“Season of change” might be a bit cliché (or cheesy since we’re talking food), but it rings true as the local summer restaurant scene is best summarized under two headings: 1) entrepreneurs making moves and taking chances and 2) seasonal deals and menu offerings for those brave enough to endure the desert temperatures this season. Sounds exciting, right? Well, here’s a redux of this week’s happenings in our favorite food blogs:

1) entrepreneurs making moves and taking chances this season:

You know Johnny Chu from his past and present restaurant endeavors throughout the Valley. The latest of which involves relocating and reinventing his downtown restaurant, Sens Asian Tapas, to the corner of Central Avenue and Thomas Road under the new name SoChu House Neo Asian + Martini Bar. This new location and new concept is set for grand opening July 19. Chow Bella has the story.

What happens when you have two successful restaurants? According to all involved with Zinc Bistro and The Mission, you open a third. EaterAZ has an exclusive video interview/tour of The House, the latest labor of love this all-star crew has planned for Old Town Scottsdale.

There’s a new restaurant opening in downtown Phoenix. Chow Bella introduced us to Squash Blossom, a breakfast-lunch-coffee-patio restaurant that will occupy the former Pasta Bar space near McKinley and First streets, and AZcentral is reporting the grand opening is set for July 16.

2) seasonal deals and menu offerings for those brave enough to endure the desert temperatures this season:

Phoenix Bites dishes the specials of the Fox Restaurant Concepts 100 Days of Summer celebration. For a list of summer deals, participating restaurants and a chance to win a $75 gift card, click here. Offer ends September 11.

What could be more appealing than a five-course menu tasting featuring signature items for $65 per person? Perhaps finding out that you saved $55. Mouth by Southwest has the details on this summer special special at Kai, the restaurant at Wild Horse Pass. Like all good  great things, this offer ends July 28.

Perhaps you want an option that can suit the entire family, for that EaterAZ highlights Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar‘s three-course Prime Rib dinner any (or every, if you prefer) Sunday night until Labor Day weekend for $29.95 per person.

One last summer event: Mouth By Southwest featured the DownUnder Wines & Bistro‘s restaurant-hopping party bus which hits the streets July 18. Things kick off at DownUnder at 6:15 p.m., followed by three stops for food and drinks. Cost is $50, all inclusive. Guarantee your spot with an RSVP to [email protected]

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