South Mountain Villager

A Positive News Publication About the South Mountain Village

Posts Tagged ‘restaurants’

Restaurant Review (Nov 10)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on November 5, 2010

Memphis Best BBQ

Chelsey Heath

cfheath@asu.edu

 

Memphis BBQ Following family tradition, Darryl Alexander decided to get into the restaurant industry after a 22-year stint as a Marine. After five years of research and planning, Alexander brought the Memphis Best BBQ brand to Arizona, opening up his first location in Buckeye at 608 E. Monroe Ave.

Now, he celebrates his one-year anniversary at the second location in the Laveen Village Center at 6260 South 35th Avenue in Laveen.

Alexander said he concentrates on keeping a great staff and establishing a family atmosphere. He recently reopened the Buckeye location after finding staff that had a passion for food that they could share with the customers. Local police officers stop in for lunch every day at the Laveen location, and regulars come in every week.

He added that everyone approaches BBQ with the expectation that it taste like what they grew up with, but even when people debate or discuss different types of BBQ, he’s happy that everyone enjoys eating it at the end of the day.

The rest of Memphis Best’s menu is based on their stellar sandwiches, made Memphis-style with coleslaw and their family recipe BBQ right on top of the smoked meat. My dining guest and I sampled both the chopped park shoulder and beef brisket, which were equally delicious with even more slaw or a side of mac n’ cheese to round out the meal.

The best part is the price – the lunch special includes either sandwich, one side, and a medium drink for around $6.

Other treats include BBQ spaghetti ($7.40), a full plate of rib tips ($8.80), and homemade peach cobbler ($4.25). For families, Memphis offers three sizes of dinners including meat of choice, sauce, buns, sides, and bread.

Call (602) 268-9545 or visit http://www.bestbbqofmemphis.com/ for more information. Memphis Best also caters.

 

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Restaurant Review (Oct 10)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on September 20, 2010

La Cucina Italiana brings fine Italiane dining to the

South Mountain Village families

by Chelsey Heath

cfheath@asu.edu

The newest Italian restaurant at the base of South Mountain (and the first, according to head chef Andy Ibarra), La Cucina Italiana offers a fine dining atmosphere appropriate for families at an affordable price.

I started off my Sunday afternoon visit, at 9032 South Central Ave, with a free antipasta platter featuring Italian cheeses, meats, and more. We selected the caprese ($6) featuring in-house made mozzarella. My co-diner highly approved of her sweet green tea and antipasto insalata, especially the marinated asparagus and artichokes ($7). After placing our order for pollo alla parmigiano (lightly breaded chicken breast with signature zesty marinara and penne), Ibarra stepped over for a chat.

He opened La Cucina on July 14 because he grew up in the neighborhood and saw the need for “a traditional Italian restaurant.” He said the restaurant is unique because “you see a variety of Italian food,” instead of certain regions.

Ibarra recommended the Godfather meat sauce spaghetti ($9) with meatballs, spicy sausage, and more spice in the tomato sauce. He shared the eatery has many vegetarian dishes and which can be made vegan.

Though La Cucina has a polished décor and murals from a local artist, the vibe is decidedly relaxed and definitely not pretentious. The white tablecloths and folded napkins lend elegance without making you feel underdressed in Sunday’s jeans and t-shirt.

The parmigiano turned out piping hot and delicious, with perfectly cooked pasta and the robust, meat-free marinara. We rounded our meal out perfectly with Pesche e Crema ($6), mascarpone crème on port-braised peaches.

If you need any more convincing than the superb food and inviting atmosphere, La Cucina has a friendly staff with prompt service, good views through its garlanded windows, and private dining room for birthdays and other events.

Call (602) 243-8442 or visit andys-lacucinaitaliana.com.

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Restaurant Review Dec 09

Posted by South Mountain Villager on December 13, 2009

Duner’s Pizza, Another Great Restaurant

As soon as I walk through the doors of Duner’s Pizza, I smell the freshly oven-baked pizza and the aroma of the hot wings. It is an inviting smell to a feast of carbs! I initially had in mind ordering one of their delicious chicken Cesar salads, but as I placed my order, my brother who joined me in the experience looked at me confused and said, “Jackie, you’re at Duner’s, you HAVE to order pizza!” He was right.

