Write On Rubee

An Arizona-based food, beverage and travel writer since 2008, I launched this website in 2015 to document my culinary adventures, beverage escapades, gardening endeavors, and travel in the Phoenix area and beyond. Also find a comprehensive calendar of Phoenix-area food and drink-related events on my Events page.

RUBEE TUESDAY: Paradise Valley Burger Company, Lon’s at The Hermosa, Weft & Warp at Andaz

August 29, 2023  /  Christina Barrueta

A weekly feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Herb-crusted halibut with WorldClass black truffle broth, root vegetables, and shaved truffle in the Wine Cellar at Hermosa Inn

Monday, August 7: Paradise Valley Burger (Phoenix). We love Brett Shapiro’s inventive burgers, and we’re not the only ones. The restaurant has racked up awards such as best burger in Arizona by the Travel Channel and Best Burger Joint by PHOENIX magazine, and has been featured on popular TV shows such as Diners, Drive-ins and Dives and Man vs Food.

Paradise Valley Burger

One of Guy Fieri’s favorites was my husband’s order on this visit: Country Fried Burger with jalapeno-thyme cream gravy, lettuce, tomato, and crispy fried onions on a griddled brioche bun.

Country Fried Burger at Paradise Valley Burger

If you follow PVB on Instagram, you’ll know that in addition to the inventive mainstays on the menu, you’ll also be tempted by the creative specials, as I was. In fact, I had to order both! The Back to School Burger with smoked peanut butter, strawberry-habanero jelly, smoked mozzarella, bacon, and crispy onions on crustless white bread and Nach'yo Grilled Cheese with housemade cool ranch chips, tequila cheese sauce, taco beef, serrano chiles, pico de gallo, and pickled onion served over a grilled cheese sandwich.

I’ve also included some past favorites:
Brûlée Burger with a brûléed bun, Havarti cheese, lettuce, bacon, fried egg, and pickled onions
Beach House Burger with green chile, smoked mozzarella, pico de gallo, avocado and jalapeno ranch
Cardinal Fries topped with cheddar, pulled pork, green chile-bacon-vodka cream sauce, and cilantro
Jalapeno Fries

Friday, August 11: Cool Dining in the Wine Cellar at Hermosa Inn. From June to September, Thursday through Sunday nights, guests can reserve a table for a special five-course tasting menu that changes weekly. When we heard this week’s was going to feature WorldClass Argentine black truffles, we had to make a reservation.

Wow! This turned out to be the best wine cellar dinner we’ve attended yet.

Executive chef Alejandro Martinez remarked that the aroma and flavor of these Argentine truffles rivaled those from Périgord, France, and I had to agree. From the amuse of sweet potato medallion with quail egg and truffles to the sugared doughnut stuffed with raspberry-truffle-cocoa nib jam, the entire experience was spectacular.

Our decadent night was not over yet, however, as we had been invited to the launch of Final Course at Weft & Warp at Andaz resort, a fantastic four-course dessert tasting menu by executive pastry chef Morgan Malzahn paired with Beverage Director Sergio Campos’ wonderful cocktails and wine pairings.

Click the photo below to see all of the fun on my video reel!

Check back for next week’s Rubee Tuesday as I head to Las Vegas, and then back home for a special Celebrity Chef Dinner at Hotel Valley Ho.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / Paradise Valley Burger, Hermosa Inn, Wine dinner cellar, Weft & Warp, Andaz Resort

RUBEE TUESDAY: Bobby-Q BBQ, PHOENIX Magazine Best Fest, Anhelo, Wren & Wolf, Compa Spirits Dinner at Chilte

August 22, 2023  /  Christina Barrueta

A weekly feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Beef Wellington (with WorldClass Devesa beef tenderloin) for two with whipped Parmesan potatoes and demi-glace at Wren &Wolf

Friday, August 4: Bobby-Q BBQ (Phoenix). I couldn't recall my most recent visit to this place (the last time I went to a Bobby-Q was at the Biltmore location), but it’s one of my dad's favorite spots, and I’ll be bringing my parents back pronto! (You can also watch my video reel here).

