Dear Jimmy Fallon,
121 days.
121 days before you arrive in downtown Phoenix to broadcast live from the Orpheum Theatre.
Full disclosure: As literally your biggest fan (when Lena Dunham came on Late Night to confess that she wrote plays about you growing up, I realized — oh my — I’m basically Lena Dunham) and potential future best friend, I fought hard to write this column.
There is no other place like downtown Phoenix. Yes, the high today is 97 degrees. And yes, things like this, and this, and this do happen in Arizona. I promise we’re not all crazy. We’re not just monologue material. Downtown Phoenix is a place of growth, originality and inspiration. Downtown Phoenix is home to students and innovators — people with true commitments to the community and future of our state.
The last time you made it out here, you stopped by Pizzeria Bianco. I know that because I was 250 feet away, working at the Arizona Science Center (and because I have a Google alert set up and follow you on every form of social media possible). So before you and the Roots touch down at Phoenix Sky Harbor in your plane and/or spacecraft-time-machine in February, there are just a few prime local businesses and restaurants that I wanted to share with you in the hopes of making your trip to downtown even more memorable.
- Wake up to Cartel Coffee Lab
The best cup of coffee and chai tea latte can be found at Cartel Coffee Lab. At First and Washington streets, Cartel is in the heart of downtown. It was also recently named the “Best Coffee Roaster Phoenix 2014.” The international blend selections are remarkable as are their pastries. - Grab lunch at Phoenix Public Market
Phoenix Public Market is half open-air market, half cafe. For lunch, I suggest buying from the cafe: a glass of prickly-pear iced tea (I know — how Arizonan of me), the barbecue pulled-pork sandwich and a side of Downtown Devil fries. Yep, we even have fries named after us (probably). Fresh and local — what more can you ask for? It’s located off Central Avenue north of Fillmore Street. - Late-night eats at District American Kitchen and Wine Bar
The District is located on Third and Van Buren streets inside the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel. I know it sounds weird to recommend a hotel bar; however, I promise it is home to the greatest happy hour and reverse happy hour. For $4, you can get a plate of drumsticks, even sliders. I recommend the macaroni and cheese. Topped with Cheez-It crumbs, you will not be disappointed. At least three nights a week there’s live music, too, which gives the Roots four nights to work with, if you ask me.
Well, Jimmy, I hope your visit to downtown Phoenix exceeds your expectations. The Orpheum Theatre, like all of downtown, is a beautiful blend of classic views and dynamic character.
With (the maximum yet professional and appropriate amount of) love,
Carolyn Corcoran
P.S. If you need someone to play “Real People, Fake Arms” with, just let me know.
P.P.S. If this appears on “Kid Letters,” I would not be insulted at all.
Contact the author at carolyn.corcoran@asu.edu
