Sips and Grub | Pork Sandwich at Honey Bear’s BBQ
3/09/10 • by Kenny BumpSlightly spicy with just the right depth of flavor, this is some seriously good barbecue.
DPJ Blogs
Suns Spot | The First-Ever Sunsies(full article)
3/04/10
With the 82nd annual Academy Awards just a few days away, I decided to give out the Sunsies for the Phoenix Suns’ season thus far.
From the Arizona Room | 203 W. Adams St. — Orpheum Theatre(full article)
3/03/10
It is hard to believe a world-class venue like the Orpheum Theatre nearly fell out of favor with Phoenicians.
Sips and Grub | Patio Taco at Mi Patio(full article)
3/02/10
Talk about a beast. When it arrived, I mistook it for a burrito. And, I am talking a Chipotle-eat-your-heart-out size burrito.
City Dwelling | Windsor Square Historic Home Tour(full article)
3/01/10
This coming Sunday, March 7, the historic home tour caravan moves to Uptown, for a glimpse of what life is like in Windsor Square.
Suns Spot | Biggest Win of the Year(full article)
2/25/10
This week, the Suns did something they’ve rarely done in the past five-plus years: Win a game without two-time MVP point guard Steve Nash.
From the Arizona Room | 1210 N. 5th Ave. — Kenilworth School(full article)
2/24/10
Remarkably, the Kenilworth School is in fantastic condition and still operating as it was in 1920, despite 90 years of children running through its halls.
Sips and Grub | Velvet and Lemon Angel Food Cake with Blackberry Glaze at Lux(full article)
2/23/10
On this trip, Lux outdid itself. The velvet is arguably my favorite mocha in town. And the angel food cake — by calling it “good” or even “great” would be a slap in its face.
City Dwelling | Undiscovered Coronado: The Brentwood Historic Home Tour(full article)
2/22/10
The Brentwood Historic District, which is part of the Greater Coronado Neighborhood Association, will be holding its first-ever home tour on Sunday, February 28.
Suns Spot | STAT Leaving Town Could Change Phoenix as We Know It(full article)
2/18/10
I was all set to write about what may happen in the city of Phoenix if STAT leaves town. After much eternal debate, I’ve decided to write that blog anyway.
From the Arizona Room | 139 N. 6th St. — The Rosson House(full article)
2/17/10
Built in 1895, the Rosson House is one of Phoenix’s original homes, and it is one of the only remaining examples of a brief Victorian architectural influence in town.
Sips and Grub | Lo-Lo’s Chicken and Waffles(full article)
2/16/10
Once I set foot inside of Lo-Lo’s, I was instantaneously back in the Deep South. The smell of grease clung to my lungs as I lofted my nose in the air to embrace the aroma.
City Dwelling | Living in 85007(full article)
2/15/10
The portion of Downtown Phoenix that the U.S. Postal Service considers the 85007 ZIP code is diverse to the max, to say the least.
A Whole Lotta Love for Downtown(full article)
2/12/10
Happy Valentine’s Day! We’re showing our love for Downtown Phoenix by sharing our 14 favorite places and experiences.
Suns Spot | A Few Things to Look Forward to After the Break(full article)
2/11/10
As the Suns prepare for a break from NBA action, ‘Suns Spot’ decided to take a look at what we expect to see happen over the last few months of the NBA season.
From the Arizona Room | E.L. Fresnal Grocery Store — 314 E. Buchanan St.(full article)
2/10/10
Back in the 1890s, the E.L. Fresnal Grocery was one of Phoenix’s impressive and well-lauded commercial buildings.
Sips and Grub | Adovada Ribs at Los Dos Molinos(full article)
2/09/10
These country-style pork ribs were some of the softest I have ever had. Literally, they cut like butter.
City Dwelling | The 2010 Willo Home Tour(full article)
2/08/10
The 22nd annual Willo Historic District Home Tour & Street Fair will take place this year on Valentine’s Day, Sunday, February 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Insecure Critic | Gay Rights and Light Rail are My Guilty Pleasures(full article)
2/05/10
I have somehow figured out how to live out a few guilty intellectual pleasures while maintaining my sanity, and getting to Downtown without the need to drive through the First Friday hullabaloo.
Suns Spot | One-on-One with El Dragón(full article)
2/04/10
DPJ caught up with Suns guard Goran Dragic after practice, and he was beaming with positivity before heading out on the Suns’ current road trip.
