Replacing the PHX nightclub, the Monarch Theatre provides a much needed boost to the underground electronic music scene in Phoenix. Complete with an amazing sound system, the club hosts some of the best local DJs and award winning performers attracting large crowds through the week. Although focused on electronic music, the club also hosts nights of hip hop, dub step and old school music to bring in a change in routine. If you want to experience the best then make sure you visit the club on UK Thursdays where you can dance to music ranging from UK garage and grime to drum 'n' bass.
Handlebar J adorns multiple hats (pun intended). From a family dining restaurant with a vast menu to a large bar with live western music and dancing, this is a Scottsdale favorite. Cowboy hats by the hundreds dangle from the ceiling. Thick succulent steaks, prime rib, chicken, and ribs, make up most of the menu. This is definitely a meat and potatoes place - wranglers of all ages have been coming here since 1975. And if you happen to visit the venue between Wednesday and Sunday, you will be treated to an exquisite performance by Arizona's favorite country music band, The Herndon Brothers.
One of the last remaining cowboy saloons in Scottsdale, Rusty Spur Saloon is one hangout that attracts not just the locals but also tourists in large numbers. The old world charm this bar exudes is accentuated by numerous mementos and souvenirs of the former bank that existed in its place in the 1920s. Rusty features performances by country/western bands 7 days a week, and a spacious dance floor where you can do a two-step. The bar is well stocked with a variety of liquors and spirits; and if you are craving a bite to eat, then order a Cowboy Chili burger or the specialty Rusty Spur burger from the kitchen, and you are all set for a relaxed evening.
Housed in a building dating back to 1917, Crescent Ballroom is a wonderful venue located in Downtown Phoenix. Live gigs take place every night and the venue's relatively small size ensures that the crowd can get up close with the performing artists. If the music gets too loud for you, step out on the patio, drinks in tow.
First Draft Book Bar is the only one of its kind in the Phoenix Metro area. Located in the beloved Changing Hands Bookstore in Phoenix, First Draft is a cafe and bar with an emphasis on craft beer, high-quality coffee and great wines from around the world. There's also a short but tasty menu of baked goods and snacks like olives, hummus and popcorn. First Draft is the perfect place to stop in for a drink before one of the bookstore's many events, or just if you're looking for a comfortable place for a drink surrounded by books.
Rhythm Room was chosen as one of the Top Twenty Blues Venues in the USA by Blues Review Magazine and has won Best Blues Club by local Phoenix periodicals countless times. This musical hot spot has featured headline acts by greats such as Deke Dickerson and Bob Margolin. Legendary guitarist Guitar Shorty, the man who taught Jimi Hendrix to play the guitar with his teeth, is a frequent performer. Top names in rock circles, from Deerhoof to The Spinto Band, also make this place their stop when in Phoenix. Pictures framed Blues legends cover the walls but the main attraction is always the stage. Great seats everywhere with tiny tables big enough for a couple of cocktails and a light bite. Sunnyside Barbecue is served Friday and Saturday nights.
Managed by Chef Leo Madrigal, Cocina Madrigal which was established in 2018 has successfully appealed to the taste buds of people through its vibrant menu consisting of beloved delicacies such as Oaxaca Fundido, Guacamole de Casa, Grilled Elote, Madrigal Burger, Pepper Turkey Sandwich, Jamaican Chicken Sandwich, Tropical Fish Taco, Crispy Salmon and many more. If you wish to while away a few hours peacefully, seat yourself at Cocina Madrigal’s patio or sip a signature cocktail at the bar. At Cocina Madrigal you can tuck into your heart's content without burning a hole in your pocket.
Taste of Tops is the adjunct pub to the popular liquor store with the same name. With more than 30 beers on tap and over 600 bottled beers to choose from, it's no wonder why beer lovers flock to this spot. Wine lovers shouldn't worry however, because Tops has more than 20 by-the-glass varietals on any given night. Since the mega liquor store is through the bar doors, if you can't find it in the pub, you can easily check inside the shop. Additionally, TOT allows its patrons to bring in food from other places to eat while you drink (try Thai Basil right next door). One other note, the bar also sells growlers and refills them as well.
This hidden restaurant on the corner of Hardy and University sells the best Cornish pasties in the entire metro Phoenix area. Affectionately known as 'Oggies', these stuffed delights have Protected Geographical Status in their native Cornwall and it is considered the regional dish par excellence. The owner Dean Thomas hails from Cornwall and thankfully he brought his grandma's recipes with him to Tempe. The pasties come in three different styles: signature, premium and vegetarian. Some of the most popular pasties include Lamb & Mint, Shepard's Pie, Cajun Chicken, Tikka Masala, Carne Adovada and the Balsamic Portabello. Guests can also order a soup, side and a salad to accompany their pasty; try the curry chips and you'll immediately feel as if you are in Cornwall itself.
With several locations in the Valley as well as one in Colorado, Postino Winecafe brings simple food and wine to the masses. In this case the crowds are usually filled with Arizona State University students since the Annex is located right across the street from campus. On the menu diners will find the popular Bruschetta selections which include examples such as Brie & Apples with a Fig Spread, Burrata, Bacon & Arugula, Ricotta with Dates & Pistachios as well as many more. Panini, charcuterie, salads and soup round out the rest of the menu and don't forget, every day from opening to 5pm Postino's has an amazing happy hour with mini pitchers of craft beer and wine by the glass at superb prices.
Located in the East Valley suburb of Gilbert, the Arizona Wilderness Co. joins the ranks of many native Arizona breweries with its local flavor and style. The brewery doesn't make its own beers, however the menu features some of the best local beers from around the state. In addition to good beer, the food menu offers a slew of American favorites like burgers, salads and appetizers. In fact, the Wilderness Fries menu is perfect for any pint on the menu, from Poutine to Duck Fat, beer never tasted so good.
Housed in a building dating back to 1917, Crescent Ballroom is a wonderful venue located in Downtown Phoenix. Live gigs take place every night and the venue's relatively small size ensures that the crowd can get up close with the performing artists. If the music gets too loud for you, step out on the patio, drinks in tow.