Carly's Bistro -- Phoenix, AZ

First Friday on Roosevelt Row, Downtown Phoenix Arts District

A tidbit of information for those of you who are not local Phoenicians…

First Friday is a monthly Art Walk that occurs every, well... every first Friday of the month. It is a free, all ages event. Vendors, local artists, and food trucks line the road and side streets selling their wares. Open shops, niche restaurants and breweries, are aplenty. There are interesting performances and many prime opportunities to people watch. We actually encountered Flat Earthers there.

"I'd hold a discussion with them if they approach me." ~Kenny Muzzey

Needless to say, Sarah was extremely grateful when they did not approach Kenny, as she had no idea how that would end.

First Friday is definitely an excellent way to spend a Friday evening in the desert (especially during Spring and Fall).

P.S. Our favorite place to visit on Roosevelt Row is The Theodore (Beer + Wine Bar and Bottle Shop) for their amazing beer and mead selection. Unfortunately, they do not sell food (so there is no pretzel) but we really enjoy the vibe. However, food trucks will visit every Thursday for Trivia Night and more often than not on Fridays and Saturdays. If you wish to follow the food truck schedule check out their Facebook or Instagram.

On to our review...

March 4th, 2022

Carly's Bistro -- Phoenix, AZ

This full-sized pretzel glistened with a buttery glaze and was deep, rich, and dark brown in color. The amount of salt was light; it had a doughy texture that was just right. Honestly, as for the photo, we’re not exactly sure what Kenny was doing here. The images we had to choose from were few and far between and seemingly lacked foresight and proper presentation. This delectable treat was not done any justice by way of Kenny’s standard of photography.  (This photo critique came straight from Kenny, by the way.)


The pretzel was served with basic yellow mustard and creamy beer cheese that had a slight bite.

3.0/5.0

Sincerely,
Kenny Muzzey & Sarah Love

Bar Louie -- Glendale, AZ

Today is Sunday, the 12th of May, which is also Mother's Day this year; so an extra special shout-out to all the mothers out there! Especially if you are reading this post.

Two years, three months and one week ago, that’s oddly specific, we know… but we digress, our second “official” pretzel review was cooked up. We can say that because we realized an all-encompassing review includes a snapshot or two. So therefore, for your viewing pleasure…. please see the much anticipated, much awaited picture below. 

February 5th, 2022

Bar Louie -- Glendale, AZ

At a friend's birthday party, we had quite an unconventional pretzel tasting. While we were singing "Happy Birthday," the appetizers came out and we experienced something new.

These pretzel bites were covered in Everything Bagel seasoning instead of salt. They were shaped like tater tots for easy consumption. The much kneaded treats resembled tiny bakery style pastries and were a deep, rich mahogany. 

The little morsels were soft and doughy with an overall good texture. It had a unique taste profile with Everything Bagel seasoning, although plain old sea salt would have been a better complement in our opinion. If you’re a fan of Everything Bagel seasoning though, these will be right up your alley!

The dipping sauces were Queso and Honey Dijon, nothing noteworthy. 

3.0/5.0 (Salt would have boosted to a 4.0.)

Sincerely,

Kenny Muzzey & Sarah Love

Thank You Teachers!

A shout out to all the educators out there! We figured better late than never.... 

This past week the nation paid homage to our teachers by celebrating them during National Teacher Appreciation Week (May 6 – May 10, 2024). Each day of the week dedicated individuals went above and beyond to make this week special for school staff.

We wanted to take a moment to show our gratitude and support for our instructors who are underappreciated, underpaid, and overworked. Teachers wear many hats, occasionally literally, always figuratively. Their work is never done.  Thank you to all the teachers out there, you make the world a better place with your efforts!

Keep your eyes peeled for our newest review tomorrow!

Sincerely,

Kenny Muzzey & Sarah Love