It is the last day of the year. You’ve probably already figured out what you’re doing tonight, but if you still need some ideas, check out this New Year’s Eve party round up. So grab your dress, grab your suit, a couple bottles of champagne and let’s get ready to have some fun tonight.

Scottsdale’s NYE Block Party – Block parties are always fun because they let you walk around and mingle with thousands of people. In one of the Valley’s most happening spots, this will be a great party.

A Gatsby New Year’s Eve – Taking place at the W Scottsdale hotel, you can party like it’s 1920 tonight. Make sure to wear your flapper dress and tux.

Mill Avenue Block Party – Tempe’s yearly event will surely draw thousands of guests. With pretty much every bar participating, there will be live music, dancing, and fun.

“RA”ckin New Year’s Eve Party – Every location of RA Sushi will be celebrating tonight with a party. Enjoy food and drink specials while you bring in 2013.

For more New Year’s Eve party ideas, click here.

In just a few days the biggest party of the year will begin. Well, technically it’ll be the first party of the year. So how are you going to bring in 2013? If you’re looking for a nice meal before you get your party on, check out ZuZu at the Hotel Valley Ho. It’ll be a 1950s themed party at ZuZu. The four-course dinner includes pairings of Belvedere vodka and Champagne from Moet & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot. Check out the menu.

First course

Crispy Oysters

creamed swiss chard, roasted fennel, smoked bacon + parmesan or Cheese Tortellini.

butternut squash, roasted brussels sprouts + sage butter or Shrimp + Lobster Cocktail with mango + avocado relish

Chandon Etoile Rose

Second course

Crab Bisque

golden chive + crème fraiche or Kale Salad. julienne pear, pan roasted croutons, pecorino romano + lemon vinaigrette

Veuve Clicquot “Yellow Label Brut”

third course

Tender Beef Short Rib. Lobster risotto + pickled vegetables or Herb Roasted Loin of Veal and garlic mashed potatoes + local vegetables. Or Blackened Ahi sweetwater shrimp, steamed jasmine rice + tomato wasabi vinaigrette

Moet & Chandon “Grand Vintage” Blanc ‘03

Dessert

Pear Fiancier

lemon sorbet or Chocolate Crème Brulee salted caramel shortbread

Belvedere Lemon Basil Martini

If you answered yes, The Cameron Team has just discovered the perfect desert mountain property opportunity for you. Located at 41247 N. 95th St. in Scottsdale, this luxury resort-style estate has just been reduced to $1,529,566.

According to Jeff Cameron in an update posted Thursday, ”smaller homes sold last year for $4 million dollars” which is impressive since this property boasts 10,690 square feet.

What’s the catch? Well, the estate is not entirely finished. The wet bar, wine cellar, pool,  six bathrooms and two half baths are among the unfinished amenities.

“(The) home is 85 to 90 percent complete,” Cameron added. “Needs some tile work, minor repairs, light and plumbing fixtures.” If that challenge doesn’t scare you, read on!

»READ MORE

He holds the title of Iron Chef America, he recently opened two restaurants in Scottsdale and now he is set to release his second cookbook.

Jose Garces has teamed up with Lake Isle Press for the October release of The Latin Road Home: Savoring the Foods of Ecuador, Spain, Cuba, Mexico, and Peru.

The cookbook has been described as “a travelogue and a memoir, offering a fascinating and personal look back at the food traditions that have shaped the life and cooking of Chef Garces, from his family’s ancestral home in Ecuador to his ongoing work as an award-winning chef and restaurateur across the US.”

The Latin Road Home chronologically tells the story of Garces’ food journey and each destination comes to life through more than 100 recipes, food and travel photos and his personal narration.

“This book is a deeply personal project for me: it allows me to trace the cultures and cuisines that have shaped me, both personally and professionally,” Garces said. “Throughout my career, I have built upon what I know and used it to explore new and different places, and this book traces that journey – and with it, my life to this point.”

Garces’ Scottsdale restaurants, Distrito and Old Town Whiskey, are located at The Saguaro Hotel. Pre-order The Latin Road Home here.

Calling all fashionistas and fashionistos: Phoenix Fashion Week may be an entire season away, but we have the latest scoop courtesy of Style Stalkers.

Following last week’s casting call, where more than 200 models turned out with hopes of earning a spot in October’s highly-regarded fashion showcase, The Mint in Scottsdale is hosting the model announcement party tomorrow at 7 p.m.

The best part is that this event is open to the public, so come meet the next 40 fresh faces before they hit the runways this fall and compete for the title of Smartwater Model of the Year. RSVP here.

The Mint | 7373 E . Camelback | Scottsdale | AZ

Known around the Valley for throwing a hell of a party, Raven Events will be hosting its first annual Sexy Shoe Party this Friday, July 6.

