Winning Eat Your Art Out Team
Since today is typically an Artsy Fartsy Foodies Tuesday, we thought we would share the following news:
Congratulations to our Eat Your Art Out Chandler Board Member Team! These board members volunteered their time at Serrano’s Mexican Restaurant during Eat Your Art Out Chandler and raised the most money. For their amazing efforts the team was awarded the coveted silver fork for a year. Come next year we will see if they can keep the fork!
Art Full Of Gratitude
Eat Your Art Out Chandler was a success. Thank you to all those who went and ate their “art” out. It was wonderful to see the community supporting the arts. A special thank you to all of the restaurants and their staff who participated. We can’t wait for next year! In the meantime, please continue to go out to eat and support the restaurants who graciously supported us.
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Get Ready to Eat Your Art Out
Tuesday, February 26, seems to be disguised as Thanksgiving here in Chandler. The day will be full of food, fun, family, friends, and giving, without the “slaving in kitchen.” Best of all, when you eat out you are supporting the arts and restaurants in Chandler.
What do you have to do to get in on the fun? It is simple…go out to eat. There are 23 participating restaurants for you to choose from. Here is the breakdown for each meal:
For breakfast visit:
- AJ’s Cafe at the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort (Reservation Required)
For lunch visit one of these delectable locations:
- Bourbon Jack’s Bar & Grill
- Can’t Stop Smokin’ BBQ
- Coach & Willie’s
- Dilly’s Deli
- D’Vine Bistro & Wine Bar
- Floridino’s
- The Hungry Monk
- Kokopelli Winery & Bistro
- Latitude Eight
- The Living Room
- NYPD Pizza
- El Palacio Restaurant & Cantina
- Pittsburgh Willy’s
- SanTan Brewing Co.
- Serrano’s Mexican Food Restaurant
- The Sushi Room
For dinner visit one of these delightful locations:
- Bay Leaf Cafe-India Cuisine
- Bourbon Jack’s Bar & Grill
- Can’t Stop Smokin’ BBQ
- CHoP Chandler
- Coach & Willie’s
- Dilly’s Deli
- D’Vine Bistro & Wine Bar
- Floridino’s
- The Hungry Monk
- Iguana Mack’s
- Kona Grill Chandler
- Latitude Eight
- The Living Room
- Nando’s Mexican Cafe
- NYPD Pizza
- Serrano’s Mexican Food Restaurant
- The Sushi Room
- Vintage 95 Wine Lounge
Mark your calendar “Eat Your Art Out Chandler” on Feb. 26. Gather your friends and family for a meal or two out on the town. It will be a day of celebration, support and scrumptious food. For additional information, please visit our website.
Relish In These Restaurants
Eat Your Art Out Chandler is exactly ONE week from today. Time has flown and we cannot wait to eat our “Art” out. Today we are highlighting three more restaurants. Please meet Coach & Willie’s, Nando’s Mexican Cafe, and Kona Grill Chandler.
Coach & Willie’s, located in the heart of Downtown Chandler. This upscale sports bar and restaurant serves a delicious and diverse menu for all ages. Located on the prime corner of Boston Street and Arizona Avenue, their original ambiance includes beautiful dark woods and ceiling to roof glass windows and doors. The open kitchen gives you an up close and personal view of their wood fired oven and talented kitchen staff preparing homemade pastas and original dishes all day long. Enjoy any game on one of the 30 HD televisions located in the dining room, bar, and the upscale lounge. And don’t miss out on the extensive craft and draft beer selection and the amazing Arizona weather on one of their two outdoor patios.
Nando’s Mexican Cafe is the one stop spot for great Mexican food. Each dish is loaded with delicious traditional Mexican food. You will end up asking for a take home box the portion sizes are HUGE. Owner, Nando, has been in the food industry since he was 14 years old. With those years of experience under his belt, he has perfected the menu to delight any appetite. After you fill yourself with amazing food, save a little room and try out their Chocolate Nachos.
Kona Grill Chandler features American favorites with an international influence and award-winning sushi in a casually elegant atmosphere. Kona Grill owns and operates 23 restaurants in 16 states, guided by a passion for quality food and personal service. When we asked Kona Grill Chandler why they feel it is important to support the Chandler Community, they responded, “It is important to help out the local community because it is the back bone to any business.”
Scope out our participating restaurant list here and select one (or two) restaurants to swing by next week on February 26. It’s going to be a tasty day!
Coach & Willie’s
1 East Boston St.
Chandler, AZ 85225 | Map
(480) 776-6240
Hours: Mon-Thurs 11am-1am, Friday 11am-2am, Saturday 8am-2am, and Sunday 8am-1am
Nando’s Mexican Cafe
1890 W. Germann Road
Chandler, AZ 85286 | Map
(480) 855-4344
Hours: 11am to 10pm
Kona Grill Chandler
3111 W. Chandler Blvd.
Chandler, AZ 85226 | Map
(480) 792-1711
Hours: 4pm – 10pm
Tasteful Trio
In the not so distant future, Eat Your Art Chandler will be here (Feb 26). We are gearing up for an amazing day full of great food. Today we have the pleasure of introducing three more restaurants, The Hungry Monk, CHoP Chandler, and NYPD Pizza. All of these restaurants are drastically different, but they share the common goal to make their customers happy with amazing food.
