GetOut Magazine

Devil picks
Compiled by Adrienne Frank, Kelly Wilson and Thomas Bond
Get Out

Youve been through freshman orientation. You know where the cafeteria is located, and the bookstore, too. You know how late the Memorial Union Taco Bell is open, and youve successfully located fraternity row.

But what about the important stuff you know, where to nosh after the bars close, where to find great deals on vintage Levis and where to hear the Valleys hottest bands?

Fret not, dear Sun Devils weve got you covered. From eating and drinking to shopping and primping, heres Get Outs spin on freshman orientation.

EATING & DRINKING
Best Italian fare with a fun flair
Oreganos The only attitude Oreganos serves up is one of fun. Bustling at seemingly all hours of the day and night, the colorful, relaxed Italian bistro offers delicious thin-crust and stuffed-crust pies, oversize salads, killer hoagies and piping-hot pasta. And while the entrees are top-notch, they dont even begin to compare with dessert. Give Oreganos famed Original Pizza Cookie a try and youll understand why the eatery is so hoppin.

Details: 523 W. University Drive, Tempe, ; 3622 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, ; and 130 E. Washington St., Phoenix, ; 1008 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix,

Best alternative to ice cream
Angel Sweet Youd have to venture to Italy to find gelato better than that served up at this Chandler strip-mall gem. Angel Sweet which has only been open a couple of months is the latest craze in the East Valley, offering dozens of fresh-made varieties of the dense Italian ice cream.
From tangy lemon to the sinful chocolate Oreo, Angels sweets are nothing short of heavenly.

Details: 1900 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler, Best place for something besides Bud Gordon Biersch Brewing Co.

When it comes to breweries, Gordon Biersch is the master of malted barley, hops and yeast. The brewery which sits on the corner of Mill Avenue and Fifth Street, prime people-watching territory not only boasts great views but darn tasty brew, as well. We guarantee youll leave this downtown Tempe hot spot happy, and a little tipsy to boot.

Details: 420 S. Mill Ave., Tempe,

Best fast-food fare
Fat Burger We know were going to upset a lot of In-N-Out loyalists with our pick, but in our humble opinion, theres no better burger than Fats. Made right before your eyes and topped with all the fresh fixings, the California chains oversize, mouthwatering burger puts all others to shame. (Even the turkey burger is incredible.) The only way to improve upon a Fat Burger? Pair it with a thick chocolate shake and an order of Fat fries.

Details: 414 S. Mill Ave., Tempe,

Best place to get your 3 a.m. sugar fix
Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Forget beer sometimes college students just crave a good doughnut.
And whether the urge for something glazed n delicious hits you at midnight or three hours after, the friendly folks at Krispy Kreme are there to help. Boasting a dozen doughnut flavors as well as a 24-hour drive-through, this sweet tooths paradise is the best thing to come along since the six-pack.

Details: 5009 S. Arizona Mills Circle, Tempe,

Best healthy Chinese fare China Lite "Healthy Chinese food" might sound like an oxymoron, but the folks at China Lite are out to prove otherwise. Offering a fresh, healthy spin on traditional fare such as sweet and sour chicken, broccoli with beef and Kung Pao chicken, China Lite serves up all your favorite dishes minus a lot of the fat, calories and cholesterol. Also, the popular lunch spot offers a huge selection of vegetarian plates such as Szechwan eggplant and Shanghai snow peas.

Details: China Lite has locations in Tempe, Mesa and Scottsdale

Best place for the most important meal of the day
US Egg Mom wasnt kidding theres no better way to start the day than with a stack of buttermilk pancakes or a hearty mushroom omelet. Get both, along with a tall glass of orange juice, a plate of hash browns and side of fresh fruit, at this Tempe breakfast spot. Always packed on weekends, US Egg is proof positive that mom knows best.

Details: 131 E. Baseline Road, Tempe, Best California transplant Pasta Pomodoro Olive Garden growing old? Give Pasta Pomodoro a try. A San Francisco chain, the eatery serves up a fresh take on Italian cuisine, with flavorful salads and pasta dishes incorporating everything from roasted butternut squash, anchovies and asparagus to broccoli, calamari and clams. And in the dessert department, Pasta Pomodoro boasts the best tiramisu this side of the old country.

Details: Pasta Pomodoro has locations in Chandler, Mesa, Scottsdale and Phoenix Best first-date restaurant House of Tricks When it comes to first impressions, House of Tricks makes a great one. The eaterys atmosphere is relaxed yet romantic, with trees strewn with white lights, a quaint outdoor bar and creaky hardwood floors among its many charms. Tricks also boasts an impressive wine list and a menu jampacked with eclectic entrees. The perfect place for a first-date dinner, Tricks will give you and your sweetie plenty to talk about.

Details: 114 E. Seventh St., Tempe,

Best place for ice cream and imagination
Cold Stone Creamery Mint ice cream with gummy bears?
Strawberry ice cream with chocolate chip cookie dough? At Cold Stone, anything goes. The popular ice cream parlor mixes the combination of your choice right before your eyes, blending fresh-made ice cream with everything from M&Ms to cherry pie filling. And if youre lacking in the creativity department, Cold Stone is happy to help out with several of its most popular concoctions listed on the wall.

Details: Cold Stone Creamery has locations in Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale and Phoenix

Best manly burger
Roaring Fork The name pretty much says it all.
Roaring Forks Big Ass Burger a 12-ounce beef patty topped with green chilies, longhorn Colby and bacon is the best in the West. Only available at the bar, the burger is $6 from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday (during happy hour) and $11.50 from 7 to 10 p.m.

Details: 4800 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale,

Best $5 lunch Susies Mexican Cafe This hole-in-the-wall Mexican cantina is a favorite among starving college students not only because the prices are low, but because the tacos, tamales and tostadas are to die for. Nestled just east of Loop 101 in a nondescript beige building, Susies has a list of lunch specials that are all less than $5; a cup of keg beer is available for only a penny more. Give the carne asada tacos a try your tastebuds and your pocketbook will thank you.

Details: 2405 E. University Drive, Tempe,

Best place for meat and potatoes Ruths Chris Steak House As far as steakhouses go, Ruths Chris is the Valleys prime cut. Serving up juicy, tender prime rib and filet mignon along with salad and your choice of potato, Ruths Chris is the perfect destination for birthday dinners and other special occasions. A word to the wise, though: Invite mom and dad along to Ruths Chris. The Valleys most spectacular steaks dont come cheap.

Details: 7001 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, and 2201 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix,

Best place for eye-watering Thai cuisine
Thaifoon When Thaifoon blew into north Scottsdale last year, so did a fresh take on Thai cuisine. This chic eatery cooks up a hip, inventive brand of Thai, from the cool cucumber salad to the spicy shrimp, chicken, calamari and tuna dishes. And dont you dare forget about the Siamese spring rolls. From delicious coconut-infused tropical drinks to spicy Thai chili dishes, Thaifoon is truly a breath of fresh air.

