In the time that we've lived in Phoenix, both of our palates have expanded dramatically and has allowed us to discover some pretty phenomenal food options. Some people spend their extra money on expensive purses or lavish trips...we spend ours on delicious food. Granted, with all of the exotic flavors and unique joints we've come to enjoy, we've also gotten very smart about portion control - we split everything. Not only does it help to keep the costs and calories down, it also allows us the opportunity to try a wider variety of dishes.
As we've branched out and followed our noses (and stomachs) outside the norm of chain restaurants and the well-publicized eateries, we've also had some fantastic experiences with the people. One of our absolutely best choices off the beaten path is a place called Elie's Deli. They don't have a website, and being located in a near deserted strip mall can't possibly help drive up business. Elie's is basically the definition of a diamond-in-the-rough. The food is authentic and truly made with love by a brother and sister team who runs the business themselves. There are no employees, just the two of them, and the occasional appearance of Elie herself - the stereotypical, middle eastern grandmother. I'll admit, I was nervous the first time we stopped in, worried that two Caucasians might be completely out of place and even treated as if we didn't belong. Oh, how I had drastically misjudged the experience. Natta and her brother are so extremely welcoming and so gracious for every customer that comes to enjoy their food. She genuinely takes an interest in every person who walks in the door - she actually wants to hear the answer when she asks, "How has your day been?" We have become regulars at Elie's and are easily identifiable by what we order. When I call ahead, I'm always greeted with, "I know who you are!" It brings such a huge smile to my face and fills my heart with joy just as the food fills my belly with goodness.
Another great local joint is Kitchen 56. The assortment of unique twists on traditional flavors makes this a place to visit over and over. It's hip and fun, yet sophisticated and classy. The atmosphere is very fun and relaxed, and we've never had bad service. Everyone who works there seems to truly enjoy what they do. It has definitely grown in popularity since the first time we visited right after it opened, but it's worth having a big of a crowd for the comfort of knowing it won't be closing anytime soon.
A not-so-hidden gem and mouth-watering delight is Delux. If you want a burger, this is the place to get a burger. The fries are also delicious and served in a "basket" - a mini shopping cart - with an exquisite aioli dipping sauce. This is hands-down the best burger in town. And they have wonderful hot dogs as well. That's all that needs to be said about Delux.
Looking for a sandwich? Duck and Decanter has many locations around town yet somehow still maintains that mom-and-pop feel. Again, terrific service from friendly people, with a wide assortment of tasty treats between two slices of bread. JC created his own sandwich combining the menu's standard marinated roasted chicken breast with a half-portion of duck breast, and he has creatively named it "The Double Fowl". One day I was in picking up some lunch to go, the manger happened to take my order. He commented on the delicious sound of those two meats, and I shared my husband's clever naming. The manager was delighted and said they just might add it as a special during baseball's Spring Training season. Ah, my culinary hubby!
There are so many other places around town that we frequent on a regular basis, expanding our tastes while trying not to expand our waistlines too much. There's really something special about enjoying food from a restaurant that is just that - something special. No more Taco Bell or Applebee's for this desert duo - our tastes are far too sophisticated for the monotony of the well-beaten food path.
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