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Frances L.'s Profile
Valley of the Sun: Phoenix, AZ
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1. La Tolteca Mexican Foods
La Tolteca is easily one of the best Mexican food joints in Phoenix. What a deli counter is to your local grocery store, La Toleca's food counter is to your local Mexican grocery store. While I did most of my shopping for produce and Mexican goods a…More »
2. Haji-Baba
My dear Haji-Baba, oh, how I miss you so! Best chicken shwarma plate in Arizona. Best falafel, best prices, and best dolmas. Great people, good service, and an awesome middle eastern grocery store attached to the dining room. Cheap eats, but huge…More »
3. Coup Des Tartes
First off, I'm surprised this place doesn't have more reviews. Secondly, I have this rule that if I have a place bookmarked as "To Review" and I haven't been there for over one year, then I wait until I go there again to review it. I have since moved…More »
4. Eastside Records - CLOSED
:( Sadly, after nearly 24 years, Eastside Records will be shutting their doors permanently at the close of the year.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/27/2010
Best record store in Tempe. Laid back dudes who know their stuff, prices are fair, selection… Read more »
5. Pizzeria Bianco
We lucked out with their lunch hours and snagged one of the last tables with a...ZERO MINUTE WAIT. If anyone knows anything about Pizzeria Bianco is that the line to get a table can get quite long.
It's been nearly two years since I have been to PB,…More »
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/8/2010
Definitely one of the most amazing pizzas I have ever had in my life, and that's coming from someone… Read more »
6. Postino Arcadia
Everything about this winebar makes me happy. The former postal location with it's huge windows and open space.It's "just off the beaten path" feel-- just a couple streets away from the main streets Camelback and Indian School, yet feels so far away.…More »
7. George & Dragon Restaurant
During my last few months in Phoenix, we were coming here on a near weekly basis. Not only do they have a hefty beer selection (mainstream stuff, but some goodies nonetheless), but they have decent waitresses, hilarious trivia and karaoke, and really…More »
8. The Trunk Space
The Trunk Space art gallery on Grand Ave. is one of the not-so-hidden gems of the downtown Phoenix art scene. From taking your very first step into the intimate space, you will discover some of the city's best art, along with the home of Arizona's…More »
9. Metro Brasserie & Bar - CLOSED
I am going to keep this review pretty short just because it has been a few months since I have been there.
First off, the reason why the boyfriend and I ventured out of our typical dining price range (for lunch at least), is because we re total…More »
10. Old Town Books
No hands down, the best place on Mill Avenue. your head will spin with their selection of used books and although the small space can feel suffocating in the summer months, it is truly, a one-of-a-kind place. The little old lady who owns the place is…More »
11. Cartel Coffee Lab
No hands down, the best espresso in the greater Phoenix area. Talented and passionate baristas (albeit strange sometimes), simple and direct menu, and no bullshit. In-house roasted coffee beans at the most premium quality. Almost always perfect…More »
12. Lux
I don't know how, in the course of three years on Yelp, I have neglected to write about one of my most beloved Phoenix locales. Forgive me, Lux Coffeebar, but I think I got so distracted by COMPLAINING about OTHER places, that I have not had the…More »
13. Beckett's Table
Located in a strip mall area in the Arcadia neighborhood, Beckett's Table has been around for a little over a year now and has been getting some pretty good press for their hearty and delicious dishes. I wasn't quite sure what to expect here but our…More »
14. Clarendon Hotel
The Clarendon is easily my favorite boutique hotel in the Phoenix area. It's retro-chic with modern amenities and fantastic service all the way through. We were fortunate to have been able to stay in a pool-view suite recently and while it was still…More »
15. Papago Brewing
While I am usually a stickler for good food and great drink lists, Papago Brewing Company was a little on the disappointing side. The only reason why I gave it four stars is because they did in fact have hundreds of different beers in their coolers…More »
16. Baiz Market
Phoenix, AZ 85006
(602) 252-8996
Categories:
Middle Eastern,
Ethnic Food,
Grocery,
Halal
For those of you who complain about there not being a good middle eastern market in downtown Phoenix, then surely, you are not looking hard enough. Easily comparable to Tempe's Haji-baba, the Baiz Market is nestled in between the outskirts of the…More »
