Four weeks of online polling resulted in thousands of votes to highlight the best Chandler has to offer. OUR READERS DECIDED WHAT THEY LIKE MOST ABOUT THE CITY, from the best places to take the kids to the best spot for breakfast to the best shop to get a haircut. Some of the winners are well known and well-established landmarks, while others might be new to you. PLEASE JOIN US IN CONGRATULATING THE WINNERS — along with the second- and third-place finishers — and stop in to see what makes these businesses, restaurants, people and places so special.
BEST ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHER
CHRISTINE THORNTON
Kindergarten, Carlson Elementary School • 5400 S. White Drive
480-224-3800 • mychandlerschools.org/carlson
It takes a village to raise a child, or just one amazing teacher.
Christine Thornton is a kindergarten teacher at Carlson Elementary. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education at St. John’s University and got her master’s degree in teaching English as a second language from Queen’s University.
This is Thornton’s fifth year teaching kindergarten in Chandler. She has taught at Tonalea Elementary in Scottsdale, Ryan Elementary and Estrella Mountain Elementary before coming to Carlson. This will be her 23rd year teaching overall.
“I love watching them grow and succeed and achieve,” Thornton said. She said each day is a new adventure.
“Every day, I laugh.”
SECOND PLACE
Rebecca McLendon, Tarwater
Fifth Grade, Tarwater Elementary School
2300 S. Gardner Drive
480-883-4300
mychandlerschools.org/tarwater
THIRD PLACE
Jennifer Pearce,
First Grade Chandler Traditional Academy-Independence Elementary School
405 W. Lake Drive
480-224-2700
mychandlerschools.org/ Domain/1316
BEST HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER
PAULA JONES, ORCHESTRA TEACHER
Casteel High School
24901 S. Power Road, Queen Creek
480-424-8100
cusd80.com/caseteelhigh
Paula Jones has the good fortune to teach at the only Chandler school for students in seventh through 12th grades.
Perhaps it’s her exposure to more students at more grade levels or her love for her work, but she was chosen by Tribune readers as the best junior high school and best high school teacher.
Jones teaches orchestra classes at Casteel High School. The Chandler Unified School District school just began its second year of classes. This year students in grades 7-10 attend Casteel. One more grade level will be added for each of the next two years until it becomes a seventh through 12th-grade school.
“It’s a great opportunity to teach in a real sequential fashion,” Jones said. “Kids can develop and build on their skills year after year.”
SECOND PLACE
Hamilton High School
3700 S. Arizona Ave.
480-883-5000 mychandlerschools.org/HHS
Jones wants her students to grow, learn and develop a desire to keep learning, “to not be satisfied unless they are learning.”
Jones has taught in the Chandler district for 15 years and taught two years prior in another school district. Teaching is her second career. In addition to having dual degrees in education and instrumental and choral conducting from Northern Arizona University, she also has a master’s of divinity from Claremont University in California.
Jones tells her students that learning to play an instrument will prove valuable for many reasons, mostly because it will allow them to express things “in a way they might not be able to do with their mouths.”
Music also helps develop a sense of community, self-discipline and molds minds in ways that allow people to think outside the box, she said.
THIRD PLACE
Jennifer Burks,
assistant principal for athletics
Perry High School
1919 E. Queen Creek Road 480-224-2800
mychandlerschools.org/phs
BOGLE JUNIOR HIGH
1600 W. Queen Creek Road. • 480-883-5500 mychandlerschools.org/Domain/676
Founded in 1992, Bogle Junior High focuses on the personal and academic achievement of its students. However, one of its main goals is to give students the confidence they need to continue on and tackle high school. With smaller, more focused classrooms that allow the teachers to understand the individual needs of their students, any child can succeed. Bogle Junior High also recognizes the
SECOND PLACE
Santan Junior High
1550 E. Chandler Heights Road 480-883-4600
mychandlerschools.org/ Domain/3826
importance of extracurricular activities and gives many different options that can appeal to any student’s interests.
The positive classroom environment promotes student effort and celebrates personal success. Along with striving for academic excellence, Bogle Junior High also stresses the importance of teaching students to be good citizens in the community.
THIRD PLACE
Arizona College Preparatory-Oakland Campus
191 W. Oakland St. 480-224-3930
ww2.chandler.k12.az.us/ Domain/1466mpsaz.org/mesa
BEST PRESCHOOL
For nearly a decade, Wee Blessings has provided religious preschooling in Chandler, preparing children to enter all different kinds of schools. Whether your child will enroll in public or private elementary school, Wee Blessings will give them the skills they will need.
Wee Blessings owners Phil Chavez and Debi-Larkin Chavez strive to keep class sizes to a minimum, maintaining the ratio to 12 students for every teacher at the most.
Enrollment is open for some preschool and Pre-K sessions at their Chandler and Queen Creek locations.
SECOND PLACE Kinderbugs Academy 1095 W. Queen Creek Road 480-899-3130 kinderbugs.com
1751 E. Queen Creek Road • 480-634-4788 • weeblessingspreschool.com THIRD PLACE BRiDGES Preschool and Kindergarten 1997 W. Elliot Road 480-963-8300 bridgespreschool.com
HAMILTON HIGH SCHOOL HUSKIES
3700 S. Arizona Ave. • 480-883-5000 • mychandlerschools.org/hhs
This year, The Hamilton Huskies lead the pack. Huskies are known to be quick and light on their feet. That is how their Husky takes the field every game to cheer on his winning team. Check out the pouncing dog at any of Hamilton High Schools events, from pep rallies to sporting events.
Every year, the Chandler High School Wolves and Hamilton High School Huskies fight for who’s best and this year, it goes to Hamilton.
