By Gretchen Pahia
Finding unique spots to eat can sometimes be a challenge in the valley but there is one spot in Verrado that is nailing it! Take it from me, if you haven’t had the chance to stop by The Craftsman Cocktails & Kitchen yet, you are certainly missing out on some amazing food and service.
Located in Litchfield Park at 19580 West Indian School Road, Craftsman Cocktails & Kitchen is a must visit spot in the southwest valley. The fusion-style restaurant brings together flavors from French influence, mixed with a little bit of pizzaz and elegance. This is a great spot to enjoy a meal with family and friends, have a date night, or just stop and grab a bite at the bar. The doors opened about a year ago in October of 2023 and there are plenty of options on the menu, and you will definitely leave the restaurant feeling full and satisfied.
From appetizers to salads, main entrees and desserts, you cannot make a bad choice. Many appetizer options including the Sourdough Braid which is a house made pretzel, beer cheese, whole grain mustard, and cinnamon butter. Another great appetizer to share (or enjoy solo) are the Bulgogi Steam Buns, delicious to say the least.
Entrée options are varied as well, with tastes and flavors for everyone. Looking for a great beef dish, be sure to check out the Imperial Tenderloin. If you’d prefer a handheld option such as a sandwich, there are those choices as well, give the Craftsman Chicken Sandwich a try.
Honestly, no matter what dish you select, you will be sure to leave very satisfied and planning your next trip to the neighborhood restaurant.
In case the food wasn’t enough to bring you to the door, there is an added gem – a hidden speakeasy located next door. The Westward Cocktail Lounge is only accessible through the restaurant through a hidden door and there is a delightful menu of specialty crafted cocktails made just for this hidden spot. Once you enter the space, you will get a higher-end experience that is one to remember. Of course, you will need a password to enter and in order to get that, you can become an email subscriber or a VIP member – or you could likey just ask someone at the hostess desk to see if they can help you out. Bring patience however, there is limited seating available inside the speakeasy.
The Craftsman Cocktails & Kitchen is open 7 days a week. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. to 12 a.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday.
For more information log onto the website at thecraftsmanaz.com.
