A Whole Foods Markets is coming to the East Valley.
The Austin-based natural food retailer, which operates only two stores in the Valley, is building stores at Shea Boulevard and Scottsdale Road near the Scottsdale-Phoenix border.
Whole Foods has 191 stores in the United States and United Kingdom and employs 39,000 people.
SMOKY TASTE
Gilbert has an ice cream store with a twist — the ice cream is made of smoke at FrostBite Creamery, 53 N. Val Vista Drive.
“Rather than making ice cream the traditional salt and ice way, FrostBite Creamery uses liquid nitrogen to instantly freeze creams and mix-ins to custom create each customer’s order,” the company said.
“This process of instant freezing eliminates the formation of ice crystals. The result is smoother, creamier ice cream.”
Customers can choose their own flavors and watch as the final product is made.
DOWNTOWN INTEREST
The Downtown Mesa Association said six potential restaurateurs are interested in setting up shop in downtown Mesa.
The organization, which is charged with attracting commerce to the once-thriving area, said restaurants serving Chinese, Italian, Southwestern and Irish food may be coming to the area.Also, a pizzeria and wine bar also may be in the works.
CHANGES
•The Barracuda Grill, 1455 W. Elliot Road in Gilbert, has changed owners and will soon change menus. It will serve gourmet hamburgers.
•And speaking of changing owners and menus, the Munchies at Fourth Street and Mill Avenue in Tempe is now Sunset Diner.