SECOND PLACE
Chandler High School Wolves
350 N. Arizona Ave. 480-812-7700 mychandlerschools.org/chs
THIRD PLACE Legacy Traditional School Titans
3201 S. Gilbert Road 480-270-5422
chandler.legacytraditional.org
BEST ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
What makes Riggs Elementary special?
“It helps when you’ve got an amazing group of students, parents and staff,” Principal Jan Weyenberg said.
Since the school opened its doors to Seville and surrounding neighborhoods, Riggs Elementary in the Chandler Unified School District has routinely racked up honors and achievements. But the school received an extra-special feather in its cap earlier this year when it was named an A+ School of Excellence by the Arizona Educational Foundation.
The foundation looks for high levels of student achievement, high levels of student, teacher and parent satisfaction, and innovation in classroom instruction and programs.
“We really focus on helping children be their best, and being successful academically, socially and emotionally,” Weyenberg said.
BEST CHARTER SCHOOL
LEGACY TRADITIONAL SCHOOL
3201 S. Gilbert Road • 480-270-5422 • chandler.legacytraditional.org
Legacy Traditional School, formerly Athlos Traditional Academy, is Arizona’s largest and highest-ranked K-8 charter school network. It was founded in 2007 and has 12 campuses including two in Chandler, two in Nevada and one in San Antonio.
Legacy Traditional has a goal to create and maintain a school culture where students are healthy, safe, engaged, supported and challenged.
To that end, it has a back-to-basics
SECOND PLACE
curriculum that promotes the mastery of reading, writing and mathematics, along with science, history and social studies. Also included in the curriculum are music, computers, physical education, library and art. The globally accredited program of instruction provides a solid foundation of fundamental and higher thinking skills. Its structured curriculum is consistent within each grade level and sequential throughout the grades.
In addition, the kindergarten through eighth grade curriculum is taught in teacherdirected instructional style, where the teacher stands in front of a classroom and presents the information.
The school’s core values include work ethics, integrity, patriotism, leadership, discipline, teamwork and character.
Chandler Preparatory Academy
1951 N. Alma School Road
480-855-5410 chandlerprep.org
THIRD PLACE
Basis Chandler
4825 S. Arizona Ave. 480-907-6072
basischandler.org
BEST MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHER
PAULA JONES, ORCHESTRA TEACHER
Casteel H.S. • 24901 S. Power Road, Queen Creek • 480-424-8100
Paula Jones has the good fortune to teach at the only Chandler school for students in seventh through 12th grades.
Perhaps it’s her exposure to more students at more grade levels or her love for her work, but she was chosen by Tribune readers as the best junior high school and best high school teacher.
Jones teaches orchestra classes at Casteel High School. The Chandler Unified School District school just began its second year of classes. This year students in grades 7-10 attend Casteel. One more grade level will be added for each of the next two years until it becomes a seventh through 12th-grade school.
“It’s a great opportunity to teach in a real sequential fashion,” Jones said. “Kids can develop and build on their skills year after year.”
Jones wants her students to grow, learn and develop a desire to keep learning, “to not be satisfied unless they are learning.”
Jones has taught in the Chandler district for 15 years and taught two years prior in another school district. Teaching is her second career. In addition to having dual degrees in education and instrumental and choral conducting from Northern Arizona University, she also has a master’s of divinity from Claremont University in California.
Jones tells her students that learning to play an instrument will prove valuable for many reasons, mostly because it will allow them to express things “in a way they might not be able to do with their mouths.”
Music also helps develop a sense of community, self-discipline and molds minds in ways that allow people to think outside the box, she said.
SECOND PLACE
Douglas Mitchell, Life connections and careers, media and yearbook teacher
Arizona College Prep-Oakland Campus 191 W. Oakland St. 480-224-3930 cusd80.com/acpoakland
THIRD PLACE
John Studzinski, band and guitar teacher
Willis Junior High School 401 S. McQueen Road 480-883-5700 cusd80.com/wjhs
3700 S. Arizona Ave. • 480-883-5000 mychandlerschools.org/hhs
Hamilton High School is the largest school in the state and carries with it a reputation of excellence.
“Diversity is a positive for Hamilton,” Principal Ken James said. “We have a wide range of students who all want to be a part of a winning tradition.”
Hamilton not only teaches students, but also focuses a lot of attention preparing them for after high school.
“Every content area we have there’s AP (advanced placement),” James said. “We offer the most AP classes in the state.”
The Huskies were also nominated as an A+ school program that celebrates outstanding public schools for their efforts.
THE HANGAR CAFE
1725 E. Ryan Road • 480-899-6965
The Hangar Cafe at Chandler Municipal Airport sees several kinds of regular customers.
There are the private pilots, of course, and all the instructors and mechanics who work for the airfield’s three flight schools. You might see a group of veterans who flew in Vietnam or Korea making three-egg omelets disappear.
take off and land.
“The kids always shriek because the pilots head right for the cafe before they turn,” said manager Emily Clark.
A lot of those moms and dads came to the cafe as kids. Started 18 years ago by Lillian
George, who runs the cafe with her brother, Fadi Assouad, the Hangar keeps them coming back with friendly service and great portions of great food.
You can see the owners’ Lebanese heritage shine through in the gyro and spinach and feta cheese omelets. For many regulars, only the biscuits and gravy will do. The lip-smacking, homemade sausage gravy also figures prominently in the popular chicken fried steak, which can also be ordered as the Airport Burrito.
Delicious, scratch green chili sauce adorns the Mediterranean frittata, the Hangar Green Chile Burrito and The Hash Wrap. Most entrees are $8.99. Light eaters can grab the Mediterranean Sandwich—one over-hard fried egg, spinach, tomato and feta cheese on an English muffin with a cup of fruit on the side.