First stop, The Hungry Monk! They describe themselves as part “neighborhood restaurant”, part “craft beer & sports pub.” Just think of them as the Hockey House of the East Valley. Named by Phoenix New Times as the Best Craft Bar in the Valley 2012, you are sure to find a beer that matches your desire. Owner, Jim Lolli, has been in the food industry since he was 15 years old. He loves entertaining, food and craft beer. Which was a perfect combo for a delicious restaurant and menu. Their full menu includes fresh green salads, juicy burgers, gyros, wraps and oh so much more. The Hungry Monk also has incredible wings that are made from fresh chicken, not frozen nuggets. When we asked Lolli why he feels it important to support the Chandler Community he stated, “If Chandler continues to prosper….we all win.”
Next stop, CHoP Chandler! This is a brand new restaurant to the Chandler community. CHoP Chandler is Chandler’s first locally owned steakhouse and grill. The menu features burgers to bone-in steaks. Simply prepared seasonal fish and nightly specials are cooked to perfection on the seven-foot mesquite hardwood grill. Salads, fresh vegetables, desserts, vegetarian and lighter fare options also grace the menu. The intimate interior is filled with amber lighting, wood finishes and plush chocolate leather booths. ChoP’s extensive wine program with close to 200 wines by the bottle sets out to impress even the most vinocentric of palates. If you haven’t visited this new addition, now is the time.
Last stop (and just as savory), NYPD Pizza. Envision for a moment dough made from scratch every day. Hand-tossed pies baked to perfection in classic stone ovens. Sauces made from family recipes, whole-milk mozzarella, and a few secret ingredients. All these elements combining to create a distinctive East Coast flavor. You are now in the daily restaurant setting of NYPD Pizza.
Since moving to Arizona from Long Island, NY more than 15 years ago, NYPD Pizza’s family-owned and -operated business has grown to 11 Valley locations that provide comfortable dine-in, easy carryout and convenient delivery. From calzones to pastas to hero sandwiches, their menu offers an array of dishes that make the most of simple ingredients. The dough, sauce and cheese are free of preservatives, chemicals, fillers, artificial color and flavor, modifiers, and stabilizers, which leaves all sorts of room for flavor. NYPD is perfect for various dining occasions and especially appealing to families.
The dining options seem almost limitless for Eat Your Art Out (complete list of participating restaurants here). Be sure to stop by one of these delicious restaurant for your next meal.
The Hungry Monk
1760 W Chandler Blvd.
Chandler, AZ 85224 | Map
480-963-8011
Hours: 11 am – Midnight
CHoP Chandler
2625 W. Queen Creek
Chandler, AZ 85248 | Map
480.821.0009
Hours: 4pm – 10pm
NYPD Pizza
2580 W. Chandler Blvd.
Chandler, AZ 85224 | Map
480.722.0898
Hours: Sun. – Thurs. 11am – 9:30pm and Fri. – Sat. 11am – 10:30pm
Culinary Art Galore
T minus 22 days until Eat Your Art Out Chandler. Have you selected the restaurant you will be visiting on February 26? If not, no worries. Today we are delighted to introduce two more restaurants joining our Eat Your Art Out Chandler team. Please meet Latitude 8 Thai Grill and D’Vine Bistro. Both locations offer an artistic culinary menu that will excite and delight your pallet.
For starters, what does Latitude Eight mean? Latitude Eight is a geographic designation for the southern part of Thailand which includes the island of Phuket, and other southern coastal cities such as Krabi and Hat Yai, where fresh seafood dominate the cuisine. Naturally, the owners, David and Nicha, felt Latitude Eight Thai Grill was a fitting name since the menu revolves around Thai inspired food. It was important for Nicha and David to show the more modern and updated feel of current Thai cities and culture, so they created a modern and serene space to present their food, while not losing the warm and neighborhood feel of Downtown Chandler. The restaurant’s goal is to elevate traditional Thai food by bringing contemporary beauty to the presentation and atmosphere without sacrificing authenticity. You can tell the moment you walk in (just look at the photo above of the interior of the restaurant).
Pour yourself a glass of wine as we head to another divine location. Dvine Bistro & Wine Bar is a Chef Driven American Eclectic Menu, with a Superior Wine Selection, as well as Spirits, Craft Beer, and prices to please. Their motto: “Make wine approachable.” No wine snobs, no point systems. The best wine they carry is the one YOU like. Their sensible portions allow guests to sample from a diverse menu. Lunch or dinner, you’ll be sure to find something “D’Vine” to satisfy your appetite.
Both these location are sure to make your taste buds dance in delight.
Please support the restaurants who support us! When you grab lunch or go out to dinner, try one of these participating Eat Your Art Out Chandler Restaurants.
Latitude Eight
11 W Boston Street, Suite #5, Chandler, AZ 85225 Map
Eat Your Art Out Participation:
- 11am-2pm and 5-9pm
Hours
- Lunch:
- Monday thru Friday 11:00 am to 2:00pm
- Closed on Sundays
- Dinner:
- Tuesday thru Thursday 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
- Friday 11:00am to 10:00pm
- Saturday 11:00am to 10:00pm
- Closed on Sundays
D’Vine Bistro & Wine Bar
Hours:
3990 S. Alma School, Chandler, AZ 85248 Map | 480.782.5550
Facebook
Hours:
- 11am – 11pm
Winery, Bistro & Cafe
Today we have the great opportunity to highlight two Eat Your Art Out Chandler Restaurants, Kokopelli Winery & Bistro and Bay Leaf Cafe.
Let’s first start our restaurant exploration at Kokopelli Winery & Bistro. Don, one of the restaurant owners, still remembers being a six-year-old boy and making his first batch of wine with his grandpa. “We didn’t have the same equipment as we did back then, we used a basket press,” recalled Don. When Don had his first experience being a wine maker as a little boy he asked his Grandpa, “How am I doing?” His Grandpa looked on in encouragement and told him not so bad. That was one of the many moments that shaped the idea for Kokopelli Winery & Bistro.
