We sat down with Kimber Lanning to find out about her favorite local places around town. She’s the founder and executive director of Local First Arizona, and also owns Stinkweeds and Modified Arts. We’re a proud member of Local First, a non-profit that supports local businesses to help build vibrant communities.
What is your favorite coffee shop?
My big secret is I don’t drink coffee, but I love the chamomile tea at Urban Beans!
Do you have a favorite boutique in Phoenix?
MADE art boutique – it’s all handmade stuff. I love Practical Art as well…creative places that support entrepreneurs.
What are a couple of good places to get cocktails?
St. Francis is a restaurant with a patio that feels like a cocktail bar. Windsor has great cocktails too.
What are your favorite restaurants in the Valley right now?
I love FnB in Downtown Scottsdale and House of Tricks in Tempe.
What are some great local spots that most people don’t know about?
The Whining Pig at 16th Street and Bethany Home Road – it’s a tiny bar that servers beer and wine. It only fits about 24 people and the owner is usually pouring the drinks. Just down the street is a place called Dick’s Hideaway. It’s a great bar that also serves food…they don’t even have a sign! I’m also really excited about the spring opening of the new Changing Hands Bookstore and Justin Beckett’s restaurant Southern Rail. Both are part of the redevelopment of the former Beef Eater’s restaurant in central Phoenix, now called The Newton.
Tell us about Local First Arizona and your involvement with it.
I believe that locally owned businesses provide a unique experience that builds community pride. When you build community pride, that builds out in a lot of ways. People vote, volunteer, and engage in their community.
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