17. AJ's Purveyor of Fine Foods
When it comes to larger gourmet-centric grocery stores in the Phoenix area, I much prefer going to AJ's rather than trekking to Whole Foods. The feel is a little more local, the stores aren't overwhelmingly gigantic, and the selections are usually…More »
18. La Grande Orange Grocery
This is the place to go when you're feeling like something nice and facy, but not terribly expensive. I'm pretty sure this is one of the cutest little places and it's tucked away on a residential street right off of Camelback, too! Good sandwiches,…More »
19. Bar Smith
Bar Smith has potential to be a chic hot spot in the heart of downtown; just a few steps away from the symphony hall, Chase Field, and the US airways Arena. However, this place, despite it's pseudo-hipness fails to deliver in the cocktail department,…More »
20. MacAlpine's Soda Fountain
Phoenix, AZ 85006
(602) 262-5545
Categories:
Burgers,
Sandwiches,
Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt
Looking to grab a bite at a historic local gem in the heart of the city that's cozy, casual, and good for all types of people? Look no further than Mac Alpine's Soda Fountain on 7th Street and Oak. Located in downtown Phoenix, this original soda…More »
21. Stax Burger Bistro
I first found out about Stax while watching something on local eateries in Scottsdale on tv somewhere. When we drove past it a few months ago, I just had to try it. Initially, I was very impressed. Not only did we get to order various slider-type…More »
22. Hanny's
I find it fitting that right after I reviewed the Roosevelt, I review Hanny's. Hanny's is a spacious and modern space in downtown Phoenix which used to house one of Phoenix's first department stores. The first time we came in here was because The…More »
23. Sens Asian Tapas & Sake Bar
Decent tapas, but over-priced. Slow service doesn't help. Annoying techno music ruins the atmosphere most nights. Johnny Chu's ego has people fooled that this place is worth your time, but believe me, you're better off nibbling at the appetizers at…More »
24. St Francis Restaurant
Conveniently located on Camelback Road just a block from the light rail, St. Francis seems to be one of the new hot spots in the general downtown area as they were packed on Sunday morning for their jazz brunch. It's still hot in Phoenix (even though…More »
25. The Main Ingredient Ale House And Café
I just copied this from my blog. Photos can be found there: http://www.makespoons....
Taking up the old Coronado house that formerly housed the Lisa G Winebar, The Main Ingredient Ale House and Cafe offers high quality salads, sandwiches, and other…More »
26. Revolver Records
When I first walked into Revolver Records in the Melrose District on 7th Avenue, I couldn't help but think that it was Championship Vinyl ala High Fidelity incarnate. Immediately greeted by one of the two owners Steve and TJ on any given day,…More »
27. STA Travel
Zero stars. Wow, these people are irresponsible! It looks like some people have had such bad experiences here, they've even taken it up with the BBB! I wish I did that. WOW. They didn't even have a customer service department when my aunt called!
28. Bards Books
Nice folks running an honest local business. Bards Books in Phoenix is a small neighborhood gem where you can find some of the best used titles and some old DVDs, too. Prices are very good, but the selection is a little lacking sometimes. It's one of…More »
29. Coronado Cafe
Coronado Cafe is one of the things I miss most about living in the Coronado Historic District in downtown Phoenix. It's a quaint little bungalow converted into an adorable cafe with simple day fare such as yummy lunchtime salads and sandwiches, great…More »
30. Changing Hands Bookstore
This should technically be the best independent bookstore in Arizona. The selection is vast, the space is huge, the prices are competitive. They have great events, are next to a decent local cafe, and a few of my friends have worked her throughout…More »
31. The Rose and Crown
Food and service should probably be more of a solid 3.5, but this house is such a beautiful space and I love Heritage Square so much, I rounded up to 4. I was a little worried when Rose and Crown first opened. I was going in there to watch the World…More »
32. Tuck Shop
I used to live just up the street from Tuck Shop before it opened and was so bummed out when I moved closer to downtown because we didn't have anything like this so close to our house. We were eager to try it, so we brought a few friends over for a…More »
33. The Roosevelt
The Roosevelt has definitely gone downhill. This used to be a wonderful place downtown-- an escape from the annoying hipsters at Carly's with their stale food and watered down beer. However, it's getting to be about the same here. The food wasn't as…More »
34. Barrio Café
