Phoenix Street Eats: Food Truck Festival

  This past weekend (January 25-26, 2014) Phoenix New Times hosted one of the year’s first largest food truck festivals at Salt River Fields of Talking Stick Resort and Casino. With over 50+ food trucks in attendance, live music, games, and perfect weather, this was a great event that you hopefully didn't miss out on.

Inside the Chedda Truck

  During this weekend, Dishing It Out had a wonderful opportunity to help the one and only Chedda Truck at the event. This was a unique experience into the food truck world and gave me a new perspective about food trucking functions. I was able to see firsthand how fast placed the kitchen must work to ensure all the food is being made to customer satisfaction. I saw how the wonderful burgers are made to order. I also realized how communication between all the staff plays a large role in functionality. To the Chedda Truck and all other food trucks, I really respect all of you as you have such a small space to work with, yet you are always dishing out wonderful works of edible art.

  As for me, this was really different from working in my kitchen at home. I found myself making a huge mess of food as I tried to prepare the Chedda Tots to go out. Pouring the dipping source into the dip cups also wasn't that easy in the mobile kitchen.  Another huge challenge for me was the fact that all this food was in front of my face and I became extremely hungry as more food passed by me.

  But, after my work was done, I was able to go explore all the other trucks meet new people with similar food passions and eat until I felt like exploding. With over 50 trucks all serving something different, I decided to just try as many as I could. And if day one wasn't enough, I returned on Sunday to continue my exploration. Sadly, I was unable to try everything I wanted since my stomach can only handle so much.  Then, there were several cooking sessions going on and even food eating competitions and friendly cook-offs between trucks.

  Aside from food, the live music was a great addition to the festival, and fun zone for kids looked like a blast. Then the VIP section featured a live DJ a covered dance area, and lots of drinks and tables. Overall, this event was a great way to kick of 2014 and I look forward to many more like it. If you want to see pictures visit out Instagram @dished_out or our good friends @FOODTRUCKSAZ.

Chedda Tots: Chedda Truck

Phx Street Eats 2014

Phx Street Eats 2014

Philly Cheese Steak: Big Boy Sandwhiches

Hey, Give me Some of Your Tots: The Chedda Truck

The Chedda Truck

Food trucks are among one of the most unique forms of dinning there is.  And the truck owners are some of the hardest working people in the food industry. They have to drive, cook, clean, and entertain all at the same time. One prime example is Nick Watts, owner and chef of the Chedda Truck. Nick Watts is a very humble and creative food trucker who opened up his Chedda Truck in October of 2013. Since then, he has started to generate a lot of interest around the east valley and people have come miles around just to eat a burger and some tots. But these are not just any burger or tots….

The "Kill Me Softly" Burger

So what makes the Chedda Truck so unique? It’s the fact that all of Nick’s burgers are inspired by something or someone from his life. With this inspiration, he has been able to create a genuine artist’s burger. Such burgers as his, Kill Me Softly, or The Green Mile. The Kill Me Softly burger is one of the most interesting burgers I have ever eaten and is one I would definitely never get tired of. It has bacon, blue cheese, arugula, cranberry gastrique, a perfect patty, and it is all between a warm Krispy Kreme donut! For many, this could seem offsetting but in reality this burger is definitely a true food lover’s paradise. Nick didn’t just mix random toppings together and call it good, but he actually took the time to create this burger and make sure the flavors would go together and still represent who he is. Now for me to describe this taste is very hard, as so many descriptions come through my mind, but none seem to do it justice. But in an attempt I will try to describe that the strong blue cheese mixed with the sweet Krispy Kreme donut match so perfectly together. And the cranberry gastrique and arugula just top it off.

Then there is The Green Mile filled with Mac-N-Cheese, roasted peppers, bacon, and whole grain mustard. This burger has also topped the charts for creativity and taste. Even the Mac-N-Cheese is enough to make you want more. The next in line is the Silly Round Eye topped with local pastrami, kimchi, Swiss, and Russian tarragon dressing.  Which this burger has really been interesting being my first burger filled with kimchi. But, if still not sold on trying something new and just want a regular burger and fries then he has that too.

Aside from burgers, Nick has a special side dish which he home makes straight from the truck. The Chedda Tots, are truck made tater tots with cheese served with chipotle crème cheese dipping sauce. Then to wash everything down  glass bottled sodas which are the perfect truck refreshment.