The best way to enjoy your meal and see the planes, during the fall-winter-spring months, is on the covered patio. The inside of the cafe has an old-school diner ambience and is decorated with humorous, retro signs. Model airplanes dangle from the ceiling.
If you haven’t been to the Hangar in a while, don’t be alarmed if some of the guests are enjoying a bloody Mary, mimosa or Irish coffee.
Last winter, the pilots also talked Lilly and Fadi into hosting Friday happy hours from 4-7
p.m. It got so popular, they added an all-youcan-eat fish fry and plan to do it again this year. These recent innovations, Clark notes, have had the added benefit of drawing her fellow millennials to the restaurant.
“Chandler is growing so much,” she said, “and we’re trying to grow with it. I love it here. It’s like family.”
The Hangar Cafe is open for breakfast every day from 7-11 a.m. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
BEST SPORTS BAR
The name says it all. At Cold Beers and Cheeseburgers, the burgers are made to order, there are multiple beers on tap and the big game can always be seen on one of the many big-screen TVs that are all over the restaurant.
“Everything on our menu is made in house,” general manager Brandon Juniper said. “We take great pride in being able to cater to everyone; whether you come in with your family, a group of friends to enjoy a game or for our Happy Hour after work, it’s our goal to make sure you have a great time.”
Not feeling a burger? Cold Beers and Cheeseburgers offers
And then there are moms and dads and kids who are excited to see small planes
JOSH BROWN
The Perch Pub & Brewery • 232 S. Wall St. • 480-773-7688 perchpubbrewery.com
It takes only a few minutes of sitting at the bar to gain a true understanding of the staff that works at The Perch Pub & Brewery. There is a sense of kinship and respect that is shown in their work. Josh Brown is not shy in saying, “We are all friends outside of work. There is no bad blood.”
Brown has been a bartender at The Perch for almost a year and a half. Seeing how they work together and treat each other, it’s no surprise when Brown says, “Honestly, I think there are better bartenders here than me. We all work hard.”
At first, Brown didn’t even know he was in the running for Best Bartender in Chandler. A manager told him in passing
SECOND PLACE Tiffanie Carpenter The Hungry Monk 1760 W. Chandler Blvd. 480-963-8000 hungrymonkaz.com
about the contest.
“It took me by surprise. Once I checked it out, I added the link to my Facebook. 150 likes later, it must have worked.”
Despite some teasing from his fellow servers, they are all proud of his work. Another server jumped in, “We love to bug him. Josh, as the best bartender in Chandler, how do you feel about this menu change?”
The Perch has an inside bar and rooftop bar. Outside seating includes a misting system, “look, don’t touch” exotic rescue birds, and patio games. The rooftop bar offers amazing views of downtown Chandler and a bird’s-eye view of the courtyard seating below. Happy hour is available Monday through Friday, 2-6 p.m.
THIRD PLACE Roy Higgins El Palacio Crossroads Towne Center, 2950 E. Germann Road 480-802-5770 epfamilyrestaurants.com SECOND PLACE
THE PERCH PUB & BREWERY
232 S. Wall St. • 480-773-7688 perchpubbrewery.com
While September continues to see weather in the 90s, it is easy to pick the indoor seating option at most bars and restaurants. At The Perch Pub & Brewery, outside seating is a treat despite what the thermostat reads. Walking into The Perch can be compared to entering a hidden forest, complete with a treehouse. The calming chirp of exotic birds and a fantastic misting system transforms this restaurant into a unique experience for any desert dweller.
General Manager and Chef Timothy McGovern believes there are several reasons why The Perch won best happy hour.
“The atmosphere is amazing. We have great customers and a hard-working staff,” he said.
The Perch has 40 craft beers on tap. A full bar in available for those who prefer a specialty cocktail. Happy hour is Monday thru Friday, 2-6 p.m. This includes $1 off all draft beers, well drinks and house wines. An assortment of appetizers and food specials are included in the happy hour and are considered upscale craft food.
Located at Chandler Fashion Center, the 24-year-old, Arizona-based chain provides Americanized Chinese cuisine at a reasonable price. It’s the full-service largest casual dining Chinese restaurant chain in the country. Reservations can be made online and the restaurant is available to cater.
P. F. Chang’s also offers gluten-free options and has been recognized by the Gluten Intolerance Group of North America.
SECOND PLACE
Kona Grill
Chandler Fashion Center, 3111 W. Chandler Blvd. 480-792-1711 konagrill.com
THIRD PLACE
El Palacio
Crossroads Towne Center, 2950 E. Germann Road 480-802-5770
epfamilyrestaurants.com
BEST COFFEE SHOP
COFFEE RUSH
1949 W. Ray Road, Suite 40 • 480-855-9815 • coffeerushcafe.com
Coffee Rush sits in the scenic Boardwalk
At Andersen Springs at the southeast corner of Dobson and Ray. It’s a relaxed place to get a coffee, smoothie or iced tea while people-watching. Sit long enough and you’ll see joggers, bicyclists and wandering groups of ducks from the Anderson Springs lake.
The well-known gathering place has been there for 15 years, and owner Moe Muraweh doesn’t plan on making any changes to his successful formula.
“The only thing that changes is the coffees available. We have pumpkin spice now, and other holiday drinks,” he said.
Muraweh credits his long success to his customers.
“We believe that we have the best customers in the world, honestly,” he said.
“It takes two to tango, and I love our customers, and our customers love Coffee Rush.”
It opens early for patrons, at 5 a.m. during the week and 6 a.m. on Sunday.