Details: 8777 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale,

Best place for finger-lickingood chicken fingers
Islands Fine Burgers and Drinks When it comes to this poultry favorite, not all chickens are created equal. Islands Tiki Tenders, however, rule the coop. Served with your choice of honey mustard, barbecue or ranch dipping sauces, the tropical-themed eaterys chicken fingers are large and plump. Not greasy and not overly breaded, Islands Tiki Tenders are perfect as an appetizer or as an entree.

Details: Islands has locations in Tempe, Mesa and Phoenix

Best lunch for calorie counters
YCs Mongolian BBQ Looking for a healthy alternative to the McDonalds drive-through? Look no further than YCs. At this busy lunch spot, patrons choose items from a buffet full of fresh veggies, meat, noodles, spices and sauces to create their perfect dish, which is then grilled before their eyes. YCs is proof a meal doesnt have to be fatty to be fabulous.

Details: 3206 S. McClintock Drive, Tempe,

Best meal on a stick
Bento Bar Forget about corn dogs the best meal on a stick is at Bento Bar. Plump chunks of chicken are grilled on a skewer, served over a bed of rice and topped with your sauce of choice, from Thai peanut sauce to honey barbecue to traditional teriyaki. Best of all, each of Bentos menu items has less than 5 grams of fat. Too bad we cant claim the same about that corn dog.

Details: 690 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, and 455 N. Third St. (in the Arizona Center), Phoenix,

Best fish food The Salt Cellar
This underground Scottsdale eatery is the next-best thing to a crab dinner in Baltimore. A Valley favorite for years, The Salt Cellar has the tastiest aquatic life shrimp, salmon, calamari, clams and the like this side of the East Coast. Offering up to a dozen fresh catches of the day, the restaurant has something to satisfy everyones seafood cravings.

Details: 550 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale,

Best strip-mall gem
Crackers & Company Located in an industrial park just off Country Club Drive in Mesa, Crackers & Company is as unassuming an eatery as they come. Luckily, what awaits diners inside more than makes up for the drab exterior. Crackers offers delicious sandwich, salad and soup combos at lunchtime, and hearty pancakes, French toast and omelets during the morning hours. Everything on the menu is delicious, proving true the old adage: Its whats on the inside that counts.

Details: 535 W. Iron Ave., Mesa,

Best place for a shot of nutrition Jamba Juice Not getting enough fruits and veggies? Give your system a nutritional tuneup at Jamba Juice. Serving up everything from wheat grass shots to fresh-squeezed carrot juice to refreshing fruit smoothies, Jamba Juice is sure to give you that much-needed jolt of vitamins and nutrients. Give the peach pleasure a try its our favorite.

Details: Jamba Juice has locations in Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee Foothills and Phoenix Best restaurant to visit when mom and dad are paying Buca di Beppo This colorful Italian eatery is the starving students dream for two reasons. First, the portions are huge, so leftovers are a guarantee. Second, the family-style entrees (which feed at least two people) average $15-$20, so its almost a certainty mom and dad will pick up the check. The fact that the food salads, pizza, pasta and more is so delicious only makes the setup all the more scrumptious.

Details: 7111 W. Ray Road, Chandler, ; 1730 S. Val Vista Drive, Mesa, ; and 3828 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale,

Most generous use of tequila in a drink Z Tejas Tequilas not for the tame especially at Z Tejas. The Southwestern grill mixes up the most potent margaritas outside of Mexico, with the equivalent of three shots of Sauza Gold per drink. Flavors include strawberry, peach, pineapple and Z Tejas most popular offering, Chambord.

Details: Z Tejas has locations in Chandler, Tempe, Scottsdale and Phoenix

Best pizza place to think outside the box
Nellos If its a fresh, hearty pizza you desire, its a fresh, hearty pie youll get at Nellos. A favorite among college students (despite the fact the closest location is about four miles from the ASU campus), this pizza joint creates mouthwatering combos, including the spinach pie, Mount Veggie and barbecue chicken. Regardless of which toppings you opt for, Nellos proves the best pizzas dont come in a box.

Details: Nellos has locations in Tempe, Mesa, Scottsdale and Ahwatukee Foothills

Best place to load up on veggies
Sweet Tomatoes Lettuce, tomatoes and beets oh my! From a vast selection of crisp lettuce and fresh fixings to homemade bread and muffins, soup, fruit and pasta, this salad bar restaurant has something to please everyone (even the anti-veggie faction). For less than $7 at lunch and $9 at dinner, youre entitled to unlimited plates, and trust us once you give the lemon muffins a try youll need em.

Details: Sweet Tomatoes has locations in Tempe, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee Foothills and Phoenix

Best place for espresso experimentation Coffee Rush College is all about experimentation.
That in mind, isnt it time you ventured out of Starbucks Land and hit up a new java joint? Nestled near Andersen Springs community lake, Coffee Rush is Chandlers hidden gem, serving up the tastiest iced mochas, lattes and cappuccinos. Frappuccino?

Fuggehdaboutit!

Details: 1949 W. Ray Road, Chandler,

Best place for Boston accents and anchovies Slices What could possibly be tastier than a piping-hot slice of pesto and tomato or mushroom and pepperoni? Why, a slice served up by guys with adorable Boston accents. At Slices just off Mill Avenue near Urban Outfitters youll get both for less than $5. Its one delicious deal.

Details: 11 E. Sixth St., Tempe,

Best place for a pretty, healthy salad
Wildflower Bread Co. From the colorful Oriental chicken salad to the artful tuna salad, the greens at this quaint cafe are almost too pretty to eat. Almost. Wildflower makes the most delicious oversize salads in all of the Valley; and whether you opt for the traditional chicken Caesar or the more exotic Caribbean Cobb, be sure to save room for the fresh-baked bread that accompanies it.

Details: 6428 S. McClintock Drive, Tempe, ; 15640 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, ; and Chandler Fashion Center, Loop 101 and Chandler Boulevard,

Best place to save room for dessert
The Cheesecake Factory Whats in a name? At The Cheesecake Factory, absolutely everything. While the California chain is known for its tempting cheesecake (flavors include chocolate chip cookie dough, German chocolate and white chocolate raspberry swirl), the restaurants other desserts including fresh strawberry shortcake, warm apple crisp and tiramisu aint bad, either.
Just dont think about all the fat grams youre ingesting, and the Factorys sweets will go down as easy as pie.

Details: 15230 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, ; Chandler Fashion Center, Loop 101 and Chandler Boulevard, ; and 2402 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix,

Best chips and salsa for dipping and devouring
Chevys Fresh Mex Restaurant Yes, yes, Chevys is a chain. But once you taste the restaurants chips and hearty, barbecue-infused salsa youll understand why the big, bad chain beat out so many other worthy eateries in this category. Blended fresh every hour, Chevys salsa is a spicy, seductive blend of tomatoes, onions, chilies and zesty spices. Pair that with the restaurants warm, perfectly salted basket of chips and a frozen margarita and youve got a match made in Mexican food heaven.

