Of all the activities people love to do when they’re on holidays, dining and shopping nearly universally top the list. In Arizona, you’ll quickly discover you’ve come to the right place. North to south, the shopping is wild and the dining divine.
SHOP AND DINE
Looking for hard-to-find fashions, a work of eye-catching Native American or Southwest art or something special to decorate your home? Or maybe you’ll be satisfied simply with night after night and day upon day of culinary exploration that will tempt and satisfy?
From north to south, Arizona boasts countless intriguing shopping and dining attractions. The range is stunning: from cozy, historic markets filled with antiques and fine art to some of America’s most luxurious shopping malls, Arizona has it all. Its notable numbers of world-class chefs and toprated restaurants, particularly from Sedona south to Tucson, reflect a well-developed culinary scene.
While new venues seemingly spring eternal here, Arizona’s traditions of trade and delicious foods run deep. The region’s agrarian heritage dates back 5,000 years to early aboriginals who farmed the Sonoran Desert, raising livestock and “the three sisters”: corn, beans and squash. These ancient people also traded their wares with other natives from near and far. Today, Arizona is hub of Southwest trade.
When it comes to the creation of the state’s trademark, modern Southwest cuisine, credit goes to Vincent Guerithault of Phoenix and Janos Wilder of Tucson. In the ’70s, these acclaimed chefs were among the first to combine French techniques with the comforting, warm flavours of the Southwest.
Wilder’s handiwork may be experienced today at the Westin La Paloma, in Tucson, or at Kai, the AAA Five Diamond restaurant at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa, in Chandler. Guerithault’s “Vincent’s on Camelback” is a Phoenix classic.
Shopping in downtown Phoenix’s vibrant Arts District is an adventure. Monthly “First Friday” celebrations draw lively crowds to more than 90 galleries, bars and restaurants. For a casual dinner, try Pizzeria Bianco. Award-winning chef Chris Bianco’s gourmet pies are out of this world.
In south Phoenix, Tempe’s Mill Avenue is a great place to stroll, shop and take in the youthful vibe of Arizona State University. Not far away, Chandler Fashion Center features over 180 shops and restaurants.
For a spectacular start to any day, try the Breakfast Tasting Menu at Ko’sin, the casual dining restaurant at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa, in Chandler. Its innovative pairings include mesquite-grilled pancakes with tart apple cider and smoked salmon taco with ruby red grapefruit juice. In the evening, Kai’s Native American-inspired cuisine will dazzle you.
Nearby, The Farm at South Mountain offers casual and upscale dining premised on organic ingredients. Antique shopping in historic Glendale in West Phoenix is a joy.
If you go, stop in at the Cereta Candy Company. This 1970s-era factory is a hoot, and its sweets worthy of temptation. Nearby, the newly opened Cabelas hunting and fishing superstore includes its own aquarium, animatronic displays and other dazzling features.
Top off your day with gourmet dining and Sonoran Desert inspired ambiance at the Wigwam Resort & Spa’s celebrated Arizona Kitchen.
Amid some of northern Phoenix’s most upscale neighbourhoods, shopping at the Biltmore Fashion Park can be an all-day affair. Just blocks away, fine dining at the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa’s elegant Wright’s restaurant will introduce you to a brand-new, earthy culinary concept, “American Lodge” cuisine.
In the town of Carefree, north of Scottsdale, you’ll find a good mix of rustic and contemporary draws. At The Boulders Resort & Golden Door Spa, try refreshingly light organic fare. Even the decadent desserts here are healthy.
Scottsdale Road is a conduit to numerous venues including the Main Street-style Kierland Commons, which includes Victoria’s Secret, Tommy Bahama, Sur La Table and other high-end merchants.
Shopping at The Borgata, meanwhile, promises international flare amid Southwest and Old World talian ambiance. Among the Borgata’s notable restaurants is Taneko Tavern, a new hot spot for Japanese cuisine.
Downtown Scottsdale has long been known as a veritable shoppers’ paradise, a reputation that is only growing with its addition of new upscale developments along the canal. Of course, the landmark Scottsdale Fashion Square, which includes Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Max Mara stores, remains a major draw. Have the valet park your car.
Scottsdale’s Arts District is always lively, especially on Thursday’s when Scottsdale ArtWalk celebrations bring entertainment and other attractions to the streets.
For dining, consider Cowboy Ciao. If you go, try the Stetson chopped salad. It is simply a “must order” item. Alternatively, try Café ZuZu’s delicious American comfort food at ultra retro/modernistic Hotel Valley Ho. Next door, Trader Vic’s is a rejuvenated version of the ’70s classic, rich in both atmosphere and flavourful Polynesianinfluenced cuisine.
If you’re on the prowl for designer cosmetics, jewellery, lingerie and shoes, visit DC Ranch. In addition to trendy wares, this mall’s restaurants include the Star Spangled Tavern, known for tasty fare in a rustic setting. Pop in for drinks and appetizers at Baroque luxe lounge, or try the Spanish tapas Sol y Sambra.
If your travels take you out of the Valley, never fear. Opportunities for memorable dining or rewarding shopping abound.
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Associations and Partners also appearing in this report:
Phoenix, recently marked the grand reopening of Biltmore Fashion Park.
The desire to acquire is well-satisfied at Tlaquepaque
El Presidio Gallery in the city’s northeast foothills is known for paintings and pottery.
At the new, sleek, Sedona Rouge Resort, the stylish Reds bistro’s menu focuses on re-interpreted American classics
L’Auberge de Sedona, a classic
country French inn directly on Oak
Creek
The Ventana Room at Loews Ventana Canyon Resort offers the ultimate big splurge experience
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