Hubbuzz's Phoenix, Arizona Blogs

Brass Heart , Best Boutique in Gilbert

phoenixisfierce — Thu, 01 May 2008 10:35:29 -0500

Ahh is this heaven? No it’s Brass Heart in cutesie Gilbert. Located on the Baseline drag this boutique is stiletto steps away from Lakeview Village Shopping Center. So much shopping – so little time. I’d start with Brass Heart – they offer personal shoppers (bonus!), a children’s play area and plenty of open space. I have to say I hate going to a store where I feel like I might end up buried underneath a pile of clothing racks. It’s seriously a scary thought.

At Brass Heart the lovely merchandise is beautifully laid out for all to peruse. They’ve got True Religion, Juicy Couture and Ella Moss to name a few. All of the “wears” can be found here from outer to foot to sleep. Just thinking about the crisply folded jeans makes me want more.

Brass Heart
[where: 3426 E Baseline Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85204]
480-558-4391

Mama’s Italian Kitchen…..Some Of The Best Authentic Italian Food In Town

katethegreat — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 15:33:44 -0500

Mama’s Italian Kitchen sports colorful walls, black and white checkered table clothes and of course insanely good prices.

Some of my favorites are the chopped salad, the meatball sandwich, the chicken pesto pasta, the Palermo pizza and my fav…the ravioli grandisimo (it’s 10”)!

Mama’s Italian Kitchen
[where: 16852 E Parkview Ave., Fountain Hills, AZ 85268]

Kiss The Cook in Glendale

katethegreat — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 10:01:53 -0500

Kiss The Cook Restaurant, a family owned restaurant, has a very welcoming and “homey” vibe going on. Don’t be fooled by the exterior, which looks like an old chain breakfast joint. The shabby chic décor (for sale), the baked goods, the meals that are made from scratch, the sandwiches served with a pickle and a Hershey’s kiss are all part of the little touches that makes Kiss the Cook Restaurant in Glendale so great. Many have compared it to going to grandma’s house.

The food choices are very similar to many other breakfast spots, but so much tastier because they are made from scratch and served with a smile. Did I mention how delicious their baked goods are???

Kiss The Cook Restaurant
[where: 4915 W Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301]

Electric Ladyland is a Bad Dream Come True!

elephantintheroom — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 09:50:05 -0500

As I entered the ever popular Electric Ladyland, on the hunt for a new pair of jeans – I was overwhelmed and became nauseous by the faux leopard prints, the bright pink EVERYWHERE, the amount of gold racks and chandeliers, the chintzy over-priced clothes, the snobby staff and the mannequin heads.

Let’s just say this place wasn’t my taste. The shop claims to be a super trendy boutique – but I’d say, if you are over the age of 16 – you should stay clear and head to Nordstrom’s instead where it’s a little more fashion forward with better designer options. It could just be me, but I don't consider fruit pins, gaudy jewelry and printed tees to be very fashionable.

Electric Ladyland is not for me.

[where: 3925 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018]

Ahwatukee Apartments - Quiet, Serene and Out Of The Way!

hubbuzz — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 16:54:53 -0500

Ahwatukee isn’t bustling like some other areas of Phoenix. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Ahwatukee, located in the South Valley, is bordered to the north by South Mountain Park – so by default it is actually physically separated (by a very large, beautiful and mountainous park) from the core of the Phoenix Metro. And though Ahwatukee maintains a wonderful small town vibe, it is also located right near Interstate 10 which will zip right into or out of town.

If this sounds good to you, then an Ahwatukee apartment in this secluded town with town of outdoor recreation might be just the ticket.

Hubbuzz.com has Ahwatukee apartments for rent. Click here to see Ahwatukee apartments. Remember, when you lease an apartment you found on hubbuzz.com, we give you $100 – make sure you tell the property you found them on hubbuzz.com

You might want to check out South Phoenix apartments for rent too. South Phoenix is located on the northern side of South Mountain Park – but you still get to enjoy the same amazing mountain views.

