I love to go out to eat – it’s relaxing, convenient and fun! But, I also like to eat relatively healthy, if possible. For those of you that try and keep it healthy when dining out, here’s a list of of my favorite healthy restaurant options in Tempe that won’t let you down when it comes to fresh ingredients and flavor. Green New American Vegetarian – 2240 N. Scottsdale Rd., Tempe, AZ 85281 Green is a 100% vegan restaurant serving delicious comfort foods with an international twist. This walk-up and order restaurant has a casual, trendy vibe with affordable prices. Po-boys, crisp salads and noodle bowls are made with fresh, vegan ingredients, including 100% vegan cheeses and mock meats. My favorites include the balsamic picnic salad and the coconut curry bowl – but everything I’ve ever tried here is good. There are also several sweet treats to choose from (bonus!). MAD Greens – 2000 E. Rio Salado Pkwy. #1215, Tempe, AZ 85281 MAD Greens works with farms to make sure all the produce used to make their salads is as fresh as possible. But they’re not just about salads. Try one of their wraps, paninis, soups or fresh juices. I love the Siam I Am, a protein power salad that’s made with quinoa, chicken, kale, green onions, spinach and a ginger dressing. Nekter Juice Bar – 2000 E. Rio Salado Pkwy. #1213, Tempe, AZ 85281 Nekter Juice Bar’s all natural juices and smoothies contain fresh produce and greens – only the best. They also […]

Tempe events include the opening reception of the new exhibition, Monster Stories at the Gallery at Tempe Center for the Arts from 6-9 p.m. on September 14, 2018.  The reception is free and open to the public. Monster Stories celebrates the 200th anniversary of the novel, Frankenstein, by exploring the monster genre in pop culture, literature, mythology in society. Mary Shelley’s groundbreaking work continues to spark relevant discussions about science, technology and humanity. Inspired by the ongoing popularity of the genre, the exhibition features works from local and national artists, toys and memorabilia from private collections, and a range of public programs that reflect on timeless questions such as “who is the real monster?” Exhibiting artists include Manny Burruel, Anne Coe, Fausto Fernandez, Matthew Hoelscher, Molly Idle, Chuck Jones, Ed Kennefick and Joe Ray. Also featured are works by Enrique Arciniega Campos, Earl Staley and Bob Camblin, Allan Otho Smith, Enrique Chagoya, Alejandro Colunga and David Botello from the ASU Art Museum. Special collection pieces are courtesy of Dr. Larry and Holley Thompson, Mike McEwin, Emmett Potter and  the Chuck Jones Center for Creativity. For more information on Monster Stories and the and additional events held in conjunction with the exhibition, visit https://www.tempetourism.com/event/tca-exhibit-monster-stories. Tempe’s calendar is full of exciting events this week. See what’s happening below and view a complete listing of Tempe events, or call (480) 894-8158 for more information. For a listing of live music venues in Tempe, visit www.tempetourism.com/things-todo/arts-culture/live-music. September 11: 15th Annual Tempe Healing Field Tempe Beach Park […]

As the summer winds down, I’m excited to see the return of all the activity that autumn brings. While I enjoy the slower pace of the lazy days of summer, I look forward to the renewed vitality that comes with all the arts and culture events that start in the fall.  I’m especially excited about programs that ASU Gammage has planned for 2018-2019. ASU Gammage is a Phoenix area landmark that was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Since 1964, it has been home to plays, musicals, Presidential debates and concerts. In addition to the popular Broadway Across America-Arizona series, ASU Gammage produces the Beyond series which showcases internationally acclaimed artists from various cultures. Something else that I love about ASU Gammage is its central location in Downtown Tempe. It’s within walking or pedicab distance from a variety of great restaurants, which makes it easy to enjoy dinner before the show, or dessert or a cocktail afterwards. Check out this incredible lineup that ASU Gammage is bringing to Tempe in 2018-19 and get ready for great theatre, music and dance performances that start this month and continue into next summer. For more information and to purchase tickets, call 480-965-3434 or visit www.asugammage.com. View a complete listing of Tempe events, or call (480) 894-8158 for more information. 2018-2019 Desert Schools Broadway Across America – Arizona series WAITRESS – October 2-7, 2018 ON YOUR FEET! –  November 6-11, 2018 DEAR EVAN HANSEN – November 27 – December 2, 2018 BETTY BUCKLEY HELLO, DOLLY! – […]

By Justin Lee Photography by Mark Lipczynski Tempe is growing—booming—like never before. The city’s sweetening from peppy college town to dynamic urban destination has benefited residents and visitors alike with many enviable perks—most enjoyably, a continued reinvention of its dining landscape. Not a change in quantity, but sheer variety. From high to low, quirky to classic, global to regional, dining has never been better. Global cuisine In terms of international foods, Tempe is a local pioneer. From serious Middle Eastern, to regional Indian, to every lane of Asian, it’s always been an amenity—an asset—for the city. For traditional Ethiopian, Cafe Lalibela has been popular since the day it opened, serving a deep menu of the mother country’s trademark classics like seasoned meats and long-stewed vegetables, all served alongside layers of warm, spongy injera, the Ethiopian-style bread used for needed sopping. Now an institution, The Dhaba has been focused on its trademark style of soul-satisfying northern Indian cooking for nearly two decades, serving traditional chaat (snacks), tandoori-baked breads and halal meats in a warm, lively space. For ramen enthusiasts, there are countless worthy options. A newer standout is Hachi Ramen in south Tempe. From its traditional miso to its aromatic shoyu, to its rich tonkatsu, Hachi is all about the broth, and it shows.   Chef-driven Local chef-restaurateur Aaron Chamberlin brings new weight to south Tempe with his twin openings, the elevated all-day diner Tempe Public Market Cafe and Ghost Ranch, his collaborative dive into the cooking styles of the Southwestern […]

Tempe events include Stray Cat Theatre’s season opener, THE ANTIPODES, at Tempe Center for the Arts, September 7-22, 2018. Stray Cat Theatre is bringing THE ANTIPODES by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Annie Baker to Tempe. In an unnamed conference room, a group of creators are on an intense and intensely surreal brainstorming session for unspecified purposes. All we know is that these people are being asked to keep coming up with stories – the more personal the better – in the hopes that something will jell and move their project – whatever that may be – forward. Directed by Ron May, THE ANTIPODES features Louis Farber, Will Hightower, Dolores Mendoza, Michael Peck, Shannon Phelps, Michael Thompson, David Weiss, William Wyss and Eric Zaklukiewicz. To purchase tickets to THE ANTIPODES, call 480-350-2822 or visit https://straycattheatre.org/tickets. Tempe’s calendar is full of exciting events this week. See what’s happening below and view a complete listing of Tempe events, or call (480) 894-8158 for more information. September 6: Bret Ernst Tempe Improv Comedy Theatre September 7: Sunday at Noon Tempe Marketplace September 7-8: Heather McDonald Tempe Improv Comedy Theatre September 7-8: Mike E. Winfield Tempe Improv Comedy Theatre September 7-22: Stray Cat Theatre presents: THE ANTIPODES Tempe Center for the Arts September 8: ASU Football: ASU vs. Michigan State Sun Devil Stadium September 8: The Gershom Brothers Tempe Marketplace September 8: Dread Mar The Marquee September 8: Michael Howell: “Illusions” Tempe Center for the Arts September 8-11: 15th Annual Tempe Healing Field Tempe Beach Park September 8-October […]

Tempe events include an evening of dance theatre presented by Liz Ann Hewett at Tempe Center for the Arts on August 31, 2018. Her production of “Under the Covers” tells the story of two police officers tangled in a web of lies, murder and deception. As the town searches for a missing woman, they must cover up the truth and may lose their minds in the process. Don’t miss this dark and fantastic story set to a soundtrack of covers and  featuring some of the best dancers  in Phoenix. Performances are at 10:30 a.m. (student matinee) and 8 p.m. To purchase tickets, call 480-350-2822, or visit https://www.tempecenterforthearts.com/events/calendar. Tempe’s calendar is full of exciting events this week. See what’s happening below and view a complete listing of Tempe events, or call (480) 894-8158 for more information. August 31: Frank Daly: Enjoy the Ride Changing Hands Bookstore August 31: Ben Harper & Charlie Musselwhite The Marquee August 31: Black Forest Society Tempe Marketplace August 31: Liz Ann Hewett presents “Under the Covers” Tempe Center for the Arts September 1: ASU Football: ASU vs. UTSA Sun Devil Stadium August 31-September 2: Craig Gass Tempe Improv Comedy Theatre September 1: 9/11 Heroes Run Tempe Beach Park September 1: Ratio Tempe Marketplace Through September 1: Flashlight Tours Desert Botanical Garden September 2-October 14: Childsplay presents Charlotte’s Web Herberger Theater Center Stage West, Phoenix Through December 31: Dino Explorer LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Arizona  