Friday’s event will be a sophisticated cocktail party, filled with good music (courtesy of DJ Rob Wegner), good food, cocktail specials, dancing, and as the name suggests, a contest for the sexiest shoes worn by the ladies in attendance.

Good news everyone! This party is free. If you’re looking for something fun to do this weekend, head to the Narcisse Champagne and Tea Lounge in Scottsdale Quarter at 8 p.m. Make sure you’re of age too, because this party is for 21+ only.

For more information on this event and others like it, click here.

Looking for a classy way to celebrate Independence Day in style and in air conditioning? Why not at the top of a Valley resort, in front of floor-to-ceiling windows where you can view firework shows stretching from Phoenix to Scottsdale?

The Phoenician’s J&G Steakhouse invites you to share this holiday in their restaurant’s open seating while enjoying specialty cocktails, a full a la carte menu or their Fourth of July-themed prix fixe menu Wednesday.

The July 4th Prix Fixe Menu includes three courses. Choose between local watermelon gazpacho, jumbo shrimp cocktail or heirloom Tomatoes with fresh raspberry vinegar and goat cheese for the first course. Next up is a grilled tuna burger, french fries, miso mayonnaise and yuzu pickles; barbecue sirloin tip with creamy local corn; or  a grilled pork chop, cherry mustard and sautéed mustard greens. The third course includes your choice of strawberry charlotte sundae, popping cherry pie or warm chocolate nougat tart with praline ice cream.

Festive 4th of July cocktails are available for $12 and include Red: Sour Cherry Caipirinha (Pirrasunga 21 Cachaca, cherry, lime), White: Vanilla Cream Soda (Svedka Vanilla Vodka, caramelized Sugar and club soda) and Blue: Blueberry Lemonade (Ketel One Citroen Vodka, lemon, blueberries and Sprite).

The July 4th Prix Fixe Menu is $45, is available Tuesday and Wednesday from 5 to 10 p.m.

When you drive down the streets of Old Town Scottsdale – because, let’s be real here, no one is walking anywhere right now – you can see pretty much two things: restaurants and art galleries. The scene becomes quite familiar if you live in the area and it’s easy to fall into a routine of always hitting up the same spots. That’s why when any inkling of a new restaurant pops up, it’s nearly impossible not to take notice…and snoop around like a nutrient deprived Nancy Drew. We are of course talking about the upcoming opening of chef Payton Curry’s Brat Haus, and as it turns out, Old Town’s newest restaurant is not so much of a mystery. In fact, its opening on July 2nd is highly anticipated and has been covered by the likes of Chow Bella, AZ Central and EaterAZ.  »READ MORE

Image courtesy of the Dairy Council of Arizona

In case you’ve missed the skinny thus far, June has been declared Arizona Dairy Month courtesy of the state’s Dairy Council (how fitting) and valley chefs are milking it for all it’s worth. With that in mind, here’s a redux of this week’s happenings in our favorite food blogs:

The “Moo-ving Milkshake Shop” is a cross between the modern delight of a food truck and the nostalgia of an ice cream parlor in years gone by. Five local gourmet chefs will showcase their own take on milkshake concepts at a different valley restaurant each week of June. With flavors like “Schnepf Farms Peach Cobbler” or “Mexican chocolate with oaxacan chile” you will not want to miss out on this udderly unique summer tour. For a list of chefs and participating locations, click here.

Another, albeit quirkier, way to pay homage to Arizona’s dairy industry is a cheesemaking class at The Fossil Creek Creamery in Strawberry, Ariz. This edible adventure made Chow Bella’s “Ten Favorite Arizona Summer Festivals and Adventures” list. Classes fill up fast, call (928) 476-5178 for reservations.

Pen and Fork has also boarded the milkshake moovement and devised a do-it-yourself milkshake in honor of the state’s beloved bovine. So, why not support our local dairy farms by grabbing some yogurt, ice cream or milk  (and some Kahlúa or Bailey’s, no judgement) for a completely customizable summer treat. Happy Blending.

Who needs the beach or the water slides when you can frolic in the mud with the entire family this weekend?

Mighty Mud Mania 2012 is scheduled for Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Chaparral Park, 5401 N. Hayden Road in Scottsdale. While there is no doubt the popularity of quirky runs and muddy obstacle course experiences are on the rise, this year marks the 37th anniversary of this event and the first time adults have been eligible to participate.

According to the City of Scottsdale, “Mighty Mud Mania” began in 1976 as the ‘Shout It Out Decathlon,’ a promotional gimmick for Johnson’s Wax “Shout” Spray pre-wash. The promotion ended, but the event has become a favorite Scottsdale tradition.

From 8 a.m. to noon, there is no cost for children 17 and under with designated muddy play areas for children under 7. The obstacle course is open to adults 18 and over from noon to 2 p.m. for a $10 registration fee. Register here. Proceeds from the event will benefit the City of Scottsdale’s Afterschool Programs.

