A couple of years ago my family and I drove to San Francisco for our annual road trip, parked the car in a garage and didn’t see it again for four days; we walked everywhere! I am so pleased that Phoenix and Scottsdale are developing real city centers anchored by restaurants, hotels, shops, galleries and museums that are delightful “pedestrian friendly” places. This year we decided to forgo our annual trek out of state and spend a week rediscovering the city we live in. The expanded Scottsdale Trolley route and the imminent light rail are finally lessening our dependency on automobiles.

Scottsdale Art Walk is a perfect time to wander around Old Town. Every Thursday from 7-9pm the Scottsdale Gallery Association opens their doors to host special exhibits, many with artist receptions, joining together for an informal “open house” throughout the art district.

Another great reason to find your way to Old Town is to have dinner at ZuZu or experience one of our Monday Night Chefs Tables. I really never understood the allure of rum until I tasted 10 Cane. The flavor is amazing; while most others start with molasses, 10 Cane uses virgin hand-harvested Trinidadian sugar cane grown for the distinct purpose of making a light, smooth, better tasting rum. We will be pairing this fine beverage with four rum-friendly courses on Monday, August 11.

Chandon’s pioneer heritage dates back to 1743 when Moët Chandon was founded by Claude Moët in Champagne, France. In 1973 the company bought land in Northern California, planted vineyards and designed Domaine Chandon, an architectural and ecological winery that blends into its surroundings and reflects Chandon’s legacy of excellence. Please join us on August 25 as we taste their luscious chardonnay, pinot noir and sparklers.

I suggest you book a room at The Ho, park the car and put on your walking shoes. Our extraordinary Concierge staff will be happy to point you in the right direction whether it’s a morning run along the canal or directions to SMoCA. So plan your little walking adventure soon and don’t leave out a visit to ZuZu. Remember, in August the fun begins when the sun goes down!

A carefully selected beverage will be paired with each course.
Monday, August 11th:
10 Cane Rum

Carrot Millet Pot Stickers
ginger butter + cilantro

Coriander Dusted Bluefin Tuna
crisp minted cucumbers, avocado
+ soy-citrus vinaigrette

Braised Asian Short Ribs
sesame roasted eggplant, asparagus
+ jasmine rice

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
piña colada sauce

Monday, August 25th:
Domaine Chandon

Lobster and Shrimp Cake
ZuZu’s thousand island + crispy shallots

Heirloom Tomato Salad
warm Laura Chenel goat cheese, bacon
+ grilled onion vinaigrette

Pan Roasted Sea Bass
sweet corn + cockle risotto

Nectarine and Blackberry Streusel Crisp
vanilla cream

Click here to view Previous Chef’s Tables.
Monday Night Chef’s Table
Dates: Monday, August 11th & 25th
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 $109. Plan ahead, because this offer is based on availability. For room reservations, click here.
Time: 6:30pm
Cost: $48 per person
Does not include tax or gratuity.
Reservations: 480.421.7997
Dates: Saturday, August 2nd
Re-discover “New American Classics” as Chef Charles Wiley conducts a cooking class on freshness, simplicity, and elegance. These attributes have made Chef Wiley one of America’s highly regarded pioneers of Classic American cooking. Join him for an afternoon of food and wine, and get a little education while you’re at it. Enjoy a three-course lunch and seminar paired with wines from J. Lohr Vineyards.
Time: 11:30am
Cost: $65 per person
Does not include tax or gratuity.
Location: Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain
Reservations: 480.607.2300
Dates: Saturday, August 30th
The 4th annual “Phoenix Cooks” event promises to indulge all the senses. This annual soiree offers a colorful scene that gives food enthusiasts opportunities to learn, cook, share, taste, sip, shop and experience the pleasures of the culinary lifestyle. ZuZu and Trader Vic’s will be there with samples of their distinctly diverse cuisines. Proceeds benefit the Phoenix Children’s Hospital.
Time: 10am-3pm
Cost: $80 in advance, $95 at the door
Location: Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa
Reservations: www.phoenixcooks.com
ZuZu on TV
Days of Summer

This summer at Hotel Valley Ho, you’ll find something new every day (and every night) of the week:

Sunday brunch + cabana spa specials.
Monday Night Chef’s Table at ZuZu.
Tuesday “In The Industry” specials.
Wednesday specials at VH Spa.
Thursday Wahine Night at Trader Vic’s.
*Friday Dive-in Movie Night.
*Saturday poolside tunes + nightlife.

For details, click here.

*Friday + Saturday events for registered hotel guests only.

Catch Chef Wiley cooking on KTVK Channel 3 “Your Life A-Z” with Lisa Haffner on August 7, 12, 19 and 26. The show airs from 9am-10am. The recipes can be found on www.azfamily.com.