Thx for iPhoenix deas - feedback on Noca, Barrio Cafe

[sonomajom]

Thx to everyone who gave input about 2 wks ago for Phoenix. We had great food experiences
Lunch at Barrio was great - cochon pibil - never had it so tender and flavorful , even in Mexico on Mayan cookery school. Also had fun with barman who was trying and getting new tequila Don Martino or Valentino cant remember now. Should have written this earlier - but nice Tequila

Had good dinner at Noca though people at table opposite were v unhappy with theirs - maybe it was portion size ..
I had butternut squash soup with foie gras which was divine mix of flavors
partner had pasta which was good he declared it on a par with similar dish he had in Rome this summer
I had beef which was good
We had great wine discussion and fun trying a bottle of local wine - red which was good value and decent wine if not one I'd travel the world for - we're in wine business so like to try things we dont find at home
had doghnut for dessert which was fine not super special my partner had tropical fruit dish cant remember which one but has meringue layer nad fruit cream and it was exceptional

Went to Sams for b'fast and on a weekday had luck to have no line. Pancakes were some of lightest and more ethereal I've had in long time. Chorizo special was great. Staff very friendly even when rushed

Only downer was Farm cafe (might have name little wrong) but its in Scottsdale though not downtown. Didnt have breakfast tea - waitress very nicely offered me one o fher own which was sweet
Then ordered pancales with raspberries to be served strawberries
Maybe its not a b'fast place as no one else there on Fri morning but it was very underwhelming