Coffee Rush boasts extended hours—to 11 p.m. all week, for that late-night coffee need.
VALLE LUNA
1949 W. Ray Road • 480-786-310
Valle Luna has been providing Mexican food in the Sonoran tradition in the Valley since the 1980s. It was founded by Tia Rita, who first tried out her recipes in upstate New York in the mid1970s to much acclaim.
After Tia Rita’s passing, her son Bill and his wife Janice took on what they call an “oldfashioned” operation. Employers say that the restaurant is popular for a combination of factors. Being family owned and operated helps, they said, while the food, children’s menu, drink specials and atmosphere are appealing to many looking for a quiet lunch or a robust evening out.
SECOND PLACE Peixoto Coffee 11 W. Boston St., Suite 6 480-275-2843 peixotocoffee.com
BEST BURGERS
IN-N-OUT BURGER
2790 W. Chandler Blvd. 7050 W. Ray Road 2910 E. Germann Road 800-786-1000 • in-n-out.com
The West Coast’s favorite fast food is also Chandler’s. The fresh, high-quality ingredients In-N-Out Burger prides itself on are available at three locations within the city’s limits.
Everything on the menu is inexpensive, providing a quality meal for anyone, anytime. Its minimal menu prioritizes quality over quantity, preferring to make burgers, fries and shakes better than anyone else.
In-N-Out Burger is also known for its secret menu. Ask for a mustard-fried burger for a different taste, or grilled onions. “Animal style” fries are topped with cheese, onions and the restaurant’s famous burger spread.
In-N-Out Burger is open from 10:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. at all Chandler locations, providing a cheap late-night dining option.
W. Germann Road
Valle Luna’s Sonoran-style Mexican food is different from Tex-Mex, New Mexican or Baja styles of cooking. Examples are the emphasis on beef in the dishes and the flour tortillas that are stretched thin and cooked on a griddle to produce small blisters that gives them a different flavor.
“We’re part of a lot of people’s lives and have been for many, many years,” said regional general manager Chris Espinoza. “It’s a tradition for a lot of people.”
epfamilyrestaurants.com
BEST PIZZA
BARRO’S PIZZA
Germann Towne Center 1880 S. Alma School Rd. 480-917-0077
2050 N. Alma School Rd. 480-963-4720
Riggs Landing, 950 E. Riggs Rd. 480-895-2555 • barrospizza.com
With three of Barro’s 37 Valley locations in Chandler, the restaurant has proven to be a favorite among readers. The proof is in the Barro’s family recipe that dates back to grandmother Angelina Barro, who made pizza and pasta in her Sarconi, Italy, home, according to Teri Scholz, spokeswoman for Barro’s.
“Her recipes were passed down through the generations and are now used in the family business that is dedicated to customer satisfaction.
Barro’s Pizza is honored to place among the top pizza restaurants in Chandler, she added.
“It is our promise to continue to provide our customers with pizza just like Grandma Barro used to make with thick and fluffy crust, perfectly tangy and sweet, spiced sauce, and generous amounts of the highest quality mozzarella for the flawless trifecta of pizza ingredients.”
SECOND PLACE
Floridino’s Pizza and Pasta 590 N. Alma School Road, Suite 35 480-812-8433 floridinos.net
THIRD PLACE
Rosati’s Pizza Provinces, 1050 E. Ray Road, 480-899-5444
Shoppes at Clemente Ranch, 2040 S. Alma School Road, Suite 11, 480-899-2255 rosatispizza.com
KNEADERS BAKERY AND CAFÉ
1090 W. Queen Creek Road • 480-355-0533 • kneaders.com
& WINGS 2110 S. Gilbert Road • 480-782-0840 • nativegrillandwings.com 2885 S. Alma School Road • 480-883-8284 • nativegrillandwings.com C
raving wings? Look no further than Native Grill & Wings. With 21 different flavors to choose from, including the all new chicken n’ waffles dry rub, Native wings are the perfect option to stimulate anyone’s taste buds. With options such as Native Style Strippers and boneless wings, which are offered in half-pound to a pound portions, to traditional wings offered in a six-pack up to a 48-pack, no matter what your style is, Native has it covered. Having trouble deciding between all of the flavor options? The traditional wings are offered by the single and sauced individually.
t’s difficult not to be stuffed after a meal at Kneaders Bakery and Café because of its wide variety of food options, how can you pick just one? Gary and Colleen Worthington founded the restaurant in 1997 when they decided to make homemade artisanal European breads. The restaurant now has over 50 locations.
Their menu includes mouth-watering soups, salads and sandwiches. Plus, there are enough sugarfilled pastries to satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth, from moist cheesecakes, pies, rolls, cannoli and more. To top it off, Kneaders has such a warm and inviting seating area, it’s hard not to just sit inside and enjoy pastries all day.
SECOND PLACE Ice Cream Sammies 135 W. Boston St. 480-739-9221 originalsammies.com
THIRD PLACE Downtown Chandler Cafe and Bakery
40 S. San Marcos Place 480-855-3212
BEST ITALIAN
FLORIDINO’S PIZZA & PASTA
Jeff Weninger and Shaun Kelley opened Floridino’s Pizza & Pasta 20 years ago to offer a family oriented, full-service Italian restaurant.
Since 1996 they’ve done so, according to Tribune readers who chose the restaurant tops in the Italian food category.
Floridino’s has grown and expanded in the last two decades, Weninger said. Besides traditional dining, the restaurant offers monthly special events, a banquet facility that seats 70 and catering.
“When we started there were only about five restaurants in Chandler,” he said. Because they were early comers, they’ve had the opportunity to develop long-standing relationships with their customers.
