Friday, July 27, 2012

Free Empanadas at Pollo Campero Today (7/27)

Today only, Friday, July 27, Pollo Campero is giving away free empanadas to their customers with no purchase necessary, one per person.  Just head over to the only location in Arizona over in west Phoenix at 7745 W. Thomas Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85033.  Pollo Campero has three types of empanadas to choose from, black bean & cheese, spicy chicken, and citrus chicken. 

First opened in Guatemala in 1971, Pollo Campero and its Latin American inspired chicken has been making a name for itself in the U.S. since it first opened in the Los Angeles area in 2002.  That single Los Angeles location had over one million dollars in sales in the first 47 days.  Nowadays, Pollo Campero's expansion continues with over 50 locations across the country and a recent agreement signed between Pollo Campero and Walmart to begin opening restaurants within the megastore.

Monday, July 9, 2012

Tucson's Legendary Zachary's Pizza is Closing

Echoing the sentiments of Tucson Weekly, which broke the story, the AZFoodDude is sad to learn that Zachary's Pizza is closing on August 1.  There is not a lot of news officially as to why the Tucson staple is closing, but it is almost assuredly because business has been rough in an economy that continues to sputter.  A Facebook post by the restaurant on June 24 gives us a clue, "We will be cash only for a bit longer.  Please help support our business.  Summer has not been kind."

Like many folks, I was brought to Zachary's by friends of mine during a visit to Tucson.  It was after that first visit that I then introduced other friends of mine in the Valley to Zachary's incredible deep dish Chicago style pizza.  The place is so good that we have made the drive from Phoenix to Tucson just for Zachary's pizza on multiple occasions.  Now, that might sound like a long drive but employees of Zachary's will tell you of folks from all over who specifically stop for their pizza, including some regulars from New Mexico.

Near the UofA campus, now is a good time for those who want one last slice and for those who've never had the opportunity to see what all the fuss is about, to experience the hole-in-the-wall charm and head over to Zachary's.  The hours are 4pm - 10pm on Monday, 11am - 10pm Tuesday - Thursday, 11am - 11pm on Friday, noon - 11pm on Saturday and noon - 10pm on Sunday.

Friday, July 6, 2012

New Breakfast Waffle Sandwich at Jack in the Box

Not afraid to try anything and serve it through the whole day, Jack in the Box has just rolled out their newest menu item, the Breakfast Waffle Sandwich.  Only available for a limited time, "the Breakfast Waffle Sandwich features a fried egg, American cheese and the chain’s new country-grilled sausage stacked between two lightly sweetened maple waffles." 

As messy as it might get, am I the only one considering putting maple syrup all over this thing?

Thursday, July 5, 2012

Dairy Queen's July Blizzard of the Month - Chocolate Candy Shop

Last month, Dairy Queen gave us the Turtle Brownie Blizzard.  This month however, Dairy Queen is switching things up with their new Chocolate Candy Shop Blizzard.  The Chocolate Candy Shop Blizzard is made of cocoa fudge, vanilla soft serve, and chocolate pieces filled with hazelnut creme, fudge, and caramel. 

The nutritional information for a medium Chocolate Candy Shop Blizzard includes 960 calories, 44 grams of fat (24 saturated), 108 grams of sugar, and 19 grams of protein.

Subway's July $5 Featured Footlong - Buffalo Chicken

In the event you don't think it's hot enough this time of year, Subway is giving us that extra kick with July's $5 featured footlong.  The Buffalo Chicken sandwich, which is now back on Subway's menu for good, has "......tender, juicy chicken tossed in a bold buffalo sauce with crisp green peppers and cool, creamy ranch on freshly baked bread."  

In terms of nutrition, you can check out this Subway site and calculate how many calories, fat, protein, etc. will be in the sandwich based on how you have your sandwich made.

Sunday, June 17, 2012

Potbelly Sandwich Shop Coming to Arizona

A hit in other cities across the country, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, Potbelly Sandwich Works, or Potbelly's as it is affectionately known by regulars, is finally making the move to Arizona.  Slated to open three locations in the upcoming months, Potbelly's has no plans of stopping there, hoping to "...be all over the Valley" and expand into Tucson, according to the company's market manager for Arizona.

The one Potbelly's location being reported by multiple outlets is the future CityScape spot, set to open in the fall.  However, there are also reports of two other locations, looking to open before labor day.   These spots include one at 7th Ave & McDowell Rd. and one near 20th St. & Camelback Rd. 

The Chicago-based Potbelly Sandwich Shop began in 1977 as an antique store and has grown to over 240 locations.  Potbelly's has a menu that includes sandwiches, salads, soups, chili, sides such as macaroni salad and potato salad, shakes, malts, smoothies, baked goods, and even offers breakfast at many of its locations.  Check out Potbelly's menu and see for yourself.

