Joyce Tawes- ABR, CRS, CLHMS

The Bad Donkey in Carefree, AZ is a local treat with a great name...
I heard on the news today that July 2009 was the hottest July on record in the Phoenix area, averaging 107.8 degrees during the day. Does this even remotely sound like weather than would encourage you to go home and prepare a huge meal? My answer to the hot weather has been to visit my friends at the Bad Donkey in Carefree, Arizona. Located on the corner of Cave Creek Road and Tom Darlington, just north of Scottsdale, it's convenient, service is snappy and the menu is perfect.

They specialize in subs, pizzas and salads. They offer 5 or 6 choices in each category, but the best thing is to build your own. They have a unique menu called "The Mother List" consisting of your choice of bread, meats, cheeses, veggies, premium veggies, sub dressings and salad dressing. Salads are fun as you can order small or large salads and create your own masterpiece from the ton of selections in front of you.

I admit I haven't tried the subs as of yet, but frequently order the pizza to go - especially during the football, basketball, baseball and hockey seasons. Since the sports seasons seem to overlap, pizza is always a good answer for a quick and delicious meal in front of the TV.

You can dine in at the quaint tables (inside and out), or order your food to go. I've never had a long wait, and I always like to spend time in the restaurant as the staff is always friendly and outgoing. Plus, you never have to remember what day they are closed because they are open 7 days a week.

Oh - did I remember to mention there is an ice cream parlor next door? The Dinky Donkey serving dessert is just a few steps away!

The Bad Donkey
37636 N Tom Darlington
Carefree, Arizona
Phone: (480) 824-1500
To check out their menu go to their website at:
www.thebaddonkey.com

Hours:
Monday through Saturday from 10:30 AM to 8 PM
Sunday from 11:00 AM to 8 PM

If you are looking for a way to beat the heat in Scottsdale or the surrounding areas this summer, Harold's Cave Creek Corral in Cave Creek, AZ has gone all out to install misters on the patio areas of the restaurant and kicked up the air conditioning inside to keep you cool.

Harold's is difficult to describe...

• Is it a "cowboy" establishment?
• Is it a "biker" establishment?
• Is it a "yuppie" establishment?
• Is it a "snowbird" establishment?

As hard as it may be to believe, it is actually a wonderful combination of all of the above...

Although we listen to the radio saying the economy is bad - it certainly hasn't cut down on the folks who like to hit Harold's for a big rack of ribs and cold beer. The free popcorn machine is still working overtime and everyone is snacking while they watch their favorite sports on the many television sets around the place. Come for breakfast, lunch or dinner or to snack and watch the game. Portions are large and prices are good.

In addition to the extensive menu, Harold's books some great entertainers who provide excellent music and some really good "boot stomping" country music just right for dancing. Who knows, you might just learn how to line dance on a special evening.

So if you want to beat the heat and have a great time, better get on down to Harold's. Bring the entire family - all ages are welcome!

Harold's Cave Creek Corral is located at 6895 E Cave Creek Road in Cave Creek, AZ. You might want to call for reservations, especially on the weekends at (480) 488 -1906.
http://haroldscorral.com/