New: Wild Noodles
Scottsdale-based Wild Noodles recently opened its second location in Tucson (the first is at the Foothills Mall) at 2990 N. Campbell Ave., No. 130, next to Lovin' Spoonfuls and--coming at the end of the month--Sauce. Campbell Avenue has morphed into a great restaurant row; if you can't find something to eat there, you probably can't find it anywhere. Wild Noodles serves Italian, Asian and American noodle favorites, along with soups and salad in a fast-casual atmosphere; 327-2841.
New: Sam Hughes Place
Within the past year, the intersection of Campbell Avenue and Sixth Street has gotten busier, food-wise. First there was LaFerlita's Pizza Café, then Rosatti's Pizza, and now the upscale sports bar/restaurant Sam Hughes Place, which has the same name as the mixed-use building (with condos and townhouses) where it resides. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m., it has a masculine feel, with televisions everywhere--and they're not tuned into Martha Stewart. Reservations are advised, especially around game time, at 446 N. Campbell Ave.; 747-5223.
Chain Gang
In November, Benihana Inc., operator of the nation's largest chain of Japanese theme and sushi restaurants, announced the acquisition of independently owned Sakura at 6091 N. Oracle Road. The Miami-based corporation now has a total of 57 restaurants. The eastside Sakura is still open at 6534 E. Tanque Verde Road; 298-7777.
Romantic Cooking Lessons
Let Janos show you how to cook a romantic dinner for Valentine's Day. The two-hour cooking demonstration will be followed by what are appropriate wine pairings, and concludes with a food tasting. Get in the mood on Saturday, Jan. 28. Call 615-5100 to reserve at 3770 E. Sunrise Drive; the class costs $50.
Flu Fighter
Stay healthy with hot ginger tea. Make your own by boiling four cups of water; add a 2-inch piece of fresh ginger root, thinly sliced, then simmer for 15-20 minutes. Strain tea; add honey and lemon to taste. Relax.
