Original series “Scottsdale” Premieres on June 6
VIM is rolling out the exclusive original series, “Scottsdale,” on June 6. This drama, created by screenwriter Anthony Bawn, a former North Scottsdale resident, revolves around an affluent desert family grappling with challenges beyond their control.
The plot centers on insurance tycoon and gubernatorial aspirant Henry Merrick, portrayed by Mark Whitis. Merrick clandestinely conspires with a local priest, Amir, brought to life by Joseph Penner. A character shrouded in mystery, Amir peddles a lethal drug, with a catch – prospective buyers must name him as their life insurance policy’s beneficiary.
Inspired by dramas like “Breaking Bad” and iconic soap operas such as “The Young and the Restless,” Bawn’s “Scottsdale” seeks to mirror the city’s reputedly upscale ambiance. It revolves around the well-known philanthropic Merrick family of Scottsdale, admired for their community involvement but also known for their questionable means of maintaining their status quo.
“Scottsdale” brings the city to life with on-location shoots in North Scottsdale and Chandler, and additional filming at Arizona Studios in Phoenix.
For more information, visit watchvim.com.
Coastal Italian Eatery Élephante to Open First Expansion Location in Scottsdale
Photo courtesy of Élephante
Scottsdale residents are in for a treat as acclaimed coastal Italian hotspot Élephante gears up to open its first location outside Los Angeles. The 12,000-square-feet venue will be situated in Scottsdale Fashion Square’s redeveloped south wing, offering a multi-dimensional dining experience. Expect a blend of indoor-outdoor ambiance mirroring a jungle oasis with towering cacti, lush florals, and bespoke furniture. An exclusive feature for the Scottsdale location is a sophisticated cocktail lounge within the restaurant, promising an elevated experience. In addition to Élephante’s signature wood-fired pizzas and fresh pastas, patrons can look forward to more expansive offerings, including a curated selection of premium meats, consciously selected seafood, and larger family-style dishes. For more information, visit elephantela.com.
Daddy’s Chicken Shack Makes Arizona Debut
The first-ever Daddy’s Chicken Shack in Arizona opened its doors on May 18 at 11107 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 101.This Scottsdale restaurant marks Daddy’s Chicken Shack’s third U.S. location, following successful launches in Pasadena, California, and Houston, Texas, with plans to open a further 160 franchise locations by 2024. The eatery, owned by Valley resident Dave Liniger and his family-owned private equity firm, Area 15 Ventures, boasts a diverse menu including the Big Daddy sandwich and Spicy Daddy, alongside a handmade salted miso chocolate chip cookie for dessert. Daddy’s Chicken Shack was founded by celebrity chef Pace Webb and her husband, Chris Georgalas. The couple sought to combine traditional fried chicken with a Southeast Asian twist to create a brand that promotes happiness and high-quality food. For more information, visit daddyschickenshack.com.
Barry’s HIIT Fitness Studio to Energize Scottsdale at The Shops at Hilton Village
Calling all fitness buffs! Barry’s, the original High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) workout recently launched its first Arizona location in Scottsdale’s Shops at Hilton Village. The venue offers a vigorous workout for fitness enthusiasts. Barry’s, acclaimed for its high-energy, instructor-led cardio and strength training classes, offers an intensive workout where members can burn up to 1,000 calories in a single 50-minute session. Barry’s is located at 6107 N. Scottsdale Rd., Suite c09. For more information, visit barrys.com.
