Take Advantage of the Continental Breakfast

Sometimes this means getting up earlier than I would like, but FREE is my favorite word so I get up and eat when I can, and sometimes go back to bed.

Frozen Microwave Meals

Our hotel room had a “Kitchenette” that came with a microwave, decent size mini-fridge and freezer. Paying extra to have these in a hotel room may be worth the cost that you save by not going out. We stocked up on frozen food: Chicken Nuggets, Hot Pockets, and Pot Pies.

Other Microwave Meals

• Bean and Cheese Burritos: Can of Beans, Tortillas, Taco Bell Mild Sauce, Cheese (Kept Refrigerated)
• Chili Dogs: Can of Chili, Hot Dog Buns, Hot Dogs (Kept Refrigerated), Cheese (Kept Refrigerated)
• Easy Mac, Top Ramen, Canned Soup, Instant Potatoes, Instant Rice
• Leftovers! When you do eat out, save what you can to eat for lunch or a snack the next day.

Coffee Maker Meals

If your hotel room doesn’t come with anything but a coffee maker you can still make a couple meals in your room. Anything that just takes hot water you could make with just the coffee maker. I made a few of these when my son was sleeping because the microwave was too loud.

• Oatmeal
• Ramen
• Soup
• Instant Rice
• Instant Potatoes

If you want to get crazy with making things from your coffee maker check out Geekosystem’s post: Coffee Maker Food

We also bought stuff for some sandwiches, plenty of snacks and drinks. Don’t forget to bring plates, silverware and a microwave dish. We have a nice pocket knife we plan on using for the fruit. Check out my ideas on snacks to bring to the zoo- they would work well to bring to your hotel room as well!

Do you ever eat in your hotel room, if so what do you usually eat?

Other Traveling Tips:
Airport Traveling Tips
Road Trip Packing List Printable, And One For Toddler’s Stuff
On-the-Go Squeezy Applesauce
DIY Personalized Suitcase

The post Eating Out of a Hotel Room {Vacation Money Saving Ideas} appeared first on Arizona Mama.

First I tried the Honey Bacon Club Grilled Panini (minus the tomatoes). So good! I took half of it home for lunch. Then I ate a Summer Chicken Salad; I love salads with dried cranberries, strawberries and grapes.

My daughter‘s Tomato Basil soup and her California Turkey sandwich were both good. My other daughter felt the same about her Ultimate Grilled Cheese with pesto.

We were very smart with our desserts and all ordered a different one. They got a Caramel Rockslide Brownie and a Rocky Road Brownie, while I went for the Creme Brule Cheesecake. The brownies were incredibly rich, but the cheesecake was my favorite.

Besides the delicious food, I was impressed with the prices. They are less than other similar restaurants. Their Try 2 Combo deal lets you pick a soup & salad, a salad and sandwich, or a soup and sandwich for $7.99.

Now that you’re hungry, plan on attending their grand opening on Saturday, December 8 starting at 11 am. There will be half price meals all day and free meals for the first fifty people through the door! There are also giveaways – free food for a year and a $25 gift card will be won every 15 minutes.

The post Cafe Zupas Grand Opening appeared first on Arizona Mama.

The décor of this old-fashioned ice cream parlor pays homage to cartoonist Bil Keane, who immortalized the Sugar Bowl in his Family Circus comic strips. You can find Keane’s artwork on the walls and available for purchase in the gift shop.

With a name like Sugar Bowl you know they’re famous for their desserts but they’ve been serving soups, salads and sandwiches since 1958. Don’t look for french fries with your burger. Hot sandwiches come with potato chips, a pickle and a serving of cole slaw.

After your meal, head next door with your kids to their arcade where they can play air hockey, hoop shoot and skee ball. Exchange ticket winnings for goodies from the treasure chest. Also, you can reserve the arcade for your next birthday party or other small gathering.

Whether you’re an out-of-town visitor or a longtime Valley resident, stop by the Sugar Bowl for a taste of nostalgia.

