With Sonoran Restaurant Week underway, and in addition to the incredible dining options, a few standout drink pairings deserve the spotlight. From thoughtful non-alcoholic offerings to sneak previews of new concepts, here are my top bartender picks for this year. As far as my bartending credentials, well, I ran this list by my husband, Stephen Kozlowski, who’s been bartending for the better part of 15 years and is a certified sommelier.
The Royal Room
What I think of when I picture the perfect neighborhood bar. People are awesome, tacos are tasty and (obviously) the drinks are great. Get the SRW marg and then stick around for whatever else Manny and Xena are whipping up behind the bar.
Dos Cabezas WineWorks
Still some of the best wines in AZ paired with one of the best pizza spots. Do a tasting and try them all or get yourself a bottle of their Principrana bubbs.
REVEL
One of the best-curated wine lists in town with a vibe that’s casual and unpretentious (or maybe just the right amount of pretentious?). Knowledgeable staff, and $25 for 2 glasses and a cheese plate is a damn good deal.
Flying V
(*disclaimer* I am absolutely tooting my own horn here) Our restaurant week menu is kinda awesome this year. The tartare is amazing, the sauce on the fillet mignon tournedos is to die for (we’ve been putting it on everything), and (obviously and most notably) our “thyme and tallow” cocktail pairing (a savory Manhattan with local Arizona beef tallow-washed Whiskey del Bac, fresh thyme, and amaro) is a must-try.
OBON Sushi Bar Ramen
OBON has the Sonoran Sun (tequila, tamarind, pineapple, lime, Combier mango) but consider taking advantage of their sake selection.
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