What To Bring: Permission slips (they are required for all children) lace-up or Velcro shoes (sandals and flip-flops are not allowed) and a non-perishable food item for donation to the Vista del Camino food bank.

For more information, click here and take on “mud slinging” in an election year like you have never seen it before.

Photo by Kara Philp

Truth be told, most carnivores don’t understand vegetarian cuisine and are often afraid they’ll be forced to eat a flavorless, textureless excuse for a _________ (fill in the blank). All while pretending they’re enjoying it.

In a feeble attempt to dispel such myths, we present the first installment of Mock Meat Monday: a classy look at the local vegetarian scene. Hopefully the next time you have guests in town from Portland or you end up on a blind date with a “veggie” you will call up one of these tasty suggestions. Win-win.

Where else would a respectable vegetarian voyage begin, than from the mecca, the almighty, the godfather: Green. Self-described as “New American Vegetarian,” Green is actually 100 percent vegan and features a gluten-free menu as well. And face it, it’s just plain trendy.

The menu includes traditional comfort food dishes made slightly different than one might be accustomed to, but the flavors and ingredients do not disappoint. With fresh salads and fruit, sandwiches, noodle and rice bowls, pizza (and we’d be remiss if I didn’t recommend the appetizers) supplemented with vegan cheeses and “mock meats” there truly is something for everyone.

The last thing you’ll want to do is to forget to save room for dessert. Green’s infamous Tsoynami’s are nothing short of a vegan blizzard. Not to mention the pastries, espresso and other treats that will remind you how glorious the experience of trying new things can be.

For locations, menu and hours, click here.

The 25th season of Sunday A’Fair concerts comes back to Scottsdale Jan. 15 at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. The free outdoor concerts will be kicked off with acts such as The Samba Project and local music legend Walt Richardson and his band Walt Richardson and the Peaceful Warriors.

The four month long event features free outdoor concerts by the Valley’s top musicians along with fine arts and crafts, fun activities for children and families. Highlights for the Sunday A’Fair concerts will consist of music from all around the country and world, a film festival, AZ Rocks! Arizona’s Centennial Celebration, salsa dance numbers, and guided tours of sculptures in the park. Food, snacks, cocktails, beer and wine will be available, but unfortunately not for free.

Located at 7380 E. Second St., Sunday A’Fair will be hosted every Sunday until April 15.

A previous studio tour

Architecture and art buffs, get ready to get low. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art will present a personal tour of rammed-earth residence “Low Compound” in Cave Creek January 18. Architect Eddie Jones will lead the tour, which is slated for 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.  The tour will be part of a selection of artists’ and architects’ studio visits led by Ace Bailey of Ultimate Art & Cultural Tours.

A bus will pick up guests at 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. from the front parking lot next to the museum.

To buy tickets for the tour or sign up for whole series, call 480-499-8587.

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art | 7374 East Second Street |Scottsdale, AZ 85251

Photo via SMoCA

Image via A Touch of Yogurt

Did you swear off sweets for a New Year’s resolution? Don’t worry – fro-yo is here (as if you haven’t noticed) to help you maintain both your goal for 2012 and your daily weekly sweet indulgence. The lightly tart and savory dessert (which has less fat than regular ice cream and is jam-packed with active cultures) is now at hotspots all over the valley, and from Glendale to Chandler, we’ve rounded up ten of our favorites, because sometimes a sweet treat is just as important for getting through the daily grind as morning coffee.

1. A Touch of Yogurt in Phoenix: A Valley original, our favorite flavors are Scotchmallow and Lemon Cheesecake.

2. Desert Swirl Frozen Yogurt, Phoenix and Glendale: A little pricier than standard yogurt, but worth it: they carry the “Only 8″ brand of yogurt that has zero fat and zero preservatives and is safe for the lactose-intolerant.

3. JazzYogurt, Scottsdale: “The Place Where Frozen Yogurt Meets Soul:” monthly live music and unique seasonal flavors (Orange Holiday Bread, anyone?) has this new shop gaining quick popularity.

4. Yogurt Builderz in Scottsdale: Known for hard-to-find flavors like pineapple tart, honeydew and marshmallow (they carry “Only 8″ too!)

Image via YOCO Yogurt Company

5. Aloha Yogurt in Tempe: For a very late-night treat, Aloha is open till 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 12 a.m. Friday and Saturday.

6. Yogurt Company, Scottsdale: We call it “breakfast yogurt;” they also serve gourmet coffee and Belgian waffles.

7. ZenZen Yogurt in Phoenix: Shaved ice or fro-yo? We’ll take both (really!)

8. Kokomo Frozen Yogurt in Chandler: simple flavors, lots of fresh fruit, cute, clean store…sometimes we just want frozen yogurt without all the frills.