THE SUGAR BOWL
4005 N. Scottsdale Road
Scottsdale, AZ  85251
Phone 480.946.0051

Hours:  Monday – Thursday, Sunday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Friday – Saturday 11:00 am – 12:00 am

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Landmark:

a structure (as a building) of unusual historical and usually aesthetic interest; especially: one that is officially designated and set aside for preservation.  This is the definition of The Landmark Restaurant in Mesa, Arizona.  And did I mention that they have amazing food, too?

The Landmark Restaurant, situated on the corner of Main and Extension in Mesa, is aptly named for many good reasons.  The building, once the site of a Mormon Church, has been reincarnated several different times, and in 1981, opened as the Landmark Restaurant.  Its unique architecture and abundance of history aside, the restaurant  practically drips with charm.  From the leaded glass windows to the private dining rooms, the Landmark lives up to its name.

Privately owned for over thirty years, the Landmark not only sets itself apart by its quaint aesthetics, but, most importantly, by its fantastic food.  Renowned for its “salad room,” this restaurant puts those ”salad chains” to shame.   Hankering for pecan rice pudding?  They have it.  Yearning for pickled watermelon? Of course the Landmark’s salad room provides it.  Feeling adventurous?  How about a kadota fig with your salad?  An almost endless assortment awaits in you in the infamous salad room.  Add it to your meal or make it your meal–and go back as many times as you like!

Don’t fill up on just salad, though, or you will miss out.  Lunch items, at around $10.00, feature sandwiches like the turkey bacon ciabatta and the Sterling Silver Dip, served with onions, cheese, creamy horseradish and choice of side.  Dinner is understated elegance.  Start with a dinner salad or soup, or opt to add the salad room to your meal.  I had the awesome crab cakes with a cream chipotle sauce…delish!  If you prefer some red meat, try a Filet Mignon or New York Strip steak.  There are chicken, seafood and even gluten free selections available.  Or, warm up with some comfort food, like the Old Fashioned Pot Roast or Chicken Fried Steak.  Also available is a children’s menu for kids ten and under.

The main dining room, across the hall from the salad room, is refined and beautiful with its high ceiling, beautiful chandeliers and almost regal feeling.  The downstairs section of the restaurant is home to the several private dining rooms, available for small parties up to 65 people.  Also available is Heritage Hall, a larger dining facility just adjacent to the main building.  Large events, such as weddings, are a speciality of the hall and the private dining rooms.  Another can’t miss feature:  the authentic photos that line the walls of the private rooms and its hallway.  Much of Arizona’s history is depicted on these walls, from a portrait of silent movie star Tom Mix, to many of the founding fathers of Mesa.  My personal favorite was a 1920′s photograph illustrating an area of Phoenix known as Papago Park.

The Landmark Restaurant is definitely a place to take out-of-town guests and history buffs alike.  Not only will everyone be impressed by its ambiance and architectural features, but the History Gallery of Photos adds to its unique appeal.  By far, though, the major draw of the Landmark is its food, sure to bring you back because one time in the salad room is not enough!

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Frost is one of the two local places I know of that serve gelato. The other is our own Queen Creek Olive Mill.  Frost is located in the San Tan Village outdoor mall, so you can take a break from shopping and enjoy this delicious frozen treat. The first thing that catches your eye is the long glass case filled with 30 plus flavors of gelato and more than a dozen sorbets.

Did I mention they give out samples? With all those choices, it’s a good thing. After tasting several flavors like Seasalt Caramel and White Chocolate Macadamia Nut, I chose Gianduia, which is a chocolate with hazelnut delight. Think frozen Nutella! I haven’t even made it to the sorbets – maybe next time. Maybe not, I’m not sure I can get past the Gianduia.

Gelato is always a little pricey, but it’s filling because it’s so dense. And like I said, it’s a rare treat. While you’re treating yourself, waffle cones and toppings are available. Or you could try their milkshakes or root beer floats. I personally have my eye on the Frostbites, gelato bites dipped in chocolate.

