Venue is drawing excellent shows

I'm lucky to have an excellent venue near my home, so I don't have to always drive to downtown Mesa or downtown Phoenix to see a show. The CCA is attracting a variety of excellent performers and shows! I've thoroughly enjoyed each one I've attended over the years, which include The Nutcracker, The Spirit of Christmas, Calo Flamenco, and The Miss Arizona Native American beauty pageant. Some of the free shows, sponsored by Intel are held here during the "slower" summer months. The building itself is uniquely designed but somewhat dated, so a major renovation is scheduled for 2009. Parking is free and ample. You can enjoy dinner or a cocktail in downtown Chandler before or after a show, too.

Had to try it (once)

The Brazilian steakhouse concept is an all-you-can-eat experience, featuring grilled meats on a big stake that is carved and served to you table side. Vegans and folks with small appetites should skip it. This restaurant turned out to be average and did not overly impress us. I ate mostly chicken as the beef and lamb I sampled were very tough. Good selection of salads and side dishes, though. The restaurant makes additional money from desserts and drinks (there is also an after-dinner drink cart that comes by your table and is quite tempting). We had sticker shock when the bill came (over $200, including tip, for 3 people). I've had much better fine dining experiences for much less money. It's a fun concept to try but don't expect too much here, or you'll be disappointed.

Good local Mexican food

We had been longing to try Serrano's because we like to support local (non-chain) businesses. We weren't knocked out by our visit but would return. Chips/salsa were good and so was the cheese crisp. Skip the menudo -- it was too bland. Service was very attentive.

Highly recommended

I would highly recommend Dr. Dimond for his skill and bedside manner. Very little scarring. He takes the time to explain what will happen. His office staff is awesome also (LeeAnn). His outpatient surgery is performed at Thunderbird Samaritan Surgical Center, and overall it was a great experience with good care.

Consistent and delish!

Pei Wei is the perfect way to get your PF Chang's fix when you don't have time for a sit-down meal. It's not only quick but less expensive and the entrees are the same! I love Pei Wei for takeout or a quick meal when I'm out and about. I pretty much order the same thing: Edamame and lettuce wraps. And, typically, a Japanese beer if I'm eating there.

Ciao! Hurry in to Angel Sweet

Thank goodness we can enjoy authentic Italian gelato here in the valley. The decor is nothing to brag about but the gelato has been consistently delicious and flavors change often (many nutty flavors to choose from, which is how they make it in Italy). If you haven't tried gelato yet, you're in for a great surprise. You'll be hooked.

One of the best zoos in the nation!

Always a fun experience ~ I have taken many visitors to our zoo and it's been a big hit every time. Plenty of activities, such as the petting zoo, to keep the little ones occupied. The Sting Ray Bay exhibit is a unique highlight (who would think we'd enjoy these critters here in the desert)? Zoo Lights is an awesome experience; they seem to outdo themselves every year. Best to avoid Zoo Lights on the weekends since it's become so popular (and crowded). Visits in the summer are tolerable if you go early (they open at 7AM). My favorite exhibit is the Spectacled Bears.

Pretentious and not worth the $$$

I've been to Dolce several times (about six times) so I don't base my review on just one experience. "You get what you pay for" doesn't apply here -- all services are very high priced and frankly, you can't tell the difference. They must be charging these prices to pay for the elaborate setting and numerous staff members. My biggest gripe is the long wait to check out -- you shouldn't have to wait longer to check out than the time spent on your service! They need to streamline it. They've got the staff and computer system to do it.

Dr. Adkins is a fantastic veterinarian!

Our experience with Brown Road Animal Clinic was nothing less than positive. They schedule accordingly as to not keep you waiting with a wiggly pet. Dr. Adkins has an excellent bedside manner and is empathetic to the needs of your animals. He is soft-spoken, yet witty and has always given us good advice regarding the health of our pets.

Outstanding movie experience

Farrelli's has perfected the movie with a cocktail and/or meal concept. I guess we'd expect nothing less from a Scottsdale location! They continually promote theme nights/events. For example, they just had a "Sex in the City" movie viewing which was also a benefit with designer shoe donations (clever). My experience with the food and service was very positive, and there are no bad seats in the house for the viewing. If you're looking for something new for date night, this is a great idea. I first experienced cinema+food in Austin and San Antonio (Alamo Drafthouse), but they don't hold a candle to Farrelli's in terms of class, cleanliness and overall experience.