger Longer Lounge
Trendy lounge offers craft cocktails and refined bar bites, plus retro games and stylish decor.
6522 N. 16th St., Phoenix (602) 264-4549 facebook.com/lingerlongerlounge
Majerle’s Sports Grill
Owned by Dan Majerle of Phoenix Suns fame, this bar,
Hotel Bars
Get refreshed in multiple ways at these fine properties. We’ve listed the great watering holes at some of our vicinity’s exclusive resorts.