Stay tuned to the AZFoodDude for updates on exact opening dates and future locations.

Thursday, June 14, 2012

Togo's Returns to Arizona

The official grand opening is set for Saturday, August 18, but Togo's in Gilbert is now ready for business.  The AZFoodDude reported on the second coming of Togo's to the Valley back in January and now with the first location having opened at 1520 W. Guadalupe Rd. #101 Gilbert, AZ 85233, the franchisee has his sights set on opening two more Togo's restaurants in the Valley.  The hours for the restaurant are:
  • Monday - Friday: 10am - 9pm
  • Saturday: 10:30am - 7pm
  • Sunday: 11am - 5pm
According to the press release, "To celebrate Togo's arrival in Arizona, two lucky Gilbert customers will win free sandwiches for one-year. Additionally, the local community is invited to attend the official Grand Opening all-day celebration, taking place on Saturday, August 18, 2012 with music, prizes, local fundraiser event and more!"

Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2012/06/12/4556141/togos-arrives-in-arizona-with.html#storylink=cpy"
To celebrate Togo's arrival in Arizona, two lucky Gilbert customers will win free sandwiches for one-year. Additionally, the local community is invited to attend the official Grand Opening all-day celebration, taking place on Saturday, August 18, 2012 with music, prizes, local fundraiser event and more!
To celebrate Togo's arrival in Arizona, two lucky Gilbert customers will win free sandwiches for one-year. Additionally, the local community is invited to attend the official Grand Opening all-day celebration, taking place on Saturday, August 18, 2012 with music, prizes, local fundraiser event and more!
To celebrate Togo's arrival in Arizona, two lucky Gilbert customers will win free sandwiches for one-year. Additionally, the local community is invited to attend the official Grand Opening all-day celebration, taking place on Saturday, August 18, 2012 with music, prizes, local fundraiser event and more!

Togo's, which is based in San Jose, CA and first opened in 1967, is known for their "West Coast" hot or cold sandwiches, but also offers up soups, salads, chips, cookies, and brownies.  You can check out the full Togo's menu here.

Sunday, June 3, 2012

Pizza Hut to Unveil P'Zolo Sandwich on Monday

On Monday, June 4, Pizza Hut will begin offering their newest menu item, the P'Zolo.  According to NRN, the P'Zolo, "...resembles a wrap more than the chain’s calzone-like P’Zone, the P’Zolo targets the sandwich competition both in marketing and price point."
Photo by: Pizza Hut

The P'Zolo will come in three varieties, one for $3 and two for $5.  The varieties, all topped with Asiago cheese, include a, "...Meat Trio with Italian sausage, pepperoni, ham and cheese; Italian Steak with marinated steak, roasted vegetables and cheese; and Buffalo Chicken with white-meat chicken, buffalo seasoning and cheese. Each P’Zolo is served with a choice of ranch or marinara dipping sauce."

With no mention of a limited time offer, the P'Zolo looks to be a permanent menu addition at the over 10,000 Pizza Hut locations worldwide.

Saturday, June 2, 2012

Dairy Queen's June Blizzard of the Month - Turtle Brownie

Celebrating with Confetti last month was fun and all, but for June, Dairy Queen wants to slow things down a bit with their new Turtle Brownie Blizzard.  The June Blizzard of the Month comes with, "Pecans, caramel and chewy brownie pieces blended with creamy vanilla soft serve."

The nutritional information for a medium Turtle Brownie Blizzard from Dairy Queen includes 930 calories, 43 grams of fat, 89 grams of sugar, and 18 grams of protein.

Thursday, May 31, 2012

Subway's June $5 Featured Footlong - Oven Roasted Chicken w/ Spinach

Subway gave us the long overdue Pizza Sub this May, but is now looking for something a little healthier for June.  The Oven Roasted Chicken with Spinach is the $5 featured footlong for the month and according to Subway, "Whether you’re a seafaring sailor man or just a flavor fan, you’ll love tender, juicy chicken with a super spinach boost. Enjoy it as a $5 FOOTLONG™ with everything from cool cucumbers to crisp green peppers on your favorite freshly baked bread, all June long."

Nutritionally, this is one of the healthiest things you can order at Subway.  The questions is, will you keep it that way?  Check out this Subway site and calculate how many calories, fat, protein, etc. will be in the sandwich based on how you have your sandwich made.

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

Dairy Queen's May Blizzard of the Month - Confetti Cake

In April, they delighted customers with the Caramel Delight Pie and now Dairy Queen is extending the happy mood by celebrating with confetti.  The Blizzard of the Month for May, Confetti Cake, is made of, "moist white cake pieces and confetti frosting blended with creamy vanilla soft serve." 