While the picturesque brick-walled patio with its corner fountain is as inviting as ever, the interior has almost doubled in size. The side bar has been converted to a second dining room, making it an ideal location for large parties and private events.

Of course, there’s award-winning BBQ, but I also discovered a great new cocktail list (like my Passion Fruit Mai Tai to wash down smoked chicken wings), daily specials like Fish Fry Friday, and creamy caramel pecan cheesecake.

I’m already planning to return on a Sunday afternoon with mom and dad.

Saturday, August 5: PHOENIX magazine Best Fest. This is the second year for this fun food festival hosted by PHOENIX magazine to celebrate the people and businesses in the magazine's annual Best of Valley issue. Click the photo below to watch my video reel.

Afterwards, we stopped by Anhelo (downtown Phoenix) for a cocktail. Loved the Diega Bonita with Mexican Diega Rosa gin, Belle de Brillet, lavender honey, and cava.

Chef-owner Ivan Jacobo also spoiled us with some new dishes from that night’s tasting menu (one of Arizona’s best dining experiences - I’ll be sharing photos from our upcoming dinner reservation): Spot prawn tart, pasta carbonara with mascarpone, crispy prosciutto, and egg yolks whipped with bacon fat, and his silky chawanmushi with lemon bubbles and caviar (which has since become a signature dish).

Wren & Wolf (downtown Phoenix). Earlier in the week, we had made reservations when WorldClass had let me know that they had flown in gorgeous Argentine truffles. Executive chef Ivan Gonzalez always creates something spectacular with their ingredients, and he hit it out of the park once again. We put our dinner choices in his hands and were spoiled with roasted bone marrow topped with A5 Wagyu and WorldClass caviar and black truffles, and Za’atar man’ouche stuffed with gouda and showered with more truffles.

For our main: His famous Beef Wellington (with WorldClass Devesa beef tenderloin) for two with whipped Parmesan potatoes and rich demi-glace. What a feast!

Sunday, August 6: Chilte (downtown Phoenix). I had been wanting to return to Chilte ever since this first visit, and the Compa Spirits dinner was the perfect excuse.

And what a dinner it was with a power team of three innovative talents - executive chef Lawrence Smith, guest mixologist Arlene Bean (MercBar, Highball), and Abel Arriaga, founder of Compa Spirits.

Guest mixologist Arlene Bean of Highball and MercBar

Compa Spirits seeks out boutique distillers and wineries throughout Mexico, and Arlene’s cocktail creations made with these artisanal spirits and paired with Lawrence’s creative dishes was an outstanding experience.

Check out this spectacular menu!

Check back on next week’s Rubee Tuesday for visits to Paradise Valley Burger Company, a truffle dinner in the wine cellar at Lon’s at The Hermosa, and Last Course at Andaz.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / BBQ, Bobby Q, Best Fest, Anhelo, Wren & Wolf, Chilte, Compa Spirits

RUBEE TUESDAY: Renata’s Hearth at Arizona Biltmore resort, Tia Carmen at JW Marriott Desert Ridge, Bitter & Twisted, The Italian Daughter, CRUjiente Tacos

August 15, 2023  /  Christina Barrueta

A weekly Tuesday feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

Bloomingdale cocktail at Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour in downtown Phoenix

Friday, July 28: Renata’s Hearth at the Arizona Biltmore (Phoenix). Back to one of my favorites, this time with Meridith May and Bill Brandel, owners of SOMM Journal and Tasting Panel magazines. Stay tuned for my upcoming SOMM Journal feature with Director of Restaurants Timothy Ahrens.

Saturday, July 29: Tia Carmen at JW Marriott Desert Ridge (Phoenix). This was the launch of the new 'Tia and Chef' guest chef series with chef-owner Chef Angelo Sosa and I was thrilled that his inaugural guest was Chef Maria Mazon, executive chef and owner of BOCA Tacos y Tequila in Tucson, whom I first met in 2016.

Both of these talented chefs are also well-known TV personalities - Chef Maria competed on Bravo’s Top Chef and Food Network’s Chopped, and Chef Angelo was on Bravo’s Top Chef for three seasons and HBO Max’s Selena + Chef.