Duner’s is a family owned restaurant with three locations around the Valley. My brother, Eloyd and I visited the location in the Laveen Village on 51st Avenue and West Baseline Road that has been in business for three years now.  From the get-go, the experience was pleasing. As mentioned, the aroma of the freshly baked food pierced the nostrils and prepared us for an appetizing pizza and wings dinner. I ended up ordering their personal sized pepperoni pizza and Eloyd ordered the 12-piece hot wing deal. With that and two drinks, dinner was less than 18 dollars! At the end, we even had a few slices of pizza left over. This place is welcoming to families who enjoy sports, since the dining area is surrounded by three HD flat screen TV’s always on sports updates and booths that look like sports car leather seats. The Duner’s Deals are always an option such as the Dinner for $25 including a one large one toping pizza, 25 wings, and a two-liter soda. Now, if you are interested in ordering from home, a delivery service is also available.

Pizza, wings, and salads do not make up the entire menu. A selection of 10-inch submarine sandwiches served cold or hot also add to the assortment in the Duner’s menu at prices ranging from only $5.95 to $7.95. Aside from their great menu and amazing prices, their customer service is excellent, which is what I look for in a great dining experience. Friendly people, such as Raul Gracia welcome you to a pleasant dining experience of pizza, wings, or even a fresh chicken Cesar salad. It was around 5 o’clock in the afternoon on a Wednesday and we were one of three families dining-in that evening. From the time we ordered to the time our food was served, we only waited 10-15 minutes. Not bad in my book!

So when you are looking for great hand-tossed, oven-baked pizza and hot wings in a friendly environment around the Laveen area, Duner’s Pizza is the place to be. The 51st Ave and Baseline location is open seven days a week, Sunday through Wednesday from 10AM to 8:00PM and Thursday through Saturday from 10AM to 9:30PM. Now, if you decide to stay in for the night the number to call is (602) 237-1507 for their delivery service.

-Jackie Angel

Student at Walter Cronkite School of Journalism

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South Mountain Village’s Hidden Treasure

Posted by South Mountain Villager on July 8, 2009

By Mitch Hammes

Hidden under an un-assuming sign in the shopping center on the southeast corner of Baseline and 24th Street is South Mountain Village’s best kept secret.  That’s right…Pan Asian offers a wide range of great tasting Asian food in an atmosphere that rivals any restaurant found on Mill Avenue.

Pan AsianPan Asian offers a wide range of Chinese, Japanese, sushi and sashimi dishes that taste just like you would get in the Far East.  I know this because I returned from a year in Japan last August and was in heaven when I looked at the menu.  Most of the menu consists of authentic dishes with tastes just like I remember.  My first visit to Pan Asian was about a month ago and I’ve been going once a week ever since. Yep…it’s that good.

Featured lunch specials give you an excellent introduction into what is available.  Lunch begins with a salad and house ginger dressing that is made onsite and then you’ll have to choose one of a list of Chinese dishes and a sushi roll of your choice.  All this for seven bucks.  If you’re a bit more adventurous, then try one of the Japanese bento lunches.  There are four or five to choose from and you won’t be disappointed with any of them.  Those are nine bucks.

Dinners and a’la carte sushi or sashimi is a bit more expensive, but nothing compared to what you’d be paying on Mill, Scottsdale, Westgate or other trendy dining venues…but Pan Asian still offers you the same upscale environment that will impress your guests.

Mitch Hammes is the owner of The Hammes Group, a Phoenix-based restaurant and hospitality consulting company.  Visit www.hammesgroup.com for more information or to contact him.