Last month, there was a hitch in that Dairy Queen didn't list the exact nutritional information for the Caramel Delight Pie (It has been added since).  This month, for some reason no medium size is listed for the Confetti Cake Blizzard, so I will give you the nutritional facts for the small size.  A small Confetti Cake Blizzard comes in at 650 calories, 25 grams of fat, 70 grams of sugar, and 13 grams of protein

Subway's May $5 Featured Footlong - Pizza Sub

After featuring a breakfast classic for April, Subway is pushing the Pizza Sub for May.  According to Subway, the Pizza Sub comes with "...spicy pepperoni, piled high and layered with melt-a-licious cheese and our signature marinara sauce."  If you like your pizza deluxe style, don't forget to add toppings like black olives, green peppers, etc. and while you can try it on any bread you want, Subway recommends the Italian Herb & Cheese bread.

In terms of nutrition, you can check out this Subway site and calculate how many calories, fat, protein, etc. will be in the sandwich based on how you have your sandwich made.

Friday, April 27, 2012

New Items at Burger King, Jack in the Box, & Wendy's

Burger King Minibons
After rolling out 10 new items, Burger King has teamed up with Cinnabon this week to start selling Minibon rolls nationwide.  Having been test marketed in select cities for awhile now, the company hopes to have every one of their over 7000 U.S. locations selling the Minibons by September.  With a suggested selling price of $1.79 - $1.99, some Minibon information is provided by the press release:
Served in Cinnabon® bakeries since 1987, the Minibon® roll is a smaller version of the Cinnabon® classic roll, featuring the same Makara® cinnamon and signature cream cheese frosting that is served in Cinnabon® bakeries today.
Jack in the Box Java Cookie Shake
Next up is Jack in the Box, which has introduced a new shake that is a tad more traditional than their previous Bacon Shake.  The new Java Cookie Shake is available in regular (16oz.) and large (24oz.) and is made with "...real vanilla ice cream, coffee-flavored syrup and Oreo® cookie pieces...and features whipped topping and a Maraschino cherry on top."

In addition the to new shake, Jack in the Box began selling their new Chipotle Chicken Club Sandwich last week.  According to the press release, the new sandwich "features a spicy chicken fillet topped with American cheese, hickory-smoked bacon, tomato, lettuce and chipotle sauce and (is) served on Sourdough bread."  The Chipotle Chicken Club Sandwich can also be ordered as part of a $4.99 combo that comes with small fries and a 20oz. drink.

Finally, Wendy's is trying to kick up their side dish selections with three new choices for $2.49 each.  Two of the new Signature side items are only around for a limited time.  This includes the new Macaroni & Cheese and the Baked Sweet Potato.  The Macaroni & Cheese is described as:
featuring large cavatappi spiral noodles smothered with a cheese sauce made with fresh milk, fresh cream and real white Vermont Cheddar and American cheeses. Wendy's Macaroni & Cheese is topped with real shredded Cheddar to add even more cheesy flavor.
Wendy's Signature Sides
Meanwhile, the Baked Sweet Potatoes "are prepared fresh to order and served with a Buttery Cinnamon Spread on the side."

Lastly, the new Signature side that Wendy's plans to keep around indefinitely is their new Chili Cheese Fries.  The Chili Cheese Fries are described as "...Wendy's natural cut fries with sea salt covered in a sauce made with Cheddar cheese and real milk, Wendy's famous rich and meaty chili, and then topped with real shredded Cheddar cheese."

Thursday, April 26, 2012

2nd Annual Big Red Rib & Music Festival Kicks Off Today (4/26)

From Thursday, 4/26 to Sunday, 4/29 the Big Red Rib & Music Festival will take place on the Great Lawn at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale.  While the big draw on Thursday might be the Cardinals Draft Party, let's start with the AZFoodDude's main concern, the food.  The eight rib cooking teams from around the country, who may or may not also be cooking pulled pork and beef brisket, that are scheduled to participate include:
Gates open at 4pm on Thursday & Friday, 11am on Saturday and 12pm on Sunday.  General admission tickets for Friday and Saturday are $5.  If you are a senior (60 & over) or active or retired military, tickets are $1 and children 12 and under are free.

The musical acts performing are as follows:
  • Second Shift - 7:30pm (Thursday)
  • Carvin Jones Band - 6pm (Friday)
  • K.C. & The Sunshine Band - 8:30pm (Friday) - Reserved Seats Available
  • Daisy Train - 1pm (Saturday)
  • Elvis Before Noon - 3:15pm (Saturday)
  • The Chris Parker Project - 6pm (Saturday)
  • Kenny Loggins - 8:30pm (Saturday) - Reserved Seats Available
  • Whiskey's Quicker - 1pm (Sunday)
  • Beatlemania Live! - 3pm (Sunday) - Reserved Seats Available
For more information, detailed parking, maps and directions, check out the event website.

