Big thanks to my man Stefan Canchola, aka AZ Beer Jedi for joining me in this episode, providing the pics and for the following write-up.
In beautiful and luxurious Scottsdale Arizona you will find a wonderful playground of attractions and delights to satisfy any taste or craving, from world class restaurants, resorts, shopping and entertainment, but did you know you will also find the best craft beer in all the state, literally.
Tucked safely in the heart of what is known as "Old Town" you will find the 2nd oldest house in the area. Built in 1937, 6922 E Main St had only been home to a few businesses but for the most part had been neglected and abandoned and anyone wanting to use the location definitely had their work cut out for them.
Opening it's doors on Saturday March 7, 2015, Craft 64 hit the ground running as a force to be reckoned with not just in the craft beer community but as a destination spot for locals and tourists looking for a great place for a quality drink, out of this world pizza and a great atmosphere with a sole focus on what is arguably one of the most important thing to foodies and beverage seekers, local first and locally sourced.
The Beer:
All Arizona, All the time!
Featuring 31 handles, here you will find beer from all over Arizona, and especially from places you didn't realize had a brewery, Yuma? Kingman? If it's in Arizona they probably will get a keg of it.
This is the perfect place for locals because if driving to Lochiel Brewing in the far east valley or 8-Bit on the far Westside is too much of a chore, Craft 64 is conveniently located right in the middle.
House Beers:
Yes they brew their own beer but not on site. In a partnership that's been extremely successful Craft 64 has been contract brewing with SunUp Brewing of Phoenix and has collaborated with Dubina Brewing of Glendale on their incredible Mango Sour to which I'll say is basically a perfect beer. In regards to the house beers it's something I've said every time I've tried one of them for the first time, they know what their doing, who they're brewing for and they do it very well!
The food:
No Freezers, no fryers, no microwaves and no gas, see where I'm going with this? Just say no to no quality. Ingredients from pizza dough, mozzarella, pizza sauce, salad dressing are all made fresh daily. Tomatoes and that amazing crack bacon are all locally sourced and the marriage of these treasures are brought together in a pizza oven that comes straight from Italy powered by pecan wood
On most days when you visit you will find behind the bar working like a general to keep things smooth and flowing, local craft beer hero James Swann, a self described beer enthusiast and recovering beer snob. Swann has a storied and accomplished history in helping grow the love for craft beer in the Phoenix area. When asked about his experience and contribution to the scene he remains extremely humble and grateful to those whom he's credited learning from and allowed him to run with his ideas.
You owe it to yourself to check out what is being celebrated on a regular basis by the likes of Phoenix Magazine, USA Today, local news networks and social media as one of if not the best restaurants and beer bars in Arizona.
ENJOY!!! ~ AZ Beer Jedi
Craft 64 Website
Follow AZ Beer Jedi on his Facebook page
Follow the AZ Food & Beer Facebook page...full website coming in October!
Intro/Outro music is "La Negra Tomasa" by the awesome local Arizona band Fayuca
Want to show your support and help this show grow? Simply click here, give the show a rating and share some feedback!
Publish Date: 10/2/2017
Big thanks to my man Stefan Canchola, aka AZ Beer Jedi for joining me in this episode, providing the pics and for the following write-up.
In beautiful and luxurious Scottsdale Arizona you will find a wonderful playground of attractions and delights to satisfy any taste or craving, from world class restaurants, resorts, shopping and entertainment, but did you know you will also find the best craft beer in all the state, literally.
Tucked safely in the heart of what is known as "Old Town" you will find the 2nd oldest house in the area. Built in 1937, 6922 E Main St had only been home to a few businesses but for the most part had been neglected and abandoned and anyone wanting to use the location definitely had their work cut out for them.
Opening it's doors on Saturday March 7, 2015, Craft 64 hit the ground running as a force to be reckoned with not just in the craft beer community but as a destination spot for locals and tourists looking for a great place for a quality drink, out of this world pizza and a great atmosphere with a sole focus on what is arguably one of the most important thing to foodies and beverage seekers, local first and locally sourced.
The Beer:
All Arizona, All the time!
Featuring 31 handles, here you will find beer from all over Arizona, and especially from places you didn't realize had a brewery, Yuma? Kingman? If it's in Arizona they probably will get a keg of it.
This is the perfect place for locals because if driving to Lochiel Brewing in the far east valley or 8-Bit on the far Westside is too much of a chore, Craft 64 is conveniently located right in the middle.
House Beers:
Yes they brew their own beer but not on site. In a partnership that's been extremely successful Craft 64 has been contract brewing with SunUp Brewing of Phoenix and has collaborated with Dubina Brewing of Glendale on their incredible Mango Sour to which I'll say is basically a perfect beer. In regards to the house beers it's something I've said every time I've tried one of them for the first time, they know what their doing, who they're brewing for and they do it very well!