The Chedda Truck is definitely hashtag worthy and I can’t wait to go back again and try his other creations. For creativity, taste, and being a cool guy, Nick and his Chedda Truck get a #YES.

The Green Mile

Silly Round Eye 

Take That to the Bank: Pizza That is

Just on the outskirts of Downtown Phoenix right off Central Avenue stands the old First Federal Bank building originally built in the 1950s. Since then however, the bank has changed to a different kind of doe management and is now a modern yet comforting pizza restaurant which fits perfectly for the Phoenix night life. Specializing in wood fired pizzas and their wide drink selection, Federal Pizza is defiantly #hashtag worthy.

Federal Pizza in Downtown Phoenix

  Federal Pizza is not like any other wood fired pizza joint, this joint makes some classic pizzas with that perfect modern flavor. Federal’s Master Baker MJ Coe can pan out a simple yet unmatchable pepperoni pizza or if you’re a real foodie then you will notice the large variety of toppings and the strange combinations that make Federal Pizza what it is today. There is the Brussels Sprout Pizza which of course has Brussels sprouts, in addition to pancetta, manchego, wonderfully roasted garlic, and some lemon zest. Then for a more subtle yet savory pizza, there is Federal Pizza’s Manifesto, which includes mushrooms, Schreiner’s sausage, red sauce, goat cheese, and fennel. Another modern pizza includes Federal’s white sauced Margherita pizza which is very simples yet its flavors go a long way. The Margherita includes house mozz, roasted tomato, basil, and some extra virgin olive oil. Then the last one worth noting (at least so far, I will go back to try the rest soon) is the Casanova. The Casanova includes prosciutto, dates, ricotta, arugula, and pecorino. This pizza really sets the bar that wood fired taste.

  Yet, what’s a restaurant without warming appetizers and a great drink to go along with it all. The Mister Mister is a blend of house mozz, baby artichokes, baby suchini, sweet potatoes, green goddess and romesco. Then to satisfy your thirst, you can order some fresh soothing iced tea or some very modern wine coolers. There is the Strawberry Rhubarb, Mango Basil, and one that is very different but seeming hard to put down is the Grapefruit Ginger.

This #hashtag worthy restaurant is defiantly something worth returning two any time of the year. The staffs are amazing, the pizza is baked to perfection, and the drinks are all perfect to help wash it down. Which all of this combined earns Federal Pizza a #YES for both #food and #drinks.

ZinBurger: at the Biltmore

Fox Restaurant Concepts is a company specializing in creating a unique dining experience for the many walks of life. FRC is known for Culinary Dropouts, Wildflower American Cuisine, and of course, Zinburger Wine and Burger Bar.

Zinburger is located in Tucson, Phoenix, and coming soon to Gilbert. Zinburger of Phoenix is located in the Biltmore shopping center off of Camelback Road and 24^th street.  This area of town offers many shopping choices and restaurants epically during the cooler seasons. However, Zinburger stand first in line for places to eat at the Biltmore. As you first drive up, you feel like a VIP with their free valet parking. Then, you walk into Zinburger and are greeted by some of the most friendly and knowledge staff imaginable. You are given your choice of indoor, outdoor, and/or bar seating. During the few cool month of Arizona, the outdoor patios are the best way to go, especially if you would like to watch the game on TV.

As you began looking over the menu, you’ll find several choices of burgers which will make any burger addict (such as myself) want to try them all! This is exactly what I have done for you. I have honorably sacrificed myself to be your taste tester of burgers. However if you do have trouble deciding or have any questions about the meal, all the staff are very well able to answer any of your questions. The Zin-Staff won’t pull the old, “I’m not really sure what that is, let me go find out.” Nope, here, the staff know just about everything in regards to the food and wine.

Breakfast Burger

As for my decision, I jumped straight to the house burger correctly named the Zinburger. Priced only at $10 you cannot go wrong with this perfectly constructed work of art. The Zinburger is layered with Manchego Cheese, Zinfandel Braised Onions, and a complimenting layer of Mayonnaise. Then to take it up a notch, you have the choice of substituting the patty for a Kobe beef patty. If that’s not enough to get you craving the burger then, you can add additional toppings such as bacon, a fried egg, or chipotle mayo.