But don’t feel too guilty about this treat. A serving of gelato has less than half the calories of a serving of ice cream. It also has about a fifth the fat!

If you enjoyed this delicious destination, be sure to check out the following:

Organ Stop Pizza

Valentines at Joe’s Farm Grill and The Coffee Shop

Superstition Farm

The post Frost Gelato in Gilbert appeared first on Arizona Mama.

Go online to choose from over 200 participating restaurants. The list is sortable and indicates if a beverage is included and whether a vegetarian or gluten-free option is available. The cuisine selection is diverse, including American,Mediterranean, French, Italian, Latin and Japanese.

Browse the menus. If you have ever wanted to enjoy The Capitol Grille affordably, now is your chance. For $30 per person your first course is a choice of Caesar or field green salad, or cup of French Onion soup. Next select the seared citrus-glazed salmon, 14 ounce sirloin, or 8 ounce filet mignon. Finish with a dessert course of chocolate espresso cake or classic crème brulee. For an additional charge, order from their award-winning wine list of more than 400 bottles.

Make a reservation. Not required, but highly recommended as some restaurants fill up fast.

Leave a comment letting me know what restaurant you’re going to try. Rarely do I go out for Indian food because with kids I need a menu that has chicken nuggets and spaghetti options. During Restaurant Week I think I’ll let Grandma watch the kids so my husband and I can try The Dhaba. And for some good French dining, I’d like to go to Vincent on Camelback.

A Few of My Favorite Participating Restaurants:

• The Melting Pot. I’ve celebrated birthdays and anniversaries at this popular fondue restaurant inScottsdale. Reservations are always recommended. I wouldn’t even attempt a visit without one during Restaurant Week when they are offering their cheese fondue with breads and vegetables for dipping, choice of salad, and selection of meats, shrimp, and pasta to be fondued in your choice of cooking style for just $30 per person. For this event, select wines and libations will be priced at $6.
• Zinburger, Wine & Burger Bar. I get hungry just thinking about their mouth-watering Angus burgers, sweet potato fries and milkshakes. Find them in Biltmore Fashion Park on Camelback.
• Portland’s Restaurant & Wine Bar. Awarded Best Cosmo by Phoenix New Times and Best Upscale Casual Dining by CitySearch.com. Portland’s is a great place to dine before First Friday’s, a self-guided art walk in downtown Phoenix.

EVENT INFORMATION

What:      Arizona Restaurant Week Fall 2012
Where:    For a list of participating restaurants, click HERE
When:     September 15 – 23, 2012
Cost:       Prix fixe dinner for $30 or $40

All restaurants will offer their regular menu as well.

More upcoming fun in Phoenix:
Chile Pepper Festival
Home & Landscape Show
YMCA Half-Marathon & 5K Run/Walk

The post Arizona Restaurant Week Fall 2012 appeared first on Arizona Mama.

We listened to a Sound of Music medley, a couple of Disney classics, and ended with a patriotic selection with a waving flag. There’s also an opportunity to write your questions and song requests and slip them into a box; the organist does his (or her) best to make your night enjoyable and educational.

This is a fun and unique place for groups, families, and even a date night if you’re not looking for a quiet, intimate evening.  It’s pretty challenging to carry on a conversation while the music is playing, but we enjoyed visiting between sets. I’d also reserve some time to get an up close look at the various instruments along the walls – don’t forget to head upstairs too. There’s an innocent looking taxidermy duck that has a party in the Mickey Mouse Club theme song.

The pizza is good. It’s not cheap but reasonably priced. They also have a small salad bar and delicious, hand scooped ice cream. Make sure you go prepared – Organ Stop Pizza only accepts cash. They do have an ATM machine on the premises, just in case.

As the weather warms up, why not take your family to enjoy some great music and yummy pizza?

If you liked this Arizona destination, be sure to check out these!

