October is a magical month in Arizona. It was awesome to experience the first watermelons, the Washington cherries, heirloom tomatoes and sweet corn, but I love the variety of tastes as summer rolls into fall. It’s time for pears, tender Swiss chard and winter squash alongside the berries and tomatoes. The cooler weather means that Duncan’s Farm is back in business after a long, hot summer and you’ll be seeing those beautiful vegetables on ZuZu’s menu by the time you read this newsletter.

Autumn marks the beginning of the local social season as well, and we’ve been invited once again to participate in Zoofari at the Phoenix Zoo on October 3rd. This fun, formal affair is spread out over a good portion of the zoo, and you can expect some memorable food and wine tasting (especially from ZuZu and Trader Vic’s, of course), a silent auction, music and an occasional animal encounter. We will also be a part of the inaugural Savor Scottsdale Food & Wine event from October 23rd to the 25th, held just a few blocks north of Hotel Valley Ho at Southbridge. Our friends at Food & Wine Magazine will be a major sponsor; check out the details below.

Who doesn’t think of Oktoberfest this time of year, and what could be more appropriate than a superb German brew? In Germany, beer is a big deal, and we are proud to feature one of Germany’s oldest, most respected breweries. Please welcome Beck’s Brewery on Monday October 6th as we design a menu around their extraordinary beers.

Frog’s Leap has always been one of my favorite wineries. They’ve been growing their grapes organically since 1988, and believe “that the greatest of wines are those that most truly reflect their soil, climate and circumstance (collectively referred to as terroir) and it is the winemaker’s role to stand back and let the natural beauty of the grapes show through.” Hmmm, sounds a lot like the way we feel about food. Join us on Monday night, October 20th, as we pair the cuisine of ZuZu with Frog’s Leap’s delicious wines.

One of my proudest moments recently was to see how well attended our Chef’s Table was on September 8th, the first Monday Night Football of the season! It’s so refreshing that so many of you have your priorities in order. I hope you take advantage of the season for all it has to offer; the weather is beautiful, the patio is open, and what better time to find your way to ZuZu for a memorable al fresco experience.
Chef Wiley will introduce great fall dishes on “Your Life A-Z” with Lisa Haffner every Tuesday this month. The program airs from 9-10am. You can find the recipes on www.azfamily.com.
A carefully selected beverage will be paired with each course.
Monday, October 6th:
Beck’s Beer

Wild Mushroom Risotto
crispy shallots + white truffle butter

Calamari Salad
spinach, chorizo + black olives
with lemon aioli

Herb Crusted New York Striploin
savoy cabbage + butternut squash gratin
with gruyere

Celery Root and Goat Cheese Profiterole
chunky tomato ragout + chive pesto

 Monday, October 20th:
Frog’s Leap

Pan Seared Scallop
parsnip puree + creamed parsley

Autumn Pear Salad
manchego + glazed hazelnuts

Roasted Loin of Lamb
brussels sprout leaves, bacon, root
vegetables + gremolata butter

Potato and Raclette Tart
grilled radicchio + blackberry chutney
Click here to view Previous Chef’s Tables.
Monday Night Chef’s Table
Dates:
Time:
Cost:

Reservations:

 Monday, October 6th & 20th
6:30pm
$48 per person
Does not include tax or gratuity.
480.421.7997		 Turn your evening into a Date Night and extend the fun until morning. With your Monday Night Chef’s Table receipt, a Signature guest room is yours for the night - at a special price of just $199. Plan ahead, because this offer is based on availability. For room reservations, click here.
Date:
Time:
Cost:

Location:

Reservations:

 Friday, October 3rd
7-11pm
$200 for members,
$225 for non-members
Phoenix Zoo
455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix
www.phoenixzoo.org or
602.273.1341		 Put on your best black, white or red tuxedo, formal suit, ball gown or fancy cocktail dress, and join ZuZu and Trader Vic’s for the annual Zoofari event at the Phoenix Zoo. Experience entertainment from faraway lands while taking pleasure in delicacies from the Valley’s top restaurants and purveyors of specialty desserts, wine and fine liquors. Bring your sense of adventure and try your chance with the exotic raffle or Zoopendous Silent Auction. Proceeds from Zoofari 2008 will benefit the Phoenix Zoo and the Bornean Orangutans in support of a much needed night house expansion for these amazing animals.
Date:
Cost:
Location:
Reservations:		 October 23rd-25th
Varies by event
Varies by event
www.eats3.com		 Savor Scottsdale introduces Arizona’s new festival of food, wine and spirits to celebrate a uniquely Arizona experience centered at Southbridge in beautiful downtown Scottsdale. The three-day event includes a cocktail-infused ArtWalk, exclusive in-gallery dinners by famed Savor Scottsdale chefs, a high-energy kickoff party and a grand tasting featuring more than 100 wineries and cuisine from over 30 chefs. Join ZuZu and Trader Vic’s as we play host to one of eight locations for the Savor Scottsdale prix fixe Lunches on the 24th, and don’t forget to stop by our booth at the Grand Tasting on Saturday, October 25th at Southbridge.
Harking back to the days when Hotel Valley Ho first arrived on the Scottsdale scene, “The Rat Pack -- Live at The Sands” celebrates the mid-century spirit of Frank Sinatra and pals. Valley Ho makes it an evening to remember with a package including a $10 discount on show tickets (except opening night) and a signature guest room from just $199 plus tax + gratuities.

The Rat Pack Package is subject to availability October 14-18, with upgrades available as well. Ask for details when making reservations here or at 866.882.4484, and get your discounted tickets at 480-965-3434 or www.BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com/Tempe with the code VALLEY.
As much as you enjoy ZuZu, there’s a lot more to Hotel Valley Ho than just great dining. Discover it all with three fall specials:

SENSATIONAL SUNDAYS
Available each Sunday from September 21-October 26, this nightly rate includes your room, a 10% discount at VH Spa, 20% off your first visit to Trader Vic’s, and a shopping booklet with great Westcor Malls discounts. September Sunday rate is $169. October Sunday rate is $199. Book this package.

TRICK OR TREAT
Friday October 31 and Saturday November 1, this $239 nightly rate includes a welcome drink upon arrival, “retro” treats, and six VIP line passes and drink coupons for a Halloween weekend to remember. Book this package.

TAKE IT OFF
From October 1-December 30, enjoy a signature guest room from $259 nightly...along with a daily resort credit of $50 to use at VH Spa, Trader Vic’s, ZuZu or for In-Room Dining. Book this package.