10 Best Things I Ate in January

By Laura Hahnefeld Tue., Feb. 5 2013 at 9:00 AM

Categories: Hahnefeld, Top Lists

Continued from page 2

Meatball Sandwich at Italian Restaurant

Meatball Sandwich at Italian Restaurant

Since Chris Bianco's latest Italian eatery in Central Phoenix recently received a makeover, spending a lunch hour or two at the bistro's new dining counter -- preferably with a meatball sandwich -- is a true afternoon delight. The changing menu means the sandwich, packed with heady, seasoned meatballs and bright tomato sauce on hearty homemade bread, isn't always available, but that just makes having one when it is more enjoyable.

Beef Ribs at Texas BBQ House

Beef Ribs at Texas BBQ House

Texas expat Mike Pitt, owner of this excellent Texas 'cue house in South Phoenix, says it took six months to perfect his beef ribs ($6.99 for a half-rack, $10.99 for a full), and perfection sure does taste good. Meaty, juicy, and smoky with a peppery, seasoned rub, they may be the best in the Valley. And you wouldn't be faulted for gnawing, tearing, and sucking up every last bit off the bones.

Roasted Red Bell Soup at Rezbot

Roasted Red Bell Soup at Rezbot

Late-night Native American food? It exists at Jon Sagasta's (Jobot) new urban eatery in a bungalow in the Roosevelt Arts District. The vegan-friendly Roasted Red Bell Soup ($7), served up in a Chinese takeout box and with a golden and puffy piece of frybread for dunking, is especially tasty. Made with onion, celery, carrot, sundried tomatoes, and roasted red bell peppers, its thick and creamy texture and bright, seasoned flavor would make any night owl hoot with glee.

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