When in Phoenix

Just back from Arizona and the conclusion of our big trial and tribulation. One of the only redeeming factors about the stress, agony, and 20 hour workdays that come with long court cases in far off places is the opportunity to explore a new city's food scene. Because really, and perhaps a little sadly, when all you're doing is shuttling from work to bed and back again, food becomes the highlight of your day.

As suburban-centric as Phoenix is, there are some fabulous food spots (gasp) close to downtown. Here are some of our favorites that made repeat appearances in the mealtime rotation:
Switch
2603 N Central Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85004 (602) 264-2295

All the food here is rich and delish, good comfort food for us road weary attorneys. Think ham & gouda crepes and chicken pot pie galletes. Cool modern atmosphere so we didn't feel embarassed taking our expert witnesses there. Try the happy hour (3-6pm) for $3 vodka-spiked Italian soda spritzers. Just the thing on a 110-degree day. Eesh.

Fez
3815 N Central Ave # B
Phoenix, AZ 85012
(602) 287-8700

Mediterranean / Morrocan meets EZ's. Apparently the same owners as Switch, and it shows. A perfect pickmeup was the cinnamon dusted sweet potato fries with a pomegranate cabernet. Also enjoyed the fez salad on more than one occasion.

The Wild Thaiger
2631 N Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Lame name, I know, but they surprised us good. I could not get over the fresh lemon basil in the grapao - I had to fend off all the neighboring forks that kept darting over into my plate.

Barrio Cafe
2814 N. 16th St.
Phoenix, AZ 85006

I saved the best for last - Comida Chingona!! We celebrated the end of our first week of trial with two pitchers of Barrio Cafe's special margaritas. What an intimate, artsy, sexy little place, perfect for a first date. I was shocked by the prices until I tasted the food. Now those were some $20 enchiladas.

Until next time, Buen Provecho!