Writer Shannon SeversonPhotography Courtesy of Dana Gibbons Photography [dropcap]A[dropcap]s shadows grow long against a brilliant Arizona sunset, something special is taking shape beneath the cool green leaves of Agritopia Farm’s picturesque peach tree orchard. The tables are set with a natural table runner gathered from the surrounding gardens: bunches of basil and mint, deep purple…
Writer Shannon SeversonPhotography Courtesy of The Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen [dropcap]T[dropcap]he headstone of Jason Ebel’s beloved grandfather reads simply, “A Craftsman.” These two words, and the man who inspired Ebel and chef-partner Chris Nicosia to open The Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen in North Scottsdale, are the cornerstone of every aspect of this neighborhood gathering spot…
Writer Shannon SeversonPhotography by Carl ShultzPhotos of Food Courtesy of Wandering Donkey [dropcap]T[/dropcap]he birth of the Wandering Donkey food truck seems not so long ago for Lance and Beth Smith. Although Lance’s roots began successfully in the corporate world more than three decades ago, his passion for food began as a very young man. Preparing…
Writer Jo GemmillPhotography by Carl Schultz [dropcap]T[/dropcap]wenty years ago, a rumor began circulating the Carefree community. “Have you heard this English girl thinks that she can sell hot tea in the desert?” residents asked one another. The responding comments varied but were usually along the lines of, “We’ll give her six months… max.” Granted, it…
Writer Shannon SeversonPhotography Courtesy of FLINT by Baltair, Trevor Turk, Joanie Simon and TJ Perez [dropcap]C[/dropcap]ocktails can be simple, containing just two perfectly measured ingredients, or they can be complicated affairs with ingredients that require all manner of muddling, juicing, chopping and even setting aflame. Scaled-down or over-the-top, a quaff is that much more special…
Writer Joseph J. AirdoPhotography Courtesy of Fever [dropcap]I[/dropcap]magine arriving at a restaurant, hotel venue or catering space with a family member, friend or significant other and being invited into a candle-lit dining room. After being seated, you and your guest are provided with blindfolds, which you wrap around your heads to completely seal off your…
Writer Shannon Severson [dropcap]S[/dropcap]ometimes the most wonderful dining discoveries are those you’ve likely driven past a dozen times and failed to notice. There’s something especially satisfying about stumbling upon a gastronomic gem, either on your own or on the good advice of a friend. The Cave Creek/Carefree area is home to some absolutely incredible restaurants….
Writer Shannon SeversonPhotography Courtesy of Mediterra Bakehouse [dropcap]A[/dropcap]mber waves of grain aren’t generally associated with our desert state, but Mediterra Bakehouse founder Nick Ambeliotis is changing that. His handcrafted, artisanal breads are made from grain that is grown and milled here in Arizona using traditional methods that preserve the nutritional integrity of his high-quality ingredients….
Writer Shannon Severson Photography by Carl Schultz and Alex Laliberte [dropcap]I[/dropcap]n the furthest reaches of Northeast Cave Creek, between Bartlett Lake and the entrance to Tonto National Forest, stands Raven’s View Wine Bar. The interior is illuminated by floor-to-ceiling windows that afford views of the Desert Mountain Outlaw Course and multiple mountain peaks in the…
Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photo Courtesy of El Berraco [dropcap]A[/dropcap]rizona is like one great, big “Choose Your Own Adventure” book, boasting picturesque destinations in every direction you may decide to travel. If you were to dust off an old paper map, close your eyes, randomly point your finger anywhere on it and drive there, chances…