Details: 1335 S. Alma School Road, Mesa, and 2650 E.
Camelback Road, Phoenix,

Best down-home barbecue
Joes Real Barbecue This locally owned eaterys delicious barbecue and all the fixings are well worth the trip to Gilbert. A favorite among locals, Joes also attracts folks from neighboring cities with its hearty barbecue chicken, beef and pork sandwiches and fresh-made potato salad, coleslaw, cowboy beans and applesauce. And dont forget dessert Joes moist, tangy lemon cake is worth the drive even from Flagstaff.

Details: 301 N. Gilbert Road, Gilbert,

Best place for sushi and sake
Ra Sushi You wouldnt think the words sushi and Arizona would be associated so closely together since were lacking an ocean, but thats one treat that Valley residents delight in devouring. Ra is a favorite because it offers mouthwatering sushi such as the Tootsie roll and the Philly roll, as well as sides like coconut shrimp tempura and pineapple cheese won tons. Be sure to wash the sushi down with a glass of sake for the perfect lunch or dinner combination.

Details: Ra has locations in Tempe, Scottsdale and Ahwatukee Foothills

Best place to indulge in a Philly favorite
Longhitanos Restaurant East Coast transplants will fall head over heels for Longhitanos cheesesteak. Unlike other restaurants unsavory imitations of this Philadelphia favorite, Longhitanos understands the art of designing the perfect cheesesteak thinly sliced rib-eye topped with melted cheese and served on an Italian roll. In addition to the cheesesteaks, the restaurant also serves pizza, hoagies, stromboli and pasta. But the cheesesteak is where its at.

Details: 1835 W. Elliot Road, Tempe,

Best late-night eats Bostons Gourmet Pizza Forget IHOP and Dennys when the bars close down and you need to sober up, nothing soaks up the alcohol better than a Bostons entree. From soup and salad to entrees like macaroni and cheese, pizza, pasta and sandwiches, Bostons truly has something for everyone. And its open until 2 a.m. on weekdays and until 3 a.m. on weekends. Details: 400 W. University Drive, Tempe, Best new Mexican food near campus 3 Margaritas Upon entering 3 Margaritas, you will hear a warm greeting such as "Hola, amigo." With authenticity such as this, youll feel as if youre dining in Mexico.
The restaurant boasts a huge menu that includes lunch specials and, naturally, a wide assortment of margaritas.

Details: 1717 S. Rural Road, Tempe,

Best place for PETA members
Pita Jungle When it comes to vegetarian fare, this hip cafe is king of the jungle. From salads and pizzas to wraps and pitas, everything on Pita Jungles menu is prepared with only the freshest of veggies and spices. And though the restaurant specializes in vegetarian entrees, carnivores are welcome too, as Pita Jungle also serves chicken and fish dishes.

Details: 1250 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe, and 1949 W. Ray Road, Chandler,

Best place for spirited spirits
Bar Louie With martinis like the Diamondback (lemon drop) and the fiesta (chocolate flavored with a chocolate stick) on the menu, Chicago import Bar Louie is scoring a home run on Mill Avenue. And although the bar is fairly new to the Tempe scene, its quickly become a choice spot with its urban, artsy atmosphere.

Details: 398 S. Mill Ave., Tempe,

Best lunch on the go
Someburros Dont be intimidated if you see a long line at Someburros during the lunch hour. Even though its a busy place around noon, youll be in and out in a matter of minutes. The restaurant serves up traditional Mexican fare such as burros, quesadillas and enchiladas (which come with chips and salsa), and if you choose to dine in, you can easily say adios after a mere 30 minutes.

Details: 191 E. Baseline Road, Tempe,

Best wings for your money
Long Wongs Although Long Wongs is better known for its live music than for its menu, the bar serves pretty good eats as well. Come for happy hour and youll be treated to tasty 15-cent chicken wings and, of course, live music. This deal is so hot, Long Wongs had to enforce a 15-wings-per-person limit.

Details: 701 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, . Happy hour is 4 to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Best use of a potato
In-N-Out Burger If you need a quick pick-me-up before an exam or if you simply need to satisfy a french-fry fix, head over to In-N-Out Burger, where they cook up a delicious order of french fries. Made with freshcut potatoes seasoned to perfection, students could easily live off of this savory snack. And if you need something to wash the fries down with, we recommend a tasty milkshake.

Details: In-N-Out has locations in Chandler, Mesa, Scottsdale and Phoenix

Best variety of bagels
Einstein Bros. Bagels With 18 types of fresh bagels, Einsteins is the perfect breakfast stop before class. Try a cinnamon raisin, onion or seasonal favorite orange mango bagel, topped with one of 11 types of cream cheese (called shmears at Einstein). You may find choosing the right combination more challenging than a pop quiz.

Details: Einstein Bros. has locations in Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, Scottsdale and Phoenix

NIGHTLIFE & CLUBS

Best theme night
The Culture Club and Polly Esthers foam parties Bikinis, shirtless males and tons of foam are only a few of the things that youll find when Polly Esthers hosts its monthly foam parties. Youll soon find that dancing amid a floor full of foam and scantily clad partiers is a great way to top off your week.

Details: 2040 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale,

Best bar to go casual Big Fish Pub
Though its in a small Tempe strip mall and screams "dive bar," thats all part of Big Fish Pubs charm. It may not be the "in" place to see and be seen, but this live-music venue is the place to go if you want to mingle with a rock n roll crowd. Its a favorite among local bands and their fans and is one of the few places in town where the bartenders will remember your order the next time you stop in.

Details: 1954 E. University Drive, Tempe,

Best place to see and be seen
O Restaurant and Lounge Even though the club only opened a few months ago, it has quickly become one of Scottsdales hottest nightclubs.
Bathed in blue lighting, the club overlooks Scottsdale Road and features a large patio with an outdoor bar. The bar has attracted everyone from news anchors to actresses to athletes.

Details: 4720 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale,

Best all-night party jam
Freedom If you dread the words "closing time" as much as most college students, head to Freedom after the bars close. The two-story club, which showcases up-and-coming local DJs who play a mix of house and dance music, is open until 4 a.m. Friday and Saturday.

Details: 919 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe,

Best place to get your groove on
Club Rio There arent a lot of dance clubs around town, so its no wonder that Club Rio stands out. Its the place to be if you want to hit the dance floor. Club Rio hosts college night (open to those 18 and over) every Wednesday and also offers a hip-hop night Friday; also, KISS (104.7 FM) broadcasts live every Saturday. Ladies get in free Saturday nights.

Details: 430 N. Scottsdale Road, Tempe,

Best non-meat market bar
Mickeys Hangover If youd rather concentrate on talking to your friends than on the drunk guy hitting on you, Mickeys Hangover is your best bet. Unlike most Scottsdale bars, this one isnt trying to be trendy.
Just look to its patio furnished with old couches and tables for proof. Mickeys is more of an after-work or after-school destination than a hook-up spot.