“People who came here with their parents now come here with their children,” Weninger said. And, when they’re there, they all seem to find other customers who they know.
DC STEAK HOUSE
98 S. San Marcos Place
480-899-4400
dc-steakhouse.com
Opened in 2010, the Downtown Chandler Steak House—abbreviated as DC Steak House—harnesses owner Dean Laplant’s extensive steak house experience. He began grilling at his family’s Wisconsin establishment, The Rafters, at the age of 13 and started his own successful restaurant, Steakout, in Milwaukee at age 28. After moving from Wisconsin to Chandler with his wife Lorie 14 years ago, he eventually saw the perfect opening for a steak house in downtown Chandler’s historic main square. In addition to the goals of offering amazing grilled food and excellent service, Dean also wanted to embrace the spirit of Chandler. When you visit, you’re greeted by murals, painted by Lorie, that show scenes from Chandler’s history.
In DC Steak House’s six years of operation, Chandler residents have come to love Dean’s style of grilling steaks, as well as the walleye and lobster tails. Dean credits the restaurant’s success to the consistency of the product, and says, “We are honored to be chosen the winner of best steakhouse. Years of dedication have brought us this reward. Many thank yous to our returning customers.”
SECOND PLACE
CHoP Chandler
2625 W. Queen Creek Road
480-821-0009
chopchandler.com
THIRD PLACE
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
3435 W. Chandler Blvd.
480-814-8003
FAMOUS DAVE’S BAR-B-QUE
AFamous Dave’s Bar-B-Que manager in Chandler appreciates East Valley Tribune readers picking his restaurant as the best barbecue in Chandler.
But the manager, “Famous Jon Jon,” otherwise known as Jonathan Sherman, is not exactly surprised by the honor. His restaurant, at Chandler Fashion Square, also was rated as Number 1 in the chain of 198 restaurants.
“Everything is fresh, everything is smoked daily” for hours at a time, Sherman said. “I’m not surprised at all” by the Best of Chandler honor.
He said it’s hard to pick a most popular dish because many of his guests enjoy combo plates. The beef brisket and the ribs are among the top sellers. The meat combos include choices of Georgia Chopped Pork, Texas Beef Brisket, Southside Rib Tips and Country Roast Chicken.
Chandler Fashion Center, 3250 W. Frye Road • 480-782-1212 • famousdaves.com SECOND PLACE
“We go through so much of everything,” Sherman said.
Famous Dave’s also is known for it’s bread pudding, when customers somehow find room for dessert.
BBQ 1445 S. Arizona Ave. 480-899-7675 porkopolisbbqaz.com THIRD PLACE Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q 7300 W. Chandler Blvd. 480-874-6440 rudysbbq.com
Steak, Seafood, Chops, Wine, Cocktails Open 7 Nights a week!
CHANDLER FASHION CENTER
3111 W. Chandler Blvd.
480-812-8488
shopchandlerfashioncenter.com
Chandler Fashion Center is the second largest mall in the Valley, and the center of shopping life in Chandler.
With more than 180 stores and services, Chandler Fashion Center has drawn shoppers for nearly 15 years. Top restaurants, an outdoor gathering space, four top anchors (Dillard’s, Macy’s, Nordstrom and Sears) and a 20-screen Harkins Theatre fill out the space, at Chandler Boulevard and the Price 101 Freeway.
The mall is holding up well against economic forces, according to business reports. While nationally most malls have sales of about $400 per square foot, Chandler Fashion Center averages $600.
SECOND PLACE Nordstrom Rack 2620 W. Chandler Blvd. 480-722-2000 shop.nordstrom.com
Chandler Blvd. 480-792-1749
BEST PLACE TO EXERCISE
TUMBLEWEED RECREATION CENTER
745 E. Germann Road • 480-782-2900 chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed
New residents of Chandler who ask for fitness center recommendations are often surprised to learn that one of the best is operated by the city.
“We are the home to the goalsetters, believers and achievers,” said Tiffanie Hawkins, marketing and communications coordinator.
The 62,000-square-foot facility in Tumbleweed Regional Park has 50 state-of-the-art cardio and 45 strengthtraining machines. The center also offers 52 group exercise classes every week.
W. Queen Creek Road, Suite 4 480-855-3005 studiofitaz.com THIRD PLACE
Tumbleweed features scores of youth programs and child care.
For Chandler residents who want to give Tumbleweed a test drive, daily passes can be bought for $3 (55 and older) or $4 (20-54). A punch pass good for 10 visits is $27 or $36. A variety of monthly, annual, children’s and family passes are available as well.
PLACE Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa 4200 S. Alma School Road 480-656-0045
Village at Ocotillo is described as a luxurious senior community.
CHANDLER UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
Chandler Unified School District has five core values when it comes to its employees: excellence, collaboration, equity, integrity and efficiency.
CUSD spokesman Terry Locke said that’s part of the reason why his district is a prime place to work.
“Chandler Unified School District is committed to employing outstanding individuals from a culturally diverse community and providing the resources to enable them to achieve success, satisfaction, accomplishment and pride in fulfilling the mission of the school district,” he said.
This isn’t the first time the CUSD has been honored.
“A third party conducts an annual climate survey of all employees,” Locke said. “This year, 95 percent of employees reported they are proud to work at CUSD, and 89 percent said ‘Other CUSD employees treat me with respect.’ In addition, 94 percent said CUSD schools maintain high standards of learning for all students and 93 percent
believe that communication with families is a top priority.”
The governing board adopted a 10-year strategic plan called Journey 2025 in an effort to become the top school district in the country with focuses on world-class employees, organizational culture, effective resource management and outstanding students.