From the Arizona Room | 618 N. 5th Ave. — Fifth Ave Court(full article)
2/03/10
Sitting on the patio at Cibo, you may have noticed a quaint little stuccoed apartment complex directly across 5th Avenue.
Sips and Grub | Feztini at FEZ(full article)
2/02/10
I just quelled any anxiety about the Feztini by reminding myself that James Bond enjoyed several martinis in his day.
City Dwelling | Movin’ on Up(full article)
2/01/10
One of the overlooked aspects of the recent home buyer’s tax credits approved by Congress is the credit that is available for the move-up or repeat home buyer.
The Insecure Critic | How an iPhone is Like Portland(full article)
1/29/10
The goal of a thriving Downtown in Phoenix should be to make our town an iPhone.
Suns Spot | Should He Stay or Should He Go?(full article)
1/28/10
If I had to guess now, I’d say the Suns will move Stoudemire before the February 18th trade deadline. Is this what I want? Not really.
From the Arizona Room | 409 W. Jackson St — The Icehouse(full article)
1/27/10
If you’ve ever stepped foot in the Icehouse, you know it’s a relic from the Phoenix of old.
Sips and Grub | The Wild Thaiger at Wild Thaiger(full article)
1/26/10
Considering that The Wild Thaiger seems to think highly enough of a drink to christen itself the same name, my palate felt certain to be riveted.
#CenPhoCamp Feedback(full article)
1/25/10
DPJ is encouraging those that attended CenPhoCamp to tweet their thoughts on the event. We’ll post the responses here, in hopes that the discussions continue and connections are furthered.
The Insecure Critic | Why I Love Streets(full article)
1/22/10
I used to think that what made the city special was the convenience of walking. One of the biggest distinctions between Downtown and the suburbs is the way you drive in them.
Suns Spot | Relax, Planet Orange(full article)
1/21/10
I’m just trying to say, relax, Planet Orange. We’re going to be just fine.
From the Arizona Room | 114 W. Adams St. — Orpheum Lofts(full article)
1/20/10
The Orpheum Lofts building was once the largest office building in the state. Despite much change, its Art Deco influence remains strong.
In Case You Missed it: Downtown Voices Visioning Conference Speech(full article)
1/19/10
The truth is, we represent people who aren’t moving toward the next buck or the next city, to which it’s more important to raise living values than financial values.
Sips and Grub | Mindy’s Mac ‘n Cheese and The Main Ale at The Main Ingredient Ale House(full article)
1/19/10
I realize it sounds odd to order a seemingly childish dish, but after eating this melty, cheesy bowl of amazingness, this entrée should be at the top of your list every time you go.
The Insecure Critic | Why I Like the ‘Other’ Downtown(full article)
1/15/10
I’ve seen the grungy, amazing soul of what a Downtown arts community is supposed to look like. It is in the double-digit avenues, and it is awesome.
Suns Spot | Suns Hit the Road, You Hit the Bars(full article)
1/14/10
The Suns are on the road for a few games, so Suns Spot decided to take a look at spots around Downtown Phoenix where Suns fans can still enjoy the away games.
From the Arizona Room | 407 E. Roosevelt Street — Modified Arts(full article)
1/13/10
There is a lot of history in the tiny gallery space at 407 E. Roosevelt St. that is now Modified Arts. In fact, the structure is celebrating its 90th birthday in 2010.
Sips and Grub | Roasted Chicken Sandwich at Coronado Café(full article)
1/12/10
Upon setting foot inside this quaint cottage, you can sense the vibe they are going for — a down-home, in-your-neighborhood feel with an expansive menu.
The Insecure Critic | Phoenix is Home Now(full article)
1/08/10
When I first moved to Phoenix, I never saw the move as something permanent. I expected to stay here for a few years, then move on. Something has kept me here, though.
Suns Spot | Trade Season is Upon Us(full article)
1/07/10
With the NBA trade deadline just around the corner, Suns Spot has decided to take a look at what moves, if any, the Phoenix Suns should make.
From the Arizona Room | 4th Avenue Concrete Block Cottage(full article)
1/06/10
Simply known as “Concrete Block Cottage,” this c. 1906 structure was once half of a pair of nearly identical cottages.
