Where the Hendis Hang

Honestly, this post is taking a lot out of me to write. I don't like to give away a lot of our favorite Phoenix gems because I stupidly feel some sort of entitlement to them. Which is exactly why I know I must write this and share the wealth. You all know we LOVE our Phoenix, like looooove it. There are tons & tons of spots we like to frequent, and for many different reasons, so here's a short list for you all in case you find yourself bored and looking for adventure this weekend.

1. Lux Coffee Bar : This was our favorite coffee shop while we were dating and has remained a fun spot we occasionally find ourselves on the weekend mornings or any random night for that matter. I must admit it's reeeaaal hipster and we have to prepare ourselves for that each time we go in, however it's too delish and too creatively decorated to shrug off. It's definitely a fave spot we like to sit and people watch and chit chat.

2. Zinnia's at Melrose : This antique mall is definitely a hidden Phoenix treasure. No really, it's like hidden behind other buildings and annoyingly hard to locate if you've never been there. But boy oh boy does it have some of the best antique gems! When I first discovered this place they'd only been open for a few months and the prices were amazingly and unbelievably low, however unfortunately now that they've gained popularity I believe prices have gone up a bit. But still, you're guaranteed to find SOMEthing you love here.

3. Cornish Pasty Co. : OH.MY.GOSH. We're obsessed. So obsessed that this even ranks just below Oreganos on our favorite restaurant list. Which says a lot. Not only do we totally dig the atmosphere (old re-furnished church pews, black and white tile, industrial fixtures) but the food is unique and DELISH. I'm not going to go all into the "what IS a pasty" debate because I can never do it justice. But just head over to their website and check it out. PS: Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes. YES. PSS: They just expanded their Tempe location so you no longer feel like you're in a narrow closet.

4. La Grande Orange : This place rocks for so many reasons. 1. It's exactly like the places you see in the movies 2. Gifts, groceries, pastries, baked goods, coffee, fine foods. They've got it all. 3. Nestled in the Arcadia neighborhood. 3. I saw on Oprah once that this is Sarah Jessica Parker's favorite place. In high school this was THE place to be, no matter what for, and I have loved meeting up with friends here ever since for good conversation and good snacks. Although I do not recommend going at night time because unfortunately we have had one too many run-ins with the bratty and too-cool-for-school Arcadia High School girls who work the night shift. Let's just say my husband and I may or may not be on the "you get a free pizza list" due to a rather stern complaint call I gave once : )