One of the charms of Phoenix is the hole-in-the-wall nature of many of its best attractions. Most of its quality restaurants and bars are disguised as brick homes and art galleries, such as The Roosevelt or Lost Leaf. People hear about these places word-of-mouth or by tagging along with those “in the know”.
But sometimes, I feel the need for a sit-back, relaxed, out in the open good time, without having to scream at the person next to me just to be heard. When I get into those moods, I’m finding that I turn to downtown Gilbert more and more.
Downtown Gilbert reminds me a lot of where I grew up, in Naperville, IL. The main street included old brick buildings, restaurants with pleasant-looking patios, shops with unique (non-franchise) names. It was the place for everyone to hang out on weekends — families, teenagers, college students and the older single demographic. Gilbert shares many of those same characteristics.
For example, most of the restaurants – excluding Oregano’s – are not franchises. Each has its own character, but they all work as part of the community.
I was first introduced to Liberty Market at the beginning of this year. This small grocery/restaurant/coffee shop boosts amazing food, huge dessert servings and the finest in espresso and coffee. It has a huge indoor seating area, as well as a well-shaded patio. In addition, the host Espresso 101 & 102 classes each Thursday for $10. Follow them on Twitter, @libertymarket, for class details and daily specials.
Then this past week, I hit up two more of downtown Gilbert’s hot spots. Joe’s Real BBQ claims to offer “real food” – authentic, delicious, wood-cooked BBQ. And man is it delicious. I indulged in their pulled pork BBQ sandwich with a side of the most creamy & flavorful mac & cheese ever. The inside is set up cafeteria style, so the line for food moves quick despite the huge crowds. Joe’s has a dozen or so picnic tables outside to enjoy Phoenix nights and is very family friendly.
After Joe’s, I met some friends over at Bergie’s Coffee Roast House to digest BBQ and listen to local reggae musicians. Since I’m not supposed to drink coffee, I can’t comment on their drinks, but my friends said they were delicious. The outdoor patio with music floating in the air and little kids dancing can’t help but make you smile.
The only thing missing is me with a beach cruiser bike, complete with a basket full of Liberty Market groceries, and a little niece to take running around in the fountain. Actually, I’d probably be the one running around in the fountain =)