Native Son Returns
Westward Look Resort has a new executive chef: Jamie West, a Tucson native who left the Old Pueblo to attend the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, N.Y. He worked in Napa Valley and Santa Barbara at the famed San Isidro Ranch, frequented by celebrities such as Julia Child and Oprah Winfrey. In 2000, West was named Southern California Chef of the Year by the American Tasting Institute. His new menu combines flavors, colors and textures in a simple but unique way that pleases the eye as well as the palate.
Build Your Own Bloody Mary
Break the blah Sunday morning routine and head for the hip lobby at Hotel Congress for an eye-opening Skyy Vodka Bloody Mary bar ($6 for doubles), served along with Cup Café breakfasts and the jazzy sounds of Mood Swing, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 311 E. Congress St.
Acacia Expands
Less than six months old, Acacia expands next door using a former retail-store space to cater private parties up to 50 people. Chef/owner Albert Hall says that it's ideal for rehearsal dinners and anniversary/birthday parties. By day, the room can be used for meetings. Acacia is located at 4340 N. Campbell Ave., 232-0101.