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Home Sweet Home

Posted by South Mountain Villager on May 19, 2009

By Mitch Hammes

If the term ‘Home Sweet Home’ causes your mouth to salivate then I will assume one of two things.  First, you grew up in a family that new how to cook.  Secondly, I would guess that you’ve visited South Mountain Village’s newest soul food restaurant…Home Sweet Home! (on twitter)hshcw

Hidden in the Safeway shopping center on the southwest corner of 16th Street and Baseline (just behind the Arizona Federal Credit Union), you’ll find tasteful and delicious catfish, fried chicken, gizzards and waffles.  That’s right…waffles with butter and syrup…just the kind you have for breakfast.

I tried the fried chicken breast, macaroni and cheese and a waffle.  To my surprise, the waffle was really good.  I’ve never tried chicken and waffles together, but I’m glad I did.  And I’ll be going back again real soon!  The fried chicken breast was delicately spiced and fried without any skin, bones or batter.  It was really a nice change from most fried chicken I’ve tried.  The macaroni and cheese wasn’t the bland, florescent orange stuff you get from a box with a funny cartoon.  It was southern-style, baked macaroni and cheese with only one problem…the side dish was toooo small.

hshHome Sweet Home is restaurant that needs to be visited.  The family atmosphere and friendly service, combined with hearty, home style food won’t be a disappointment.  In fact, I think I’ll head back as soon as I’m done writing this article!

Mitch Hammes is the owner of The Hammes Group, a Phoenix-based restaurant and hospitality consulting company.  Visit www.hammesgroup.com for more information or to contact him.

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The Bourbon Street of Chicken!

Posted by South Mountain Villager on March 18, 2009

By Mitch Hammes

It was late on a cool March morning when I realized that I’d been craving some fried chicken. The problem was that the corporate cooked variety just turns my stomach and stains my shirt when I peel off the batter and watch as a stream of grease flows free. Then I remembered…

louisana-chicken

Louisiana Famous Fried Chicken opened their doors not long ago in the Target shopping center at 24th Street and Baseline. It’s a small location with just one table inside and one out. But the line of people out the door impressed me. Either everyone was trying it for the first time, or even better…it’s great food!

I was pleased with my four-piece meal which included a drink and a side dish. I chose the cole slaw and added a jalapeno and roll, but it was a tough decision considering that the side dish menu included dirty rice, okra, potato salad, fries and mashed potatoes with gravy. The chicken was delicately fried with a cautious blend of Cajun spice that turned the outside of each piece a dull red color. I thoroughly enjoyed the meal and, whereas I used to eat fried chicken twice a year, I’ve decided that Louisiana Famous Fried Chicken would be good twice a month or more!

Although this Louisiana Famous Fried Chicken is primarily a take-out restaurant, you can still enjoy family bucket packs of fried chicken, fish, shrimp, and chicken strips and nuggets. Louisiana Famous Fried Chicken is open Monday through Thursday from 11am-9pm, Friday and Saturday 11am-10pm and Sunday 12pm to 8pm. You can call them at (602) 268-4849 or visit them online at www.louisianachicken.net.

Mitch may be reached via email at mitch@hammesgroup.com. He is President and Founder of The Hammes Group, a Phoenix-based restaurant and hospitality services company. www.hammesgroup.com.

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Priced for 1, Enough for 2

Posted by South Mountain Villager on February 23, 2009

by

Mitch Hammes

During my short 5 years in South Mountain Village, I’ve seen our neighborhoods gain popularity and attract interesting lisbowlnew businesses. I take special interest in those that serve our epicurean desires. This month, I am honored to put the Villager’s spotlight on Li’s Bowl, located south of Southern on 35th Avenue.

Li’s Bowl is an unassuming storefront offering, what I humbly refer to as some of the best sushi and Asian specialties found in the quick service segment of the restaurant industry. Li’s Bowl offers a few appetizers and salads, seven entrees and five different sushi rolls. Some may say that the menu is limited. I say that they’ve focused on quality and quantity in order to provide us with a tasty and value added solution for our hunger pangs.

On my most recent visit, I approached the counter and ordered the sweet and sour chicken (which came with fried or white rice) and a cheese wonton appetizer. I included a regular size Coke and took a seat after paying $8. A short wait later, I was served hot, fresh food with a portion that could easily satisfy two hungry people.