Desert Botanical Garden

Phoenix Zoo

Superstition Mountain Museum

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This week my husband and I lunched at The Cheesecake Factory in Kierland Commons. They are located on Scottsdale Road right next to Crate & Barrel. Self-parking can be difficult because of the many restaurants and stores in the shopping center. The good news is The Cheesecake Factory offers complimentary valet service so be sure to have your ticket validated before leaving the restaurant.

If you bring the kiddos be aware they don’t offer crayons and a coloring book so be sure to take something to entertain them. (Or do you let them watch SpongeBob on your cell phone when they get restless too?)

Outdoor seating is available but you don’t want to miss the ambiance. The Cheesecake Factory is known for their distinctive décor which includes decorative columns, artwork, cherry wood, and handblown light fixtures.

Once seated you’ll want to take your eyes off the surroundings and peruse the whopping twenty one page menu that boasts more than two hundred items made from scratch daily. As if that didn’t provide enough variety, they keep their menu fresh by updating it twice a year. Of all of the times I’ve visited The Cheesecake Factory I’ve never ordered the same entree twice and I’ve never been disappointed with my meal.

Whatever you order, be sure to save room for one of their decadent desserts, which includes thirty flavors of cheesecake.

If you’re planning an event they can do the catering or you can take advantage of their dining room capable of seating up to 35 guests. You can enjoy brunch on Sundays between 10am and 2pm or use their take-out or curbside service anytime during business hours. Whenever you visit, The Cheesecake Factory won’t disappoint.

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This past Friday, my family went to the All Star Fan Fest at the Convention Center in Phoenix.  Having never been to one before, I wasn’t sure what to expect.  Our son particularly enjoyed the interactive activities for kids and adults.  He was able to throw balls, steal bases, obtain autographs, get pictures with mascots, and hit a real baseball with a real bat!  Although it was quite pricey to attend, it was worth the money to attend.  Thankfully we had discount tickets.  They actually had a lot of activities for all levels of disabilities for children and adults.  Our son isn’t physically handicapped, but he doesn’t understand or comprehend some things and he had no issues with accessibility.

There are a couple of great children’s movies coming out as well this summer, Cars and Winnie the Pooh.  We are planning to take our son to his first movie.  If you bring your child earlier in the day, it is cheaper for you as well and kids tend to do better earlier in the day.  There is also the rare cheap movie theatre to catch some of the other kids cartoons on their way to dvd.

The post Family Fun Activities appeared first on Arizona Mama.

That’s where Joe’s Farm Grill in Gilbert comes into the picture.  I love the atmosphere and food at “the Farm”; it’s an oasis in the desert with plenty of outdoor seating beneath huge shade trees.  Find a table for two and you’ll have a great date night dinner, or bring the whole family and let the kids run around on the grass while waiting for your food.  Enjoy a romantic stroll around the grounds or a light-hearted exploration with the kids.  It’s a winning location for either way you like to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

And the food…I’m getting hungry just typing about it; you can smell from blocks away.  My favorites are the Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza (especially the blue cheese on top) and Garlic Fries, even though they might not leave your breath smelling lovely.  If Joe’s Farm Grill sounds familiar, that might be because they were featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.  Guy Fieri showcased the farm’s Fontina Burger, the Ahi Tuna Sandwich, Sweet Potato Fries, and my favorite Grilled Pizza.  While there is no dollar menu, the food is moderately priced.  I especially like the freshness of the food; most of the produce comes from their personal 15 acre farm.

Adjacent to Joe’s Farm Grill is the Coffee Shop.  It’s housed in a converted maintenance garage.  They serve breakfast and sandwiches, but I’m all about their cupcakes.  They too have a little Food Network fame from competing on Cupcake Wars.  At $3 a pop, it’s a special, and occasional, treat; but Valentine’s Day is pretty special and occasional.  My favorite flavors are the Lemon and Vanilla Glam, while my children prefer the Cookies and Cream.  A sprinkle a little fine, edible glitter makes the cupcakes so pretty.  They even dressed up the Vanilla Glam for the season of love!

Whether it’s a family adventure or a romantic getaway, this dynamic duo makes a great destination!

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