by bryan | May 21, 2010 | News & Information
For years the valley has been in dire need of reliable public transportation and with the addition of Phoenix’s Metro Light Rail system cutting through much of the metropolitan area, this need has finally been met. While cities like New York and Washington D.C. have grown quite accustomed to mass transit and the subtleties of proper etiquette for riding the subways, we Phoenicians might need a bit of coaching. For example, in the sweltering summer heat is it acceptable to cling to the railing above your head exposing your armpit to the nearest rider? Is that 16-year-old kid really allowed to use the seat cushion as a personal gum receptacle? And perhaps most importantly you might be asking yourself how long you’ll be exposed to the blaring German death metal from that man’s inappropriately loud headphones? With music preferences and strange smells aside, Metro Light Rail has identified some important rules for proper conduct and safety while utilizing the light rail system as outlined below. Firstly alcohol, tobacco and flammable, explosive and hazardous materials are strictly forbidden as is the consumption of food. Non-service animals must be secured in a cage or case on the individual’s lap while groceries and liquids must also be stored safely away. Vandalism, skateboarding, rollerblading and riding bikes are strictly forbidden inside the cars and on or near platforms. Secondly proper riding etiquette details that respect for disabled passenger seating be adhered to as well as patience and order in the aisles. Lastly responsible riders should stay clear of the edge of the platform and be mindful of all small children near the tracks....
by bryan | May 21, 2010 | Restaurant
The Dhabi at India Plaza Whether you are a foodie or a novice, all your senses are sure to be satisfied at The Dhabi. If you are looking for something different than the usual hamburger and fries fare, The Dhabi is a no risk solution for a fabulous meal. You are not only promised a fabulous meal, but a fabulous experience as well. The moment you walk in you are greeted with intoxicating smells, eclectic, colorful, and interesting, décor, and lively Indian music drifts in and out of your consciousness. There is even an accompanying movie, a comforting thought in case your date doesn’t talk. But you should have plenty to talk about with the food. My date and I started off with a mango yogurt drink. Just looking at its flawless presentation was almost as good as tasting it. Almost. I had intended to only sample it, but upon my first sip, I realized I should have ordered my own. I of course just devoured his when he wasn’t looking. While I was busy stealing his drink, he was busy sampling the delicious complimentary crispy flat bread served with three unique dipping sauces. For my main course, I settled (which was hard to do, the menu is extensive) on the Nawabi Murg Tikke. It came out sizzling, on a bed of caramelized green peppers and onions, served with special rice. The chicken was cooked to perfection with just the right amount of spiciness. Once again my stomach took over my brain and I gleefully inhaled the whole dish. My date ordered the Dhaba Lamb Curry and was equally...
by bryan | May 21, 2010 | Restaurant
In this beautiful spring weather, nothing sounds tastier than a light salad on a breezy, open patio. Fez, a Phoenix based restaurant and urban bar located just a few blocks south of the Central and Indian School light rail stop offers this and much more. Featuring “American fare with a Moroccan flair” as their website boasts, Fez serves up tasty plates like the Strawberry Blueberry Almond salad and the Casablanca Chicken Sandwich. After hoping off the light rail after work last week I met a friend for an early dinner at Fez. At 5:30 p.m. the hip restaurant is filled with working class urbanites in heels and business suits ordering drinks and dinner at the bar. My friend and I opted for outdoor seating so that we could people watch and take in the warm, early evening air that Arizona affords so nicely at this time of year. The waiters were very friendly and after browsing the menu I decided on the blue cheese balsamic burger cooked to medium while my friend ordered the fez kisra, a type of thin crust pizza. The burger was seasoned really well and the blue cheese gave it a strong creaminess that I really enjoyed. As we were leaving the restaurant I spotted a few brightly colored drinks lining the counter of the bar and I thought to myself, “Not only am I coming back, but I’m ordering drinks next time too.” By Jessica...
