Spring is shaping up to be a flavorful one in the Valley, with two destinations hosting events that bring together creative cuisine, refreshing drinks, and lively social energy. Whether guests are craving an interactive culinary experience or a sunny afternoon of tastings with mountain views, upcoming events at ZuZu and Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale promise plenty to sip and savor.
The first event arrives when ZuZu at Hotel Valley Ho welcomes the return of its popular Versus Series dinner on March 26. Known for pairing playful culinary competition with elevated dining, the series invites guests to compare flavors head-to-head throughout a multi-course meal.
This time around, the spotlight is on Italy, with a spirited showdown between Italian wines and Italian cocktails. Each of the evening’s four courses will be paired with both, giving guests the chance to taste, compare, and decide which wins each round.
The menu includes Tomato + Herb Focaccia, Hamachi Crudo, Pork Chop Cotoletta, and Semolina Olive Oil Cake. With each dish served alongside its competing beverage pairings, diners will cast their votes throughout the evening to help determine the ultimate champion in this flavorful battle. The dinner begins at 6 p.m. Tickets are priced at $139 per person, plus tax and gratuity, and reservations are required for the event.
Just a few weeks later, another celebration of food and drink takes center stage a few miles away. On April 19, Rusty’s Annual Beer & Bubbles Fest returns to Mountain Shadows Resort, offering guests a festive afternoon filled with tastings, live music, and scenic views.
The event invites attendees to sample more than 30 varieties of canned beer and sparkling wine. Guests will receive a punch card for 20 tastings, giving them plenty of opportunities to explore a mix of brews and bubbly selections throughout the afternoon. A buffet featuring festival favorites will include bratwurst, potato salad, and pretzels served with beer cheese, creating the perfect pairing.
The festivities run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. A tournament with an 8 a.m. shotgun start offers players the chance to hit the course before joining the event. Tickets for the Beer & Bubbles Fest are priced at $49, while the combined golf tournament and festival package is available for $149.
In addition to food and drink tastings, guests can also enjoy live music and raffle prizes. Together, the two gatherings highlight the Valley’s culinary and social scene, offering everything from a sophisticated tasting dinner to a laid-back outdoor festival. Learn more at hotelvalleyho.com or mountainshadows.com.