Chef Maria Mazon, writer Christina Barrueta, and Chef Angelo Sosa at Tia Carmen

While the main event was Chef Maria’s special seven-course taco menu, our media group was invited to a pre-dinner cooking demo.

I don’t know who had more fun - our group, or the chefs! Click the photo below to watch the video reel.

Chefs Maria Mazon and Angelo Sosa

And check out our fantasic feast: Thank you to chef Maria who introduced each of her delicious tacos, and GM Maritza for the great education on all our pairings:

Tuesday, August 1: Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour (downtown Phoenix). Every year B&T releases a new book of cocktails, and this year’s was another winner. It’s no surprise that their book has landed on Tales of the Cocktail Foundation’s Top 10 "World’s Best Cocktail Menu" multiple times.

Hasta La Vista, Berry! at Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour

Here are some of my favorites (including the jerk chicken on the food menu, a partnership with Jamaican restaurant, The Breadfruit & Rum Bar):
Hasta La Vista, Berry!: “A lively fusion of Mezcal and Martini & Rossi's Riserva Speciale Bitter dances with Aperitivo Rosato, harmonized by a tangy triple berry shrub. Topped with sparkling prosecco and a splash of club soda."
You Shell Nut Pass: ”An elegant blend of VSOP cognac, house-blended sweet vermouth, and amontillado sherry, harmonized with zesty lemon and a delightful touch of pistachio adds an alluring twist.”
Bloomingdale: “A delicate fusion of Roku gin and elderflower liqueur harmoniously intertwine with crisp Rosé wine and a house dry vermouth blend. A dash of Peychaud bitters completes this elegant, floral masterpiece. Served chilled and up.”
Nibs & Bitters Negroni: “Sous vide cocoa nib mezcal pairs perfectly with the bitter warmth of Campari and a touch of sweet vermouth blend. It's like a fireside chat with an old friend.”
Split Decision: “A silken blend of Tullamore D.E.W. and Monkey Shoulder whiskies, enhanced by rich banana Madeira and aromatic cardamom bitters. Smooth vanilla buttermilk syrup brings it all together, creating a luxurious, spirited sipper.”
M.V.P. “A refined twist on a cult classic Miami Vice, this tempting fusion features a house rum blend, exotic spices, and strawberry tea. Pineapple, coconut milk, and lime intermingle for a refreshing, tropical experience, all clarified for a smooth finish.”

Wednesday, August 2: The Italian Daughter (North Scottsdale). We were invited to check out the new menu and it was a delicious reminder to return here more often. Thank you to Chef Vittorio Colafranceschi, who made one of the best Italian seafood dishes I have ever had - an off-menu special of Dungeness crab guazzetto.

Crab guazzetto at Italian Daughter

Thursday, August 3: CRUjiente Tacos (Phoenix). As always, another great visit to this award-winning gem. Look for my Sonoran Scoop column in the next issue of SOMM Journal!

Check back on next week’s Rubee Tuesday for visits to Bobby-Q BBQ, PHOENIX Magazine Best Fest, Anhelo, Wren & Wolf, and Chilte.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / Renata's Hearth, Arizona Biltmore, Tia Carmen, JW Marriott Desert Ridge, Italian Daughter, Scottsdale, Downtown Phoenix, CRUjiente Tacos, Bitter and Twisted

RUBEE TUESDAY: Sugar Bowl, House Brasserie, Frasher’s Tavern, TEXAZ Grill, Course, The Mick Brasserie

August 08, 2023  /  Christina Barrueta

A weekly feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

WorldClass Polanco caviar service at The Mick Brasserie

Friday, July 21: Sugar Bowl (Old Town Scottsdale). One of my assignments brought us to this historic ice cream parlor and restaurant that opened in 1958. Loved the vibe (and strawberry malt and ice cream sundae). Our first visit, but we’ll be back!

Another assignment for the Scottsdale Visitors Guide was a great excuse to visit Richard Allison, beverage director at The House Brasserie (Old Town Scottsdale).

Wrapping up my Friday, we had a fun time (as always!) at Frasher’s Tavern. Thank you to chef-owner George Frasher, who had invited us to a special wine dinner where he cooked up some Rao-inspired dishes that he learned when they took over the Tavern for Super Bowl 2023.