Eventually, Don and his wife, Carol, made the move to Arizona to start the winery. The winery was fulfilling a great promise that Don made to his mother that one day he would grow her a vineyard and that is just what he did. Don’s mother is the second generation winemaker in America from the Minchella family. “We don’t know how many generations we have back in Italy except for the fact that there are one too many to count,” Don said.
Today the winery is one of Arizona’s oldest and most decorated. It’s award winning Bistro offer fresh European style lunches and dinners. When asked why they are participating in Eat Your Art Out Chandler they responded by saying, “Giving back to our community is part of our mission.”
Time to travel to a 
different cuisine and culture. A new concept in Indian food offering healthy, delicious food customized to your choice is exactly what Bay Leaf Cafe is all about. Opening their doors on December 16,2011, Bay Leaf Cafe aimed to establish itself in an honorable position amongst the top restaurants in Chandler area. Bay Leaf Cafe features contemporary, seasonal cuisine in a setting that combines striking neoclassical architecture with simple yet elegant modern furnishings.
Bay Leaf offers the convenience of traditional Indian menu and quick grab and go options for those in hurry. Rice Bowl, Chapathi wrap, salads and popular chats are offered under their quick menu. Traditional fare includes tandoori and curry dishes. When asked why they are participating in this event owner, Satyendra said, “I believe Art is an integral part of our life and should be promoted to make our generation/future generations sensitive to human attributes.”
Please support the restaurants who support us! When you grab lunch or go out to dinner, try one of these participating Eat Your Art Out Chandler Restaurants.
Kokopelli Winery & Bistro
Hours (General):
- Monday: 11:00am till 6:00pm
- Tuesday- Thursday: 11:00am till 9:00pm
- Friday – Saturday: 11:00am till 10:00pm
Live Music & Dinner Friday & Saturday - Sunday: 11:00am till 5:00pm
35 W. Boston St., Chandler, AZ 85225
480.792.6927
Facebook
Bay Leaf Cafe
Hours:
- Tues-Sat 11am-9.30pm
- Sun-11am-8.30pm
- Mon-closed
SE Corner of Chandler Heights & Alma School Rd.
955 W Chandler Heights Rd ste-1, Chandler, Arizona 85286
Phone: 480-802-6634
Facebook
Vintage Dine
Food, Glorious Food! It’s Artsy Fartsy Foodies Tuesday and we have another great Eat Your Art Out Chandler restaurant to introduce. Today we are exploring Vintage 95.
As you pull up to the Vintage 95 building you can instantly sense the rich history imbedded in the walls. In 1926, the building was originally Chandler’s first Post Office. Since then, the building has been used for a variety of businesses. Today it holds the deliciously classic Vintage 95.
The idea for Vintage 95 came when owners, Gavin Jacobs, Craig Hills, and Tricia Hills united to realize a vision of creativity and passion. This vision turned into the sophisticated and inviting atmosphere enticing anyone to come in and dine. Vintage 95’s food and beverage program consists of contemporary American with a twist on the classics.* In conducting our research we explored the menu. Each menu is filled with gems of delight, for example the Mexican Chocolate Mousse which is served with a Chili Dusted Chocolate Truffle (yes please!).
From Sunday brunch to a Tuesday evening and beyond, Vintage 95 is committed to giving their guests amazing service, delicious food, and an unsurpassed selection of wine to the city of Chandler. For your next meal out, swing by Vintage 95 and explore their menu.
Don’t forget to visit them for dinner on Tuesday, Febraury 26 (Eat Your Art Out Chandler)!
Hours:
- 11:00 am to 11:00 pm Sunday thru Wednesday
- 11:00am to 12:00am Thursday thru Saturday
95 W. Boston Street
Chandler, AZ 85225
480-855-9463
Map
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Vintage95
Twitter: http://twitter.com/Vintage95Lounge
Please support the restaurants who support us! When you grab lunch or go out to dinner, try one of the participating Eat Your Art Out Chandler Restaurants.
On a side note…
Restaurants can still sign up for Eat Your Art Out Chandler on Tuesday, February 26, 2013. If your favorite restaurant is not on the list, let us know and we will contact them to see if they would like to participate. Bon Appétit!
*All historical information was selected from http://www.vintage95.com/story.html
Can’t Stop Smokin’ BBQ
It’s Tuesday! And naturally that means today is an Artsy Fartsy Foodies day. We are excited to focus our attention on one of our savory Eat Your Art Out Chandler restaurants, Can’t Stop Smokin’ BBQ.
The roots for Can’t Stop Smokin’ BBQ were planted in 1991 at the deli counter of Frank’s Fruit Market in Ruidoso, New Mexico. Owners, Pete and Cassandra Schiavone, had dreamed of opening a quality food business. Their dream came to life and blossomed quickly into a success. After franchising the business, the quality agenda began to spread across the United States. And we are lucky enough to be apart of their delicious dream.
Their New Mexico style smokehouse was developed as part of the largest, freshest product market in the southwest. Technique and time are as important as the rubs, seasonings, and sauces that they have spent years perfecting.
So when you walk into Can’t Stop Smokin’ for your next meal, you will find you are greeted by a great menu, great staff who love what they do and are proud of the food they serve.
Be sure to visit Can’t Stop Smokin BBQ on Tuesday, February 26 for lunch or dinner! 25% of their sales help support various programs at the Center.
Hours:
- 10:30am-9:00pm Sun.-Thurs.
- 10:30am-10:00pm Sat. – Sun.
NE corner of Chandler Blvd. & 54th St.