SECOND PLACE
HeartStrings Pet Resort and Pet Day Care 930 E. Riggs Road 480-895-4683
CHRISTIAN BROTHERS AUTOMOTIVE
290 E. Ocotillo Road
480-264-0990
cbac.com/south-chandler
At Christian Brothers Automotive, it is owner Tony Schottenbauer’s mission to offer the highest-quality customer service and repairs in Chandler.
In addition to the big leather chairs and a well-kept waiting area with Wi-Fi, Christian Brothers Automotive strives on making every part of the customer’s experience a great one. Not sure what the problem is? The auto technicians at Christian Brothers are knowledgeable in multiple areas like A/C repair, brakes, electrical systems and suspension.
Christian Brothers Automotive believes the owner should play an integral part in day-to-day operations to better understand its customers. From the stellar reviews Christian Brothers receives, this philosophy is working out great for Schottenbauer and company.
Bill Ryan’s roots in Chandler run deep, growing up on a 320-acre family farm operated by his mother and father in south Chandler.
Ryan opened his realty office in 1974, when the city had much more of an agricultural flavor. The Ryan-Whyte Team at RE/ MAX Infinity is still on a small portion of that farm, along his family homestead, at Arizona Avenue and Germann.
Ryan, the broker at the realty firm, developed much of the farm into Ryan Estates, a custom home community. A partnership with Cody Whyte, the realty office also has four additional Realtors and
specializes mainly in Chandler, Kerri Wade, team leader, said people call Ryan “Mr. Chandler” because of his longtime place in the city. Ryan is a past president of the Chandler Chamber of Commerce and the Chandler Horizon Rotary Club.
She said the firm is especially proud that 81 percent of its business comes from past clients and referrals. It is more typical for about 40 percent of a realty agency’s business to come from past customers, Wade said.
“We’ve been around here a long time. We’ve been a presence in our community,” she said. “Our clients love us.”
OCOTILLO GOLF RESORT
Water, water everywhere, and so many ways for a golf ball to go kerplunk. But fans of Ocotillo Golf Resort near Alma School and Ocotillo roads wouldn’t have it any other way. They’ve been teeing it up and loving every minute of the challenge since the course opened in 1986.
Immaculately maintained and managed by Troon Golf, Ocotillo features three nine-hole courses—Gold, Blue and White. Golfers can play a quick nine, or mix courses for 18 according to their skill level and time. The Blue-Gold combination from the back tees stretches the course to more than 7,000 yards and pushes the slope (difficulty rating) to 133. (A standard slope is
about 113; the maximum is 155).
Designed by Ted Robinson, Ocotillo’s lush fairways, waterfalls and colorful planting beds stand in stark contrast to the desert landscaped courses traditionally found in the East Valley. Robinson’s design often requires golfers to hit their first shots—and sometimes second—over water. But wellstruck balls create birdie opportunities for golfers who think their way around.
SECOND PLACE San Marcos Golf Course
100 N. Dakota St. 480-963-3358 sanmarcosgolfourse.com
THIRD PLACE Bear Creek Golf Complex
500 E. Riggs Road 480-883-8200 bearcreekaz.com
At Rawhide, every member of the family can enjoy the travel back through time to the Old West. With shops, live action stunt shows, bull riding, and an award-winning steakhouse, Rawhide offers many different experiences.
“First and foremost, we are here to be the host of making memories - creating long-lasting family traditions and memorable experiences with friends and loved ones,” Rawhide director of sales and marketing Amber Riley said.
With free admission every weekend (Friday, Saturday, Sunday), Rawhide gives families the option to skimp on the price, but not on the memories.
OSTRICH FESTIVAL
Tumbleweed Park, 2250 S. McQueen Road • 480-588-8497 ostrichfestival.com
For close to 30 years, the largest and flightless birds in creation have taken center stage during a festival in Chandler.
The Ostrich Festival, which features ostrich racing in addition to high-flying Frisbee dogs, pig races and a high wire motorcycle demonstration among an extraordinary lineup of attractions, gets underway every spring at the Tumbleweed Park.
Last year, the three-day community festival attracted 86,000 people, while more than 1,000 volunteers and staff members manned it each day. It features local and national vendors that sell everything from cotton candy and funnel cakes to deep fried brownies, and maybe even an ostrich burger, which is considered red meat and is low in cholesterol and fat.
There’s something for each age group— last year, for example, there were Batman and Superman meet and greets, a petting zoo, camel and pony rides for the young; wild science exhibits, Disney stars and fame racing for the teens; and a beer garden and falcon exhibit were among
the crowd-pleasers for adults.
The festival harkens to Chandler’s early days of ostrich ranching, when the big birds from Africa were raised for their plumes that went on to adorn the hats of the society’s fashionable of the day. The area used to have many ranches, and at the time of Chandler’s founding, a rancher could expect to make a tidy profit from its business venture.
When the fashions changed, however, the demand for the feathers dropped around 1915.
But the gangly birds still have their day in Chandler; they are the center of attraction when the chariot-like races get underway at the festival.
It’s hard not to topple when you’re on top of an ostrich, as many racers found out first-hand. The bird runs fast, around 40 mph, though not necessarily in the direction you may want it going.
In addition, there’s no sturdy mane to hold on to, such as when racing on a horse. Riders have to grab their hairy necks and hope for the best.
BEST PUBLIC POOL
The city of Chandler operates Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center all year.
It features a competition and lap pool, the big blue bucket, two diving boards, two water slides, a lazy river, toddler slides, a water vortex and a family play pool.
Swim lessons and classes are offered and swim teams use the pool. A full schedule of open times and fees is on the city’s website. Click on the residents tab, open the parks and recreation section and click on the aquatics button.