This place is such a delightful treat. Not only is the Barrio Cafe in what some Phoenicians would called the actual barrio, but it's non-descript on the outside and purely magical within. Not terribly difficult you keep your eyes peeled, Barrio Cafe…More »
35. Duck & Decanter
Phoenix, AZ 85016
(602) 274-5429
Categories:
Sandwiches,
Breakfast & Brunch,
Wine Bars
Best sandwich deli in all of Phoenix. A handful of signature sammies, but I prefer to build my own. Adorable space with knick knacks, culinary odds and ends, loose leaf teas, and mmmm cheese. They also have a wine shop for those gearing up for a…More »
36. Matt's Big Breakfast
What's that you say? This is the best breakfast in town? Why I think you're right! Simply put, Matt's does the simple American breakfast and they do it rather well. I go for waffle, eggs, bacon, home fries. BAM. A good morning indeed. Small, cute,…More »
37. The Fry Bread House
Absolute BEST Frybread place in Phoenix. The only frybread I prefer over this place would be the home-made frybread my friends Rocky and Mario would make, so you know I'm not messing around with this, folks. Try their amazing Frybread Tacos, which…More »
38. Sweets & Beats - CLOSED
Maybe I'm completely biased because the people who own this place are friends of mine, but I think I'm being pretty honest. This is a great record and candy store with lots of odds and ends, rarities, and local art. My pal Stacy makes hand puppets…More »
39. Lalibela Ethiopian Cafe
Cafe Lalibela is my absolute favorite Ethiopian resteraunt in the greater Phoenix area. Located in a small shopping plaza near downtown Tempe, this humble little place packs a whole lot of flavor with their authentic Ethiopian fare. I love their…More »
40. Flo's on 7th
A great little thrift store in the Melrose District run by a local charity that helps young women out--easily one of the best with their great selection, low prices, and very sweet and helpful staff. I usually find awesome books and clothes here…More »
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Recently updated lists from Frances L.
Puerto Rico: The Island of Enchantment (6)Highlights from our recent vacation in Puerto Rico. A work in progress: Places we liked in San Juan, Guavate, Fajardo, Las Croabas, and Rio Grande. |
Be Mine, Wine. (32)Wine is for lovers. |
Hollywoodland (86)A list of places in my little chaotic corner of town: the greater Hollywood area. From tourist traps to down-to-earth eateries; theaters to awesome local businesses tucked away in the calmer parts of this busy town. |
In the neighborhood (14)Places in my neighborhood: Franklin Village area. |
Turning Japanese (26)Get your mind out of those gutters! Here's a list of some great Japanese joints-- whether it be sushi, curry, ramen, or even just a good cafe in Little Tokyo-- |
Ramen! (6)Real ramen, not out of a plastic pouch that you can buy for 25cents... |
ROTD (9)I can't even remember what the handful of ROTDs I have had are...so this is currently under construction. |
Music Venues (14)Places around town to catch live performances. |
Forget it Marge, it's Chinatown! (19)Here's a list of some of the places I like to drop into from time to time in Chinatown. (Downtown LA). |
Coffee Crack Addicts United! (65)I'm a picky coffee drinker, so here are some places that have made the cut. From some of the best roasters and baristas to every day stand-bys that get the job done. No burnt grounds or inconsistent latte orders here! (Note: places 3 stars and below may have some inconsistencies and or espresso issues...only 4 & 5 star reviews have my absolute coffee-loving recommendation). |
See all 67 lists »
"Life's too short for bad food."
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4684 Useful, 2526 Funny, and 3714 Cool
Los Angeles, CA
Yelping SinceMay 2007
Things I Lovegreat food, wine, Trappist beers, craft beers, quality service, cheese, adventurous eats, sustainable, organic, local, coffee, specialty stores, books, used bookstores, baked goods, record stores, Fugazi, museums, rarities, and classic Los Angeles.
Find Me Incoffee shops, gastropubs, ethnic eateries, dive bars, near food trucks, etc.
My HometownHollywood, CA
My Blog Or Website When I'm Not Yelping...I'm attempting to blog more often over at http://MakeSpoons.org
Why You Should Read My ReviewsFrom a native Angeleno with a hefty appetite and a (mostly) sensible budget.
My Second Favourite Website The Last Great Book I ReadWild by Cheryl Strayed
My Favourite MovieWoody Allen, Godard, Fellini, Jeunet, Wilder, and more.
My Last Meal On EarthA collaboration by Alice Waters, Thomas Keller, Eric Ripert, and Alice Feiring.
Don't Tell Anyone Else But...I am so behind on "To Review" bookmarks!
Most Recent DiscoveryPuerto Rican food is a lot like Filipino food. Spanish Colonialism FTW.
Current CrushRed: Barbera d'Alba, White: Chenin Blanc (changes often)