Details: 4310 N. Brown Ave., Scottsdale,

Best bar to grab a drink after class
Dos Gringos Trailer Park Dos Gringos may as well be attached to ASUs campus given its proximity to the college. Its no wonder it has become a favorite for after-school socializing. In addition to running into a few classmates, dont be surprised if you bump into a couple of your professors as well. They like to get their drink on, too.

Details: 216 E. University Drive, Tempe, and 4209 N. Craftsman Court, Scottsdale,

Best reason to drink beer
Timber Wolf Pub & Grill With about 150 types of beer on tap from Oak Creek to Sonora, its easy to understand why Timber Wolf leads the pack with the beer-drinkin crowd. The bar is close to the ASU campus, so you can easily walk back to your dorm if youve had too much to drink.

Details: 740 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe,

Best little place to have a smokin good time in Tempe
Yucca Tap Room A neighborhood watering hole thats as unpretentious as they come, Yucca Tap Room also boasts plenty of local music mostly of the Americana variety. Word is, in spite of Tempes ban, a smokin good time can still be had there . . . but maybe thats just the music.

Details: 29 W. Southern Ave., Tempe,

Best neighborhood bar
Four Peaks Brewing Co.
Located smack-dab in the middle of a college housing mecca, Four Peaks can easily be described as the Cheers of Tempe. The restaurant/bar, which offers indoor and outdoor dining, is the perfect place to hang before or after a Sun Devil sporting event. And if you venture in often enough, the wait staff will surely remember your name.

Details: 1340 E. Eighth St., Tempe,

Best lounge room
Cat Eyes Bubble Room Cat Eye Lounge is hot, hot, hot. Just ask the boys of N Sync, who stopped by after their show last year with Britney Spears in tow. Rumor has it that the pop tarts made a trip to the Bubble Room, the clubs V.I.P. area, to avoid the crowd. But the Bubble Room isnt just for pop stars. If you purchase a bottle of bubbly, you can kick back in the Bubble Room, too.

Details: 7164 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale,

Best meat-market bar Sugar Daddys
The owners of Dos Gringos proved that everything they touch turns to gold when they opened Sugar Daddys earlier this year. It attracts a mixed crowd, and youll find that the bar is the place to be if you want to mingle with the opposite sex and hear a slew of pickup lines.

Details: 3102 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale,

Best strip-mall watering hole
Tijuana Country Club Though its located in Ahwatukee Foothills and is a bit of a drive, Tijuana Country Club is well worth the extra gas money. This watering hole and livemusic haven is hoppin on weekends, when it hosts bands like Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers.

Details: 3820 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee Foothills,

Best place for hockey and Heineken
McDuffys Whether its basketball, baseball or football season, McDuffys is almost always packed with a slew of sports fanatics. You cant miss them. Theyll give you a dirty look if you interrupt their game, and they rarely take their eyes off the television screens. The only thing they seem to enjoy as much as the game is their beer.

Details: 230 W. Fifth St., Tempe,

Best gem on Mill Avenue
Beeloes Cafe & Underground Bar Beeloes is the epitome of cool for a number of reasons. Aside from being an underground bar, located in a basement, it combines food, art and music in one quaint setting. The venue is popular for showcasing local acts nightly and displaying art on its walls that is also for sale. Can you dig that?

Details: 501 S. Mill Ave., Tempe,

Best place to spot a celebrity
Axis/Radius From local to national celebrities, youre bound to run into someone at this scorching Scottsdale nightclub, which seems to attract an elite crowd.
Dennis Quaid, N Sync and Gena Lee Nolin are a few of the celebrities who have been spotted here over the last year. Who knows who youll see when you stop in.

Details: 7340 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale,

Best bar near campus
Devil House First it was Bojos, then the Dash Inn now the Devil House is the latest incarnation of this building. And although its off campus, its only a hop, skip and a jump away from ASU.

Details: 829 S. Rural Road, Tempe,

Best bar to flaunt your tattoos and piercings
TT Roadhouse If youre into the whole punk-rock scene you know, studded belts, piercings, tattoos then youll find yourself at home at TT Roadhouse. The bar, which considers itself bikeresque, is more punk than it is Harley. Be sure to get there early because the bar has a maximum occupancy of 49.

Details: 2915 N. 68 th St., Scottsdale,

Best gay bar with a name that doesnt mean what you think
BS There are two kinds of people in the world: People who like co-owner Darin more, and people who like co-owner Michael more. Depending on when youre there, BS in downtown Scottsdale is a neighborhood hangout, video bar, meat market or mandatory requirement (Wednesday nights, when both stories of the joint are packed with guys looking for two-for-one drinks, or looking for the guys looking for two-for-one drinks).

Details: 7125 E. Fifth Ave., Scottsdale,

Best place to avoid a DUI
Hampton Inn As you already know, you shouldnt drink and drive, but in the case that youre in a sticky predicament after hitting the Scottsdale club scene, check into Hampton Inn to sleep off the alcohol. The hotel in downtown Scottsdale offers a special DUI room rate of $39. So rather than hitting a car, hit the sheets instead.

Details: 4415 N. Civic Center Plaza, Scottsdale,

Most creatively decorated bathroom
The Monastery With a sand volleyball court, fireplaces and games in a woodsy setting, The Monastery is easily one of the coolest bars in the Valley. And the bathrooms prove the place has a sense of humor to boot. In the womens room, youll find pictures of beefcake Chippendale-looking men in a large photo collage; the mens room is adorned with "Baywatch"-looking females.

Details: 4114 N. 28 th St., Phoenix,

Best scene for getting buzzed
Coffee Plantation Regardless of whether you like coffee, the Coffee Plantation is a great place to study after class or people-watch on the weekends. Theres also local acoustic entertainment on the patio.

Details: 680 S. Mill Ave., Tempe,

Best comedy club
Tempe Improv Tempe Improv is what other comedy clubs aspire to be not just local venues, but national ones as well. The top-tier club of the national Improv chain, its acknowledged by superstar comedians as one of the finest rooms in the country. Top-notch talent from superstars such as Jerry Seinfeld to young guns such as Jimmy Fallon of "Saturday Night Live" graces the clubs stage every weekend of the year.
The club also nurtures hometown comics with its Funniest Person in the Valley contest every Wednesday.

Details: 930 E. University Drive, Tempe, . Shows are slated for 8 p.m. Thursday and Sunday and 8 and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The Funniest Person in the Valley contest is held at 8 p.m. Wednesdays.

MUSIC & VENUES

Best rock band
Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers Proudly carrying the Tempe sound of straight-ahead rock peppered with Southwestern twang to the rest of the country, Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers can be counted on to give their blood, sweat and, occasionally, even tears at their performances. Having graduated from the trenches of the bar scene to perform at larger venues such as Celebrity Theatre and Hayden Square Amphitheatre, the group even opened for Kid Rock at Cricket Pavilion earlier this year.