7250 W. Chandler Blvd.
Chandler, Arizona 85226
Phone: (480) 398-4827
Map
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CantStopSmokinBBQChandler
LinkedIn: https://twitter.com/CantStpSmokinAZ
Please support the restaurants who support us! When you grab lunch or go out to dinner, try one of the participating Eat Your Art Out Chandler Restaurants.
On a side note…
Restaurants are now able to sign up for Eat Your Art Out Chandler on Tuesday, February 26, 2013. If your favorite restaurant is not on the list, let us know and we will contact them to see if they would like to participate. Bon Appétit!
Artsy Fartsy Foodies: A.J.’s Cafe
We are thrilled to report A.J.’s Cafe at the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort is joining us for Eat Your Art Out Chandler on February 26, 2013.
A.J.’s Café embraces over 90 years of history in serving their guests. A casual dining experience allows you to explore the history of foods at the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort. Old style dishes take you back to the early years of the resort, while showcasing the talents of their culinary team. Old world service meets contemporary cuisine and creates a unique dining experience.
The San Marcos Resort has a long history of being Chandler’s Hotel and being a centerpiece of the growth and success of the city. When asked why they support the arts they said “The San Marcos Resort feels strongly about supporting all of the arts and downtown Chandler.”
Make your reservation to join them on Tuesday, February 26th, 2013 for breakfast!
25% of Sales will be donated to Chandler Center for the Arts.
Hours: 6:00am – 9:00pm
141 S Arizona Ave.
Chandler, AZ 85225
(480)812-0900
Map
Facebook
Please support the restaurants who support us! When you grab lunch or go out to dinner, try one of the participating Eat Your Art Out Chandler Restaurants.
On a side note…
Restaurants are now able to sign up for Eat Your Art Out Chandler on Tuesday, February 26, 2013. If your favorite restaurant is not on the list, let us know and we will contact them to see if they would like to participate. Bon Appétit!
Artsy Fartsy Foodies: Serrano’s
Margaritas, homemade bean dip, hot tortilla chips, enchiladas, tacos…mmmm…
All of these amazing Mexican traditions can be found under one roof, Serrano’s Mexican Food. And to our delight, Serrano’s Mexican Food will be joining us for Eat Your Art Out Chandler on February 26, 2013.
In 1979, Ernie and Eva Serrano were working in the family business, Serrano’s Clothing Store, in downtown Chandler. Using the same Serrano’s logo as their clothing stores, Ernie and Eva bravely opened their first restaurant just behind their clothing store. The restaurant quickly became a customer favorite.
Fast forward to today. The Serrano family now owns and operates eight restaurants with seven Mexican food locations in the Southeast area. Along with Ernie and Eva, six of their eight children are involved in the restaurants.
Envision colorful plates full of delicious Mexican food, your traditional Mexican music in the background and the table surrounded by great friends. That is exactly what you can expect each time you enter any of Serrano’s restaurants. Serrano’s uses only the freshest foods, direct from our growers in Queen Creek and Willcox, Arizona. If you are looking to fill your belly with tasty, traditional Mexican food, this is your one stop spot!
Come out Tuesday, February 26th, 2013 and join them for lunch or dinner (or both)!
25% of Sales will be donated to Chandler Center for the Arts.
Hours:
- Sunday-Wednesday: 11 am to 9 pm
- Thursday-Saturday: 11 am to 10 pm
141 S Arizona Ave.
Chandler, AZ 85225
(480) 899-3318
Map
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Serranos-Mexican-Food-Restaurants/217361174160
Please support the restaurants who support us! When you grab lunch or go out to dinner, try one of the participating Eat Your Art Out Chandler Restaurants.
On a side note…
Restaurants are now able to sign up for Eat Your Art Out Chandler on Tuesday, February 26, 2013. If your favorite restaurant is not on the list, let us know and we will contact them to see if they would like to participate. Bon Appétit!
Artsy Fartsy Foodies: Tasty Two
Mouthwatering news! Two more restaurants, Floridinos and Dilly’s Deli, are joining us for Eat Your Art Out Chandler on February 26, 2013.
Jeff Weninger and Sarah Converse, had always worked in the food industry. It only seemed natural when these two had an opportunity to continue in what they knew best.
In 1993, Weninger and Converse 
opened the doors to Dilly’s Deli. Their motivating concept “Build the best sandwiches using the finest ingredients for a fair price and business will prosper.” Beginning with their first location in Tempe, their homemade bread was sliced to order. Bread is still made fresh in-store daily and thanks to word-of-mouth exposure from our loyal customers they have expanded to a well known sandwich shop in four locations within the Phoenix Valley. Dilly’s Deli offers a unique menu you can’t receive just anywhere.
As Dilly’s Deli grew Weninger and Converse listened to their customers discuss their favorite restaurants from back home. Floridino’s took the requests to heart and in 1996 they opened a second restaurant with the promise to embrace family-oriented, full-service, true Italian restaurant food in Chandler. Floridino’s is a place customers love to come to see the same faces, great food and a warm environment.
Between the two restaurants, 90% of their employees and customers live in the Chandler community. When asked why Dilly’s Deli and Floridino’s support Chandler Center for the Arts they replied “We love seeing the community come together for such a great event.”
And we are ever thrilled these two palatable restaurants are joining us for Eat Your Art Out Chandler. Be sure to stop by and enjoy a meal today.
Come out Tuesday, February 26th, 2013 and join them for lunch or dinner (or both)!
25% of Sales will be donated to Chandler Center for the Arts.
