Eating my way through Phoenix

So I just came back from a short trip to Phoenix with my Aunt to visit my cousin and his family. It was great to escape the horrible NY weather, even if it was just for the weekend. Phoenix is a nice place to visit but it seems like the majority of our time there is spent on eating. So just in case of any of you are planning a trip to Phoenix in the future here is my eating advice...

Famous Daves BBQ... http://www.famousdaves.com/

Atmosphere was definitely what you would expect to find in a chain BBQ place. The clientele, WOW is all I can say. Staff was overwhelmed and the service was mediocre. We asked about the ingredients in one of their side dishes (what kind of cheeses were in the homemade mac and cheese) and not only did the server not know but he had to go through 2 managers to find out! The food came really fast and the ribs were awesome! On a scale of 1-10, I give it a 6.5

Chompies http://www.chompies.com/

They advertise themselves as "Arizona's New York Deli" and I have to tell you, they aren't lying. Their menu is broad and the food lives up to the hype. I had a corned beef sandwich that could rival an New York Deli that i've been to. The service was eh, but lucky for them the food was great! On a scale from 1-10, I give it an 8

Saguaro Grille in Carefree http://www.saguarogrille.com/

I really have nothing to nice to say about this little spot in Carefree, AZ. The staff was uncaring and borderline rude. We waited about 40 minutes for our food to come out with little apology from anyone. Our waitress was clearly overwhelmed (I almost felt sorry for her) and the food was alright but not worth the hassle. On a scale of 1-10, I give it a 3.5

And last but not least....

Sapporo http://www.sapporoscottsdale.com/

This is my FAVORITE place to go whenever I go to Arizona! It's a japanese restaurant with hibachi or regular dining. If you go before 7pm you can partake of their happy hour menu which has some great things. Their sushi is fresh and delicious and the service is great! The atmosphere is trendy and i've never been there when it wasn't crazy crowded. It has a hopping happy hour and seems to be the place to go for a night out. On a scale of 1-10, definitely a 9.5 (cause nothing in this world is perfect)

So there you have it. My eating adventures and recommendations for your next visit to Phoenix. Bon Apetite all!!!