Air Guitar, the innovative, community-driven market that opened in 2022 at Epicenter in Agritopia in Gilbert, has unveiled a brand-new option for hungry shoppers: Backstage Kitchen. The crave-worthy culinary concept making waves with its toasted sandwiches blends the charm of a modern bodega with the soul of a neighborhood café.
Located near the rear of the shop, counter-service Backstage Kitchen dishes up a next-level lineup of toasted sandwiches, fresh salads, vibrant smoothies, and even indulgent breakfast “croffles” (a croissant pressed in a waffle iron). The setting is cool, casual, and come-as-you-are. Grab a seat at one of the indoor community tables, along the bar that lines the back window of Air Guitar, or on the expansive and well-shaded patio. Where ever you settle, just make sure you have plenty of elbow room for epic cheese pulls and for shaking up your deli cup of carnival-style lemonade.
This exciting expansion is the latest collaboration between hospitality heavyweights Craig and Kris DeMarco (PostinoWineCafé and Upward Projects), Eric Seitz of Bro Retail Group, and culinary visionary Eric Henderson of Winning Formula (George & Gather). Drawing inspiration from Valley favorite chef Aaron Chamberlin (St. Francis and PHX Public Market), the all-star team has crafted a concept that feels both fresh and familiar with Backstage Kitchen.
The Gilbert Grinder, a toasty array of salami, ham, turkey, tomato, pepperoni, provolone, iceberg, and tangy peppers (this can compete with any local Italian grinder); the warm Eggs & Bakey croffle sandwich, with plenty of crisp bacon; the AC Caprese with mozzarella, tomato, basil pesto, and balsamic; and the Buttermilk Greens salad, crowned with crisp apples, sharp cheddar, and candied walnuts, are already fan favorites. Diners can also opt for Bagelfelds famous bagels and Bad Hambres burritos. Insider tip: Pop over on Mondays for half-priced sandwiches, all day long.
A variety of drinks are available to pair with your sandwich or salad, like fruity smoothies, iced tea, fresh fair-inspired lemonade, and more. (Plus, Air Guitar has a full fountain drink and slushie setup.) Mesa’s own Steadfast Coffee is also now pouring its signature espresso drinks and matcha lattes in the heart of Air Guitar, right next to Backstage Kitchen, for those in need of a caffeine fix.
Before or after your meal, take the time to wander the aisles of Air Guitar for tasty treasures and unique gift items that you may be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. Apart from its great dining options from Backstage Kitchen (as well as pizza by the slice, sushi, build-your-own poke bowls, and ice cream), shoppers can peruse everything from the newest N/A spirits and bouquets of fresh flowers to endless options of beef jerky and mochi. The Gilbert spot should be the first stop on any road trip, really.
Whether you’re popping in to start the morning off on the right foot (with a croffle, of course) or meeting friends for a relaxed evening bite, Air Guitar’s new Backstage Kitchen delivers delicious eats, a laidback vide, and a lot of local love.
For more information on Air Guitar or Backstage Kitchen, visit www.airguitar4life.com.
1566 S. Higley Rd.
Gilbert, AZ 85296