Hours:
- Sunday – Thursday 11am – 9pm
- Friday – Saturday 11am – 10pm
2895 Alma School Road
Chandler, AZ 85248
(480) 722-0645
Map
Facebook: facebook.com/dillysdeliaz
Twitter: twitter.com/dillysdeliaz
Hours:
- Sunday – Thursday 11am – 9pm
- Friday – Saturday 11am – 10pm
590 N. Alma School Rd.
Chandler, AZ 85224
(480) 812-8433
Map
Facebook: www.facebook.com/floridinospizza
Twitter: twitter.com/Floridinos
Please support the restaurants who support us! When you grab lunch or go out to dinner, try one of the participating Eat Your Art Out Chandler Restaurants.
On a side note…
Restaurants are now able to sign up for Eat Your Art Out Chandler on Tuesday, February 26, 2013. If your favorite restaurant is not on the list, let us know and we will contact them to see if they would like to participate. Bon Appétit!
Artsy Fartsy Foodies: Two Room Delight
We are pleased to announce two restaurants, The Living Room and The Sushi Room, will be joining us for Eat Your Art Out on February 26, 2013. This neighboring duo takes you from the wine vineyards of Italy to the retro atmosphere of Asia.
We start our cuisine journey at The Living Room.
The Living Room is a relaxed, comfortable, welcoming wine lounge & café in Chandler. The food ranges from delicious appetizers such as red pepper hummus with warm pita bread to soups and sandwiches like the Prime Rib French Dip sandwich. And let’s not forget the wide range of exquisite wines. Tom Kaufman, owner of The Living Room, is passionate about offering a wine selection that takes you around the world.
Buckle up as we travel next door to The Sushi Room. Enter the doors to an oasis of beautifully crafted food and decor. The Sushi Room chefs are passionate about their 27 types of sushi rolls and non-sushi dishes, including a kid’s menu and vegetarian options. Inspired by their executive chef, Joseph Chun, a Valley local, who adds his Arizona touch to the special rolls and finds the freshest fish in the desert. The Sushi Room is sure to please those seeking a delightful experience.
Make sure to keep a look out for their new steakhouse and grill restaurant, ChoP Chandler, opening in mid-December.
For your next cuisine adventure, whether you are seeking to taste the sunset of Tuscany or the retro vibe of Japan, both of these “rooms” are sure to enchant your taste buds.
Come out Tuesday, February 26th, 2013 and join them for lunch or dinner (or both)!
25% of Sales will be donated to Chandler Center for the Arts.
The Living Room
Hours:
- Sun. – Thurs. 11am to 11pm
- Fri. & Sat. 11am to 2am
2475 W. Queen Creek Road
Chandler, AZ 85248
480.855.2848
Map
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheLivingRoomChandler
Twitter: twitter.com/livingroomaz
The Sushi Room
Hours:
- Mon – Thurs 11am to 10pm
- Fri and Sat 11am to 11pm
- Sun 11a to 9pm
2475 W. Queen Creek Road
Chandler, AZ 85248
(480) 821-9000
Map
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Sushi-Room/262251473798470
Twitter: http://twitter.com/thesushiroom
Please support the restaurants who support us! When you grab lunch or go out to dinner, try one of the participating Eat Your Art Out Chandler Restaurants.
On a side note…
Restaurants are now able to sign up for Eat Your Art Out Chandler on Tuesday, February 26, 2013. If your favorite restaurant is not on the list, let us know and we will contact them to see if they would like to participate. Bon Appétit!
Artsy Fartsy Foodies: Iguana Mack’s
Round up your friends, kick up your boots and prepare for some delicious news. Today we are excited to announce Iguana Mack’s is joining us for Eat Your Art Out.
Iguana Mack’s is “a blast from Arizona’s Roadhouse past.” As soon as you enter the restaurant you are greeted with the savory roadhouse menu and a down-home, fun lovin’ atmosphere.
But, the merriment doesn’t stop with the food. Mosey on over to the bar and order one of their special roadhouse-themed beverages, locally crafted beers or custom cocktails. And when it comes to nightlife, Iguana Mack’s is the place to be. Count on your evening being filled with entertaining Live Music or exceptional guest DJ’s.
So whether you are looking for great food or a fun evening, Iguana Mack’s has it all.
Come out Tuesday, February 26th, 2013 and join them for dinner!
Iguana Mack’s is donating 25% of the proceeds to support Chandler Center for the Arts.
Hours: 11am-2am 7 days a week
Alma School & Knox
1371 N. Alma School Road
Chandler, AZ 85224
480-899-6735
Map
Website: www.iguanamacks.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/IguanaMacks
Twitter: http://twitter.com/iguanamacks
And if you happen to find yourself in need of some fun this Thanksgiving, head over to Iguana Mack’s – doors open at 6:00pm!
Please support the restaurants who support us! When you grab lunch or go out to dinner, try one of the participating Eat Your Art Out Chandler Restaurants.
On a side note…
Restaurants are now able to sign up for Eat Your Art Out Chandler on Tuesday, February 26, 2013. If your favorite restaurant is not on the list, let us know and we will contact them to see if they would like to participate. Bon Appétit!
Eat Your Art Out Chandler! Pittsburgh Willy’s “Best Hot Dog Joint In Town!”
It’s Wednesday and the special today is Pittsburgh Willy’s award winning cheese ‘n potato pierogies! I didn’t even know how to say “pierogies” (as my laughing co-workers can attest to!) and I can barely spell it but anything filled with cheese and potatoes has to be amazing, especially if Pittsburgh Willy’s is serving it. (The correct pronunciation is pye-roh-gee by the way.)
But don’t take my word for it. Take the readers of Phoenix New Times “Best of Phoenix” 2012 issue who just voted Pittsburgh Willy’s as the “Best Hot Dog Joint In Town!” Pittsburgh Willy’s is famous for their gourmet hog dogs cooked up fresh everyday with lots of one of a kind foods – all with a Pittsburgh touch!
