Weekend Guide

Viva Espana as we rock out at a Spanish stunner and then savor the flavors of Iberica at a new hot spot

It’s an Espana extravaganza, as we celebrate the the opening of chef Aaron May’s new Spanish-themed eatery in downtown Scottsdale. Not to mention, soak in a poolside concert at the Moorish-influenced masterpiece, Intercontinental Montelucia Resort & Spa.

Let’s start with some fine Iberian cuisine at Iruña, chef May’s latest charmer located inside the old Pischke’s Paradise space in the heart of Old Town. Handsomely remodeled—bye, bye Jimmy Buffett beach vibe—into a sleek eatery and lounge, Iruña serves up tapas-style grub imported from the Basque region of northern Spain. Located on the border with France, Basque food is renowned for combining the best of both country’s traditional cuisines into its own distinctly bold, flavorful and cheese-loving fare. Look for served-cold classics such as gazpacho and pulpo a la Gallega (marinated baby octopus), as well as hot entrees such as Spanish chorizo ‘in a blanket.’ Wash it all down with a calimocho (a Basque specialty combining red wine and cola). 7217 E. 1st St., 480-398-3020

Next, let’s head south from the mountains of Basque to the sun-drenched plains of southern Spain (aka Paradise Valley), and the Mediterranean-styled Intercontinental Montelucia. Here, every Friday evening through early September, the poolside ROC eatery is hosting a summer concert series. This week, the preternaturally-pretty morning DJ, Chris Parker will be rocking out with his band, the Chris Parker Project. Co-host of “Chris & Amy  in the Mornings” on the Peak 98.7, Parker and his six-person band will play classic cover hits while standing in the shadows of Camelback Mountain. 4949 E. Lincoln Dr., 480-627-3200