09/05/08

Delicious breakfasts and bar - that's right. A unique place.

by Porzitsku

I go every time I am in the Valley of the Sun for spring training. Food is great and service is professional, often cozy. However, if you're a loudmouth or celphone yakky doodle or some other kind of a patoot, they can sense it and will treat you poorly enough that you'll never want to come back (hopefully). I guess they don't lack for customers, so what's the big deal over a toadstool who doesn't come back? Note this is anecdotal only, I've observed it on occasion but never discussed it with the staff.

Fish tanks, signage everywhere (No whinning! - I guess they mean no whining!) and a bustly atmosphere that encourages you to eat up and get out! Well worth the visit, but like I said, behave yourself or it may be unforgettable in less desirable ways.

I've not tried the bar, but it is full-service and well-stocked. That's a liquor bar, folks. All breakfasts are full service, well-prepared and ample portions. mmmm, I can't wait to go back in March. Just wait'll next year!!

05/18/08

From FAVORITE!!! to FORGET IT!!!!

by CplLaibowitz

This used to be my favorite place in the valley to go for breakfast or lunch. The menu was varied, interesting and neither I nor any of my friends had a bad meal. The service wasn't always great (empty coffee cup), but the food was almost always with a rare exception - OUTSTANDING. My favorite as so many others was the Fire Island Eggs, followed closely by the Rock Island Eggs. Whenever friends would inquire about a good place to eat or come into town, Pischke's was always the first recommendation. Chris, the original owner, and his brother Matt always made me feel welcome. Especially Matt, who always made a point of informing my server to keep my coffee cup full and then checking on me several times just to be sure, all because I had complained once (3 years ago!). The people who dined at Pischke's were always a treasure themselves. Each time I dined there, I would end up speaking with whomever was next to me (as I usually ate at the counter) or sitting around the counter. Always very pleasant people out to enjoy the day and that included a good meal for reasonable prices in a great atmosphere. Then unfortunately Chris passed away. The new owner Robert rescued Pischke's and kept the concept the same - initially. Then one Saturday morning I walk in and it was a disaster. None of the original wait staff was there (gone was my beloved Machelle and the attentive Matt) and the menu had gone from eclectic and unique to minimal and boring. I asked about my favorite dishes and was told the cook had been let go along with the recipes and my only options were the few on the menu. I regrettably chose an omelette. I can't remember what exactly except that it was bad: burnt, bland, devoid of fillings. I complained and was told "sorry" come back and try something else. I have not returned. A once great icon of Old Town Scottsdale is now not even an also ran. It is just bad. Go to Butterfield's Pancake House instead. Pischke's is passe.

• Pros: It's in Old Town Scottsdale
• Cons: Everything else

01/25/08

This is not the same as Pischke's Paradise

by Cara3

The owner of Pischke's died last year. His restuarant was a Jimmy Buffet type feel known for their outstanding breakfasts and full house... and the puffer fish. After Mr. Pischke's death, I guess this Blue Ribbon thing came into play. Although I have never eaten here, I probably won't due to the fact that the whole concept of the restaurant is different than when it was last year. And what makes me sad is that honoroing the name Pischke in the restaurant's name but disregarding the concept is really disregarding the name altogether. Reviews are on this page and all but one are from Pischke's Paradise... not since it changed ownership. Don't honor the name to draw in the crowd based on what someone else succeeded at doing. I won't go into this place because of that action. Sorry. I'm sure it's good. But character speaks volumes more than food ever could.