The food:
No Freezers, no fryers, no microwaves and no gas, see where I'm going with this? Just say no to no quality. Ingredients from pizza dough, mozzarella, pizza sauce, salad dressing are all made fresh daily. Tomatoes and that amazing crack bacon are all locally sourced and the marriage of these treasures are brought together in a pizza oven that comes straight from Italy powered by pecan wood
On most days when you visit you will find behind the bar working like a general to keep things smooth and flowing, local craft beer hero James Swann, a self described beer enthusiast and recovering beer snob. Swann has a storied and accomplished history in helping grow the love for craft beer in the Phoenix area. When asked about his experience and contribution to the scene he remains extremely humble and grateful to those whom he's credited learning from and allowed him to run with his ideas.
You owe it to yourself to check out what is being celebrated on a regular basis by the likes of Phoenix Magazine, USA Today, local news networks and social media as one of if not the best restaurants and beer bars in Arizona.
ENJOY!!! ~ AZ Beer Jedi
Craft 64 Website
Follow AZ Beer Jedi on his Facebook page
Follow the AZ Food & Beer Facebook page...full website coming in October!
Intro/Outro music is "La Negra Tomasa" by the awesome local Arizona band Fayuca
Want to show your support and help this show grow? Simply click here, give the show a rating and share some feedback!
Publish Date: 10/2/2017
When they opened up the first State 48 Brewery location in 2016, the Rana family had already run great family-owned spots for generations. Now, less than 6 years later the brewery has expanded to 6 locations (and soon to be 7…listen in to learn more) and has begun to get their great beer out to the AZ masses. Join in as we explore the journey and family behind one of Arizona’s fastest-growing breweries!
Publish Date: 8/26/2021
In this episode, beer reviewer Marcus Pina, aka Brewery 602, reviews 2 beers:
1) "Wizard of The West", a collaboration between THE Arizona pizza guy Wizard of AZ and The Shop Beer Co. in Tempe 2) "Boeing 717 India Pale Lager" by Flying Basset Brewing in Gilbert.
Shout out to The Hourglass Cats for the sweet tunes for this episode!
Enjoy!
Publish Date: 8/18/2021
In this series presented by The Arizona Beer Book, we will hear the story of over 2 dozen iconic Arizona beers. These conversations were recorded in 2019 during the creation of The Arizona Beer Book for the purpose of research and were never intended to be released. Spiciness of the heat type is not a commonly used term when describing beer. Enter Chiltepin Red from Button Brew House. A tasty red ale with a kick of heat thanks to the addition of Native Sonoran Chiltepin Pepper, this one is a must-try!
Publish Date: 7/30/2021
When Kings Beer & Wine was opened years ago by Mickey Salem it quickly became a destination for any fan of craft beer and solidified its place as a staple in the Arizona craft beer community. In 2020 Kings was purchased by Mark and Sarah Fogleman. Along with the Kings crew, the Foglemans have big dream for their spot located on Thomas & Central in Phoenix. Join in as Mark and resident beer expert Alec Johnson share the vision of Kings and its place in the Arizona beer community!
Publish Date: 7/23/2021
Sometimes having roommates sucks. But sometimes, it's pretty awesome. Borderlands Brewing and Firetruck Brewing in Tucson decided recently that a shared space could pay huge dividends on multiple levels. Thus, the creation of Voltron Brewing, a shared full production facility with a beautiful spacious accompanying taproom. The main purpose of the location is to allow both brands to keep up with the demand for their beers but the vision is much bigger and this team is one to keep an eye on. Enjoy the show!
Publish Date: 7/15/2021
In this episode, beer reviewer Marcus Pina, aka Brewery 602, reviews the "Rebuild The Guild IPA" from Wrenhouse Brewing in Phoenix & "No Trabajes Tanto Amber Lager" from Harbottle Brewing in Tucson.
Also, Tap That AZ Hazy IPA is back but with prickly pear this time! Listen to hear the details of that as well as a week-long 14-year anniversary party for the great folks at Ground Control in Litchfield Park.
Shout out to The Hourglass Cats for the sweet tunes for this episode!
Enjoy!
Publish Date: 7/12/2021
When I first met Josh Archuleta I could tell this dude is driven. We've kept in touch over the past few years and finally earlier this year we were able to work together on Haka Shakalaka Session Hazy IPA. The beer itself had a community element to it in that we gave a percentage of the proceeds to Smokin' Hope who is determined to feed as many hungry people as they can. For Josh and his wife Maria to start Mindful Militia to help bring awareness to mental health & mindfulness it's the perfect fit. Enjoy!
Publish Date: 7/9/2021
It's been too long since I've published an episode so wanted to let you know I'm still here and I will see you all in July. Life is great and I have a lot of great opportunities right now that need a little TLC. Listen in to hear the vision of the show upon return as well as the rest of the exciting stuff we have going on! See you in a few weeks!
Publish Date: 6/24/2021
A podcast that introduces you to all of the amazing people behind the surging Arizona craft beer scene.