Culinary Dropout to Anchor New Central Phoenix Development

The development, located at 5632 N. 7th St. Phoenix, AZ 85014, is looking to open sometime late this Fall.  According to the press release, the development is described as:
...an indoor/outdoor urban dining and lounging hub...in the heart of Central Phoenix. Housed in a former auto and motorcycle dealership known for its iconic steel shade structure, the multi-use space will share a large park-like outdoor recreation area and beer garden and will be anchored by Fox Restaurant Concepts' second Arizona Culinary Dropout and a new fish house and oyster bar. The development will also include a local coffee shop and two retail spaces, which will be operated by other local companies.
This will be the second Culinary Dropout in Arizona, with the first one near Fashion Square Mall at 7135 E. Camelback Rd. #125 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

Hinted at above, the new unnamed fish house and oyster bar by Fox Restaurant Concepts:
...will have a Brooklyn-like vibe and be reminiscent of an old urban seafood shack. The restaurant will serve a raw bar focused menu, in addition to comfort food such as chowders, fish and chips, and po-boys. From the raw bar, order fresh seafood such as prawns, razor clams, and oysters flown in daily. Pairing well with the menu, the fish house will also serve a stand-out white wine menu and an eclectic beer list.
Besides the food, developers are hoping the large shaded park area will attract people with live music, outdoor games, and of course, ample parking.

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Culver's Opens 14th Location in Arizona

Photo by: Culver's
In a milestone for the Wisconsin-based chain, the 14th restaurant in Arizona also happens to be their 450th location.  Located at 1025 Avondale Blvd. Avondale, AZ 85323, Culver's is planning on opening roughly 25-30 restaurants this year, but there is no word on how many of those will be in Arizona. 

Of note, rather than going the Jack in the Box route of a Bacon Shake or the Burger King route of a Bacon Sundae, which is currently being tested in select markets, Culver's has decided to be a bit more traditional and promote the Culver's Bacon Deluxe and a separate Chocolate Shake

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

New Pub Opens in Tempe Tomorrow (4/12)

Mad Hatter Brew Pub Logo
Mad Hatter Brew Pub is a brand new pub in the middle of Tempe, near Sun Devil Stadium that is set to open tomorrow, April 12.  No information about specific menu items is available right now, but what the AZFoodDude does know is that Mad Hatter Brew Pub is located where Dave's Electric Brewpub used to be, 502 S. College Ave. #103 Tempe, AZ 85281, it will be open with a patio for lunch and dinner, and it will be "serving fresh and delicious food as well as unique brews." 

You can follow Mad Hatter Brew Pub on Facebook and Twitter.

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Another Jimmy John's Coming to North Phoenix

Photo by: Jimmy John's - #5 Vito
Coming off the heels of opening a spot in the Southeast Valley at 2170 N. Arizona Ave. Chandler, AZ 85225, Jimmy John's is preparing to open in North Phoenix near the intersection of 32nd St. and Bell Rd.  This will be the 21st location in the Phoenix metro area and the 28th in the state, with the 7 other locations in the Tucson area.  

Founded in 1983, Jimmy John's has over 1000 restaurants in 40 states and has opened on average around 200 locations per year over the last three years.  Check out the menu and find other locations near you that deliver.

Monday, April 9, 2012

Baskin-Robbins Flavor of the Month: Jamoca Almond Fudge

Available since earlier this month, but officially announced today in a press release, Baskin-Robbins is promoting a classic flavor that has been around for over 50 years.  The April Flavor of the Month, Jamoca Almond Fudge, is made of "Jamoca coffee ice cream with roasted almonds and a chocolate ribbon." 
In participating Baskin-Robbins shops nationwide in April, Jamoca Almond Fudge is available by the scoop in a cup or cone. The flavor is also available in fresh-packed pints and quarts, so ice cream lovers can bring this classic flavor home to enjoy with family and friends or to create their own specialty ice cream desserts.* In addition, the Jamoca Almond Fudge Layered Sundae is available all month long and features three scoops of Jamoca Almond Fudge ice cream layered with hot fudge, almonds and whipped cream.
Check out Baskin-Robbins nutrition page and find a store nearby.

Sunday, April 8, 2012

Dickey's Barbecue Pit Opening Second Scottsdale Location

The Dallas-based barbecue chain is set to have their third Arizona location open this June.  Located at 7919 E. Thomas Rd. #111 Scottsdale, AZ 85257, this spot will be the second in Scottsdale.  With over 15 years in the restaurant industry, local franchisee Erik Forrest hopes to "bring great authentic barbecue with a family friendly environment to the area." 

