It’s not over yet, however. The beets, tomatoes, radishes, lettuce and melons are abundant, and all will make a showing on our Mothers Day menu. Similar to Easter, we will be serving a version of our successful ala carte brunch menu with several seasonal starters, salads, entrees and desserts. I don’t have to remind you how popular and important this day is, so make your reservations soon.

I hate to be so predictable — however, Cinco de Mayo happens to fall on a Monday and, guess what, we’re drinking tequila! Unfortunately, many of us thought we were experiencing tequila during that first encounter that involved a worm of some kind. Tequila is to mescal as Champagne is to sparkling wine. The appreciation of this fine beverage has come a long way; it is revered and sipped like a fine cognac, as it should be. On Monday, May 5 we have partnered with my all-time favorite producer, Patron, and designed a menu to complement this nectar of the agave, keeping with the spirit of the holiday.

“I love Pinot Noir. A great Pinot Noir is wine-making’s greatest challenge. Pinot Noir is temperamental, shy, wild, sexy and amazing. When she gives you everything she has, you are the luckiest person in the world. You want to give her everything you have back.” This is how the winemaker at Row 11 responded when asked why he makes Pinot Noir. I don’t know about you, but I’m convinced! I love this kind of passion, and we are extremely proud to welcome Row 11 to ZuZu on Monday May 19 for a truly memorable Chef’s Table.

One of the premier fundraising events this spring is the “Flavors of Phoenix,” and ZuZu has been invited once again to join 29 other top Arizona restaurants to prepare a five-course wine-paired dinner tableside. The event will be held in the Grand Ballroom at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa on Thursday, May 22. All proceeds will benefit the Arizona Chapter of the American Liver Foundation.

We’ve had quite an exciting year so far, and hope you’ve had the opportunity to experience the restaurant at some point. My sincere thanks to all of you for your support and to all you Moms out there, Happy Mothers Day!