The Monte Vista has been a hot spot since its inception in 1927. And, like every other downtown Flagstaff establishment, its history has been a glorious mix of violence, sex, and hedonism the likes of which we, as modern progressive people, should turn heel and run screaming into the night from.
Naturally, this sordid history is exactly why the freaks and geeks of the Masters of Brewtality crypt love this iconic hotel/bar combo. Not only is it one of the best downtown spots to have a spine-tingling encounter with the spirits of yore, it’s also one of the best spots to have a liver-tickling encounter with the spirits of craft cocktails and fine brews. Now, the MOB staff can’t claim to have interviewed every employee at this adored institution, but we have sat down with quite a few over the years. And it seems like everyone we’ve chatted with has had some creepy experience, from seeing shadowy figures closing doors at 7:30 in the morning, to feeling the distinct pressure of human hands on their backs on an empty dance floor long after last call. The MOB staff even took a group outing to stay in the infamous Rocking Chair Room 305 on Halloween a few years back, but after many beers in both the downstairs bar and Rendezvous, we all slept like babies on a car ride.
The spring season brings diverse weather, so it is ideal to have a wide variety of wines on hand. John Vankat tasted more than 100 wines from various grapes for this column, and narrowed down his favorites across a broad range of prices. Read morePine Wine: Wines for spring
Masters of Brewtality reviews a haunted grocery store, a board game haven, gourmet sandwiches, delicious street dogs and a classic sports bar. A night of fun awaits! Read moreMasters of Brewtality's boozy venue voyage
John Vankat's curated list of fine wines across various price ranges, with detailed descriptions and recommendations for Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve. Read morePine Wine: Wines for sharing and celebrating
Summer is the peak time for outdoor grilling, and the wines recommended here are excellent choices for now and into the fall. Read morePine Wine: Wines for Summer
John Vankat highlights a range of exceptional wines for every budget, providing detailed tasting notes and recommendations. Read morePine Wine: Wines for Spring
Romantic wines express captivating aromas and flavors ideal for celebrating love and are exceptionally pleasing throughout the year. Below are my recommendations across a broad range of grapes… Read moreBy the bottle: Wines for the big day and beyond
Happy holidays, boils and ghouls, this month, the festive freaks and gluttonous geeks down here in the Masters of Brewtality crypt are bringing you the definitive guide to drinking up December… Read moreMasters of Brewtality drinks up December