As I watched other diners, I saw construction workers, executives, moms and kids and everyone in between enjoying their meals. I saw several take-out orders prepared and although Li’s Bowl hasn’t been open long, I saw regulars enter and order without hesitation. Most ordered the teriyaki beef, pork or chicken. Mental note to self…must try teriyaki on my next visit.

Li’s Bowl is open Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sundays from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. If you’re looking for take-out, give them a call at 602-268-8500. Based on my experience, you won’t be disappointed. Li’s Bowl is a fresh and refreshing change from the corporate, quick service Asian eateries that have been popping up all over the valley lately.

Mitch Hammes is the owner of The Hammes Group, a Phoenix-based restaurant and hospitality consulting company. He can be reached at mitch@hammesgroup.

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Come Early & Come Often!

Posted by South Mountain Villager on November 12, 2008

marylns2By Mitch Hammes

Cher and Madonna. Two singers that only need one name. Soon, ‘Maryln’s’ will be known just as well throughout the South Mountain Village. But not because she can sing!

Open for less than two months by the time that this column is published, Maryln’s has already built a solid reputation with loyal fans by offering a wide selection of menu options that will please every member of your family.

Marlyn’s is located at 5436 S. Central Avenue (between Roeser and Southern, on the west side of the street). This is Maryln’s second location, but the first in the South Mountain Village. On my inaugural visit to Maryln’s, I sat and talked with Sam, the owner. He’s a genuinely nice guy who believes in high quality food at a fair price. Sam surprised me by saying that they bake all their own bread, rolls and buns on-site. Then he gave me a tour of the bakery to prove it. I also saw fresh, whole vegetables waiting in the refrigerator. Another sign of quality in my book!

As we walked, talked and ate, I had to ask about the name. Sam chuckled and told me that the original location at 7th Street & Maryland was supposed to be called ‘Maryland Fish & Chips’. But the sign company made a mistake and when they arrived to install the sign, “Maryln’s” was born.

The menu is full of choices including catfish, shrimp, cod and whiting. But if some of your friends aren’t fish eaters…Philly cheessteaks, hamburgers, gyros, hot wings, chicken, pastrami, and a whole slew of side orders including calamari, zucchini, clams, mushrooms, okra, cole slaw, and too many more to list fill the menu. Most of these items were on the sampler plate that Sam provided and I must say that my favorites were the fish and pastrami. The fish was light and flaky. The pastrami was cut thick and piled high on a fresh baked roll. Trust me when I say it was nothing short of spectacular.

Marlyn’s is open Sunday thru Thursday 11am-9pm. Friday and Saturday 11am-10pm. Bring your cash, debit or credit card and your whole family. Alcohol isn’t available at Maryln’s and there’s no plan for it in the future. Sam says he wants to keep a casual family atmosphere. You can call 602-268-8008 if you have any questions.

Mitch Hammes is the Owner & Founder of The Hammes Group, a Phoenix-based restaurant and hospitality services company. Please email mitch@hammesgroup.com.

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A Natural Burrito By Mitch Hammes

Posted by South Mountain Villager on October 29, 2008

Chipotle Mexican Grill has landed on the southeast corner of 24th Street and Baseline in our Village. I have been a fan of Chipotle for several years and am happy to have them here.

A quick-service restaurant with a full-flavored menu of burritos, tacos and bowl entrees is just the beginning. After deciding what you’d like to order, you get to play a part in its preparation. Walking the line along the preparation table, you decide what meats, salsa’s and other fresh ingredients go into your meal. The choices are all unprocessed, family-farmed, naturally raised, nutritious and hormone free. So you can feel just as good about your meal as it is for you.

My favorite burrito combination is the carnitas fajita burrito with just a little bit of rice, medium-spicy corn salsa, a tad of sour cream and guacamole and as much of the cool and crispy romaine lettuce as the friendly staffer can roll into the warm and fresh tortilla. Occasionally, I’ll order some chips, salsa and a cold bottle of beer to go with it (but only if I don’t have to go back to work!)