The Orpheum Theatre Is A Class Act

katethegreat — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 15:30:35 -0500

Take it from me, it’s definitely worth the trip. It has a certain ambiance that you’ll just love. The old world vintage vibe is very romantic and you truly feel lucky to be there. The sound is great, the staff is super friendly and helpful and the shows, concerts, plays, speakers and recitals that go on are just as good.

It fits in perfectly with the other "old" turned "new" vibe of downtown Phoenix.

Upcoming events at The Orpheum Theatre include the Ballet Arizona Presents Mixed Repertory B, Phoenix Children’s Choir and Ballet Arizona.

Sounds like the perfect evening out to me.

Check out restaurants in the area.

[where: 203 W Adams St, Phoenix, AZ 85003]

Hubbuzz Announces Phoenix Launch!

hubbuzz — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 10:54:57 -0500

Hubbuzz.com, an interactive apartment search website, now provides people searching for Phoenix apartments for rent with lifestyle-oriented neighborhood profiles. Each Phoenix neighborhood profile includes detailed information - like photo galleries, interactive Google maps, user generated blogs and listings for Phoenix apartments for rent - which cannot be found elsewhere on the web.

When visiting hubbuzz.com, apartment seekers are able to search for Phoenix apartments for rent based on neighborhood or city name, neighborhood characteristics (such as eclectic, established, and urban), cost of rent and a number of other apartment amenities (such as pet-friendly apartments, apartments with a fitness center, or even hardwood floors).

Unlike other apartment search websites that offer Phoenix apartments for rent, hubbuzz.com users receive targeted apartment results based on their specified apartment search criteria, rather than hundreds of listings that may fall outside their criteria.

Jennifer Staciokas, vice president of marketing and training for Lincoln Property Company, the fourth largest apartment management company in the nation and a hubbuzz.com client, said, "Hubbuzz.com is taking apartment search to the next level. By supplying apartment searchers with neighborhood information, photos and blogs, hubbuzz.com provides highly valuable information that renters cannot get elsewhere, helping them make the best possible housing decisions."

Hubbuzz.com works with a variety of communities from individually owned properties to national real estate investment trusts that rank in the top ten in the industry. The Phoenix apartments for rent featured on hubbuzz.com vary from small apartment buildings with less than 50 units to large buildings with over 300 units.

Hubbuzz.com users who find Phoenix apartments for rent through the site are eligible for a $100 reward by clicking on the "Claim $100" link and completing the form found here.

Hubbuzz.com has launched service in Colorado-based markets, including Denver, Boulder, Ft. Collins and Colorado Springs, Southern California-based markets, including Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego and the Inland Empire, as well as Phoenix, Dallas and Las Vegas and will introduce more markets on an ongoing basis.

About hubbuzz.com
Hubbuzz.com is an innovative apartment search website and online community that provides apartment seekers a unique search experience by combining powerful search functionality and unmatched neighborhood insight with user-generated content. Launched in August of 2007, hubbuzz.com is owned by Denver-based startup Collective Intuition, LLC, a group dedicated to improving the search for not just an apartment, but a neighborhood and community to call home.

Green and Energy Efficient Apartments in Phoenix

hubbuzz — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 16:38:22 -0500

Are you looking for a Green apartment? One that offers recycling and has energy-efficiency apartments? To many, making a green lifestyle choice is just as important as having a fitness center and a laundry room.

Hubbuzz has Green apartments and energy efficient apartments in Phoenix. Check out these Phoenix apartments for rent that may have some of the following

RECYCLING
On-site recycling
Free computer and electronics recycling
Battery and cell phone disposal location
Use of recycled paper in offices and on promotional materials

ENERGY
Motion detectors
Ceiling fans
Energy efficient appliances and lighting

ENVIRONMENT
Environmentally friendly cleaning products
Low-VOC paint
Renewable resource for interior structures

WATER
Reclaimed water for irrigation
Water-wise landscaping
Low-flow toilets and shower heads decrease water consumption

TRANSPORTATION
Carpool organization
Locations near public transportation

Phoenix Apartments
Borrego Apartments
3004 S Market St
Gilbert, AZ 85295

Azul Apartments
3134 S Market St
Gilbert, AZ 85295

Apartments Near Glendale Community College

hubbuzz — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 16:19:00 -0500

Finding apartments near Glendale Community College may seem a little daunting, especially if you are new to the Phoenix area. Where does a new student, faculty member or staff even start? Well, figuring out the lay of the land and what's going on in Glendale is a great plae to start. Read on to get to know the Glendale area.