An additional location opened last August in Mesa, meanwhile the Dickey's in Phoenix closed late last year.  Find out more about their food by checking out the Dickey's menu

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Smashburger Opening Two New Arizona Restaurants

Denver-based Smashburger has plans for at least two more openings in our state. The first one will open a week from today on April 11 in the Desert Ridge area at 21001 N. Tatum Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85050.  Meanwhile, another location will open in the area of 24th St. & Baseline Rd. on May 25.  Additionally, three more Smashburger restaurants are rumored to be on the way after these, the 9th and 10th locations, open in Arizona.

Smashburger was recently in the news for offering their Fresh Mex Burger and Fresh Mex Chicken Sandwich nationwide.

Monday, April 2, 2012

Burger King Introduces 10 New Menu Items

Since officially falling behind Wendy's for the first time and becoming the nation's #3 burger chain, Burger King is hoping stem the tide and reverse course.  In what's described as the chain's biggest expansion since it began in 1953, Burger King is now offering 10 new menu items.  The new items include the following:
  • Garden Fresh Salads: BLT, Apple and Cranberry or classic Caesar Salad varieties are made fresh to-order, premium ingredients and topped with a choice of TENDERCRISP® or TENDERGRILL® chicken (suggested retail price starts at $4.99).
  • Chicken Snack Wraps: Honey Mustard Crispy Chicken Snack Wrap and the Ranch Crispy Chicken Snack Wrap are flavorful snack options with less than 400 calories each (suggested retail price of $1.59).
  • Real Fruit Smoothies: Tropical Mango and Strawberry Banana smoothies are made with low-fat yogurt, real fruit and juices, providing a full serving of fruit (suggested retail price of $2.29).
  • Frappés: Mocha and Caramel flavors are made-to-order with a hint of coffee and ice, topped with whipped topping and a swirl of fudge or caramel (suggested retail price of $2.29).
  • Crispy Chicken Strips: Premium Crispy Chicken Strips are made with white meat tenderloin chicken, marinated and lightly battered in seasoned home-style breading, served in three- or five-piece servings and perfect for dipping in one of our classic or bold new sauces, such as new Kung Pao and Roasted Jalapeño Barbecue sauces (suggested retail price starts at $2.99).
Many of you are probably thinking a lot of the new items above sound very similar to offerings at McDonald's, but Burger King has addressed that:
"Burger King doesn’t deny that its new chicken strips, caramel frappe coffees, Caesar salads and strawberry-banana smoothies sound pretty close to those on McDonald’s popular menu. But executives say the company came up with them through its research...'Consumers wanted more choices,' said Steve Wiborg, president of Burger King’s North America operations. 'Not just healthy choices, but choices they could get at the competition.'"
The AZFoodDude's only question is, did Burger King's research go a little something like this?

Sunday, April 1, 2012

Dairy Queen's April Blizzard of the Month - Caramel Delight Pie

Is it easy to go from minty and Oreoy to caramel and chocolatey? By making Caramel Delight Pie the April Blizzard of the Month, Dairy Queen seems to think so.  According to Dairy Queen, the Caramel Delight Pie comes with "caramel, choco chunks and pie pieces blended with creamy vanilla soft serve, crowned with whipped topping."  

Maybe they are just April Fooling with us, but there is a hitch this month in finding out the exact nutritional information for the Caramel Delight Pie since it's not listed in DQ's nutrition calculator.  However, to give you some sort of an idea, a medium Caramel Brownie Blizzard, which also contains the caramel, choco chunks, and vanilla soft serve of the Caramel Delight Pie, but replaces the Caramel Delight's pie pieces with brownie pieces, comes in at 860 calories, 33 grams of fat (22 saturated), 96 grams of sugar, and 16 grams of protein.

Subway's April $5 Featured Footlong - Bacon, Egg & Cheese

Last month Subway promoted a kicked up lunch and dinner classic, the Jalapeño Tuna sub.  For April though, Subway is giving us a breakfast classic, that you can order any time of day, the Bacon, Egg & Cheese.  The sandwich typically comes with the bacon, egg and cheese and is pictured on flatbread, however you can order the sandwich on any bread with any toppings of your choice.  

In terms of nutrition, you can check out this Subway site and calculate how many calories, fat, protein, etc. will be in the sandwich based on how you would like your sandwich made.

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Detours Tavern Opening in Scottsdale (Exclusive Sample Menu)

Looking to open in early April, Detours Tavern will be located at 2922 N. Hayden Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251.  Detours will offer organic, all-natural meat selections and hopes to promote healthy food choices.  The newest restaurant and bar in South Scottsdale will have televisions, a patio, and a family friendly atmosphere.

