After a successful launch of Postino East, Upward Projects will open its second restaurant concept, Joyride Taco House, June 3 in the Heritage District in Gilbert.

Travelers accustomed to chain eateries like Chili’s and Paradise Bakery now have a chance to experience local offerings such as Cowboy Ciao, La Grande Orange and Barrio Cafe at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

Finding good Mexican grub in this town is no problem; we could celebrate Cinco de Mayo once a week if pressed. But if you’re looking to do justice to this weekend’s other big almost-holiday, the Kentucky Derby, that’s a little more of a head scratcher. Here are three ways to indulge in the Southern spirit of the Run for the Roses, no big fancy hats required.

Famous Dave’s BBQ locations in Chandler, Mesa and Gilbert, as well as Peoria, will thank teachers May 7 with its BBQ Two Meat Salute for "National Teacher Appreciation Day."

Wednesday, May 1 is Customer Appreciation Day at Joe’s Real BBQ in Gilbert. Anyone who shows up between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. and then from 4 p.m. through the rest of the evening — until they run out of food — will get a free BBQ sandwich made from pecan-smoked meats like chicken breast, pulled pork and beef brisket and pit ham; a free side, like sweet cut corn, potato salad, mac and cheese or BBQ pit beans; and a free drink.

More than 25 barbecue vendors gather at Salt River Fields for this annual event, which will feature the inaugural Redneck Games. This cornpone competition includes a hub cap hurling challenge, a watermelon seed spitting contest and dead lawn mower races. Live music also plays throughout the day.

Mill Avenue has always been a hot spot for tourists, students, and locals alike. With the constant flow of people and changing demographics, it is typically no surprise when a new restaurant or bar opens.

EastValleyTribune.com/Get Out's Mandy Zajac and Stephanie Perrault share ideas on weekend fun in the Valley of the Sun!

EastValleyTribune.com/Get Out's Mandy Zajac and Stephanie Perrault share ideas on weekend fun in the Valley of the Sun!

This weekend downtown Chandler will be piled high with more than 20,000 pounds of BBQ at the Great American Barbeque and Beer Festival. The roster of restaurants dishing up ribs, brisket, pulled pork and chicken includes old favorites Famous Dave’s, Honey Bear’s BBQ, Joe’s Real BBQ and Tom’s BBQ, along with some newcomers including Porkopolis.

As if a festival celebrating beer and barbeque couldn’t get any better, it just did: Rock bands Smash Mouth and Hoobastank will headline The Great American Barbeque & Beer Festival on March 23.

Nick Escalante enjoys grilling his family's meals a couple of times a week year-round, but doesn't like cleaning the greasy mess that comes with it.

Four Peaks Brewing Company has been an East Valley fixture for 16 years. Its variety of beer retails not only across the state, but nationwide and even in other countries.

Four Peaks Brewing Company has been an East Valley fixture for 16 years. Its variety of beer retails not only across the state, but nationwide and even in other countries.

For the beer, food or smoking enthusiast, here’s an event for tonight: the second annual Cigar, Beer and BBQ Festival.

If you haven’t yet stopped by Four Peaks Brewing Company’s newest location, here’s a good reason to: They’re going to be tapping Pumpkin Porter — in February.

On Sunday, Feb. 24, first responders — which include law enforcement officers, firefighters and EMTs — will be treated to a free meal at Famous Dave’s BBQ.

Last year “Money Magazine” rated Chandler as one of the 50 best places to live in America — in part because of its annual mouth-watering barbecue and beer festival in AJ Chandler Park.

Among common resolutions to eat better and exercise more are often pledges to improve the intellect — by reading more books, say.

My mouth is watering, and there’s not a thing I can do about it.