However, the Zinburger is almost impossible to fully describe and my description will defiantly fall short of its true glory. Needless to say, I will attempt to explain that the Zinburger is one of the best cooked and well-made burgers I have ever had. The beef patty is of amazing quality, the cheese is not just a cheap alternative (like from other burger places) but actually possess flavoring. And the mayonnaise is spread just thick enough so you won’t regret eating it. Then all of this is served inside a warm and toasted bun, which doesn’t ever get soggy nor does it crumble apart. Yet, what is a burger without its sides? At Zinburger you can order hand cut fries (including sweet potato, and double truffle fries), Coleslaw, and my personal favorite, Zucchini Fires.

Now I know that description was really week, but this is a burger that you need to try and I guarantee you will not be disappointed. This burger really is the Zin of the Burger World. Needless to say, this rightfully earns a Hashtag of #YES

Arcadia Tavern: Sports and Food

Arcadia Tavern is located in Phoenix, near the Arcadia District and backed by the Camel Back Mountain. During the cooler seasons of Arizona, you will often find the main entrance lined up with bicycles adding to the booming local business look. There is also an outdoor patio which wraps around during the nicer times of year. Once you walk in, it is clear that this sports restaurant is a great local community supporter; they hang local children’s jerseys from the ceilings. Arcadia Tavern also offers a gaming station equipped with the Wii and Xbox gaming systems. The walls are lined with large plasma screen TVs and a there is picnic style seating for large groups.

As with any locally operated restaurant, the staff are friendly and always ensure the customers are satisfied. Arcadia Tavern also offers a upbeat bar where you can sit down at a butcher block styled bar top and relax as you watch the game.

Tavern Burger

Now aside from all the glitz and glamour of a sports bar, the menu is actually very diverse. Chef Rob can cook up anything from hot pizzas, American sandwiches, ribs, steak and so much more. However, I came across this restaurant because of the almighty American burger. Arcadia Tavern showcases their house burger known as the “Tavern Burger”. First, the Tavern Burger is compiled of two 1/4lb patties combined with a layer of cheddar and jack chess in the middle. The patties are then crimped together making a hot cheesy pocket. Then the burger is topped with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and pickles all inside a toasty artisan bun. Along with the burger come the sides. You can choose from crispy fries, tots or sweet potato tots, onion rings, spicy cottage cheese and more. This burger is definitely hashtag worthy.

The overall experience of visiting Arcadia Tavern makes for a great night out that would meet the needs of any person rather that be a sports bar, or a great local restaurant with a diverse menu. And the best part is, though Arcadia Tavern carries the name Arcadia (which can often been misleading for expensive) it extremely fair price to pay for such a great meal.

Hashtag Consensus: #yes

Jeff Flancer: Owner and Founder of Flancer's Café

Flancer’s Café originally opened up in 2000 through the determination of the owner and founder Jeff Flancer. Jeff has been across America and has since set his home in the Valley along with his wonderful food.  Growing up, Jeff was unsure of what he wanted to do for his career until one day he came to the realization that he has a passion for making creative good tasting food. He was soon then accepted into the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York where he advanced his skills and knowledge as a chef. Once he graduated he was able to find work in fine restaurants in the Baltimore area and later, Los Angeles. However, his passion for food was much deeper than fine dining. During an interview with Jeff, he said he realized he enjoyed cooking for more everyday people of the community as they were very appreciative of his cooking. He also realized that owning his own restaurant was fun for him and it gave him the freedom to be with his family and kids as they grow up. Which to him was something being a chef for a fine restaurant can keep you from. And with that philosophy he moved to New Mexico where he opened up a restaurant which he operated for nearly a decade. Then in 2000 he happily moved to the Phoenix area where he opened up the first beloved Flancer’s Café in the heart of Gilbert.

The "Steak it to the Limit" Philly Cheese Steak

While in Gilbert, Jeff was able to figure out what the market was missing and design a menu that would make anyone’s taste buds jump for joy. However Jeff knew it wasn’t all about taste, but quality too. Every day they bake fresh homemade bread. The chicken marinates for hours to ensure perfect saturation. The pizzas are hand crafted and baked fresh to order. And the seasonal drinks are always perfect for sharing a meal with friends and family. While dining at Flancer’s you will also notice the Southwestern influences in the food which suit Arizona’s culture well. They have green chile mayonnaise, prickly pear lemonade, prickly pear marinated chicken, and other SW dishes. It is restaurants like this that represent the real meaning of good cooking and casual dining.