Having seen a preliminary menu, the AZFoodDude can once again provide you with an exclusive look at a sample list which includes appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches & burgers, entrees, pizza, and dessert:

Appetizers
  • Crisp Tender Calamari ($8)
  • Artichoke Dip w/Flatbread ($8)
  • Homemade Hummus w/Pita Chips ($7)
  • Beer Battered Onion Rings ($7)
Salads
  • Field Greens w/Feta Cheese & Pecans ($9) - Add Grilled Chicken ($2)
  • Grilled Salmon Over Field Greens ($11)
Sandwiches/Burgers
  • 1/3lb Detour Burger ($8) - Detour to a Bison Burger ($2.50) - Ground Turkey ($2) - Add Bacon ($1)
  • Green Chili Burger ($8) - Detour to a Bison Burger ($3) - Ground Turkey ($2)
  • California Burger on Grilled Parmesan Bread ($9) - Detour to a Bison Burger ($3) - Ground Turkey ($2)
  • Chicken Salad Pita w/Sprouts ($8)
  • Grilled Chicken on Sourdough ($9)
  • Portobello Burger w/Roasted Red Pepper ($10)
Entrees
  • Pork Loin Medallions w/Shallots & Apples ($12)
  • Grilled Chicken Breast Marinated in Tequila Lime ($12)
  • Sirloin Steak ($13)
  • Fish of the Day ($14)
Wood Fired Pizza/Flatbread
  • Roma Tomatoes, Basil, Roasted Red & Green Peppers ($7) - Add Shrimp ($2) - Chicken ($1)
  • Sausage, Pepperoni, & Country Bacon ($9)
  • Chicken & Artichoke Hearts ($10)
  • Build Your Own ($8) - Additional toppings are ($1)
Desserts
  • Assorted Pies, Cakes, & Muffins ($6-$8) 
More information can be found on the Detours Tavern Facebook page.

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Smashburger Offers Fresh Mex Burger & Fresh Mex Chicken Nationwide

Available from now until April 29, the Fresh Mex Burger and Fresh Mex Chicken will be available at all Smashburger locations across the country.  The Fresh Mex Burger has been the local burger option on the menu in San Diego for some time, but now all Smashburger patrons will be able to order the:
Smashburger's Fresh Mex Burger & Fresh Mex Chicken Sandwich
100 percent Certified Angus Beef burger...topped with fresh avocado, chopped cilantro, onions, pepper jack cheese, lettuce, tomato, sour cream and spicy chipotle mayo on a Mexican roll, served with a wedge of lime. Guests may also opt for a Fresh Mex chicken sandwich served with the same savory combination on one of Smashburger’s juicy marinated chicken sandwiches.
If you're looking for some free stuff, check out Smashburger's Facebook page today and "Like" them to get a coupon for a free entree with the purchase of the Fresh Mex Burger or Fresh Mex Chicken Sandwich.

Cousins Subs to Open in Glendale

After opening their 9th location back in January in Chandler, Cousins is preparing to open their 10th Arizona restaurant in the west valley at 5350 W. Bell Rd. Glendale, AZ 85308.  Aiming to open this spring, this particular Cousins will be the second reported as serving fries and grilled sandwiches.  In addition, this will be the second location with the company's updated look.

The press release makes it clear there is more to come from the local franchisees:
(Brian) Herczeg and his partners – father Les, sister Christina, and brother-in-law Matt – have signed on with local franchise developer, Cliff Jones, to open two new stores in the next year. Jones will be opening a total of 10 stores in the next three years.
Check out Cousins Subs menu here and additional Arizona locations here.

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Cheesecake Factory Adds 14 New Items

There are currently six Cheesecake Factory locations in Arizona, one in Tucson and five in the Valley, and now, available at all of them, are 14 new items on top of the over 200 dishes already offered. 