Details: The band is currently on tour in the Midwest

Best country band
Trophy Husbands Behind the twin guitar and vocal attack of honky-tonk hell-raisers Dave Insley and Kevin Daly both longtime vets of the local scene the Trophy Husbands "Western noir" sound is country music at its elemental best. The band regularly jaunts out of state to promote its debut disc, "Dark and Bloody Ground," and the group leaves just that in its wake.

Details: The bands next gig is 10 p.m. Saturday at Long Wongs, 701 S. Mill Ave., Tempe,

Best blues band
The Big Pete Pearson Blues Band The granddaddy of the Valley blues scene, Big Pete Pearson picked up and moved to Maine a couple of years back to start his retirement. Of course, it couldnt last, and he was soon back performing in the local clubs just as hes done for a couple of generations and thats a fair description of his fan base as well.

Details: The bands next gig is 8 p.m. Wednesday at The Rhythm Room, 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix,

Best jazz band
Subterranean Jazz Determined to perform original jazz music that is as melodic and accessible as any other combo performing the genres standards, Subterranean Jazz have set themselves a tall order. That the quartet admirably succeeds is evidenced on its two CDs (the latest of which, "Subway Sonnets," was released last spring) and its packed performing schedule at clubs, coffeehouses and many other events.

Details: The bands next gig is 9 p.m. Friday at Mills End, 310 S. Mill Ave., Tempe,

Best reggae band
Azz Izz Band Though they call their music "worldbeat pop," the sound of the Azz Izz Band is thoroughly grounded in the infectious dance rhythms of reggae.
Fifteen-year veterans of the local scene, the group performs regularly at Mandalay Bay Casino and Resort in Las Vegas in addition to its hometown shows. The octets latest CD is "Based on a True Story."

Details: The bands next gig is Tuesday through Sept. 2 at Mandalay Bay Casino and Resort in Las Vegas

Best punk band
Girl Repellent When it comes to punk music, Valley music fans have a lot of great flavors to choose from. But local group Girl Repellent is the cream of the crop. The melodic pop-punk act, comprised of four East Valley class clowns, recently released its sophomore album, "The Longer You Wait," on the indie label Dead Vinyl Records. You can catch Girl Repellent at Buzz Funbar, where they play at the venues Ska-Punk Night a couple of times a month.

Details: The bands next gig is 7:30 p.m. Friday at The Chain Reaction in Anaheim, Calif.

Band most likely to be the next Jimmy Eat World
Redfield Weve got our money on Redfield to be the next Valley act to sign with a major label and follow the Jimmy Eat World path to stardom. If you doubt our prediction, catch one of their live shows (where the band sounds best) for proof.

Details: The bands next show is 11 p.m. Sunday at Minder Binders, 715 S. McClintock Drive, Tempe,

Best band youve never heard of
Ember Coast Ember Coast have only been together for a year and only perform once a month, so most music fans probably havent seen the quintet in action yet.
But when they do, theyll be blown away. Its clear that this act, which combines poppy rock and harmonies, has something magical going on. Its only a matter of time before everyone else catches on.

Details: The bands next gig is 8 p.m. Sept. 13 at The Bash on Ash, 230 W. Fifth St., Tempe,

Best hip-hop act in the hizzy fo shizzy
Cousins of the Wize With nine members representin hiphop flava from all angles, Cousins of the Wize certainly have a large stage presence. The band combines three vocalists, a bassist, guitarist, saxophone player, keyboardist, DJ and drummer for a musical infusion thats out of this world. The band has been around since 1997 and has shared a stage with the likes of Run-D.M.C. and Cypress Hill.

Details: The bands next gig is Sept. 9 at The Bash on Ash, 230 W. Fifth St., Tempe,

Best-dressed band
Sixth Year Senior With their offbeat T-shirts imprinted with terms such as "sensitive," "single," "ladies man" and "winner," local poppunksters Sixth Year Senior definitely have the upper hand in the rock n roll fashion scene. The band, which is known to cover N Sync and Bryan Adams tunes, may have started the next fashion wave.

Details: The bands next gig is Sept. 9 at The Bash on Ash, 230 W. Fifth St., Tempe,

Best band to hire for a house party
Drunken Immortals When its time to get a keg and book a band for that next house party, look no further than the six members of the hip-hop act Drunken Immortals. The band will surely have everyone dancing with their blend of hip-hop, reggae and funk. After a couple of songs, partygoers may even forget about the keg.

Details: The bands next gig is Aug. 30 at Mogollon Brewing Co. in Flagstaff

Best rockin radio show
Larry Macs Red Radio Underground "Red Radio Underground" highlights hard-core rock, industrial, local music and everything in between in a two-hour program. The show features music by Lords of Acid, Jucifer, The Reverend Horton Heat and Opiate for the Masses.

Details: "Red Radio Underground" airs 8 to 10 p.m. Sundays on KUPD (97.9 FM).
Check out www.98 kupd.com for more information.

Best dive bar Nitas Hideaway
With the club set to move into new, roomier digs at Price Road and Southern Avenue later this fall, Nitas Hideaway may not be a dive much longer.
Currently located between a motorcycle repair shop and a porn shop, the joint has ambience to spare and is a favorite spot for local musical acts as well as national touring bands.

Details: 1816 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe,

Best place to see a big band in a small setting
The Bash on Ash The Bash on Ash is the crème de la crème of live-music venues in the East Valley. Everyone from Better Than Ezra to the Riddlin Kids to Nikka Costa have performed at the venue in the last year.
The venue also hosts a handful of local music shows each month to showcase the Valleys best talent.

Details: 230 W. Fifth St., Tempe,

Best jazz bar
The Famous Door Currently closed for renovations but set to reopen next month, The Famous Door boasts nightly jazz by the pillars of the local jazz scene in an appropriately intimate setting. If your appetite includes more than just a hunger for jazz, youll be pleased with the venues food as well.

Details: 7419 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale,

Best blues bar
The Rhythm Room The bulwark of the blues scene, The Rhythm Room is our towns premier spot to see the cream of national and local blues artists. Owner Bob Corritores love of the music is reflected in his club, and The Rhythm Room played host to the recording of two live albums that snagged Grammy nominations earlier this year. The venue celebrates its 11 th anniversary with a party Sept. 1 featuring a virtual whos who of our towns blues acts.

Details: 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix,

Best live music venue
Mesa Amphitheatre Though our town boasts many performance venues newer than this old warhorse, Mesa Amphitheatre is still the best place to see live music. With great views from anywhere on the tiered lawn, or, if you prefer, plenty of room to worm your way up to the front of the stage, the amphitheater is all things to all people, and thats saying something. Recent shows have included Melissa Etheridge, Slayer and John Mayer, and techno wizard Moby performs there Thursday.