Their specialties include:
- Gourmet hot dogs with a wide variety of fixins’!
- Award Winning Pierogies
- Specialty Sammiches (sandwiches for you non-Pittsburgh folks)
- No bean chili
- BBQ Pulled Pork
- Steel City Sliders
When Randy Walters, owner of Pittsburgh Willy’s, signed up to participate in Eat Your Art Out Chandler for the second year, we asked him a few questions about why he decided to start his own restaurant.
Q: Why did you decide to get into the food industry?
A: My dad had a hamburger/hot dog joint in the 1940’s. He lost the restaurant during the war. I was born much later but always heard about it and always wanted a hot dog joint!
Q: Why are you participating in Eat Your Art Out Chandler?
A: I am blessed to be doing what I love every day and my success depends entirely on the support of local customers….it is an honor to give back and support the local Chandler arts.
Q: Why support the arts in Chandler?
A: “As one of my T-shirts I sell in my restaurant says that has become my motto, ‘WE are CHANDLER one city/my city’.”
(I love this answer!)
Q:Why has your business been successful?
A: It takes folks back to simpler times, where a family can come in, relax and enjoy amazing customer service along with fresh made foods and delicious gourmet hot dogs n’ sammiches. My customers are family and they will feel the local commitment to the Chandler community and what makes doing business in Chandler like spending time with family.
Q: Describe Your Restaurant:
A: Step back to simpler times where you will feel like you’re eating at a friend’s home. From the outstanding customer service to the quality of food, you will experience what a “family joint” is like in Pittsburgh…without leaving friendly Chandler! From our amazing homemade no bean chili and pierogies to our many gourmet hot dogs and sammiches, PittsburghWilly’s promises that you will leave our joint well fed and eager to return!
Pittsburgh Willy’s is donating 50% of their proceeds between 11am-3pm to the Center’s fundraising event, Eat Your Art Out Chandler on Tuesday, February 26 !
1509 North Arizona Ave.
INSIDE MERCHANT SQUARE
Chandler, AZ 85225
480-857-2860
Map
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Please support the restaurants who support us! When you grab lunch or go out to dinner, try one of the participating Eat Your Art Out Chandler Restaurants.
On a side note…
Restaurants are now able to sign up for Eat Your Art Out Chandler on Tuesday, February 26, 2013. If your favorite restaurant is not on the list, let us know and we will contact them to see if they would like to participate. Bon Appétit!
Eat Your Art Out Chandler? What is that?
When the Chandler Cultural Foundation’s fundraising committee put their fundraising hats on last season, they wanted to create an event that brought the community together; an event where lots of people could participate and be actively involved in supporting the arts in Chandler; much in the same spirit that got the Center built 23 year ago. The answer was Eat Your Art Out Chandler which was held on Tuesday, February 28, 2012.
For those of you who are new to the area, the Chandler Center for the Arts building is owned by the Chandler Unified School District and the City of Chandler. Against all odds, under the guidance of then Mayor Jerry Brooks (and Chandler Cultural Foundation Board Member Emeritus), these two government entities came together with the support of the community 23 years ago and raised $10 million to get the Center built. They created an agreement where the school district had priority use of the facility Monday-Thursday for it’s (now 44 ) schools in the district and the non-profit Chandler Cultural Foundation, established by the City of Chandler to oversee operations at the Center, would book headline entertainment, visual arts programming, hold fundraising activities and rent out the facility to various groups Friday-Sunday. This unique and nontraditional partnership has been used as a model for similar partnerships across the nation over the past 23 years.
While we are a City of Chandler and Chandler Unified School District building, our artistic and outreach programs are privately supported. The Chandler Center for the Arts receives no direct appropriations for artistic programming. Our appropriations must be applied only to the maintenance and operation of the actual building. Ticket sales and other earned income cover only part of our programming expenses, which means we must rely on donations in order to deliver quality arts programs at an affordable cost to the public.
Last February, we held the first Eat Your Art Out Chandler community event that brought together Chandler restaurants, arts patrons and corporate sponsors for one day to show their support for the arts in Chandler. Funds from Eat Your Art Out Chandler went to support various programs at the Center including headline entertainment, the Free Summer Concert Series and the Connecting Kidz programs.
Restaurants helped by selecting a mealtime (breakfast, lunch, dinner or all day) and donated 25-100% of their proceeds from that time-frame to the Chandler Center for the Arts on Tuesday, February 28. The community helped by eating at one or more of the participating restaurants on that day during those time frames.
The media helped by donating over $110,000 worth of advertising to promote the event and the 17 participating restaurants. When all was said and done, the community raised just under $10,000 for the Center! It was a huge success and an event we are doing again next Tuesday, February 26, 2013!
SAVE THE DATE!!
Eat Your Art Out Chandler
Eat Your Art Out Chandler was a huge success yesterday! Thank you to all of our restaurants, volunteers and patrons. We wouldn’t have a shot at success if it wasn’t for you.
Since we didn’t expect everyone to visit all the places (although if you did, you’re amazing), here are a few photos from yesterday.
We’re already talking about next year. And if yesterday was any indication, our 2nd Eat Your Art Out Chandler in 2013 will be off the scale insane, in the best possible way.
Artsy Fartsy Foodies: AJ’s Cafe
Downtown Chandler isn’t what it used to be, and if you ask Darlene, VP of Sales & Marketing for AJ’s at the San Marcos Golf Resort, that’s a wonderful thing.
Downtown Chandler isn’t what it used to be, and if you ask Darlene, VP of Sales & Marketing for AJ’s at the San Marcos Golf Resort, that’s a wonderful thing. Since Downtown Chandler’s (The DC’s) revival, the hotel and AJ’s Café has been and continues to be a great draw for The DC.