If you are itching to get find an apartment fast, check out Apartments in Glendale, AZ on hubbuzz.

Glendale Area Facts
Glendale hosted the 2008 Super Bowl

59th Avenue is the main drag through town. Live near here and you are close to anywhere you need to be.

Thunderbird Consevation Park is partially located in Glendale. There are almost 20 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, horseback riding, jogging or mountain biking. Feeling more low key? Head to Thunderbird Park fo a picnic or birdwatching.

Apartments near Glendale Community College are also near Arrowhead Towne Center, the place for dining, shopping or to see the latest flick.

More about Apartments Near Glendale Community College - There are other great areas of Phoenix that are nearby and provide for a short commute so you could live in apartments near Glendale Community College without living in the city itself.Check out Peoria apartments, West Phoenix apartments and North Phoenix apartments. All of these Phoenix neighborhoods are not too far from Glendale and are great options, especially if you have a car or are willing to hop on public transportation to get to campus.

Spring Time Sipping

katethegreat — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 12:35:56 -0500

Here are a few of my ultimate favorites when it comes to spring time sipping:

Mango Bubbly
Wet rim of champagne with lime rind and then coat with sugar
½ ounce of mango puree
3 ounces of champagne

Mint Julip
½ teaspoon super fine sugar
½ ounce bourbon, plus 2 ounces
8 – 10 mint leaves
2 cups crushed ice
sparkling water
1 lemon twist
1 mint sprig
confectioner’s sugar

Click here to see how to make this drink.

Yellow Bird
Juice of half a lime
1 ¼ oz orange juice
1 oz dark rum
¼ ounce Galliano
Maraschino cherry for garnish

Happy drinking!!

Phoenix Company Creates Delicious, Organic and Healthy Frozen Entrees

elizabeth — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 13:29:12 -0500

I have been trying to eat organic as much as possible lately and have found it’s not always the easiest thing to do:

1) You may assume (I did) that all the products in a ‘natural’ store are always organic, but actually, only some of the products are organic. You have to look around a bit, and when you find what you are looking for you have to consider the higher cost associated with organic foods. It may seems not worth it, especially when something that looks exactly the same is right next door with a much cheaper price tag.

2) If you go out to dinner, don’t except to find many places using organic, farm fresh produce and antibiotic-free meat, poultry and wild fish. There are places do, but not many. Even vegan/vegetarian restaurants don’t always serve organic.

3) You also have to consider the prep time when it comes to going organic. You might be eating organic, but that doesn’t mean you are in the mood to, or have the free time to prepare three healthy squares a day. You will find many organic frozen entrees at grocery stores like Sunflower Farmers Market, but I have noticed they don’t necessary seem all that healthy. (Just because it’s organic doesn’t mean you it's good for you depending on the diet you are trying to maintain).

So, the other day I was in a Sunflower Market, perusing the frozen food section. I was looking for something to take to work for my lunch that was organic and healthy and easy to prepare. My eyes rested on an Organic Bistro Wild Salmon Whole Life Meal. The photo on the packaging looked delicious and the ingredients sounded delightful…Wild Salmon, Rosemary Orange Glaze, Cranberry Pilaf and Walnut Broccoli.

The price tag on the meal ($5.99) was a little more than I like to spend on frozen entree, but it also appeared (it was heavy) to be more food than I am used to a frozen entree containing.

The next day I emailed Organic Bistro and asked if they would send me some coupons for a 'trial'. Coupons arrived less then a week later and I went back to Sunflower Farmers Market and purchased the Wild Salmon entree. Today, I had it for lunch - it was very convenient and terrific. It was everything you don’t expect from something you microwave. Taste wise, there is no comparison between this Organic Bistro meal and, let’s say, Healthy Choice meal.

