Phoenix & Scottsdale

Phoenix and Scottsdale, a duo that perfectly encapsulates the allure of the Sonoran Desert intertwined with metropolitan flair. Forget what you think you know about desert cities; this isn't just cacti and heat. It's a vibrant tapestry of culinary innovation, speakeasy secrets, and art that thrives under an endless blue sky. Gerald, ever the connoisseur of the unexpected, found himself utterly captivated by the blend of rugged natural beauty and refined urban experiences. This is a place where you can hike a mountain at dawn and sip a craft cocktail in a dimly lit bar by dusk, all without breaking a sweat (unless you're into that kind of thing).

THE BARS

The bar scene here is far from a mirage. Phoenix boasts gems like Bar 1912, a Midtown marvel that embodies the city's creative spirit with local ingredients and a casual desert vibe. It's not just a drink; it's an experience, tucked away behind an old dry cleaner, sharing space with a vintage furniture store – pure Phoenix eccentricity. For a touch of old-school class, Highball in Midtown delivers meticulously crafted cocktails in a dimly lit, sophisticated setting, earning annual Spirited Award nominations. And for those seeking an immersive escape, UnderTow (both in Century Grand and Gilbert) transports you to a nautical, tiki-inspired wonderland, a true crown jewel of escapism. Scottsdale also holds its own with spots like Tell Your Friends, a high-end, 1920s-esque cocktail bar beneath The Americano, offering glitzy lighting, live jazz, and elevated bar snacks.

THE RESTAURANTS

The culinary landscape of Phoenix and Scottsdale is as diverse and captivating as its desert scenery. Vecina in Phoenix stands out as a personal favorite, serving modern dishes with Latin-American inspiration. Their short rib and white bean puree, served with the best flour tortilla Gerald has ever tasted, is a revelation. Equally impressive are their papas verde with chorizo and the gambas al ajillo. For a taste of Pan-Asian excellence, Clever Koi in North Midtown offers delectable steam buns and complex dumplings, with their "Pig Face" dumplings being a standout. And for those craving authentic Northern Thai, Lom Wong in downtown Phoenix is a must-visit, particularly for their Moklen crispy pork belly curry, a dish so good it converted a non-curry-lover.

THE EXPERIENCE

Beyond the plates and pours, Phoenix and Scottsdale offer a wealth of experiences that are anything but ordinary. Old Town Scottsdale is a treasure trove, with its nine walkable districts brimming with art galleries, unique shops, and historic adobe structures like the Old Adobe Mission. Don't miss seeking out the public art installations scattered throughout, or taking a guided e-bike tour with Cliff Creek Outfitters to learn about the city's unique canal system and iconic landmarks like the Soleri Bridge. For a dose of culture, the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) offers thought-provoking rotating exhibits and James Turrell's breathtaking Skyspace, "Knight Rise." And for a truly unique souvenir, consider making your own custom cowboy, ranch, or trucker hat at Mavericks of Scottsdale.