Tuesday, July 25: TEXAZ Grill (Phoenix). We love this Phoenix institution, famous for its chicken fried steak, and need to come back more often. I also always order the fried okra, crispy jumbo shrimp, catfish, and peach pie a la mode.

Wednesday, July 26: I love when assignments bring to me see some of my favorite talents, like sommelier Nick Padua at Course (Scottsdale). You can also read about Course in my SOMM Journal column.

Our last stop was The Mick Brasserie, one of our favorite Scottsdale spots, not only for the fantastic food, but for the wine program (be sure to ask beverage director Jeff to suggest pairings). We also picked up the wines we had purchased at their Argentina wine dinner.

Recommended dishes from their new summer menu: Chef’s Caviar Preparation of the Day with WorldClass Polanco Siberian Reserve caviar, creme fraiche with gribiche (hard-boiled eggs, cornichons, chives, and capers) with pickled shallots and grilled brioche.

36-hour foccacia, chilled crab salad, and shrimp toast:

Check back on next week’s Rubee Tuesday as I visit Renata’s Hearth at Arizona Biltmore resort, Tia Carmen at JW Marriott Desert Ridge, Bitter & Twisted, Italian Daugher, and CRUjiente Tacos.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / Sugar Bowl, Old Town Scottsdale, Frasher's Tavern, George Frasher, TEXAZ Grill, Course Scottsdale, The Mick Brasserie

RUBEE TUESDAY: The Americano, Toro at the Scottsdale Fairmont Princess, Arboleda, Bourbon and Bones Peoria, Proof at the Four Seasons

August 01, 2023  /  Christina Barrueta

A weekly feature, I publish Rubee Tuesday as a photo recap of my recent drinking and dining adventures. You can read past Rubee Tuesdays HERE.

The Zombie at Toro at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Friday, July 14: The Americano (North Scottsdale). Every summer, I work with one of my favorite organizations, Experience Scottsdale, on assignments for the Scottsdale Visitors Guide. A printed guidebook released annually, it can be downloaded or mailed to you.

Some of my current favorites: Happy Hour lobster salad with caviar and, on the regular menu, burrata with peach, speck, and pistachio crumble, roasted clams, and Fiore di Vitae cocktail.

Wednesday, July 19: Toro at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess was another stop on assignment.

Located on the Scottsdale’s TPC course, the menu showcases the diverse flavors of South and Central America and its Japanese and Chinese-Peruvian influences. Here are some must-orders:

WorldClass black cod with miso-chipotle glaze, kabayaki sauce, grilled asparagus, daikon radish, and togarashi aioli:

  • Danmari Negroni (Roku gin, Trakal, Japanese sweet sake vermouth, bitter liqueur, Banane du Bresil, and Sakura bitters)

  • Grilled avocado with corn pico de gallo

  • Fried rice with butter-poached lobster and chorizo

Grilled WorldClass Argentinian Devesa beef (picanha cut) with chimichurri, house BBQ sauce, potatoes, and shishitos:

Thursday, July 20: This was a busy day with three fun stops. First, was back to Arboleda for a special cocktail creation by Richie Moe, gambas pil pil, and smoked salmon on potato rösti with caviar and champagne cream.

Stop Two was the Grand Opening of Bourbon and Bones in Peoria. I’m pretty excited that the newest location of this upscale steakhouse is only a 10-minute drive.

A perfect ending to the day was an invitation to a fantastic mezcal dinner at Proof at Four Seasons Scottsdale Troon North. So glad Proof has brought back these cocktail dinners! We were all impressed with this menu by Chef Edgar, Pastry Chef Yudith, and cocktail pros Jackie and Autumn:

Check back on my next Rubee Tuesday for visits to Sugar Bowl, House Brasserie, Frasher’s Tavern, TEXAZ Grill, Course, and The Mick Brasserie.

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categories / Rubee Tuesday
tags / The Americano, Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Toro, arboleda, Scottsdale Quarter, Bourbon and Bones, Four Seasons, Proof, Cocktail Dinner