And it was a lot of food – more than I typically eat for lunch, but would be perfect for an on-the-go dinner.

Along with my coupons, I received an information pamphlet. According to Organic Bistro, each certified organic meal is, “designed to maximize its ingredient mix for lean protein, fiber, omega-3s and complex carbohydrates to provide a balanced, whole meal.”

You won’t find any Trans fats, gluten, empty calories, preservatives, flavor enhancers or chemicals in these Organic Bistro Meals. In addition to the Wild Salmon, their product line also includes Chicken Citron, Ginger Chicken, Savory Turkey, Pescado Veracruz and Sockeye Salmon Cakes.

The Company was founded by Dr. Laryn Callaway, who is a practicing naturopathic physician. I was also happy to see a Scottsdale address on the envelope they sent me. So to make things even better, Organic Bistro is a local company based in Scottsdale, AZ.

Learn more about Organic Bistro online at www.theorganicbistro.com. If you purchase meals online, you can get a 'bulk' discount - 6 for $30 ($5/meal).

You can also find Organic Bistro Whole Life Meals at these Sunflower Farmers Market locations:

Sunflower Farmers Markets
www.sfmarkets.com

Phoenix
[where: 245 E Bell Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85022]
602-218-4949

Tempe
[where: 1706 E Southern Ave, Tempe, AZ 85282]
480-820-4900

Scottsdale
[where: 4402 North Miller Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251]
480-941-6001

Charming Wine Shop in Chandler

phoenixisfierce — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 11:18:16 -0500

Not too long ago, all wines were imported to Chandler from neighboring ‘hoods. Huh? We love vino too? Anyway finally wine shops in Chandler and Gilbert have been popping up all over the ‘hoods. Most notably, of course, is T’z Market Place – they have a wonderful rotating selection of wines (reasonably priced I might add), cheeses, sandwiches, fine meats, gelato (yum!), even some non-alcoholic drinks and, most importantly, a wine tasting bar. It’s really a one-stop shop that’s locally owned!

So if you’re in need of a little love, stop by T’z Market Place and enjoy a charming wine shop in Chandler.

T’z Market Place
[where: 58 S San Marcos Pl, Chandler, AZ 85225]
480-857-2088

MustSeePhoenix.com is a Great Resource For Travellers

elizabeth — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 12:59:11 -0500

Must See Phoenix is a great resource for travelers and locals alike. If you are planning a trip to Phoenix check out the site to score deals on lodging and activities. You'll definitely want to refer to it when your mom visits to check out your new pad. Or, if you’re new to Phoenix, there is no better way to get a feel for the area then to be a bit of tourist for a few days.

If you want to see the desert, than take a scenic drive on the Apache Trail - winding through the Superstition Mountains and Tonto National Forest - for quintessential desert views of canyons, saguaros and geological rock formations.

A personal favorite is Taliesin West, built by Frank Lloyd Wright and crew as a winter escape from the bitter winters in Wisconsin. Located in North Scottsdale, you can tour this architectural wonder before heading to any of the great restaurants in the Scottsdale area.

For a little R&R, head over to the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa (another Frank Lloyd Wright creation, though there is controversy surrounding that fact), located in the Camelback Corridor, for some serious spa treatments. After visiting the resort you might want to consider booking a room for a day or two in this glorious “Jewel of the Desert”. But be careful, once you're here you may never want to leave.

Must See Phoenix features many more attractions that offer a full picture of Phoenix history, culture and environment that can appreciated by natives and tourists alike.

The website also includes interactive maps for hotels and attractions. You can book your hotel through Must See Phoenix and save money doing so. Their list of hotels is quite extensive. You can also view an interactive hotel and attraction map - so you can determine what attractions are located near your hotel.

As an added bonus, Must See Phoenix includes directions, travel tour and transportation information.

Check Must See Phoenix online at www.MustSeePhoenix.com.