The new items are:
SkinnyLicious(TM) Shrimp Creole - Photo by: The Cheesecake Factory
  • Santorini Farro Salad - A fresh light combination of farro, cucumbers, tomatoes, beets, red onion, Feta cheese and tzatziki. Tossed with vinaigrette
  • SkinnyLicious™ Chicken Enchiladas - Covered with our red chile sauce and melted cheese. Served with escabeche vegetable salad
  • SkinnyLicious™ Pasta - Gemelli pasta with sautéed chicken, fresh tomato, marinara sauce and fresh basil
  • Island Grilled Chicken - Grilled soy glazed chicken breasts topped with macadamia nuts. Served with fresh vegetables and a little white rice
  • Shrimp Creole - Shrimp simmered in a spicy Tasso-tomato sauce with sautéed peppers, onions and garlic. Served with a little white rice
  • Shrimp Toast Lollipops - With ginger, garlic, green onion, cilantro and sesame oil, lightly breaded and fried crisp
  • Shrimp and Grits - Sweet corn-white cheddar grits, covered with sautéed shrimp and spicy Tasso sauce
  • Fresh Kale Salad - Cranberries, apples, Marcona almonds and green beans. Tossed with our buttermilk-black pepper dressing
  • Papas Bravas - A Spanish favorite. Crispy, golden brown potatoes served with garlic aioli and spicy bravas sauce
  • Over the Top Meatloaf Sandwich - Covered with Guinness® marinated Swiss cheese, portabella mushrooms, caramelized onions, aioli and arugula on grilled brioche. Served with housemade tomato-bacon jam
  • Green Chilaquiles with Carnitas and Eggs - Tender slow-cooked pork with roasted poblano peppers, cheese, onions, cilantro and crisp corn tortillas. Garnished with tomatillo-chile sauce, tomato and sour cream
  • Sweet Corn-White Cheddar Grits
  • Coffee Mocha Chip Shake - Creamy coffee ice cream blended with chocolate chips
  • Nutty Chocolate Marshmallow Shake - Our Chocolate Shake with marshmallow and toasted almonds

Monday, March 19, 2012

Monsterland Bar & Grill Opening Friday the 13th

What kind of restaurant would decide to have their grand opening on Friday the 13th? A monster themed bar and grill of course.  On Friday the 13th in April, Monsterland Bar & Grill will open for business in Downtown Mesa at 18 W. Main St. Mesa, AZ 85201.  Promising signature dishes, 20 Arizona microbrews, including seasonal options, an outdoor patio, dance floor, and a premium sound system, Monsterland Bar & Grill is hoping to give their patrons a truly unique experience. 

According to the press release, "The Monsterland Bar & Grill is family friendly until 9pm so bring the whole family for lunch or dinner, but after 9pm patrons must be 21 or older."  Additionally, while there will be no cover charge for opening night, cover charges "will vary depending on events starting at 10pm most nights."

Hours and regular events for Monsterland are as follows:
  • Wednesday: 11am to Midnight - Country/Southern Rock Night.
  • Thursday: 11am to Midnight - Team Trivia from 7pm to 9pm with Karaoke from 9:30 to closing.
  • Friday: 11am to 2am - Live music on 1st & 2nd Fridays of the month.
  • Saturday: 11am to 2am - 4th Saturday of each month will have a costume theme, live music, and no cover for ladies.
Notably, October will be a special time for the restaurant:
In October, Monsterland will transform into our 2nd Annual, two story haunted house that boasts Hollywood quality sets, animated props and costumes. Our giant outdoor patio will feature live video footage of all our victims cringing in horror through our maze of creatures and monsters while you laugh and relish in a frothy beverage or grub from our signature menu. Watch your friends and family run out screaming! Our patio is family friendly until 9pm, and will be available on a first come first serve basis. Seats will be limited so please plan ahead. Your adrenaline infused experience inside the haunted house includes an experience that will keep you awake at night and spine tingling thrills! Our performers will take you to a different time where only the best of horror classics lurk! Be sure to watch our website for special times and lights on hours for the little goblins that scare easily!
Check out the restaurant's FAQ for further information on the "Scary Good Times" and "Horrific Family Fun."

Thursday, March 15, 2012

New Deals at Ruth's Chris & Fleming's Steakhouses

Tenderloin Skewers over Spring Greens
Yesterday, Ruth's Chris Steak House announced their new "Sizzle, Swizzle, and Swirl" Happy Hour.  The new happy hour menu:
...will feature brand new bar bites alongside signature items for $7.00 each, as well as hand-crafted cocktails, premium wines and select beers. After Happy Hour, Sizzle, Swizzle and Swirl menu offerings can be enjoyed at the bar at regular pricing.
The items on the menu include:
  • USDA Prime Burger with Fries - Tenderloin Skewers over Spring Greens - New England Lobster Roll with Fries - Three Petite Prime Sliders - Sliced Filet Steak Sandwich with Fries - Seared Ahi Tuna, and Spicy Lobster. 
On the drink side you will find "hand crafted cocktails, such as the Classic Cosmo, the Pomegranate Martini, and Ruth's Manhattan made with premium spirits, and daily fresh-squeezed juices."

You can find the two Ruth's Chris locations in Arizona here.