“We have the arts, restaurants and a variety of entertainment all within walking distance of the hotel,” said Darlene. “Guests are able to combine several activities and make their Downtown experience last for the whole evening or even the weekend.”
San Marcos has been working on connecting the arts and the hotel by bringing in artists to perform at the hotel and by sponsoring CCA’s national performing artists by giving them a wonderful place to stay and relax before and after their performances.
For Jim Aikin ( Executive Director of Catering and Conference Services ), joining food and art together is a natural fit. “Food is art, the meal service is a performance itself. We want to please and entertain our guests just like the arts center,” said Jim.
We couldn’t agree more. Nothing beats a great dinner and a show for a night out on the town.
At AJ’s Cafe, the doors are open and everyone is welcome, even if they aren’t a guest at the hotel. They invite anyone looking for a great food experience in a relaxed atmosphere to try AJ’s new menu, which is a reflection of both the new approach AJ’s has taken, and the new identity that can be found in Downtown Chandler. Eat Your Art Out diners are encouraged to make reservations at AJ’s Cafe from 6:00am to 9:00pm on February 28th. 2012. To make a reservation for Eat Your Art Out, please call 480-812-0900 or visit their restaurant page.
Artsy Fartsy Foodies: Pittsburgh Willy’s
I live four minutes from the Center, and that’s if I catch all the red lights along the way. Right in the middle sits Pittsburgh Willy’s where you walk in and you’re not in Chandler anymore.
Pittsburgh Willy’s owner Randy Walters is a Pittsburgh native who followed his highschool sweetheart to Arizona after time spent in the Navy, and didn’t start off serving hotdogs. He always wanted a restaurant like Pittsburgh Willy’s, but didn’t have the opportunity until 2005 when he lost his job at Chandler Regional Hospital.
“I bought a hotdog cart and worked that, learned the business and in 2008 I opened this place (the restaurant), with no business experience, no restaurant experience. Just a desire and a dream,” he said.
Whether you’re looking to try a new hot dog (all of which Randy created) or looking for a twist on a Pittsburgh staple like chipped ham, Pittsburgh Willy’s has the food you’re looking for.
“Pittsburgh food is comfort food. We don’t count carbs, don’t count calories, and we use real ingredients, like real cream and real butter. It’s the food the way grandma used to make it,” said Randy.
Because the community chose to support Randy, Randy is doing what he can to give back to that community.
“I’m blessed to be one of the people who is living their passion,” he said. “My success is dependent on public support. They trust me enough to come in here and spend their money, so I give back to that community,” including the community arts center.
“Each family is responsible for their home, and each home is responsible for their community, and to support that community. In a perfect world, everyone would do that and it would be a much better place,” he said.
I couldn’t agree more, even though I’m not a Steelers fan.
You can give Pittsburgh Willy’s a visit either in person, on their website or Faceboook.
And try the chipped ham. That just sounds awesome.
Weekend Preview: Let the Irish jokes begin
Tonight we have the always fun Gaelic Storm, and they’re a great way to keep up the energy that we’ve had since the Blues Brothers last week. These guys have a great sense of humor that they bring to their music, and that makes for a really great live performance.
Plus, remember these?
I’m giving them to you, because you rock. You’ll have to tell me what movie they were in (the answer is on our Facebook and Twitter pages) and you’ll get yourself a snazzy poster. Easy peasy.
In continuing with all things Irish, we couldn’t be happier that Irish Republic Public House (the pub formerly known as Murphy’s Law) has joined us for Eat Your Art Out.
For owner Rodger Baldwin, the move was a no brainer.
“I’m a strong supporter of community based programs and the efforts that bring people together, and the Chandler Center for the Arts seem to do that well,” he said. That support can also be seen the moment you walk into Irish Republic in the form of dollar bills that plaster the inside of the pub with handwritten notes expressing gratitude for all that Roger does for the community.
But why support the arts with food? It just made sense for Roger.
“Both food and art are generally associated with community togetherness and invoke thoughts of family, love, tradition and creativity. In many ways, food is art with its vast array of colors and flavor combinations from around the world. Also, innovation plays a huge role in food and art, making them the perfect pair.”
I couldn’t agree more. So come out and support the local scene with a Gaelic Storm show and an after party at Irish Republic Public House.
Artsy Fartsy Foodies: Kokopelli Winery
Kokopelli Winery has been a Downtown Chandler staple for as long as I can remember, so we were all very excited when owner Dennis Minchella told us that Kokopelli Winery would be participating in Eat Your Art Out Chandler and support the Center.
“Without the arts, we wouldn’t see how far the human mind can go. Art is amazing in its many forms and it allows us to be swept up in the emotion of the craft and to get away from our issues for a while,” he said, adding that wine and art go very well together.
Kokopelli Winery got it’s start in 1992, and in 2001 Dennis’ parents opened the Downtown Chandler restaurant so they could expand their business and serve some great food to compliment their amazing wines. Kokopelli is a success because of the passion for wine that is felt by the Minchella’s and their customers, as well as their understanding of supporting local businesses.
“It’s funny, but when I was a kid I would walk to the corner store to buy my candy. I knew the owner, in fact, I knew every owner in the downtown,” said Dennis. “Today, life is faster and people shop for bargains […] but we are all searching for that more comfortable time and that is usually found by dealing with the people in close proximity to you. By going to a show at Chandler Center for the Arts, then dining or shopping in the local downtown area, you get a sense of comfort and relaxation.”