Living in Downtown Phoenix

Murphy Applegate — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 11:20:10 -0500

If you haven't visited downtown Phoenix in a while, spend a cycling along the famous, century-old Murphy Bridle Path. Or stroll the sidewalks and browse the unique boutiques along the way. Then, satisfy your hunger by grabbing a slice at Pizzeria Bianco (supposedly the best pizza in America!) located in Historic Heritage Square. Find this and other hotspots on the Hubbuzz Neighborhood Map.

Be sure to check out the historic homes that have been well-maintained to preserve their rustic charm. Of course there have been many apartment complexes constructed here to keep up with the times. Check out the Central and North Central apartments on hubbuzz.com and below:

Sienna Springs Apartments - a quaint community within minutes of exciting entertainment, shopping and dining options.

Riviera on 7th Apartments - a contemporary property in the heart of old-world Phoenix. It even has a sauna and state-of-the-art fitness center!

Barrington Regent Apartments - more like a resort than an apartment building with on-site concierge services and beautifully remodeled interiors.

Lexington on Central Apartments - with a movie theater, outdoor dining area and gourment kitchens in every unit, you'll never have to leave!

Pavilions on Central Apartments - These luxurious lofts are located in the heart of North Central Phoenix.

Roosevelt Square Apartments - Constructed as part of a revolutionary "Live/Work/Play" movement this community has it all, including a gourmet restaurant on site.

Downtown Phoenix Public Market

elizabeth — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 14:58:31 -0500

People from all over the valley visit the Downtown Phoenix Public Market to stock up on essential organic foods. Everything you would except from a farmers market is here – fresh and local veggies, fruit, eggs and dairy products.

There are also some real treats you won’t find all in one place elsewhere – these products sound divine! Check out Roh’s Gourmet Fudge Sauce, Wild arugula from Seacat Gardens, Olive Oil from Queen Creek Olive Mill and Fistiki Farms pistachios.

The Downtown Phoenix Public Market is also a great place to just grab a cup of coffee, listen to live music, enjoy prepared food and samples and simply browse.

The Market is operated by Community Food Connections, a nonprofit whose goal is to alleviate hunger and create food sufficiency for low-income households. Community Food Connections' Arizona's Food Stamps program at Farmers' Markets project helps low-income people access healthy food by providing wireless Point of Sale terminals to 20 Farmers' Markets throughout Arizona.

The Downtown Phoenix Public Market has big plans for the future with their expansion into a 4,000-square-foot enclosed space sometime this summer. The indoor market will operate 6 days a week and act more like a traditional grocery store, while the outdoor market will continue to operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

The Market wants to launch the indoor grocery this summer – but they need to raise $50,000 by April to begin renovations on the building. Contact Cindy Gentry at cgentry@foodconnect.org or at 602-493-5231 to see how you can help ensure the indoor market gets up and running.

Downtown Phoenix Public Market
[where: 721 N Central, Phoenix, AZ 85004]
SE Corner of Central Ave & McKinley St

Wednesdays: 4:00p to 8:00 p
Saturdays: 8:00 a to 1:00 p

Check out the Downtown Phoenix Public Market Vendors. Print off this Market Buck coupon for $1 off any purchase at the Downtown Phoenix Public Market.

Locavores in Phoenix

dahlia — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 12:44:51 -0500

I became interested in the locavore thing after reading about a woman who followed in Barbara Kingsolver's footsteps and ate only local New York food and drink for two weeks. She claims she felt better, had more energy and was sleeping better, too.

I thought I might want to try it in Phoenix! I am willing to drive a ways to find the right local fare, so if anyone has some suggestions, I would love to hear about them!

P.S. In my quest for information on becoming a committed locavore in Phoenix, I did find out that locavore was named 2007 Word of the Year by Oxford Dictionary. And I did find a good list of local farmer's markets which is a great start, but I would love to hear more!

Phoenix hosts annual WorldFEST

Murphy Applegate — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 16:13:42 -0500

The festivities of this annual celebration kick off Friday evening at 5 p.m. with the World Beer Fest, perhaps the most popular event of the whole shebang.

