A New Top for Valle Luna Cantina Patio
With temperatures still hitting triple digits, it's still a little hot for patio dining. Even after the sun goes down the urban heat effect keeps low temperatures hovering near 90 degrees making cocktails on the patio unappealing. Fortunately this type of weather, like winter in northern states, doesn't last forever.
By the time the weather breaks, the patio of Valle Luna Cantina will have a new roof. This popular mexican eatery and, well, cantina, is blessed with a wonderful setting along the lake shore on the Boardwalk at Andersen Springs in Chandler. From the looks of the construction currently underway, a roof, similar to the roof over the restaurant patio, is being added. It's likely the outdoor seating area will also be equipped with a misting systems and some type of heating, although they may recycle existing propane patio heaters.
Since the food is inspired by the flavors and recipes of Sonora, Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is the big holiday celebration for Valle Luna. It is also the last time I was there for happy hour. I have been there several times this summer for lunch. My favorite lunch is the machaca beef burro de casa with green chile. If I'm just snacking, the bean dip and chips provide just enough substance, thanks to plenty of beans and cheese, and spice to be satisfying. Add the Vallitos y Lunitas, or mini-burros, for a great tapas-type happy hour meal.
There are three Valle Luna locations in the Phoenix metro at 3336 W. Bell Road, 16048 N. Cave Creek Road and 1949 W. Ray Rd. I've only been to the one on Ray Road, which has some stiff competition in Andersen Springs from Hon Machi, a sushi place, and Pita Jungle, whose vegetarian and healthy food always draws a crowd, even at 1 p.m. on a weekday, not to mention the Jazz Jam Session on Thursday nights. Andersen Springs is also home to one of the Valley's 15 Sprouts Farmers Market locations. Both also have patios.
With Arizona's indoor smoking ban, patios are springing up, and being widely utilized, despite the heat. It's nice that there are a few patios, like those along the Boardwalk at Andersen Springs, that combine great food, people and entertainment with a view of a lake. I look forward to trying out the Cantina's "new" patio as soon as it has been topped off --- weather permitting, of course!
It won't be long until cooler weather sets in and we all go back outdoors. Let me know where your favorite patios are!