Ben (left) and Myke (right)

Along with great food, a restaurant also needs a great wait staff. Every trip to Flancer’s is filled with genuine greetings, smiles, and they always make sure your satisfied with you visit. Growing up in Gilbert meant Flancer’s was a major part in my life. The staff is part of the reason why I urge people to go to Flancer’s (in addition to the food of course). I remember as a kid Myke , Ben, Ashley, and Eric were always great to me and my family. And even now 12 years later, Myke and Ben (with a combined 6,000+ shift worked) still remember me and treat me like an old friend. During high school, I brought my first real date in for Flancer’s where Myke and Ben dished out some of their own funds to make sure my date and I didn't leave hungry. The staff combined with the wonderful food really make Flancer’s what it is today.

Throughout the years, as the restaurant grew so did the culture. Jeff started a pizza eating contest years ago and it has now grown into a large charity event which Flancer’s uses the funds to help with wounded veterans as well other local charities. The event is also sponsored by many local businesses which offer contest goers a chance to win many different raffle prizes. In the most recent contest a man named Gus managed to eat 18 slices of Flancer’s pizza and went home with a $500 cash prize! Gus was also able to take a picture holding his large prize check next to Miss Arizona and the Flancer’s Goat. Flancer’s also host beer pairings, and a charity desert making contest.

Jeff Flancer and his restaurant along with the staff are a large part of Gilbert and Mesa (their newest location). Thanks to their hard work and outgoing personalities they have brought high quality and delicious food to a community of many walks of life. And I would personal like to thank Jeff and the staff at Flancer’s for their continued efforts to making sure each dining experience is perfect, and for the opportunity to get to know more about the creation of Flancer’s Café. And I hope you will stop in soon to see what they can Dish Out for you.

And as always, follow us on Twitter @dishingoutaz

Like our Facebook page: facbook.com/dishingoutaz

And follow our journey on Instagram @dished_out

About Us

What We Do:

Dishing It Out is a food blog powered by a passion for food and the stories of business owners that make up Arizona. But it’s not all about food; Dishing It Out also dishes out some cool facts about local clothing stores, boutiques, antique shops, or whatever else people have to offer. We strive to maintain a sense of community and support our local businesses.

The Passion:

The true passion of Dish It Out comes from the discovery of culture. There are so many cultures represented in Arizona that provide a wonderful view into the different spots of Arizona. Our diverse state is made up of uncountable foreign and domestic groups that all have something to provide us. But a common theme through any culture is food. Food is something that has brought people together since the beginning of time. It is a shared craving that we all have. With food, Dishing It Out is able to show others the local businesses that provide a true sense of culture that are way too often over looked. And as any good chef knows fresh produce must come locally and fresh food is better tasting food.

Our Goals:

The main goals we strive to accomplish are spreading the word about the best dishes in town and who are the people behind them. The stories of local business owners and their passion that drives them are what truly make them unique. Are future at Dishing It Out is based upon supporting local businesses and keeping Arizona economically stimulated. Are mission for the future is to provide one of the largest collection of information about local businesses and the services they provide.

Questions, Comments, Contacts Us:

For any of these feel free to contact Dishing It Out by emailing us.

The New Season

2014 is a New Year and Dishing It Out is ready to push forward with it. There is going to be tons of new restaurants opening in Arizona, and other local businesses will be opening up shop. So why not help give the the credit they deserve and put there story out there? So Dishing It out will be out capturing the stories of what makes Arizona business owners so unique.  So check back frequently and follow us on twitter @dishingoutaz or on Instagram at dished_out.

For contact please email dishingoutaz@gmail.com

New Blog

Hello everyone, the Hashtagfoods Blog is taking a new turn and is now going to be known as Dishing It Out.

You can still see the older post at hashtagfoods.blogspot.com but all new postings will be right here on DishingOutAZ.blogspot.com 

If you have any questions contact Dishing It Out by email dishingoutaz@gmail.com