Phoenix was the first stop for this years James Beard Found Taste America Tour. The ten-city tour is in its 5th year. Starting in Phoenix and ending in Kansas City the tour is also stopping in Los Angeles, New Orleans, Philadelphia, Seattle, Chicago, San Francisco, Austin, and Boston.

This year I was excited to be invited to attend the Welcome Reception at Little Cleo’s Seafood Legend in central Phoenix. The dishes were created by several of the Fox Restaurants Concepts including Blanco, Little Cleo’s, Culinary Dropout, The Arrogant Butcher, The Henry with desserts by Dough Bird.

Tastes

Blanco’s Grilled Mushroom–Zucchini Panuchos with Chipotle Salsa, Queso Fresco, and Pickled Red Onions

Little Cleo’s’ Grilled Spanish Octopus with Chorizo, Roasted Garlic, and Crispy Potatoes

Culinary Dropout’s Foie Gras Torchons with Huckleberry Preserves and Cornbread Crumble

The Arrogant Butcher’s Miniature Lamb Sloppy Joes with Harissa and Labneh on Za’atar Brioche Buns

The Henry’s Short Rib Potstickers with Ponzu, Scallions, and Shaved Radishes

Desserts

The Elvis – Peanut Butter Pudding with Chocolate, Caramel, Chantilly Cream, and Bacon Sandies

Butternut Squash Basque Cake with Apple Butter and Thyme

Lemon Icebox Pie with Blackberries and Pie Crust Crumble

Choco Taco – Stroopwafel with Bananas, Malted Chocolate Gelato, and Pecan Toffee

Cocktails

Rosalee’s Downfall –  Azuñia Blanco Tequila with Rose Petal–Mango Liqueur and Lime

Sage–Honeysuckle Royale – Sage Liqueur with Lime, Honey, and Sparkling Wine

Bells and Whistles – Four Roses Bourbon with Charred Bell Pepper, Clover Honey, and Torn Basil

Lost Bazaar – Fords Gin with Smashed Cucumber, Champagne Vinegar, Lime, and Saffron Salt

Afternoon Tea – Peach-Infused Sake with Mango–Sencha Honey and Aperol

Phoenix tour:

Taste Phoenix James Beard: America’s First Foodie Screening
Wednesday, September 20

Taste Phoenix Welcome Reception
Thursday, September 21

Taste Phoenix Benefit Dinner
Friday, September 22

Demo with Traci Des Jardins at Sur La Table
Saturday, September 23

Demo with Chris Bianco at Sur La Table
Saturday, September 23

Thanks for visiting Phoenix and helping to spread the word of the amazing food this city has to offer!

Disclosure: I was invited to attend as a guest for the reception. All opinions are my own.