Accessible via car or boat, the Watershed in Tempe underwent a renovation that finished in August. The casual lakeside restaurant and bar now features a rebuilt patio that holds 200 guests. Inside, the 10,000-square-foot venue seats 526. Planners can use 10 HDMI-equipped large-screen TVs for events ranging from a live music performance to indoor and outdoor games. In addition to a modern American menu, the Watershed offers a fun cocktail list and an impressive craft beer selection.
The Showcase Room is set to open in December in the Yard in Tempe, a new commercial complex in the Farmer Arts district. With a warehouse-style vibe, the event space is a blank canvas for planners and measures more than 4,000 square feet. It seats 210 guests or holds 450 for receptions, and retractable walls can divide the space. Design features include exposed concrete beams, wood floors, salvaged materials, four plasma-screen TVs, two drop-down audiovisual screens, an LCD projector, wireless and handheld microphones, a built-in sound system, and Wi-Fi for guests. The venue has a culinary team to help create event menus.