All Chandler wanted to do was dance, and Dance Loft will let you do it. With five dance rooms, Marley floors to aid in preventing injuries, and a staff of professional dancers, Dance Loft is dedicated to providing dance education that will foster creativity and self-esteem.
Dance Loft owner Chris Vierkoetter says, “getting to learn the art form from amazing professional dancers and choreographers” is the best part about coming to the studio. Every teacher is versed in their respective style and will inspire and strengthen each student in dance.
With ballet, jazz, contemporary, hiphop, theatre, pom, tumbling, among others, Dance Loft has a class for anyone, at any skill level. It’s hard not to topple when you’re on top of an ostrich, as many racers found out first-hand. The bird runs fast, around 40 mph, though not necessarily in the direction you may want it going.
2450 E. Germann Road, Suite 1 480-963-9911 thedanceloftaz.com
In addition, there’s no sturdy mane to hold on to, such as when racing on a horse. Riders have to grab their hairy necks and hope for the best.
BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE
BIG TWO TOYOTA OF CHANDLER
Big Two Toyota of Chandler, one of the East Valley’s largest dealerships, has been selected as the winner of Best of Chandler in the customer service category.
The award is an affirmation of the dealership’s longstanding commitment to customer service, said Chris Henkel, general sales manager.
“It’s everything. That’s what keeps us going, is repeat business and referrals,” Henkel said. “Some of our guests have been coming here so long.”
Henkel said that part of Big Two’s philosophy is to take care of customers well when servicing their cars, making it more likely that they will purchase their next car from Big Two.
“To have people come back and do business, that’s the best feather in our cap,” Henkel said.
Big Two has several attributes aimed at making customers feel comfortable at the dealership. It offers a salon and serves customers complimentary water, coffee and snacks. A shuttle bus is available to take customers home or to work while mechanics fic their vehicles.
Big Two has deep roots in the East Valley. It was founded in 1937 by Lon Hoeye, whose son, Chris Hoeye, still operates the dealership. Big Two was an institution in central Mesa, but the move to a larger, more modern facility in Chandler has paid off handsomely for the company.
Henkel said Chris Hoeye feels strongly about giving back to the community and that he has been a significant donor to the Chandler ICAN program, which helps disadvantaged youths avoid drugs, alco
DOLCE SALON & SPA
Dolce Salon & Spa is the quintessential one-stop shop for beauty in Chandler. Dolce’s unique services, products, stylists and atmosphere stand out among the myriad of salons in the Valley.
3325 W. Chandler Blvd. • 480-722-0500 • dolcesalonspa.com and Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Whether they’re making a bride feel beautiful on her special day, supporting local charities or sharing tricks of the beauty trade, it’s no secret that Dolce Salon & Spa is the premier place to get pampered in Chandler.
They have repeatedly proven that superlative service is in the details, whether it’s exclusive nail designs, signature massages or customized blending stations for makeup application and facials. Not only do the beauticians at Dolce pride themselves on providing supreme services and using the best products, but they also strive to share their knowledge and passion by frequently offering tutorials and workshops.
Dolce offers premium relaxation and rejuvenation services like massages, facials, reflexology and body wraps as well as haircuts, color, blowouts and custom styles. They also provide makeup, nails, waxing, tanning and brow and lash tinting services.
Dolce knows it’s important to be commended for hard work and commitment, so the salon offers a 20 percent discount to anyone in the military or cosmetology school. The salon also proves that beauty isn’t skin deep by working with local organizations like Arizona Princess Program
PLACE Leiden Mitchell Salon and Spa 2177 W. Queen Creek Road 480-857-4200 leidenmitchell.com
“My confidence is like it has never been before. I am dating a beautiful woman. Work is going great. I get random compliments from people... I just feel better and I think people pickup on that.” Chris P.
PLACE Country Clipper Barber Shop 52 S. San Marcos Place 602-769-9446 countryclipperbarbershop.com
Now entering its 27th year, Chandler Center for the Arts continues its mission of promoting performing arts, creativity and education in the Chandler community. As the largest indoor cultural venue in Chandler, it works to attract high-quality artists and performers at competitive costs for audiences and the performers themselves.
With of its three theaters and 2,000 square-foot exhibition space, the facility hosts more than 1,000 events annually. This includes both local and national artists who bring music, dance, visual art and theater productions to more than 300,000 yearly attendees from around the Valley.
During the week, Chandler Center for the Arts plays host to thousands of children who participate in a wide range of artistic and
educational programs. This is no surprise as the facility is a joint venture between the City of Chandler and the Chandler Unified School District. In all, more than 150,000 students a year receive an enriching exposure to the arts that they might not get otherwise.
This year marks the third win for Chandler Center for the Arts in the Live Performance Venue category, which underscores the important role it plays in the Chandler community.
HEARTSTRINGS PET RESORT AND DAYCARE
930 E. Riggs Road • 480-895-4683 • heartstringspetresort.com
hen René Overleese steps into the HeartStrings Pet Resort and Daycare play room, the excitement from her furry friends fills the room with a series of playful barks and howls. For Overleese, the owner of HeartStrings, it’s a dream come true.
HeartStrings opened on May 9 and it already has many loyal regulars who enjoy both the daycare and overnight stays. Owners send their pets because the quality of care and appreciation for
SECOND PLACE
6125 W. Chandler Blvd., Suite 1 480-940-1955 chandlerdogs.com
animals is evident in their staff’s dedication.
“I have always loved animals. I have a soft spot for them,” Overleese said.
Dogs will never be bored during their stay at the resort. There are designated play times in the playroom which features many of toys. Plus, there’s always a staff member who has plenty of love and affection to give to every dog. The best part is that they never shy away from a slobbery lick to the face.
The suites include Kuranda beds, lambskin blankets and a night light. Pets will sleep comfortably in their own cozy suite.
The staff members share an equal fondness for animals and have the experience to make any dog owner feel comfortable leaving their fur baby at HeartStrings. All staff members are pet CPR and first aid certified. Some of the staff members even have plans to become veterinarians or zoologists.
“We’re all animal lovers here,” Overleese said.
PLACE
We would like to thank our customers for their support. We appreciate your business, and we look forward to pampering your valued pets.
480-899-5562
3875 W. Ray Rd., #9, Chandler www.facebook.com/Fancyfurnpurr
BEST VETERINARIAN
South Chandler veterinarian Andrea Stickland attributes her Best of Chandler award to the human touch she practices at Animal Medical Center of Chandler.
“I think I try to treat people the way I like to be treated myself,” Stickland said.
She said she realized during her medical training that some doctors might be competent at treating the illness of pets, but that is not enough. She also focuses on the best interests of pet owners, making them feel welcome. She said it is important to recognize that pets are important family members.
“I thought what was missing was the welcome feeling, that you can ask any question,” Stickland said.
She looks not only at the pet’s wellness, but at how the pet fits into a home and whether the pet’s health might be affecting an owners’ health.
She said the practice mainly serves south Chandler and recently added a third veterinarian to the staff. The practice focuses solely on treating dogs and cats.
Stickland said she is very happy to be selected
&
as the Best of Chandler in the veterinary category for the third time by East Valley Tribune readers.
“It will be amazing. I won last year. It’s such a cool award,” she said. “It’s just a great reward for my staff.”
The staff at Sonoran Smile Orthodontics makes hearing the phrase “you need braces” less painful. Sonoran Smile has been in the area for more than 10 years and has a reputation of great patient care with kids and adults. It helps that the two orthodontists, Dr. Shadow Asgari and Dr. Samantha Vu, both have children of their own. While the thought of shifting teeth and metal parts in your mouth may be scary, the orthodontists know how to calm children and make them feel comfortable, prepared and even excited for braces. There’s even a large Kids Center for busy parents to be able to drop off their kids up to an hour before their appointment.
BEST AUDIOLOGY
When Rick Shand was kicked in the head in college while competing in martial arts, the last thing he thought about was how it would end up opening a door to his lifetime career.
“It actually really hurt my neck for quite a while,” Shand said. “I went to a medical doctor over and over again and finally ended up going to a chiropractor. After just one visit, I felt so much better.
“It changed my whole focus from that point.”
Shand decided to pursue a career as a chiropractor. After his senior year at Northern Arizona University, he earned his doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic West.
Today, having opened Apex Medical Group in Chandler, Shand takes prides in his practice for becoming the go-to chiropractor for patients of all ages.
“Our oldest patient was 101 years old
and our youngest was just a few days old,” Shand said. “From athletes to just every day normal wear and tear, we treat it all.”
One aspect that Shand believes sets Apex Medical Group apart from other practices in Chandler is the overall timeliness of treatment, allowing walk-in appointments when treatment is needed.
“We just do relief care for neck and back pain,” Shand said. “We used to do long-term care plans but we found that consumers are more interested in getting the problem fixed and to be on their way.”
Apart from catering to on-the-go patients, Apex Medical Group has maintained success in Chandler for 15 years now for becoming the go-to place for quick pain relief and friendly service.
“All of our staff genuinely cares about each person and we really get to know them,” Shand said. “We have built up that reputation for 15 years, being here whenever people need us.”
NEXTCARE URGENT CARE
600 S. Dobson Road, Suite 26
• nextcare.com
f you need quick medical attention in Chandler, look no further than NextCare Urgent Care.
With locations throughout the East Valley and Arizona, there are plenty of urgent care centers to choose from no matter where you are. NextCare is open 8 a.m. until midnight, 365 days per year for medical assistance, providing care to Valley residents virtually constantly.
The primary colors and the beachthemed offices of Desert Shores Pediatrics is crafted to put kids’ minds at rest when they walk in through the doors.
The clinic offers wellness care, acute sickness care, chronic care management, sports physicals, minor surgical procedures, immunizations, ADD, ADHD and behavioral health care. A large team of experienced providers is available.
Desert Shores Pediatrics has a mission to serve the community by providing excellent pediatric medical care. Its goal is to make a difference in the lives of children by providing quality healthcare in an environment built on knowledge, innovation, honesty and fun, according to its website.
BEST EYE CARE
Ocotillo Eyecare has been a sight for sore eyes in Chandler since 2004.
Founded by Dr. Timothy Powell, who has been practicing optometry in the Valley for 25 years, the practice has grown to include two additional eye doctors and a small staff that is dedicated to providing the best service.
The office is updated with the most modern equipment available to execute comprehensive eye exams, pre and post-op care for cataract surgery, Lasik surgery and management of eye diseases like macular degeneration and glaucoma. Ocotillo Eyecare also has a dynamic team of licensed opticians that are experts at customizing eyewear. The office has a diverse selection of frames from discount
to designer and also fit single vision, bifocal, toric and sports contact lenses.
The practice has recently introduced Digital Retinal Photography exams, which offer revolutionary technology that reviews and records the retina at 100 times its normal size.
Ocotillo Eyecare has been consistently celebrated for its excellent eye care services. The practice has received the Angie’s List Super Service Award for the past four years, which is awarded to the top 5 percent of businesses. With the latest technology that guarantees precision and a knowledgeable and friendly staff that provides quality care, it’s no surprise Chandler residents have their eyes on Ocotillo.