Tempe events include “4.0,” presented by MAC & Company at Tempe Center for the Arts on August 25, 2018 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.  The two-part, full-length show highlights diverse dance styles. The first half of the program features a wide range of pieces choreographed by various company members. The second half includes a themed set of works titled The Art Exhibit, in which dances are created based on artwork. MAC & Company was founded in 2014 by Micaela Church and Li Pei Khoo from their shared passion for dance education and performance. Both full time dance educators, Church and Khoo continue to be committed to the creative process and practice of dance as a performing art. As both dancers and musicians, they have an interest in exploring the different processes that have been used in the integration between dance and music. With the common goal of presenting innovative work and nurturing professional growth in the field of dance and music, Church and Khoo provide a platform for fellow dancers who share their passion. To purchase tickets to MAC & Company’s “4.0,” call 480-350-2822, or visit www.tempecenterforthearts.com. Tempe’s calendar is full of exciting events this week. See what’s happening below and view a complete listing of Tempe events, or call (480) 894-8158 for more information. August 22: Jason Heller: Strange Stars Changing Hands Bookstore August 22: Steel Pulse & Tribal Seeds The Marquee August 23-25: Maz Jobrani Tempe Improv Comedy Theatre August  24: Henry Thompson and SWELL Tempe Marketplace August […]

To many, Labor Day symbolizes the last day of summer and the kick start of fall. In Arizona, summer temperatures continue through September, so Labor Day is an extra day off to enjoy the pool or check out some of fun activities that will officially end your summer on a high note. Labor Day also means school is back in session and pumpkin spice everything is just around the corner. But, before we usher in the fall, here are a few suggestions for things to do in Tempe and Phoenix during Labor Day weekend 2018. Take a staycation and relax at one of Tempe’s hotels, ranging from suite properties to a mountain-top resort. Enjoy their sparkling pools, get a free breakfast, or use the weekend as a reason to try a restaurant or tavern near your home away from home. Find all the money-saving summer hotel deals in Tempe at www.summerintempe.com. The first ASU football game of the season vs. UTSA will be on Saturday, September 1 at 7:30 p.m. Check out the new renovations to Sun Devil Stadium and see the debut of Coach Herm Edwards. Come early and participate in all of the activities happening in Downtown Tempe, including Devils on Mill, a free event on 6th Street in between Mill Avenue and Forest that features food, ASU gear, music and games for fans of all ages. On your walk to the stadium, don’t miss Sparky’s Touchdown Tailgate on College Avenue between 6th and 7th. This pregame event […]

Tempe events includes Duo, presented by Ignite Collaborative, at Tempe Center for the Arts, August 16-17, 2018. Duo is Ignite Collaborative’s premiere full-length show that explores duality in the human experience. We are surrounded by Duality. Day becomes night, breath is inhaled and exhaled, to every beginning there is an end. Duality exists within us as joy and sorrow, love and rage, fantasy and reality. Duo is designed to lead the audience into discovering the duality within themselves through this multi-media performance. Ignite Collaborative is a creative force in the Phoenix arts scene with a mission to build a more connected and compassionate community through movement. To purchase tickets to Duo, visit Tempe Center for the Arts’ website, or call (480) 350-2822. Tempe is home to live music almost every night. Learn more about when and where to find the best live music happening in Tempe this week! There are a variety of art exhibitions taking place in Tempe featuring a range of media and themes. Learn more about Tempe’s art exhibitions, including dates, times, locations and exhibition details. Tempe’s calendar is full of exciting events this week. See what’s happening below and view a complete listing of Tempe events, or call (480) 894-8158 for more information. August 16: Actress Amber Tamblyn: Any Man Changing Hands Bookstore August 16-17: Duo Tempe Center for the Arts August 16-18: Steve Byrne Tempe Improv Comedy Theatre August 17: Sunset Voodoo Tempe Marketplace August 18: Corridor Sixteen Tempe Marketplace August 18: Higher Octave Healing presents Music from […]

Every August, a new group of wide-eyed freshman will descend upon Tempe, making it their home for the next four (or more) years. Tempe is a great place to go to school. It’s a fun college town that truly embraces Arizona State University into the culture. Tempe is also a great place to live, with lots to do all year round. Below is a quick guide to some of the best of Tempe – where to shop, where to eat and what to do. Find even more things to do in Tempe, or call us at 800-283-6734. Let’s make this school year a great one for students and their parents. Go Devils! Dorm Room Essentials From shower caddies to rugs to cozy chairs, there’s always a long, long list of supplies to make a dorm room or college apartment really feel like home. Check off those needed items at these stores in Tempe: IKEA Tempe – 2110 W. IKEA Way, Tempe, AZ 85284 |  (480) 496-5658 Tempe Marketplace – 2000 E. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 966-9338 Target – 1800 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 214-2667 Cost Plus World Market – 1800 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 921-0500 JCPenney – 1800 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 829-3555 Walmart – 800 E. Southern Ave., Tempe, AZ 85282 | (480) 966-0264 Arizona Mills  – 5000 S. Arizona Mills Cir., Tempe, AZ 85282 | (480) 491-7300 Dining Out Sure, many students have a meal […]