9. Yogurtopia, Scottsdale and Gilbert: The flavors (from root-beer float to cherry amaretto) and toppings are literally endless.

10. U-Swirl, Mesa, Scottsdale and Phoenix: They may be a nationwide franchise, but we love that this famous fro-yo shop has finally arrived in the Valley.

Just a popcorn at the movies is so passe. So, another dinner-at-the-movies concept is coming to town today opening of Studio Movie Grill at Sonora Village in North Scottsdale.

Though SMG boasts the same luxuries as most other similar concepts – like leather recliners, 3D capabilities, cocktails and in-theatre food service from a 100-plus item menu – they are also family-friendly and offer affordable prices. Pre-noon showtime tickets start at $5, afternoon and evening tickets at $9.75, and the majority of food items are under $10 with the most expensive ringing up at $12.

The reels start rolling today so check out their showtimes and get more info at the theatre’s website.

Studio Movie Grill – Scottsdale Sonora Village | 15515 N. Hayden Rd, Just south of Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd. | 480.991.3106

Halloween weekend has arrived, the slutty sexy outfits and couples costumes are ready to wear, and all that’s left is finding someplace to party.  There are plenty of frightful activities around town, and even around the Southwest if you’re down for a last-minute getaway.

Be sure to check out our recent articles for local parties, Valley haunted houses and Cave Creek getting wicked. If you’re feeling adventurous this weekend, there’s still time to get away to Vegas or Southern California for their plethora of frights and fiestas. And staying in? Spook up your eve with one of these tasty spooktails from this week’s cocktail roundup.

Have a safe and fun Halloween weekend!

If Maker’s hits the mark, Jim Beam is your favorite bar buddy and Wild Turkey isn’t just for Thanksgiving, then the JW Marriott Camelback Inn is the place for you this September for National Bourbon Month.

BLT Steak is hosting Arizona’s first Bartender’s Bourbon Battle, Tuesday, August 30th from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. to kick off a month of festivities. Fifteen of our state’s best mixologists, each with a unique brand, will battle their bourbon until the final mix-o-master is left standing. The public is welcome to sample the different bourbon concoctions and vote for the People’s Choice “Best Bourbon Cocktail.” Each $1 vote will be donated to the Children’s Miracle Network Charities. Guests can also preview the new Fall items for BLT’s 5@5 Happy Hour menu, such as burgundy escargot and deviled local cage free eggs.

Bourbon-centric events continue throughout September including poolside specialty bourbon cocktails such as Berry Mint Julep and the Peachy Keen Splash, Saturday Bourbon School for $25, and the Build Your Own Manhattan Bar at BLT Steak.

JW Marriott Camelback Inn – 5402 East Lincoln Drive – Scottsdale, AZ 85253 - 1-800-24-CAMEL

Wrangle up a team of your most Scottsdale savvy friends and family and set your alarm nice and early for June 18th because the city is celebrating it’s 60th birthday with a scavenger hunt. The Scottsdale Urban Chase begins at 7:30am sharp and teams will receive clues via Twitter and Facebook to find historical landmarks around the city. Participants have the chance to win hotel stays, local event tickets and restaurant gift cards and the event is free. To register, visit Scottsdale60.com. Let the hunt begin.

Then put on those cowboy boots and two-step your way over to the W Scottsdale on June 25th at 8pm for a Grand Soiree to celebrate the West’s most western town’s big day. You can ride a mechanical bull and take pictures in the western-themed photo booths on the hotel’s rooftop pool deck, WET before dancing the night away to classic country tunes mixed by Resident DJ Soulman. The event is free but VIP and cabana arrangements can be made by calling 602-405-0099.

It’s a rich man’s world, and Scottsdale is seeing dollar signs. Depositing itself onto the nightlife scene is The Mint; a self described restaurant and “ultra-lounge.” Opening publicly tonight, if you’ve got the looks and someone else has the money, this is bound to be a new favorite.

Although you may not (yet) be familiar with The Mint, chances are you’re familiar with the brains behind the ‘branch’ or at least sipped some libations at one of Valley restauranteur Dean Slover’s properties. Seeing recent successes with the wildly popular RnR and multiple locations of Sandbar, we’re putting money on the fact that The Mint will be no exception. The property, which used to house a bank, remains true to it’s roots with classic decor (think dark wood and marble), a centerpiece of the original bank vault and martinis dirtier than mob money. The menu which includes dishes such as Loganberry Shrimp, Green Papaya Spring Rolls and Japanese Green Tea Cheesecake will taste perfect on the gynormous patio, complete with fireplaces and cabanas.

Want to open an account? This evening’s celebration starts at 9pm with dining, drinks and dime-pieces. So grab your gold diggers friends and head on over to the new spot that’s sure to be worth it’s weight in gold.

Bankable
7373 E. Camelback Road Scottsdale, AZ 85251
www.TheMintAZ.com