Details: 201 N. Center St., Mesa,

Best local CD
Jimmy Eat World, Jimmy Eat World
Its no secret that local heroes Jimmy Eat World are on the road to stardom.
The group has made appearances on "The Late Show," "The Tonight Show" and "Saturday Night Live," and it has delivered a clear winner with the release of its latest album, which has spawned hits such as "Bleed American," "The Middle" and "Sweetness." "Jimmy Eat World" has also been among the top local-selling albums over the last few months.

Details: The band is currently on tour in Europe

Radio personality wed most like to hang out with
Dead-Air Dave The Edge (103.9 FM) has a winner in radio personality Dead-Air Dave, the stations best DJ by far. Half sarcastic wit and half charm, Dave is the DJ who gets you through those long drives home from work with his off-the-wall humor.
He never fails to tell it like it is whether hes harassing his on-air partner in crime Felcher or an innocent caller and he never fails to make us laugh in doing so.

Details: Dead-Air Dave can be heard on the Edge from 2 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday

SPORTS & RECREATION

Best park for playing
Kiwanis Park Whether you want to get in some time at the batting cages, take a dip in the heated wave pool or just take a moonlit stroll around the lake, Kiwanis Park is sure to please. As one of the largest and most popular parks in the East Valley, Kiwanis also boasts sand volleyball courts, basketball courts, soccer fields and baseball fields. And for those who prefer picnicking to playing, the park is also home to several ramadas. Each of the parks attractions keep different hours; call for information.

Details: Located south of Baseline Road and west of Mill Avenue, Tempe,

Best place to get your (golf) game on ASU
Karsten Golf Course Who says 18 holes have to come at a hefty price? If youre a Sun Devil in possession of a valid ASU ID, you can play the universitys champion Karsten course for a mere $9 during the week and $12 on weekends. Winter prices are $20 for weekdays and weekends.
Upgrades for carts are available, but save yourself some dough and just walk the course (you need the exercise, anyway).

Details: 1125 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe,

Best place to get pummeled with paint pellets
WestWorld Paintball Adventures Is your roomie a kleptomaniac?
Maybe your chemistry professor is the spawn of the devil? Whatever your frustrations may be, take them out on the paintball playing field. As Arizonas largest indoor playing arena, WestWorld boasts 300 tons of dirt, bunkers, sniper towers, a forest, ghost town and even a crashed airplane. So let your adrenaline race, let the pellets fly and let your anger go.

Details: 2920 W. Thomas Road, Phoenix,

Best place to get some culture
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art Even if you cant tell a Renoir from a Monet, you wont feel intellectually inferior at this museum, located in downtown Scottsdale. The museum showcases art of the contemporary sort, which in most cases is more accessible to those new to all things cultural. "Before, After and Beyond September 11," featuring photographs by Joel Meyerowitz, opens Sept. 7; also look for "Ansel Adams: Classic Images," which opens Jan. 18.

Details: 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale,

Best way to see Tempe Town Lake
Rio Lago Cruises If youre planning to tour Tempe Town Lake, do so in style: aboard one of Rio Lagos chartered cruises. The electric boat excursions are perfect for birthday or bachelorette parties; the boats can even be rented out for a sunset dinner.
Or, if youre simply interested in a spin around the lake, tours are $3-$5.

Details: Located on the northwest corner of Mill Avenue and Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe,

Best place to play like Tony Hawk
Snedigar Sportsplex Skate Park Extreme-sports enthusiasts of all skill levels are sure to get a thrill out of this 33,000-square-foot park located south of Queen Creek Road and east of Alma School Road. Featuring concrete bowls, extension decks, blocks and metal rails, the park is open to both skateboarders and in-line skaters.

Details: 4500 S. Basha Road, Chandler,

Best place to escape triple-digit temperatures
Polar Ice Located off Ray Road just east of Interstate 10, Polar Ice is the Valleys version of the North Pole. Valley hockey and ice skating enthusiasts can head to the arena which boasts two regulation-size ice rinks, a video arcade and a food court to take refuge from the relentless heat, which will most certainly plague us through October.
The cool destination also rents out skates for those who are without their own blades.

Details: 7225 W. Harrison St., Chandler,

Best place for a hike, jog or bike ride
South Mountain Park Starting at the base of the suburban mountain, the South Mountain trail may not look like the most thrilling spot for an early-morning workout. But trust us once up the hill, the majestic view of the city 1,120 feet below at Dobbins Lookout or Buena Vista is nothing short of amazing. The park is free and open to the public from 5 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily.

Details: 10919 S. Central Ave., Phoenix,

Best way to flirt with death
Skydive Arizona Who wouldnt want to leap out of a plane 13,000 feet above the ground? Us, for starters, but that doesnt mean you shouldnt try it. First-time jumpers at Skydive Arizona which draws folks from across the globe must be 18 and weigh no more than 220 pounds. Firsttimers are also required to take classes before participating in a tandem jump with an instructor. Heck, after this, finals are going to be a piece of cake.

Details: 4900 N. Taylor Road, Eloy,

Best psychadellic bowling experience
Cosmic Bowling at AMF Frontier Lanes Who says bowling is for seniors?
Certainly not the college crowd. When looking for a creative alternative to the bar scene, check out Frontier Lanes Cosmic Bowling. The event, which combines music, trippy lights and bowling, is offered nightly for $12-$15 for three hours of bowling. And you can win prizes, such as free admission into a future Cosmic Bowling night.

Details: 7300 E. Thomas Road, Scottsdale,

Best place to explore your inner Happy Gilmore
Golfland Show off your impressive moves on one of Golflands three 18-hole miniature golf courses. Afterward, head indoors and cool off with a hot dog and a round of Skee-Ball.

Details: 155 W. Hampton Ave., Mesa, 1

Best place to live out your Star Wars fantasy
Stratum Laser Tag & Family Entertainment With 13,000 square feet of fun, Stratum is easily the East Valleys coolest laser tag playland. The large arena features towers and ramps, and techno music and trippy lights set the mood for a game of adult-style tag.

Details: 1455 S. Stapley Drive, Mesa,

Best place to see movies on the cheap
Tempe Dollar Cinemas Although you have to wait a few months until the first-run films arrive at this theater, the $2 ticket price makes it worth the wait. There may not be any plush seats or surround sound, but you can see three movies here for the price of one movie at a first-run theater.

Details: 1825 E. Elliot Road, Tempe,

Best adrenaline rush
Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving When you feel the need for speed, head over to Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving for classes ranging in length from a single afternoon to four full days in high-performance driving, grand prix road racing and much more. Students get behind the wheel of the schools Mustang Cobras, open-wheel Ford Formula racers, SuperKarts and others.

Details: 20000 S. Maricopa Road, gate 3, Chandler, , www.bondurant.com

Best place to eat, drink and play
GameWorks GameWorks is not your ordinary arcade. This entertainment megaplex has games ranging from old-fashioned arcade games to simulated fighting games to interactive games like basketball and football. And you dont have to be a kid to have a good time alcohol flows freely on GameWorks second level and in its new sports bar.

