the herb box
A Taste of AZ
In this episode, we sit down at The Herb Box in Old Town Scottsdale with founder Susan Wilcox, and this one is packed with energy, perspective, and a whole lot of real talk about building something from nothing. Susan takes us all the way back to starting The Herb Box as a tiny catering operation with no experience, no money, and a willingness to just figure it out. What started as a small side hustle turned into one of Arizona’s most recognized restaurants, built on instinct, risk-taking, and a deep connection with the community. From opening locations they weren’t ready for, to...
info_outline
let’s eat w/tucson foodie at agustin kitchen
A Taste of AZ
let’s eat is a special series where we make it all about the food. In this episode, we’re joined by Shane Reiser of Tucson Foodie as we head to Agustin Kitchen in Tucson’s Mercado District to try some of their top dishes. From sourdough pancakes topped with lemon honey butter and peaches to a rich, savory shakshuka with roasted tomatoes and runny eggs, we break down each plate bite by bite. We also try the smashburger (Shanes first EVER!) made with beef from K4 Ranch, served with that nostalgic, Big Mac–style flavor, plus battered rockfish and shoestring fries that Agustin is known...
info_outline
tucson foodie
A Taste of AZ
Tucson Foodie is a community-driven platform shaping how Southern Arizona experiences and supports its local food scene. In this episode, we sit down with Shane Reiser, owner and leader of Tucson Foodie, to talk about his unconventional path from nonprofit work and the University of Arizona to running one of Tucson’s most influential culinary brands. Shane shares how he went from being a fan and subscriber to leading the platform. With no formal background in food or media, he breaks down how growing 5 businesses now benefits the growth of Tucson Foodie. This story-telling, experience-driven...
info_outline
house of form
A Taste of AZ
Dala Al-Fuwaires, MFA, Founder and CEO of House of Form, shares her journey from Kuwait to building a design-led business rooted in storytelling, culture, and community. In this episode, Dala opens up about transitioning from teaching to entrepreneurship, how her global perspective shapes her approach to hospitality and interior design, and why understanding both the client and the story behind a space is essential. subscribe to our magazine: a taste of az instagram: a taste of az facebook: a taste of az tik tok:
info_outline
george & gather
A Taste of AZ
Amber Kovarik is redefining what neighborhood dining looks like in Chandler through George & Gather, a restaurant built around clean, crave-worthy food made with local ingredients. In this episode we sit down with Amber to talk about her leap from a successful career in the mortgage industry into restaurant ownership, and the intention behind creating a space that feels both welcoming and energizing. From the grass-fed signature burger and house-made pickles to the whipped goat cheese that guests can’t stop talking about, Amber shares how thoughtful sourcing, family-friendly menus, and...
info_outline
sparrow - designing and building a restaurant experience pt. 3
A Taste of AZ
This episode is the final installment of our 3-part series discussing the designing, building, & opening Sparrow in Peoria—now open after years of planning and dedication. We sit down with the team to reflect on the entire journey, from early concept to opening day. With elevated American cuisine, a vibrant cocktail program, a striking bar, and a beautiful patio, Sparrow is a major new addition to the West Valley dining scene. View the previous two episodes: Part 1: Part 2: This episode is sponsored by Ganem Companies. subscribe to our magazine: a...
info_outline
welcome to arizona
A Taste of AZ
On this episode of a taste of az podcast, we sit down with David and Jesus Vicente, the brothers and co-founders behind Welcome to Arizona. They’ve built one of Arizona’s biggest Arizona-focused media brands from the ground up, and we get into the real story of how that happened. We talk early days, learning content and business from a mentor, juggling corporate jobs while building the page on the side, and the first time a business reached out and it finally felt “real.” From there we dive into how Welcome to Arizona works today, how they approach storytelling and partnerships, what...
info_outline
pure sushi part 2
A Taste of AZ
Pure Sushi has been a North Scottsdale staple for years, serving up fresh rolls and flavorful Asian fare. Recently, they wrapped up a major renovation — with the help of Arizona Restaurant Consulting, today’s episode sponsor. We’re joined by Greg, one of the owners of Pure Sushi, and Justin, founder of AZRC, to talk about the renovation process: what worked, what didn’t, and how they tackled challenges along the way. And if you haven’t yet, check out Part 1 of this conversation from September to hear how the project kicked off! . subscribe to our magazine: a taste of az instagram: ...
info_outline
barrio bagel & slice
A Taste of AZ
On this episode of a taste of az podcast, we’re diving into one of Gilbert's best places to grab pizza—Barrio Bagel & Slice. We sit down with James Beard Award winner Don Guerra of Barrio Bread fame and his business partner Oren Molovinsky to talk about how this delicious partnership came to life. From converting an old Sonic drive-in into a neighborhood hub for fresh-baked bagels and more, to finding the balance between craft and community, this episode is a true look at how good food—and good ideas—come together. Grab a seat, maybe a bagel, and let’s dig in. . subscribe...
info_outline
pure sushi
A Taste of AZ
On this episode of a taste of az podcast, we sit down with Pure Sushi and Arizona Restaurant Consulting. During the conversation, we discuss the history behind Pure Sushi, as well as the updates they are making to their location, with the help of Arizona Restaurant Consulting. Join us for an interesting and informative episode sponsored by our friends at AZRC, who are here to help you open your bar or restaurant or assist in expanding your current hospitality business. Visit for more information! . subscribe to our magazine: a taste of az instagram: a taste of az facebook: a taste of az...
info_outlineDevour Culinary Classic has been a cornerstone of Arizona’s food scene since 2008, celebrating the chefs, purveyors, and creatives who’ve made the state a must-visit dining destination. In this episode, we take you inside the festival for the first time, capturing the energy, flavors, and stories that make Devour legendary. We sit down with vendors, chefs, former food critics, and longtime friends for a reunion filled with reflections and fresh perspectives.