Take your pick from 50 beers, 3 ciders and 1 soda (a root beer, of course!) from Japan, Belgium, France, Italy and Wales to name a few. Or pick up a sample tray of your favorites for only a buck each!. And, a 16 oz. cup is only $4! In my experience, this price is very reasonable compared to other beer festivals.

The party continues all day Saturday beginning at 10 a.m. Sign up for the 1st annual Arizona cornhole championship or browse the wares of multi-cultural artists, or settle in with your tray of beer samples and listen to a full lineup of music, from mariachi to jazz to celtic performers.

Don't worry, you won't have to stick to liquids all day (unless you want to). Local restuarants such as Shangri-La (Chinese), Avanti (Italian), and Tradiciones (Mexican) will be serving up tasty world cuisine.

The festival will be located in Margaret T. Hance Park and admission is absolutely free. Click here to see a map for directions.

[Where: 1134 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ, 85004]

Neighborhood life at ASU in Tempe

hubbuzz — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:20:11 -0500

Though ASU is considered an urban campus due to its location in the heart of Tempe, we like to think of it as an urban oasis. The ASU campus neighborhood is conveniently located near shopping, dining and entertainment, yet there are also beautiful parks, uninterrupted trails and open space everywhere. You can even find cool, cool water at Tempe Town Lake. Check out some our favorite things in Tempe:

Where to catch a show
Well, at the only place without a bad seat in the house, of course. Gammage Auditorium, located on the ASU campus and designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, was designed to be as acoustically perfect as possible. Sounds great, literally. The only catch is you usually have to be a Broadway Buff to enjoy a show at Gammage. Not you’re kind of show? Then check out The Marquee Theatre located on Mill Avenue – chances are, there’s a band you dig rolling through the Marquee tonight.

Where to kick it
Casey Moore's Oyster House doesn’t discriminate - this is where students young and old, alumni and professors come to enjoy a drink and good company. Four Peaks Brewing Company has to die for bar food and delicious micro brews – an overall great place to hang with friends. Bison Witches comes with a long line but delicious food. Two of our Hubbuzz employees actually hail from U of A (no hard feelings though) where Bison Witches has also made a home. Both swear by the half sandwich and soup in a bread bowl combo.

Where to enjoy the sun, study, break a sweat and relax
Tempe Town Lake puts the oasis in urban oasis. You can fish, run, row, lay around…the list of things to do can go on and on. Our favorites: rent a kayak and do the break a sweat thing (which will happen after about 5 minutes) or bring a towel, your econ book, a bottle of water and study study study. Sweating and studying – these things are good for you!

Where to live
There are many Tempe apartments for rent near ASU that are great for students and the working man alike. Check out Tempe apartments for rent on Hubbuzz.com.

Fan Fest- A Grand Slam Event

Murphy Applegate — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 13:05:55 -0500

For all you crazed baseball fans who can't wait for spring, why don't you head downtown to Chase Stadium, home playing field of the Arizona Diamondbacks, and experience the 4th annual Fan Fest.

This Saturday the Diamondbacks invite fans to take part in autograph and photograph sessions, dugout and locker room tours, and even batting and pitching clinics from professional trainers. You will get a behind the scenes view of the unique Chase stadium, famous for its swimming pool, retractable roof and air-conditioning. You will probably even meet some players and coaches!

The event is free to attend, but autograph sessions requrie a $5 donation to the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation. The Foundation focuses its efforts on homelessness, healthcare and youth programs, including youth baseball field improvements. In 2007, the foundation raised $3.5 million that will go directly to Arizona communities.

Chase field is located on the corner of 4th and Jefferson in Central Phoenix. See a map of the area here.

And That’s Why I Don’t Eat Shrimp

elizabeth — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 17:40:47 -0500

In case you didn’t see the Charles Barkley ‘Anytime’ Commercial, check it out here. I love Chuck, he’s hilarious. I especially like the recap statement, “And that’s why I don’t eat shrimp.”