Details: Arizona Mills mall, Interstate 10 and Baseline Road, Tempe,

Best place to get fit
Pure Fitness Unlike at a lot of other Valley gyms, you wont find women caked with makeup or men tossing out pickup lines. The people at Pure Fitness are there to improve their health, not their love lives. And though the gym doesnt have a pool or other fancy amenities such as racquetball or basketball courts, its rarely overcrowded, and its open 24 hours.

Details: 1030 E. Baseline Road, Tempe,

Best place to splish and splash
Big Surf To beat the 100-plus-degree temperatures, break out the swimsuit and head down to Big Surf, the East Valleys next-best thing to a beach. The water park offers a variety of water slides, play areas for children, a volleyball court and a large wave pool.

Details: 1500 N. McClintock Drive, Tempe,

Best place to meet a roller girl or roller guy
Surfside Skateland Relive those childhood days by lacing up a pair of roller skates (not rollerblades) and hitting Skateland with a group of friends. The skating venue, which combines Top 40 music and skating, is a great way to spend a few hours on a lazy weekend afternoon.

Details: 1625 E. Weber Drive, Tempe,

Best day trip
Sedona Make the easy two-hour drive to Sedona for some breathtaking scenery. The beautiful red rock valley, which supposedly has mystical powers, offers everything from shopping to jeep tours to hiking to cultural events.

Details: Sedona is 116 miles north of Phoenix. Check out www.city.sedona. net for more information.

Best place to take out-of-towners
Rawhide Wild West Town Its easy to see why this 52,000-square-foot Wild West town is one of the Valleys biggest tourist traps.
You can spend an afternoon (or more) exploring attractions such as Lost Dutchmans Mine, Halloways Haunted Hotel, Dead Mans Drop, train rides, the petting zoo, the Western theater, horseback riding, pony rides, gold panning and gunfights.

Details: Scottsdale and Pinnacle Peak roads, Scottsdale,

STORES & SHOPPING

Best place to rid yourself of white walls
Beyond the Walls From "Godfather" movie posters to black-and-white Ansel Adams photographs, this recent Mill Avenue addition has got your decorating needs covered literally. The store boasts nothing but posters (along with a few frames), and with thousands in stock from prints of Monets and Van Goghs most famous works to nearly life-size N Sync cutouts (which are actually kind of frightening) Beyond the Walls will transform your dorm room from drab to fab in no time.

Details: 414 S. Mill Ave., Tempe,

Best place to sell your English lit texts
Bookmans It never fails every semester youre saddled with a book or two that the College Store or Rothers just refuses to buy back. Unless you want to add "Geology Gobbledygook" to your personal collection, head to Bookmans, where you can exchange your old texts for cash or store credit. We recommend the latter, as Bookmans also boasts an extensive used-CD collection, magazines, video games and movies.

Details: 1056 S. Country Club Drive, Mesa,

Best place to find a piñata
Party City No get-together is complete without noisemakers, cheesy favors and a piñata stuffed with candy and other goodies.
Pick up all that and more at Party City, a colorful warehouse of sorts boasting balloons, crepe paper, trinkets and more. So whether youre hosting a bachelorette party or a birthday bash, Party City is the place to get your decorations all you have to supply is the fun.

Details: Party City has locations in Chandler, Scottsdale and Phoenix

Best place to sell back your Limp Bizkit CDs
Zia Record Exchange With the rap-rock craze on its way out, isnt it time you dumped those angst-ridden discs? At Zia, you can trade in your gently used albums for something new. And considering the store has one of the most extensive selections in the Valley, deciding on new CDs might just take you longer than you think. From the mainstream to the obscure, Zias got it all and then some.

Details: Zia has locations in Tempe and Phoenix

Best bookstore to blow an afternoon
Changing Hands Sure, it doesnt offer the extensive selection Barnes & Noble does, but when it comes to the independently owned Changing Hands, charm makes all the difference. The colorful, quaint store features a mix of new and used reads, in addition to journals, greeting cards, collectibles and a huge selection of incense (you can smell Changing Hands a mile away). Dotted with oversize, comfy chairs, the bookstore is a cozy place to spend a lazy Saturday afternoon.

Details: 6428 S. McClintock Drive, Tempe,

Best place to say "Charge it!"
Cost Plus World Market If a shopping spree is what you crave, Cost Plus World Market is certain to satisfy your hunger. The store features items ranging from art prints to funky margarita glasses, beaded pillows to imported beers. Cost Plus also has an interesting selection of food, furniture and knickknacks from around the globe, sure to give your home an eclectic flair and your credit card a workout.

Details: Cost Plus has locations in Chandler, Mesa, Scottsdale and Phoenix

Best place for funky used threads Buffalo Exchange No student can complete his or her four years at ASU without venturing to the nearby Buffalo Exchange. Located just off Mill Avenue, the used-clothing store is a favorite among the college crowd, boasting great buys on everything from Red Line Levis to name-brand skirts and dresses, slacks, sweaters and all things hip n vintage. Buffalo Exchange also offers a stellar selection of used shoes and accessories.

Details: 227 W. University Drive, Tempe, and 730 E. Missouri Ave., Phoenix,

Best place to satisfy your shoe fetish
DSW Shoe Warehouse DSW is nothing short of a footwear fanatics paradise. Carrying brands such as Nine West, Nike, Adidas, Steve Madden, Ralph Lauren, Dr. Martens and more, the stores aisles are lined with thousands of shoe boxes for men and women of all sizes. And best of all, every pair in the store is offered at a discounted price, so you can add to your shoe collection without adding to your debt.

Details: 1050 W. Elliot Road, Tempe,

Best shopping experience
Scottsdale Fashion Square Chandler Fashion Center and Arizona Mills are certainly contenders in this category, but ultimately Fashion Square is the champ. Home to Dillards, Robinsons-May, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Macys (opening Sept. 5) in addition to hundreds of specialty shops that other malls lack (Z Gallerie and Crate & Barrel among them), Fashion Square is the Valleys best place for one-stop shopping. Fashion Square also offers a Harkins movie theater and eateries such as Kona Grill and Z Tejas for your post-shopping enjoyment.

Details: 7014 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale,

Best place for funky home accessories
Urban Outfitters If your pad just wont be complete without an inflatable chair, a sequined picture frame or a funky, floral shower curtain, head to Urban Outfitters for the most colorful home accessories in the Valley. On the second floor of its Mill Avenue location, the store offers a selection of unusual must-haves for your kitchen, bathroom and bedroom.
From bold shag rugs to Asian-inspired dishware, Urban Outfitters is the place to get everything you dont really need, but must have nonetheless.

Details: 545 S. Mill Ave., Tempe,

Best place to outfit your dorm room
Target Sure, its obvious. But its impossible not to sing the praises of Target. The discount retailer offers everything youll need to doll up your dull dorm room, from colorful comforters and sheets to funky lamps, bookshelves and kitchen and bathroom accessories and all for unbeatable prices. Be sure to check out the stores recently unveiled collection of Todd Oldham dorm designs; your room is guaranteed to go from ordinary to extraordinary with a few of fashion designer Oldhams colorful creations.