Sips and Grub | Carly Q at Carly’s(full article)
1/05/10
Brace yourself, but I have been to Carly’s before. OK, I’ve been there a lot.
2009: Downtown Phoenix Grew Up a Bit(full article)
1/04/10
With so much progress in a year (let alone during the big bad recession), it’s encouraging to see what’s happening in our city.
Suns Spot | A Nice Way to End the Decade(full article)
12/31/09
After a rough first 27 days of December in which the Suns let some games get away, Phoenix finished the month off with two of its most impressive wins of the season.
Sips and Grub | Harira Soup at Luci’s Healthy Marketplace(full article)
12/29/09
A place like Luci’s is definitely in the far reaches of Uptown, but we can make an exception due to the delicious cuisine and friendly service.
See Ya, Mini Ts(full article)
12/28/09
Miniature Tigers, a fixture in the Downtown Phoenix music scene, are moving to Brooklyn, and they’ll have one final show at the Trunk Space on Tuesday, December 29.
Suns Spot | LB, Oh How We Miss Thee(full article)
12/24/09
When Leandro Barbosa is healthy he gives the Suns a whole other element. With him on the bench, the second string has a lot more firepower to work with.
Things are Open Christmas Eve!(full article)
12/23/09
Are you gonna be Downtown on Christmas Eve? Not everything will be boarded up for the holidays.
Sips and Grub | White Chocolate Mocha and Cinnamon Coffee Cake at Lola Coffee (Roosevelt)(full article)
12/22/09
I have occasionally had wild, vivid dreams about the baked goods at Lola Coffee. I have never tried a pastry that has not been like a party in my mouth.
The Bearded Truth | It’s Our Town, Slow Down(full article)
12/21/09
Many of the streets in Downtown Phoenix are residential roads because (newsflash) people live in Downtown Phoenix.
Suns Spot | A New Hope(full article)
12/17/09
The evil, hated, dirty, flopping, no good, trouble-causing, Empire was back. On this night, though, the dark side fell victim to the light speed attack of the Rebel Alliance.
Sips and Grub | Strawberry Italian Soda at Copper Star Coffee(full article)
12/15/09
I’m always game for finding new places. When a buddy and I walked up to Copper Star, I could tell this was my kind of coffee shop.
The Bearded Truth | The Art of Phoenix(full article)
12/14/09
In the spirit of continually making Phoenix more amazing, I suggest to you that supporting local artistic endeavors should be at the top of your holiday shopping list.
Suns Spot | Second Annual @PhoenixSuns Tweet-Up(full article)
12/10/09
Next Tuesday, December 15, the Phoenix Suns will be hosting their second annual @Phoenix Suns Tweet-Up as they face the San Antonio Spurs at US Airways Center.
Jimmy Eat World’s Not at All Secret Show(full article)
12/10/09
For a “secret” show, it sure was let out of the bag. But, Jimmy Eat World brought us a memorable kiss-off to the current Modified Arts anyway.
Sips and Grub | $3 Burger Night at Maizie’s Café & Bistro(full article)
12/08/09
Tucked away under Landmark Tower resides Maizie’s Café & Bistro, a unique bistro that knows how to attract the hungry — offer delicious burgers for $3 from 4-close on Mondays.
The Bearded Truth | ASU as a Partner(full article)
12/07/09
The once-lifeless capital city of Arizona has taken on a new look and feel recently, complete with a bustling Arizona State University campus in the heart of Downtown.
Coffeetown, Arizona?(full article)
12/04/09
We’re no Seattle (or New York, or Chicago or Portland), but it’s no secret that Downtown Phoenix is supporting a decidedly growing coffee culture.
Suns Spot | How Will the Suns Handle Adversity?(full article)
12/03/09
The Suns needed some adversity. All teams face it. The good ones overcome it. Now the Suns have their chance.
Sips and Grub | The Metro Burger at Portland’s(full article)
12/01/09
Portland’s rests unassumingly on the corner of Portland Street and Central Avenue. You might drive right past it, but you would be missing out.
Arpaio at ASU: What Just Happened?(full article)
12/01/09
You’ve probably seen it on the news or the Twittersphere, which was blowing up with #ArpaioASU hashtags for most of the evening and into the next morning.
Suns Spot | Three Things Suns Fans Have to be Thankful for(full article)
11/26/09
Suns fans have lots to be thankful for this holiday season, and it’s no wonder why their team currently sits atop the NBA with a 12-3 record.
