Zach Oden

Chef Antonio Padilla, best known as the formidable sous chef of Bacanora and Huarachis, feels nostalgic as he puts a hand torch to a stack of mesquite. It’s a mild, overcast Saturday at Goldwater Brewery in Old Town Scottsdale, where Padilla’s new pop-up, Alita, is just setting up for the brewery’s Beer Fest. As the wood catches and the scent of campfire carries through the crowd, things start to heat up.

On Saturday morning, the line for Phoenix’s next serious sandwich builds steadily, winding around Uptown Plaza for a solid hour or two wait. An anthropomorphic illustration of a red-and-white shokupan, Mr. Toastie, grins down at the hopeful customers.

April 26, 2026 David Byrne performs at Arizona Financial Theatre on April 21, 2026. We’re aiming to raise $10,000 by April 26. Your support ensures New Times can continue watching out for you and our community. No paywall. Always accessible. Daily online and weekly in print. Progress to goal $10,000 As an art-punk elder statesman, former Talking Heads frontman David Byrne and his 12-piece band attempted to reframe his position in rock history Tuesday night at the Arizona Financial Theatre.