Clint Spotleson is a very busy man, popping up at local eateries all around town; in front of and behind the bar. He’s garnered a reputation as one of the best mixologists in the Valley. If you have been a guest at any of the hottest spots in the Valley in the last 4-5 years, you have likely had a drink mixed by this master. His resume is almost equally as impressive as his talents. Currently at Counter Intuitive, open only on Friday and Saturday evenings, he has been a huge part in this spot being regarded as one of the best places imbibe of cleverly crafted cocktails. While I am sure you can get your average-everyday-run-of-the-mill cocktail here, I wonder why one would. There is an immense talent behind the bar and menu, so take advantage and broaden your horizons. He knows what he’s doing and is constantly being recognized for it.
Keep a look-out for him at the 2016 Last Slinger Standing Bartending Competition during Arizona Cocktail Week next month. He is one of only 4 Arizona United States Bartender’s Guild members that will be competing against bartenders from Nevada, Colorado, Utah and New Mexico. (Tickets to this event are complimentary, so go snag some – this will be a fun show.)
So, where does someone who has a crazy schedule, is an influencer and has some of the most culinarily influential friends in the Valley go to eat?
Friday Bites with Clint Spotleson
Impressing Out of Towners: Little Miss BBQ. Especially friends from Austin or Kansas City. It’s fun to show them that we bring a heavy hitter to the BBQ game as well! Definitely working its way to a local treasure.
Dining Solo: I think it has a ton to do with familiarity, but I probably eat solo at Crudo more than anywhere else. I love Cullen’s food and Micah’s cocktails are always amazing. It never feels like dining solo when you are around friends.
Best Nightlife: I figured this would be an unfair spot to plug Counter Intuitive (stop by and see me!) but since I work weekends, my nightlife falls on weekdays. With that said, Bitter & Twisted is where I take any friends late night for drinks and a good time. Its always got a decent crowd, the drinks are great, and if Ross is there you get the best banter you can on this side of the pond! They make the best Ramos Gin Fizz I’ve ever had (off menu).
First Date Spot: I’m big on fun, semi-casual places for first dates where you can get to know a person and see their fun side- or lack thereof. Clever Koi fits this so well. Great food and drinks, fun atmosphere, great central location…. and besides the quality of the drinks, if the date sucks I have a few friends behind the bar I can talk to as a bailout!
Best Breakfast: Welcome Chicken & Donuts decided to go and combine two of my favorite things, so of course I go there. The Korean Fried Chicken is so ridiculously bomb, I don’t think there’s a fat kid food I crave more than it. I love the local flavors brought into the donuts as well. I was bummed to miss the Okra/ Homeboy’s combo Hot Maple glazed donut with fried chicken skins on top, I might have died on the spot from deliciousness overload!
Make sure you visit Clint Spotleson at Counter Intuitive when you get a chance. We promise that you won’t be disappointed!
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