Sips and Grub | Tuna Salad Sandwich at Urban Grocery and Wine Bar(full article)
11/24/09
I could make this sandwich, and a tuna salad sandwich can be found elsewhere, but the one at the Urban Grocery and Wine Bar has its own specialness about it.
How I Became a Wine Snob at the Arizona Wine Growers Festival(full article)
11/23/09
I’m learning to appreciate wine. Events like the Arizona Wine Growers Festival at the Farm are helping me reach that goal.
The Bearded Truth | Size Does Matter(full article)
11/23/09
In Phoenix, city councilors are responsible for a flock of nearly 200,000 people — many times made up of dozens of smaller communities with uniquely individual needs.
The Insecure Critic | ‘McLibel’ Burrito Revolution(full article)
11/20/09
Stop by Revõ Burrito one of these nights, and odds are you will see me there enjoying a veggie combo.
Suns Spot | First Ones to 10(full article)
11/19/09
Five times this year the Suns have won games after overcoming double-digit deficits. Last year, they did this a total of seven times over the 82-game season.
Sips and Grub | The Buffalo ‘66 at That’s a Wrap(full article)
11/17/09
I’m a firm believer in the fact that every town needs a place that is cooler than most of its patrons. Phoenix can find that in That’s a Wrap.
You Me and Apollo Heading Down the Train Tracks(full article)
11/16/09
You Me and Apollo, one of Phoenix’s up-and-coming singer/songwriters, will be performing on the Train Tracks on Tuesday, November 17 at 5 p.m.
The Insecure Critic | A Commercial For Anti-Commercialism with a French Press(full article)
11/13/09
Just as the annoying holiday commercials start coming on the air, I can’t recommend What Would Jesus Buy strongly enough.
A Quick Glimpse of Greenbuild 2009(full article)
11/13/09
We walked till our feet were sore. We collected so many soy-based-ink pamphlets our swag bags were overflowing. That’s just day one of Greenbuild 2009.
Suns Spot | Road Warriors(full article)
11/12/09
There’s no doubt in my mind that if the Suns continue to play with the effort that they have been, they can take the Lakers.
Get Out and Be Green(full article)
11/11/09
I urge everyone Downtown this week to go out and support all of the excellent initiatives taking place. It’s an exciting time to be in Downtown Phoenix, and it’s the right time to do something about the way you live.
Sips and Grub | The Chop & Chick at Matt’s Big Breakfast(full article)
11/10/09
After waiting in a seemingly endless line at Matt’s Big Breakfast, I was quick to settle on the Chop & Chick, a succulent pork-and-egg combo plate.
The Bearded Truth | Leadership vs. Management(full article)
11/09/09
Let’s allow our city manager to manage, and hold our elected leadership accountable for the future of Phoenix.
Conventional Wisdom | Greenbuild Expo(full article)
11/09/09
The USGBC Greenbuild International Conference and Expo is in town November 11-13. DPJ offers helpful leisurely suggestions to enjoy your time in Downtown Phoenix.
Suns Spot | 4-1, Not too Shabby(full article)
11/05/09
As a Suns fan, I can’t complain about being 4-1 at this point in the season. There are a lot of positives to look at early in the season.
Sips and Grub | Pitcher of PBR at the Bikini Lounge(full article)
11/03/09
I order the first thing that comes to mind: a pitcher of Pabst Blue Ribbon. Sure, you may scoff at the notion, but in this blogger’s humble opinion, Pabst is the best beer for your buck.
The Bearded Truth | Oh Captain, My Captain(full article)
11/02/09
We have an outstanding portfolio of visual and performing artists in the Phoenix area, but I think it’s time for a writing renaissance in the Valley.
The Insecure Critic | ‘Zombieland’ Warning: Hanny’s Drinks Required(full article)
10/30/09
If you see only one movie while drunk this year, may I recommend ‘Zombieland,’ the almost unbearably bad horror-comedy starring Woody Harrelson.
Suns Spot | Clearly, Steve Nash is Too Old(full article)
10/29/09
Steve Nash is clearly too old and lost a step. In the Suns’ season opener against the Clippers on Wednesday night, he scored 15 of his 24 points in the fourth quarter to rally the Suns to a victory.
