By Tom Simplot

Vice Mayor, City of Phoenix

    Have you heard the call of the drums? 

    If you haven’t ventured down Seventh Avenue at the Melrose curve on First Friday nights lately, it’s time to see and experience what you’ve been missing. Celebrations are in full swing in the Melrose District along 7th Avenue between Camelback and Indian School roads.

    First Friday is well known for evening strolls through galleries, visits to new shops and restaurants, and street artisans exhibiting their talents. But if you’re looking for a primal experience, there’s no place better or closer than where Seventh and Montecito avenues meet. The entertainment here is homegrown—local business owners banging on drums, kids shaking makeshift maracas, and belly dancers moving to the beat.

 

Most enjoyable about First Fridays in the Melrose District is that the entertainment is courtesy of our friends and neighbors, and anyone can join. You’ll see our local pharmacist, artists, neighborhood leaders, shopkeepers and restaurant owners.  And no one minds if you march to the beat of your own drum, literally.

    If you prefer to be a spectator, catch a free vintage clothing fashion show courtesy of Hollywood Regency Vintage Boutique, and check out the other treasures the store offers. While you’re on the block, stop by and say hello at my campaign office at 708 E. Montecito Ave., amidst all the action.

    The Melrose District also is home to a diverse assortment of restaurants. For a taste of Native American, Mexican or African cuisine, try the Fry Bread House, Los Compadres Mexican Restaurant or Bantu Bistro. If pizza and pasta are more to your liking, you can’t go wrong with Harley’s Italian Bistro or Caffe Italia.

    Cap off your dinner with a latte from Copper Star Coffee, a great place to wind down the day with conversation and entertainment from local musicians.

    But if the night’s still young and you’re ready for great music and dancing, head over to Char’s Has the Blues, named the Best Blues Bar in Phoenix. And if alternative nightlife is more your style, the Melrose District offers Z Girl Club, The Bunkhouse, The Rock and soon to open, Sanctum.

    Melrose on Seventh Avenue is the place to be on First Fridays, or any Friday.  It’s all here, and not much farther than your own backyard.

    Come for a visit on Friday, Aug. 7, to check out the scene.

Vice Mayor Tom Simplot represents District 4, which includes parts of North Central Phoenix.  If you have questions, comments or suggestions on this or any other issue, contact his office at council.district.4@phoenix.gov or call 602-262-7447.