The intersection of Ray and McClintock roads in Chandler is one of my favorite dining destinations in the Valley. It’s home to one of my favorite pizzerias (Jimmy & Joe’s), Mediterranean restaurants (Spices), fast-casual Asian eateries (Tott’s Asian Kitchen) and mom-and-pop cafes (Dessie’s Cafe). Now it’s about to add Nosh Arizona.
The self-described gastropub and wine bar is taking over the former Bongo’s Bar & Grill space in the Alberston’s strip mall on the northwest corner.
Owners Mark and Stacey Carson are shooting for a Dec. 12 opening, although that may get pushed back a few days.
Stacey (pictured), who’s worked as a private chef and caterer, is the force in the kitchen, creating a rotating menu of mostly small plates, but also some appetizers, soups and desserts.
Husband Mark, a telecommunications consultant, will provide back-of-the-house support.
Stacey’s signature dishes include Moroccan-spiced key lime shrimp (pictured below); peach-smoked salmon with a sweet chili reduction; and a prosciutto, goat cheese, pear, and arugula pizzetta. Look for sea salt vanilla ice cream with chocolate-covered maple bacon bits for dessert.
The bar will offer a small but well-chosen list of bottled beers – think Odell Saboteur, Lost Abbey Judgment Day, Ballast Point Victory at Sea, and Deschutes Black Butte  – as well as four on draft.
Most interesting of all, the Carsons plan to start making their own house wines in January with 120 gallons of “juice” frozen from the last harvest.  The white will be a Trebbiano, similar to an acidic Pinot gris; the red will be a Veldepeña, a very full-bodied red similar to a Malbec.