Mayor Gordon’s Blog | Taste of Downtown(full article)
10/28/09
Great news! We are gearing up for our annual Taste of Downtown event in Downtown Phoenix.
Sips and Grub | The Camparita at PastaBAR(full article)
10/27/09
The blend of citrus in the Camparita is heavenly and seems to project my imagination toward an island getaway.
The Insecure Critic | A Place Where the Cashews are ‘Paranormal’(full article)
10/23/09
Twitter has been all, well, a-twitter about the new DIY-style horror flick ‘Paranormal Activity,’ so I thought I would check it out. The remodeled, revamped Nine|05 was the perfect food pairing.
Conventional Wisdom | Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists and Best Western North American Convention(full article)
10/22/09
The Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists and Best Western North American conventions are in town, and let DPJ be the first to welcome you all to the neighborhood!
Suns Spot | 2009-2010 Suns Season Preview(full article)
10/22/09
As the new season of Phoenix Suns season rapidly approaches, I feel it’s only fitting to give my prediction on where I expect the Suns to finish out West this year.
Sips and Grub | Carne Asada Tacos at America’s Taco Shop(full article)
10/20/09
America’s Taco Shop claims to have the best carne asada in the Valley. Those are some big words for a little cantina-looking place, but I felt it needed to be addressed via my palate.
‘Capitalism’ is a Sad Love Story with a Disquieting Ending(full article)
10/16/09
Michael Moore’s ‘Capitalism: A Love Story’ is a biting polemic that bounces back and forth between storytelling and bloviating, but it forces the viewer to take an honest look at the system that we have come to call capitalism.
Blog Action Day: ASU is Conserving Water Downtown(full article)
10/15/09
October 15 is Blog Action Day, and this year’s topic, climate change, got me thinking of how Downtown Phoenix is trying to make a difference.
This is Your Call to Action, Suns Fans(full article)
10/15/09
As fans, we complain when players only show up half the time. We demand better of them, but shouldn’t we also demand better of ourselves?
Exploring Outside of Arizona’s Ultimate Women’s Expo(full article)
10/14/09
Please allow DPJ to be your guide to the Downtown Phoenix area during Arizona’s Ultimate Women’s Expo.
Sips and Grub | The Fire Island at Local Breeze(full article)
10/13/09
Perhaps what Phoenix needs is an epic menu item that could be talked about around campfires and whispered in school halls.
“Downtown is Ovah!”(full article)
10/11/09
A recent blog declaring Downtown Phoenix’s music scene dead (or “ovah”), has given former Format member and local merchandise guru Sam Means an opportunity to gather community support.
The Insecure Critic | Losing My ‘Religulous’ at St. Francis(full article)
10/09/09
What better way to reflect on ‘Religulous’ than our very own holy-sounding St. Francis, Aaron Chamberlin’s creation on Camelback Road just east of Central.
Rumor Has it…(full article)
10/09/09
A little birdy told DPJ a rumor that the historic Gold Spot building on 3rd Avenue and Roosevelt Street is about to secure two new tenants.
Sips and Grub | Postino’s Bruschetta(full article)
10/06/09
I had heard tale that a fine little establishment existed just up the road from Central and Camelback, dishing out some famous bruschetta and pouring fine wine late into the evening.
The Bearded Truth | The Locavore Lifestyle(full article)
10/05/09
I try as hard as I can to partake in the locavore lifestyle. However, I find that sometimes a green life requires that other type of green.
Mayor Gordon’s Blog | Public Housing Goes Green(full article)
9/30/09
Hard work is paying off — $3.4 million to be exact. The city was just notified, once again, that the Housing Department was awarded a competitive ARRA grant.
Sips and Grub | The Lynwood Palmer at SideBar(full article)
9/29/09
I had heard of a cool bar that is tucked away at 7th Avenue and McDowell. I suppose SideBar is my diamond in the rough, and that gives it a huge lead on every other place. Now I just have to find it again.
Thoughts on Modified Arts(full article)
9/28/09
By now most have heard the news that broke yesterday that Kimber Lanning is stepping down from her helm at Modified Arts, and the indie music that is oh so loved here is going with her.
The Insecure Critic | ‘The Informant!’ a.k.a. How I Survived the Clarendon Parking Lot(full article)
9/25/09
‘The Informant’ is an intriguing and well-executed period piece, while Gallo Blanco Café offers the best brunch for your money in Phoenix.