Details: Target has locations throughout the Valley

Best alternative grocery store
Trader Joes Whether youre a vegetarian, a vegan or just someone who tries to eat healthy most of the time, Trader Joes is sure to have something to make your mouth water. The alternative grocer offers everything from organic fruits and vegetables to meatless dinner entrees to just plain tasty breads, cookies and candies. And in addition to offering items not available at your neighborhood Safeway, Trader Joes also boasts a huge selection of wine, beer, vitamins and even fresh-cut flowers.

Details: Trader Joes has locations in Tempe, Mesa, Scottsdale and Phoenix

Best grocery store to find a date
Safeway When shopping at Safeway at Rural and Broadway roads, you may come home with more than a load of groceries, like the hot guys number from aisle 5. This Safeway location has transformed into a singles haven over the last couple of years. Forget hitting the bars on a weeknight grocery shopping is where its at.

Details: 926 E. Broadway Road, Tempe,

Best place to accessorize
42 Saint If your threads lack pizzazz, head to this hip Scottsdale boutique and pick up a little something with punch. Whether youre looking for funky, colorful beads or understated, simple silver, 42 Saint carries a huge selection of necklaces, bracelets and earrings sure to add oomph to any outfit. And best of all, 42 Saints fashionable accessories are relatively inexpensive so you wont have to take out more school loans simply to keep up with the trends.

Details: 7038 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale,

Best place for maroon and gold
Cactus Sports Show your Sun Devil spirit with a little something from Cactus Sports.
Located within a stones throw of campus, the store offers all the essentials, from T-shirts, boxers and workout gear to face paint, pompoms and even Christmas ornaments. In other words, if its maroon and gold, theyve got it.

Details: 401 S. Mill Ave., Tempe,

Best place for bargains
Tuesday Morning If you enjoy a good treasure hunt, youre sure to strike gold at this closeout chain. Boasting everything from namebrand luggage and linens to cookware and crystal at 50 to 80 percent off regular retail prices, Tuesday Morning is a starving students dream. So while you still might have to dine on ramen noodles, at least you can afford to eat off designer dishes.

Details: Tuesday Morning has locations in Tempe, Scottsdale, Gilbert and Phoenix

Best place to splurge on a big-screen TV
Ultimate Electronics Most college students cant afford to splurge on large electronic items, but the next time youre ready to throw down a little extra dough on a high-tech item or something as simple as a calculator, check out Ultimate Electronics. Whether its televisions, DVD players or home theaters youre looking for, the store is sure to have a selection to suit your needs.

Details: Ultimate Electronics has locations in Chandler, Mesa and Scottsdale

Best place for liquor on the go
Jerrys Liquor When youre running late to a party or just feel too drained to leave your car, head to Jerrys Liquor. The drivethrough liquor store has as much beer and booze as a grocery store and, best of all, you can fulfill your alcohol needs without leaving the air-conditioned comfort of your car.

Details: 1217 S. Rural Road, Tempe,

PRIMPING & PAMPERING

Best place to get punctured and branded
HTC Body Piercing Theyll be gentle. They promise.
Whether youre getting your lip, eyebrow, tongue or any other body part pierced or perhaps tattooed, youll find HTC to be welcoming and clean. The informative staff will even assist you in picking out the perfect tattoo for that left bicep or pretty piece of jewelry to accent your navel.

Details: 808 S. Ash Ave., Tempe,

Best alternative to Supercuts
Carstens Institute of Hair The next time your hair needs a new style, but you dont have the money to dish out for that Vidal Sassoon look, try Carstens Institute of Hair. Eager stylists-in-training will devote their time to give you the look you want for just $10.

Details: 3345 S. Rural Road, Tempe,

Best place for beauty products
Ulta 3 Cosmetics Girls, youll feel like a kid in a candy store at this mega beauty boutique, which offers hair care, cosmetics and skin care products as well as a salon.
With what seems like endless aisles, be prepared to spend a lot of time shopping and picking out the perfect brands.

Details: Ulta 3 has locations in Ahwatukee Foothills, Mesa, Tempe and Scottsdale

Best place to feel like a queen for a day
Elizabeth Arden Red Door Salon Maybe you want to reward yourself for pulling an A in that seemingly impossible chemistry class or maybe you just want to celebrate a Saturday.
Whatever the case may be, head to the Red Door to treat yourself to a day of pampering and relaxing. From acupuncture to heavenly peticures and massages, Elizabeth Arden is the place to de-stress and gear up for next semesters microbiology class.

Details: 2472 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix,

Best place to de-mustache Mood Swings
If your brows are growing as uncontrolable as a frat boy on a threeday weekend, head to the waxing professionals at this artsy, funky downtown Tempe salon. From upper lip and leg waxes to more intimate jobs, Mood Swings hair-removal technicans are friendly and gentle.

Details: 520 S. Mill Ave., Tempe,

Best place to splurge on a new style
Rolfs With cuts starting at $45, an afternoon at Rolfs can be pricey but, if the salons high-profile clientele is any indication (Channel 3s Tara Hitchcock swears by Rolfs), its money well spent.
So whether youre in desperate need of a dye job or if youre just craving a new cut, turn to Rolfs youre sure to dig your new do.

Details: 7131 W. Ray Road, Chandler, and 8787 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale,

Best place for sweet-smelling stuff
Lotions & Potions The name says it all. Whether youre searching for something sweet to dab behind your ears or looking for something to douse the funk in your dorm room, Lotions & Potions is sure to have a scent fruity or floral to please. And the best part? You create your scent yourself from bottles of essential oils. The store also carries lines of lotion, soap, skin and hair care products.

Details: Lotions & Potions has locations in Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale and Phoenix

Best barber shop
Vs Barbershop & Shoeshine From the restored antique barbershop chairs to the hot lather old-fashioned shave to the hand massage when youre finished, Vs Barbershop sets the standard for mens barbershops. Nestled in Phoenixs Arcadia neighborhood, Vs is a bit of a drive, but well worth it once you discover each station is even equipped with a TV tuned to ESPN, of course.

Details: 4801 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix,

Best place for earth-friendly beauty supplies
The Body Shop This shopping-mall staple is a favorite among those who care for Mother Earth as much as they care for their complexions. The London-based company boasts more than 600 natureinspired skin and hair care products, from pink grapefruit soap to peppermint foot scrub to tea tree oil moisturizer.
And best of all, The Body Shop doesnt test any of its great products on animals.

Details: The Body Shop has locations in Chandler, Mesa, Scottsdale and Phoenix

Best place to de-stress
The StressLess Step Theres no better way to rid yourself of the stress of mid-terms than with a Swedish or hot rock massage.
StressLess Step features a menu of relaxing massages, soothing body wraps and sauna treatments to help you melt away the worries of the world. So heavenly are StressLess services, in fact, that you wont even freak when you get the bill. (Massages range from $80 to $120.)

Details: 5115 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale,