Sunday, August 10, 2008

Hot! HOT! HOTTER in Scottsdale!

So, how hot is it considered when you land at 8:30PM and it's still 110 degrees? In my book, that's HOT!
I've been lucky (or cursed) to have been in Scottsdale, Arizona twice in the past 2-1/2 weeks on business. And I had some fun with good friends and meals that are worth comment and recommendations.

Vegging Out!
Many of you will wonder why you'd ever venture into a vegetarian, vegan and raw restaurant in Scottsdale. And trust me, it wouldn't have been on the top of my culinary destinations ordinarily. However, my friend, Dessi, is a raw vegan and she was just clamoring for some organic vegan food one night, and who am I to pass up a new culinary adventure.

Mandala Tea Room in Old Town Scottsdale serves beautiful and tasteful food in a comfortable setting. Being in Scottsdale, we had try vegan Mexican by ordering the "Chile Lime Live Nut Burrito," a burrito filled with walnuts, guacamole, salsa fresca, olives and sprouts and contained in a collard green leaf. There are many other "vegan" cuisines from which to choose as well. Try a martini with organic vodka and tea and even a raw berry mousse pie. Trust me, you'll feel good about yourself after this meal! http://www.mandalatearoom.com/

Eating Well in the Barrio
My friends, Ramona, Diane and I weren't so sure if we wanted to drive this far into the barrio of Phoenix, but the Barrio Cafe, was well worth the adventure. From the tableside preparation of guacamole to the posole verde soup to the pork and carne asada tacos, it's no wonder this restaurant is consistently voted Best Mexican in Arizona! There are over (40) types of tequila for all of you margarita afficianado's out there. Next time, I am going for brunch -- which is likely to wake the senses after an evening out! http://www.barriocafe.com/

The Greene House, at Kierland Commons, features fresh produce from the farms and markets of California. The Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese Mousse was excellent and something I want to duplicate at home now! The menu has a little bit of something for everyone -- chicken, fish, kobe beef sliders. Everything is suitable after a busy day in the sun or shopping in Scottsdale. http://www.foxrc.com/the_greene_house.html

In the Mood for Excess
Whether you're in the mood for seafood or steak in a classic setting, Eddie V's is the spot. From the colossal tower of chilled seafood to the bone-in rib-eye to the lobster and decadent desserts, Eddie V's delivers. (For those of you from Southern California, it is very reminiscent of Mastro's.) http://www.eddiev.com/

Heavenly Bedrest
Fortunately, I was able to nestle into a heavenly bed at the Westin Kierland after some of these meals! Also recommended is The Westin Kierland, centrally located to 27-holes of golf, shopping and dining at The Kierland Commons, and home to a first-class Spa. It was the perfect landing spot for a thirst-quenching martini, views, and relaxation with fabulous friends. http://www.kierlandresort.com/


As the old saying goes, "If you can't take the heat, get out of the kitchen!" Or go to a restaurant!"

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