A Taste of AZ

A Taste of AZ
  • 5.0 (15)
  • Food
  • Updated Biweekly

Food and drink: a shared experience and cornerstone of cultures all around the globe. But how often is the essence of "place" captured in the food? A strong community of taste-makers in the 48th state are doing their part to create an identity of their own while highlighting what truly is native in the Sonoran Desert. These are their stories.

  1. 1d ago

    Caldwell County BBQ

    In this episode, we sit down with Travis Taylor from Caldwell County BBQ to talk about the craft, tradition, and growth behind one of Arizona's standout barbecue brands. Travis shares what goes into cooking Central Texas-style barbecue over nothing but wood fire, why brisket is still king, and how the team stays focused on quality as they continue to expand. We also get into the story behind the original Gilbert location, house-made sausage, mesquite smoke, and the creative ways Caldwell County uses everything from brisket trimmings to beef tallow. Whether you're a barbecue fanatic or just curious about what separates good barbecue from great barbecue, this episode is a behind-the-scenes look at the patience, detail, and passion that go into doing it right.

  2. Jul 24

    janos wilder

    In this episode, we sit down with legendary Arizona Chef Janos Wilder to explore a career that has helped shape Arizona's culinary identity for more than four decades. From cooking professionally as a teenager to earning the 2000 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southwest, Janos shares the experiences, philosophies, and relationships that have guided his remarkable journey. We dive into the lessons he learned in France, why hospitality should always make people feel welcome instead of intimidated, and how his passion for local ingredients ultimately led him to become one of the pioneers of Arizona's regional cuisine. Janos also shares the story behind Tucson becoming the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the United States and why preserving the region's native ingredients is about much more than food. Today, Studio Janos is the culmination of everything he's learned throughout his career. With intimate multi-course dinners centered around Southern Arizona's history, agriculture, and culture, every meal becomes an immersive experience that connects guests to the flavors and stories of the Sonoran Desert in a way few chefs can. Whether you're passionate about food, fascinated by Arizona's culinary history, or simply appreciate hearing from someone who has dedicated a lifetime to mastering their craft, this conversation is filled with wisdom, perspective, and inspiration. It's a reminder that the greatest chefs don't just cook great meals. They help tell the story of a place, preserve its traditions, and inspire future generations to build upon them.

  3. Jul 18

    paradise valley burger

    In this episode, we sit down with Chef Bret Shapiro, founder of Paradise Valley Burger Company, to talk about the journey from washing dishes at 15 years old to building one of Arizona's most beloved burger restaurants. Bret shares how a passion for food, years of grinding in local kitchens, and an unwavering belief in his vision helped turn a tiny burger shop into a Valley favorite that's earned national attention. We also dive into the story behind the iconic Burger Brûlée, what it was really like filming with Guy Fieri on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, and why that opportunity completely changed the trajectory of the business. Bret opens up about the highs and lows of restaurant ownership, why perseverance matters more than talent, and how staying true to your own style is often the biggest advantage you can have. The conversation also looks ahead to Bret's next chapter as he shares his plans for Pizzeria Vendetta, his obsession with dough fermentation, and why he's chasing the perfect New Jersey-style pizza. Along the way, we talk burgers, pizza, Arizona's restaurant scene, and what it really takes to build something that lasts. Whether you're a burger lover, an aspiring restaurateur, or someone chasing a dream of your own, Bret's story is filled with grit, creativity, and hard-earned lessons. This conversation is a reminder that great businesses aren't built overnight. They're built through persistence, constant improvement, and a willingness to bet on yourself long before anyone else does. Tune in to hear how one great burger became the foundation for an Arizona success story.

  4. Jul 8

    Urban Fraîche

    In this episode, we sit down with Chef Dean Waziry, founder of Urban Fraîche, for a conversation that goes far beyond food. Dean shares the philosophy behind Urban Fraîche and why he believes every meal should nourish not only your body, but your overall way of living. From organic ingredients and daily-changing menus to genuine hospitality, every decision at Urban Fraîche is rooted in helping people make healthier, more intentional choices. Dean also opens up about his incredible journey from immigrating to New York without speaking English to working in some of the world's most prestigious Michelin-starred restaurants before spending nearly three decades leading one of the largest hospitality companies in the world. Along the way, he explains why he eventually walked away from corporate leadership to build something centered around purpose, inspiration, and human connection. The conversation explores everything from healthy living and mindset to hospitality, leadership, and why chasing money rarely leads to fulfillment. Dean shares his daily routines, his passion for fresh ingredients, and his belief that restaurants should create experiences people remember long after the meal is over. Whether you're passionate about food, interested in living a healthier lifestyle, or simply looking for a fresh perspective on success, purpose, and hospitality, Dean's story is packed with practical wisdom and thoughtful insights. This conversation is a reminder that the choices we make every day, from the food we eat to the mindset we carry, shape the life we ultimately live. Tune in to hear why Dean believes true success isn't measured by wealth, but by the lives we impact and the experiences we create.