That mindset has made Kokopelli so successful that they are now on the verge of opening their 1 Millionth bottle of wine, which they will do so at this year’s Kokopelli Krush, an annual weekend event in Downtown that encourages teams to crush the most grapes, with the winning team receiving a cruise.
So how does it feel to be on the verge of a 1 million bottle milestone?
“It is very exciting. To know that my parents founded the winery and got things rolling. Really there wasn’t a wine industry in Arizona when they came here. There were two hobbyist wine makers and Dr. Dutt of U of A, who was trying to prove that grapes could be grown successfully in AZ. To think back 20 years and to remember driving pilings into the ground that would support the cordons that would hold the grapes to make all this wine is hard to fathom,” said Dennis.
You can taste the passion at Kokopelli, so make sure you do so on February 28th from 11:00am-5:00pm, but also sometime this weekend, and help Dennis and Kokopelli Winery celebrate a wonderful milestone of opening their 1 millionth bottle of wine.
You can find Kokopelli on Faceb0ok and Twitter, as well as everything you ever wanted to know about them here.
Artsy Fartsy Foodies: Venezia’s Pizzeria
If there is food that is universally accepted as “good, whenever, where ever”, it’s pizza. But doing pizza right is a totally different task, that Venezia’s Pizzeria is happy to do again and again.
The first Venezia’s Pizzeria opened in New Mexico in 1978, but didn’t make an appearance in Arizona until 1998 in the heart of Tempe. Although Venezia’s Pizzeria specializes in pizza, it wasn’t always that way.
“The first Italian restaurant that we opened, Venezia’s Pizzeria, was actually a full service restaurant that had a large menu of pastas such as Spaghetti Carbonara, Veal Marsala, Linguine with Clam sauce, Fettucini Alfredo and many other traditional Italian entrees,” said owner Dom. “When I opened in AZ I chose to simplify the menu in order to make consistency and the ability to service takeout orders. ”
But this isn’t your frozen pizza or Hot and Ready for a couple of bucks, Venezia’s Pizzeria is all about authenticity.
“All of our pastas, sauces, and pizza come from my parents family from Italy,” said Dom.
You can find Venezia’s Pizzeria all over the Valley, but make sure you visit their location on Cooper and Ray Road in Gilbert between now and February 28th to get a feel for the establishment, and for the pizza that you can taste the passion and deadication in.
So why should foodies care about the arts? It’s the way to live a well rounded life.
“They (the Chandler community) should support the arts because it is very important for people to be well diversed in many areas for a balanced life,” said Dom, adding that Chandler has a lot of potiential with some big name emloyers with roots in Chandler, or who are laying the foundation, such as Intel, PayPal and Ebay amoung others.
I’m enouraging our Artsy Fartsy Foodies to visit any Venezia’s Pizzeria location between now and February 28th (and while your at it, bring me a slice), please make sure you bring your friends, family and anyone you can to their Gilbert location on February 28th. Reservations aren’t nessicary, as people will be served on a first come, first served basis.
Please mention “Pizza Night” in your order during Eat Your Art Out, so the staff can enter the correct codes and Venezia’s can get credit for all the faboulous Artsy Fartsy Foodies that I know will drop by.
About Venezia’s Pizzeria: With four locations Valley wide, Venezia’s serves fine authentic Italian food, using only the freshest ingredients for all of our dishes. All of our meatballs, marinara, lasagna and pizza sauce are homemade—providing Arizona with a touch of what REAL Italian food tastes like. Since opening in 1978, Venezia’s has been making great pizza a family tradition. Like them on Facebook and Follow them on Twitter.
Artsy Fartsy Foodies: Chandler BBQ Co.
Passion. It’s the theme that I’ve found with people in the arts and food worlds (like I mentioned last week). And Chandler BBQ Co. is no exception.
“I have a passion for food, and a passion for it (BBQ),” said owner John Benson. I had a chance to speak to John the other day, and I found that it wasn’t just food he had a passion for, but for community as well.
“We are Chandler BBQ. We want to give back to Chandler, promote Chandler, and be involved with everything in Chandler,” he said, citing examples of lending a hand to the city’s high schools and other fund-raisers. Now, Chandler BBQ has a chance to give back to the arts, and they’re jumping at it.
Chandler BBQ is one of the first restaurants to sign up for Eat Your Art Out Chandler, and we couldn’t be happier. They have a great reputation in the community and have always been down to giving us a hand.
“The arts bring culture to Chandler,” said John “And it’s a great way to give back.”
I encourage you guys to try out Chandler BBQ Co sometime soon, just to make sure you like it, and then head back there with some friends on February 28th for Eat Your Art Out.
If meat so tender you can leave your teeth at home sounds good, but not what you’re craving, head back here next week and maybe you’ll like what I have to offer.
Stay hungry, my friends.
Artsy Fartsy Foodies
Art and food? When I first tried to figure out what these two could fit together, and what they had in common.
Its passion. People can be really passionate about art and food. Vary rarely does someone say “Yeah, that Monet dude was pretty good. Kind of like him,” or “Eh, I really don’t care either way about Mario Batali,” Love, hate or love/hate, we all have our favorites, and in February, we’re going to bring two groups of passionate people together with Eat Your Art Out Chandler.
Eat Your Art Out Chandler does a number of things; it allows restaurants and the arts in Chandler to get to know each other, support each other, and we all get to have fun. But unless you know who these restaurants, bars, delis, cafes, food trucks and hole in the wall food stands are, you won’t know where to spend your February 28th.
So on Tuesdays, I’ll introduce you fine folks to restaurants that you may not know, or find something new about those that you do know.
Come back next week to see which restaurant gets the honor of being my First Up Guinea Pig.
Chandler Center For The Arts 