Restaurant Opening: Copper Mule

Restaurateurs Christi and James Rice, along with James’ brother John Rucker and his wife Erin, have partnered to open Copper Mule Kitchen & Bar, located at 23335 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite D105. The New American restaurant’s menu is the edible representation of the partners’ travels throughout the country including cuisine from their previous home states of New York, Texas, New Mexico, Mississippi and Arizona.

“Through the places we have lived before Scottsdale, we’ve grabbed flavors from our life experiences,” says co-owner Christi Rice. “Our menu and our specialty cocktails express all the culinary adventures we’ve had and what we’ve learned about food in other areas of the country. We also have fun infusing spirits into our culinary creations.”

The relatable yet elevated New American concept encompasses a variety of flavors that result in a varied menu that serves up something for every palate. Open daily for lunch and dinner as well as for happy hour from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. with specials including $2 off all appetizers, Copper Mule Kitchen & Bar features familiar items such as red pepper hummus, chicken wings, bruschetta, salads, sandwiches, burgers and tacos but with a culinary twist including all house-made sauces and regional influences.

For example, guests may start their meal with Hatch Chile Queso and chips ($10) or Montauk Fried Olives ($8), then enjoy a Cay Shrimp Salad ($10), Red Wine Short Rib Sandwich with horseradish cream and white cheddar ($11); or a classic Midwestern Angus Beef Burger with cheddar, lettuce, tomato, red onion, dill pickles and mustard served with fries or tater tots ($10). Hearty and wholesome entrée choices include Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon with cheese ravioli ($12); Meatballs and Marinara with parmesan and garlic toast ($9); and AZ Ale Fish and Chips with fries and housemade tartar ($10). A selection of side choices and desserts round out the menu. 

Naturally, with a name like Copper Mule, the specialty cocktail menu is rife with nine creative mule cocktail choices inspired from around the world to accompany any dish. The Kentucky Mule features Buffalo Trace Bourbon, the Irish Mule features Proper Twelve Irish Whiskey and who can refuse a Jamaican Mule with Captain Morgan along with the typical ingredients of ginger beer and lime juice. Other signature cocktails take inspiration from around the country including the Tipsy Texan, the East of the Manhattan, and the Georgia Peach.

Copper Mule Kitchen & Bar aims to offer a diners a wide selection of entrees and options at reasonable prices so the whole family can dine out without breaking the bank. With family in mind, Copper Mule features a dog-friendly patio so even four-legged family members can join in the fun. For complete menu, restaurant hours and more, visit www.coppermuleaz.com.