Plus: How to get tickets in the Tovrea Castle lottery, What would a 'super' El Niño mean for Phoenix?, Phoenix smokehouse named the nation's best barbecue, 5 Phoenix restaurants to close in May. How to get a last taste

Open in Browser

You are subscribed to this email as: peterhovis@icloud.com

 

Read New Times

Open in Browser

 
 

best of newsletter

 

Welcome to the May editorial edition of the Best of Phoenix newsletter. While the Best of Phoenix winners were announced in September 2025, we want to make sure you are informed year-round.

 

Once a month, we’ll share our editorial coverage spotlighting a curated mix of stories about standout restaurants and cultural gems to can’t-miss events and the people who make this city unique. Think of it as your insider’s guide to what makes Phoenix, Phoenix.

 

New Phoenix monsoon forecast released: What to expect

We had a wet monsoon last year, and this summer has good chances of following suit.

By Zach Buchanan

Phoenix’s Tovrea Castle lottery starts June 1. How to get tickets

Here's how to get inside the iconic Valley structure.

By Benjamin Leatherman

There might be a 'super' El Niño this year. What would that mean for Phoenix?

If you're hoping for a strong monsoon season in Phoenix this summer, you may be in luck.

By Morgan Fischer

Phoenix smokehouse named the nation's best barbecue

The best barbecue spot in the country is in... Arizona? Yelp says yes.

By Sara Crocker

 
 

MORE HIGHLIGHTS

• These 5 Valley restaurants are closing soon. How to get a final taste

• Popular Scottsdale restaurant has abruptly closed. What to know

• Phoenix restaurateurs head south to build new tortilleria and restaurant

• Why local musicians are rallying to help this beloved Tempe dive bar

• Metro Phoenix’s first permanent Ferris wheel is opening soon. What to expect

MORE STORIES
 
 

Love New Times? Thanks to a recent Google update, you can now select us as a preferred source to see our stories first in search results. And if you enjoy this newsletter, consider forwarding it to a friend.

Google Add New Times
as a preferred source on Google

Manage Profile | Unsubscribe

Check out our other newsletters.

To ensure you receive our emails, please add inbox@phoenixnewtimes-insider.com to your address book.
You are receiving this advertisement newsletter because you have signed up on our website or at an event, participated in a promotion, or purchased a ticket to an event. Thank you for your patronage.
© 2026 Phoenix New Times, LLC. All rights reserved.
1201 E. Jefferson
Phoenix, AZ 85034