On most occasions though, I will get an iced tea and a story. A story you ask? That’s right. One of the most interesting concepts I’ve seen in recent restaurant history is Chipotle’s practice of highlighting special people and their stories on the cup. I’ve learned about the farmers who raise vegetables and the ranchers who deliver the naturally raised meats. I’ve learned about people that do business with Chipotle and even some people who have made an impression on Chipotle’s founder. I’d like to take some time to tell you about these truly interesting people, but then you wouldn’t get the whole experience. Chipotle Mexican Grill, 2415 East Baseline Road, 602-283-9500 (phone)
602-276-1917 (fax), Open 11am-10pm. Full menu including margaritas, specialty and domestic beer. www.chipotle.com.
=====================================================
Mitch may be reached via email at mitch@hammesgroup.com. He is President and Founder of The Hammes Group, a Phoenix-based restaurant and hospitality services company. www.hammesgroup.com.

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A Few Words From the "South Mountain Laveen Chamber of Commerce"

Posted by South Mountain Villager on September 8, 2008

Hello, this is Steve Glueck sitting in for John Sebald, the 2008-09 board chairman for the South Mountain/Laveen Chamber of Commerce. We are all celebrating John’s new position as principal of Arizona Lutheran Academy in Laveen. John replaces outgoing principal Dan Johnson, who accepted an opportunity to become the president of Wisconsin Lutheran College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Speaking of celebrations, the Roosevelt School District No. 66 continues to trend upward in academic achievement, as measured by the most recent Arizona Learns results. That helped to influence a decision last month by the Arizona State Board of Education to not proceed with its takeover of the district.

The entire community benefits from academic excellence in our local schools. It impacts the quality of our future workforce, the future growth and sustainability of neighborhoods, and the quality of life issues that determine the future health of our South Mountain and Laveen villages.

We continue to welcome the new retail and commercial development additions to Laveen and South Mountain. Wal-Mart Neighborhood Market, PETsMART, Verizon Wireless, Chipotle and Sundance Studios are now open at the new Marketplace at South Mountain, located on the southeast corner of 24th Street and Baseline Road, next to The Secret Garden Event Center and Vintage Market restaurant.

Also, in Laveen, the Hat Rack Pub is now open in the new retail center on the northeast corner of 35th and Southern avenues. Just down the road, the commercial retail center at the corner of 35th Avenue and Baseline Road is nearing completion, and its new tenants will begin opening in October. In addition, the new Safeway store at the southeast corner of 51st Avenue and Baseline Road will open soon. And, don’t forget there are more retail and commercial additions to explore on Southern Avenue at 51st and 35th avenues.

At 7227 S. Central Ave., Raptor Guitars will host a Halloween Musical event, featuring a stage with local bands, games and treats for the kids, and a variety of food and prizes. Contact George Contreras at 602-510-6461 for more information.

Also, Pepi’s Pizza and owner Mark Messner will welcome a new addition, as Luxor Jewelers opens a new location inside the restaurant. This unique and innovative pairing of businesses is the result of “outside-the-box” thinking by Pepi’s owner Mark Messner and Luxor’s David Fierro. Would you like some diamonds with that pizza?

The Greater Phoenix Chamber and your South Mountain /Laveen Chamber chapter will host the greater Phoenix Real Estate & “Economic Outlook 2009” Breakfast at the Arizona Biltmore on Sept. 24. For more information about events, activities and membership in the South Mountain/Laveen Chamber of Commerce, please contact me at 602-402-6086 or sglueck@phoenixchamber.com.

September Events

Business for Breakfast
Wednesday, Sept. 10, from 7:15 – 8:30 a.m.
Bougainvillea Golf Club
5740 W. Baseline Road, Laveen

Business After Hours Mixer
TBD

South Mountain Leads Club – The Raven Grill at the Raven Golf Club
Meets each Wednesday at 7:15 a.m.
3636 E. Baseline Road, Phoenix

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