Hans Schatz has spent over 30 years in the food service industry. He started this journey, as many do, washing dishes and busing tables while in high school. From there he was able to work his way up to a senior leadership position with an almost three billion food service corporation. Hans has worked in various positions and traversed through a diverse variety of markets.
In June of 2015, Hans transitioned from his corporate position and spent some time in the start-up world and ended up with CULT Coffee Roaster. His passion for growth and innovation has been evident in the dynamic customer and supplier relationships he has since forged.
CULT Coffee Roaster has been a part of the Valley since 1997. The artisan roasters honor the process of the bean from the farmer all the way to the point where you sip from the cup. They recognize, appreciate and respect that coffee culture has come a long way from convenience tubs found in the supermarket. Consumers are more discerning now and they want to know where their brew comes from, the process it went along the way. There is an art to the roast and CULT Coffee Roaster celebrates that, working to bring the highest quality product to the places you frequent and shop for quality beverages.
Having had such an intense path through food service, we thought that Hans might have some great suggestions on where to dine and we were spot on.
Best Burger | Phoenix Ale Brewery Central Kitchen
Rich Stark built a great place that has amazing everything including must-haves in the BBQ Bison Burger and the Ale House 3 Meat burger! (PS – the pizza is fantastic as well!)
Best Breakfast | Matt’s Big Breakfast
a can’t miss favorite that has super yummy made from scratch food, you can’t go wrong with anything but be sure to try the Griddlecakes and the Hog & Chick breakfast, you will leave stuffed and content, and go early because they are PACKED!
Best Asian | Wild Thaiger
Chef/Owner Olashawn has crafted a fantastic Thai Food haven that is authentic and to die for, if you like spicy then you must have the Grapao Gai and another favorite anytime is her Pad Thai, be sure to ask about the special dessert of the day as they are killer as well!
Fresh From the Market | Ahipoki Bowl
These guys have a quick service concept that builds incredible seafood bowls before your eyes, you select what you like and they build it as you walk along, from various rices and a fresh salad mix, to great and daily fresh seafood toppings (tuna, octopus, salmon, albacore and much more), to artisan sauces and fun toppings, they build a super flavorful and very affordable meal for you. They also offer craft beverages to wash the great food down with!
Coffee and a Lite Bite | Lux Central
It’s hard to beat for great coffee, great bakery goods, a great simple lunch and dinner menu, a great bar and great (and packed) atmosphere! No matter who you are, what you believe in, how you dress, or where you come from, you will find yourself comfortable in Jeff’s place. And this place is so underground hip, they don’t even have a sign on the building …
Have someone that you think we should profile for Friday Bites, or would you like to be profiled? Let us know!
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© Taryn Jeffries 2016