Crave AZ Teases Phoenix With a Pre-Party

Crave AZ, which we wrote about back in August, has been moved from late October to January 2011. We know, we’re bummed, too. But there’s good news: Crave: The Pre-Party will still be held Oct. 23, allowing revelers the opportunity to experience a taste of all the culinary excellence yet to come.

In an effort to accommodate new major sponsors, Crave AZ pushed its big event back three months, but that doesn’t mean you don’t still have plans that weekend. Crave: The Pre-Party will take place at the Calvin Charles Gallery, beginning at 7 p.m., in the downtown Scottsdale Arts District. There will be live jazz by Dennis Rowland and nosh by restaurant 5th and Wine, including custom-crafted beers by the SanTan Brewing Company, as well as magnum vintage wines. Tickets will be $20 per person in advance or $25 at the door, and can be purchased through the event’s site.

Next year, for January, you’ll want to save the following dates for the real Crave AZ event:

• Elixirs at the Loft at The Chef’s Loft on SouthBridge, featuring two back-to-back events: Battle of the Sexes, a wine tasting encounter, and the National Top Bar Chef Mix-Off (Friday, Jan. 28)
• Decanted — A VIP Reserve Wine Tasting, held outdoors under the stars on SouthBridge (Saturday, Jan. 29)
• Crave AZ Grand Tasting on SouthBridge (Sunday, Jan. 30)

The 2011 event will mark the third annual Crave AZ, featuring more than 40 local, independent restaurants and more than 200 vineyards. Purchase tickets through the event’s site.

The Calvin Charles Gallery is located at 4201 N. Marshall Way in Scottsdale  Crave AZ

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