Jamie MilneExploring Arizona with Visit Mesa
Arizona- sunshine, heat, chic cacti and DELICIOUS FOOD! A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of traveling down to Mesa, Arizona with Visit Mesa to take part in the Fresh Foodie Trail. Upon arrival, I had no idea what to expect from Mesa, as I had never traveled to Arizona before. However, lets just say that I left with a very FULL heart and stomach.
Exploring Mesa, Arizona on the Fresh Foodie Trail
Mesa is a gateway city to one of the most dynamic regions in the States. From the farm-to-table cuisine to the geographic wonderland- I now understand why they call Mesa “City Limitless”.
In Mesa, we stayed at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Phoenix Mesa, which is a newly renovated 12-story high-rise hotel located in the heart of Downtown Mesa. The Delta was the perfect stay, as it was easy to get around with DETOURS American West.
The food scene in Mesa is truly like no other, as every dish told its own story. Keep reading to see my culinary adventures in Mesa while I embarked on the Fresh Foodie Trail.
Best Places to Eat While in Mesa, Arizona:
Jalapeno Bucks is the perfect combination of BBQ and New Wave Mexican Soul Food. This family-owned restaurant is known for their delectable in-house made salsas and burritos. I also got to try the famous PB & Jelly Brisket Sandwich (which I was definitely was a bit hesitant to try), but let me tell you- it was AMAZING! The tender brisket mixed with the PB & J combo made for one of the best Brisket sandwiches that I have ever had!
Superstition Dairy Farm- Moo Bar & Udder Delights
It’s not everyday that you get to travel to a Dairy Farm surrounded by the most astonishing views of the Superstition Mountains. At Superstition Farms, you get to enjoy homemade ice cream and other dairy delights with views that are absolutely breathtaking. Make sure to try the PUMPKIN Ice Cream at their Moo Bar!
Liberty Market is an urban bistro that has quickly become a popular eating-place in the East Valley of Mesa. The diverse menu at Liberty Market offers everything from wood fired pizza, pancakes to massive cinnamon buns and also features a premium espresso bar. I definitely recommend trying the Cinnamon Bun (it was almost as big as my head)!
Outstanding In the Field Dinner
There are no words to describe the incredible dining experience of Outstanding In the Field Dinner. While this may not be a restaurant in Mesa, this dining experience is one-of-a-kind, as it captures the farm-to-table experience, while eating on a beautiful farm in Mesa.
Another great breakfast spot in Mesa, T.C. Eggingtons knows how to whip up an eggstravagent breakfast while using the freshest ingredients. Known for their gigantic Omelettes, pancakes and waffles. I definitely recommend trying the Red Velvet waffles- they were truly a decadent treat.
Located in Agrotopia, a community on the edge of the rural/urban interface- Joe’s Farm Grill is the family-owned homestead, ranch-style home that has been converted into a 60’s era mid-century modern diner. Joe’s Farm Grill has been featured on Diners, Drive Ins and Dives countless times. All menu items are made with the freshest ingredients that come from Agrotopia’s “urban farm“, which includes serving same-day harvest produce. I recommend trying the Chicken Salad and the Onion Rings– I ate this after doing GOAT Yoga (which I also highly recommend doing when in Arizona).
Toasted Mallow is the place to go when looking for those “viral” food photos and videos. At Toasted Mallow they create the most delicious and colorful marshmallow treats that are made daily from scratch. My favorite treats included the s’mores bowl and marshmallow cookie dough dip!
Phoenix
Exploring The Churchill with Visit Phoenix
The Fresh Foodie Trail continued to the vibrant city of Phoenix. This up and coming city is also home to delicious food, trendy hotels and great nightlife! While in Phoenix with #VisitPhoenix we stayed at the Camby Hotel, which is the luxury lifestyle property by Marriott’s Autograph Collection. I absolutely loved staying at The Camby, as it was in the heart of the city and offered the most spectacular bedroom views of the city.
Cocktails from The Camby Hotel in Phoenix
Where to Eat in Phoenix:
Located just steps from The Camby Hotel, The Gladly is a restaurant in Phoenix that is known for their class craft beverage program, which offers over 200 whiskies that pair perfectly with their comfort food menu. Not only is the Gladly known for its sophisticated cocktails, but they are also known for their famous chopped salad. This salad was definitely an unforgettable dish and is also the only item on the menu that doesn’t have a description, but rather has a link to its OWN Facebook page; with over 3,000 followers since it’s that well-known.
The Churchill is a new micro marketplace built out of old shipping containers and is downtown Phoenix’s hottest project. The concept is made up of local restaurants, bars, and stores, which creates a community-driven mantra and attitude. Definitely make sure to go to Provecho in the Churchill, which is brings an authentic Central Mexican experience. Make sure to try their traditional Horchata, which is served Mexican style (in a plastic bag with a straw)!
This high-tea experience was truly like no other! The Camby’s Tipsy Tea party was a great time full of specialty cocktails served in teapots and teatime treats from the prix-fixe menu. Also, don’t underestimate the size of the cocktails in the teapots- they are STRONG and very delicious too!
Thank you Visit Mesa and Visit Phoenix for the opportunity to explore the Fresh Foodie Trail in Arizona! I will definitely will be back soon!