MYtinerary: Phoenix

I began this new year in the same fashion as the previous one; in one of my favorite cities surrounded by love. I typically visit Phoenix, Arizona about 3 to 4 times a year with each time trying out new restaurants and experiences. This trip, I happened upon a few gems that I highly recommend.

Lux Central

Discreetly hidden on the corner of Central and Turney, sits an eclectic fusion of a coffeehouse, pastry shop and bar. Imagine a Starbucks that serves the richest cakes, potent Whiskey Mules with a projector situated in a separate area for movie night. Somehow, this works. This place is decorated in one of a kind art pieces, serviced by unique personalities and patronized by all walks of life. The mixology is unmatched with custom cocktails made with the freshest ingredients. Easily my new favorite place in Phoenix. 

Blue Martini

A sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for a happy hour gathering on the outside patio or to tuck into a dimly lit corner for date night. The highlight, as expected, is their drink menu. Whatever your palate desires; the mature taste of an old fashion or a candied sensation of a creamsicle, the specialty martinis and craft cocktails have something for you. While there isn’t a full menu, the kitchen cooks up small plates giving a delicious spin on your favorite finger foods. The shrimp & crab dip and the lobster tacos were the perfect addition to a round of drinks. 

The Porch

This is not your typical sports bar. The outside area is set up competitively with oversized classic games sprinkled with a few hanging swings, picnic tables and chairs made out of gallon tin tubs. This is definitely a relaxed, chill environment where you can easily lose track of time during Sunday Funday or unwinding on a weekday evening after work. The best part, of course, was the food. There are healthy options such as the “Border” which is a grilled shrimp, cilantro rice and black bean bowl and then there are the burgers...tasting just like the ones you’d make at a backyard kickback on the charcoal grill for a nice summer day.

Roosevelt Row

This creative district is home to art museums, galleries, restaurants and beautiful art murals dispersed along its buildings and spans overs a few blocks of downtown Phoenix. If you are into the arts, First Fridays is definitely something you’d want to experience. The community of hundreds gather to enjoy the [free] art museums & galleries and a smorgasbord of food truck eats. An added plus, there is usually a trolley for easy transportation to the different locations. Don’t worry if you can’t make it the first Friday, this is a walkable area during any time or date.

The Lavatory

Remember when you were a kid playing in the ball pit at McDonalds? Well, this is similar to that on a much larger scale. The Lavatory is a small dark hole in the wall with an underground pit; where all the fun happens. With strobe lights dancing around the room, coupled with loud house music, 120,000 glowing spheres drop from above covering the floor up to about 4 feet deep. The ticket is good for one hour of entry, which can be spent in the ball pit or viewing the other art rooms and photo booth. This is definitely something to experience if you are looking for a great carefree time. 

Whether you are visiting or just passing through, I’d definitely recommend stopping by one or all of these places