  5. Jul 2

    lobo drinkhouse

    In this episode, we sit down with Brian McCarrick and Andrew Felix, co-owners of Lobo Drinkhouse in Flagstaff, to hear the story behind one of Arizona's most exciting new cocktail bars. What started as a friendship built while working in hospitality eventually turned into a food cart, countless late nights, and a dream of opening a place of their own. Brian and Andrew share how they went from cooking tacos in a parking lot during the pandemic to building a neighborhood drink house centered around hospitality, community, and genuinely making people feel welcome. We also dive into why they reject the idea of being "mixologists," how they built a cocktail program designed for everyone, and why great service will always matter more than showing off behind the bar. Along the way, they share lessons on entrepreneurship, culture, leadership, and what it really takes to build something from the ground up. Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast, an aspiring entrepreneur, or someone who appreciates great hospitality, Brian and Andrew's story is packed with practical lessons and honest insights. This conversation is a reminder that successful businesses are built through hard work, meaningful relationships, and a commitment to taking care of both guests and employees. Tune in to hear how a food cart, a friendship, and a lot of determination became one of Flagstaff's newest gathering places.

  6. Jun 26

    Shift Kitchen & Bar

    In this episode, we sit down with owner/chef Dara Wong and chef Tamara Stanger from Shift Kitchen & Bar in Flagstaff. The conversation explores the philosophy behind one of Arizona's most creative restaurants, from sourcing local ingredients and reducing food waste to building a menu that constantly evolves with the seasons, available products, and the team's curiosity. Dara shares how Shift came to life more than a decade ago, why she chose Flagstaff, and how her background in pastry and hospitality helped shape the restaurant's unique approach to dining. Tamara discusses her journey through Arizona's culinary scene, her passion for education and sustainability, and why food should never be boring. Together, they explain how collaboration, trust, and a willingness to challenge expectations have helped make Shift a destination for diners looking for something different. The conversation also dives into the restaurant's tasting menu, award-winning burgers, creative cocktail program, and the importance of creating memorable experiences through food. From savory sorbets and duck taquitos to community dinners and gondola dining experiences, every dish tells a story and reflects the team's commitment to thoughtful hospitality. Whether you're a passionate foodie, an aspiring chef, or someone who appreciates creativity and craftsmanship, this episode offers a fascinating look at the people behind one of Arizona's most distinctive restaurants. This conversation is a reminder that great food is about more than ingredients. It's about curiosity, storytelling, and creating experiences that bring people together. Tune in to hear how Shift continues to push boundaries while staying deeply connected to the Flagstaff community.

  7. Jun 19

    indibar

    In this episode, we sit down with Chef Nigel Lobo of Indibar to explore a journey that spans continents, cultures, Michelin-starred kitchens, and ultimately leads to one of Arizona's most exciting new restaurants. From growing up in Dubai to training in some of the world's most respected culinary programs and restaurants, Nigel shares the experiences that shaped his approach to food, hospitality, and leadership. We also dive into the story behind Indibar, from the friendship and trust that brought Nigel and his team to Arizona, to the years of planning, construction, and attention to detail that went into creating the restaurant. Along the way, we discuss Indian cuisine, hospitality, cocktail culture, menu development, and what it means to honor tradition while presenting food in a modern and approachable way. Whether you're a passionate diner, an aspiring chef, or someone fascinated by the stories behind great restaurants, Nigel's journey is packed with perspective, humility, and hard-earned lessons. This conversation is a reminder that excellence rarely happens overnight. It is built through curiosity, persistence, constant learning, and a commitment to doing things the right way. Tune in to hear how a global culinary journey helped create one of Arizona's most talked-about dining destinations.

  8. Jun 10

    phantom fox beer company

    In this episode, we sit down with Trent Smith, Eric Cady, Val Adee, and Colt Cook from Phantom Fox Beer Company to talk about the journey from opening Chupacabra Taproom to building one of Arizona's most exciting independent breweries. We dive into the challenges of launching a production brewery, the unexpected hurdles that come with manufacturing beer, and how a shared passion for craft beer helped turn a downtown Mesa dream into reality. We also discuss Phantom Fox's brewing philosophy, the importance of community, what goes into creating award-winning lagers and West Coast IPAs, and how the team balances creativity with consistency. Along the way, we hear stories about everything from naming the brewery and surviving equipment failures to opening a new location in downtown Tempe and continuing to grow while staying true to what made them successful in the first place. Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast, a brewery owner, or someone interested in what it takes to build a successful local business, this episode offers an inside look at the passion, persistence, and problem-solving required to grow a brand from the ground up. Tune in to hear how community, friendship, and a commitment to quality continue to drive Phantom Fox forward as they expand their footprint across Arizona.

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5
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

Food and drink: a shared experience and cornerstone of cultures all around the globe. But how often is the essence of "place" captured in the food? A strong community of taste-makers in the 48th state are doing their part to create an identity of their own while highlighting what truly is native in the Sonoran Desert. These are their stories.

Information

  • Creator
    A Taste of AZ
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    A Taste of AZ

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