Filet Mignon & North Atlantic Lobster Tail Dinner
Meanwhile, Fleming's Prime Steakhouse is celebrating spring break by offering Filet Mignon and North Atlantic Lobster Tail Dinner along with an appetizer and a side for $34.95 until April 7.  From the press release:
...guests can start the Spring Break Celebration with their choice of the Wedge Salad with crisp iceberg lettuce with grape tomatoes, red onions and crumbled blue cheese or French Onion Soup baked with gruyere and parmesan cheeses.  The generous filet mignon—Fleming's leanest meat—and broiled lobster tail with drawn butter are accompanied by a choice of French Green Beans with shiitake mushrooms and porcini essence or Fleming's Mashed Potatoes topped with blue cheese, parmesan-peppercorn or roasted garlic. 
Keep in mind that you will not find the Spring Break Celebration selections on the regular menu as they are only available upon request.

Check out one of the five Arizona Fleming's locations here.

Read more here: http://www.miamiherald.com/2012/03/14/2692955/new-premium-happy-hour-at-ruths.html#storylink=cpy

Read more here: http://www.miamiherald.com/2012/03/14/2692955/new-premium-happy-hour-at-ruths.html#storylink=cp

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

New Buffalo Chicken Pizza at Papa John's

The world's third largest pizza purveyor has introduced a Buffalo Chicken Pizza which is described in the press release as:
...a savory combination of creamy ranch sauce, all-white sliced chicken strips, crispy bacon, fresh-sliced onions and 100% real cheese made from mozzarella, all topped with a tangy, spicy buffalo sauce.
The large Buffalo Chicken Pizza from Papa John's will cost $10 but Buffalo chicken lovers should note, this pizza is not a permanent menu offering and will only be available until the end of April. 

Burger King Offering Free Fries for St. Patrick's Day Weekend

To coincide with St. Patrick's Day, for the second time in a three month span, Burger King will be giving away a free "value" size order of fries with no purchase or coupon necessary:
On Saturday, March 17th and Sunday, March 18th, customers can stop in at participating BURGER KING® restaurants to celebrate the luck of the Irish with some gold of their own – a “pot” of golden-brown, crispy French fries that is!
Also offered with the free fries is a specially colored ketchup by Heinz that Burger King has named "St. Paddy’s Sauce."  

New Grocery Chain Hitting Phoenix Area

Coming to the Valley in early April from Boise, Idaho, WinCo Foods is hoping to do in the Phoenix area what it has done in previous areas of expansion:
WinCo aims to be the low-cost leader in all of its markets and has quickly grabbed market share in every new territory it has entered.
The challenge will not be easy though due to the extraordinary variety of grocery offerings in the Phoenix metro area, which according to AZCentral include:
...mainstream chains Fry's, Walmart, Safeway, Albertsons and Bashas', there are niche players Sprouts, Trader Joe's, Whole Foods and Fresh & Easy, along with Hispanic markets Food City, Pro's Ranch Markets and El Super. Retail chains Target, Walgreens and CVS also have recently expanded their grocery sections.
Many more names could be added to the above list, but I think the point is made that this will surely be WinCo's toughest market yet.

The employee owned store's description may sound similar to current valley stores like Fresh & Easy on one side and Costco on the other:
Typical stores have concrete floors and metal racks and display much of the merchandise on pallets. There are separate meat, seafood, bakery and deli departments and large bulk-food areas...While they are not necessarily warehouse stores, the "Wall of Values," where WinCo displays its special buys, is reminiscent of Costco or Sam's Club. To keep down costs, customers bag their own groceries and can't pay with a credit card because of the high transaction fees charged by the issuing banks. Debit cards are accepted, along with cash and checks.
Check out interior photos of WinCo via their Facebook page.

WinCo's first two ventures will be located at 330 W. Bell Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85023 and 5850 W. Bell Rd. Glendale, AZ 85308.  The Phoenix store is a former Walmart spot while the Glendale location used to be a Costco.  In addition, while not ready to make any announcements, WinCo has also looked into further Glendale locations and a possible Gilbert store.

You can get more information and read about customer experience with WinCo at AZCentral.

Friday, March 9, 2012

Art & Culinary Festival in Litchfield Park This Weekend (3/10 - 3/11)

Photo by: Vermillion Promotions
Yesterday, the AZFoodDude reported on the Scottsdale Arts Festival and the dozen food trucks that will be serving up food for the event, but not to be outdone, the west valley has an event of its own this weekend.  The 14th Annual Litchfield Art & Culinary Festival will be taking place in downtown Litchfield Park at 300 W. Wigwam Blvd. Litchfield Park, 85340

The "celebration of the visual, culinary and performing arts" will take place from 9am to 5pm on both Saturday and Sunday.  Additionally, parking and admission are free for the event that will have wine tasting, demonstrations by expert chefs, and "irresistible culinary samplings with more than 250 extraordinary artists exhibiting original fine art and exquisite handcrafted creations."

Check out the Vermillion Promotions page for more information.