ARIZONA BILTMORE - "Only At The Biltmore"

The Arizona Biltmore Reimagined

My friends at Visit Phoenix asked if I could share some of my favorite Summer Secrets.  I have to admit I may have cheated a bit.  I picked an old favorite, that's been a Valley staple since 1929, the Arizona Biltmore.  But here's the catch, the Biltmore, which closed in March 2020 for extensive renovations, reopened last month.  The Frank Lloyd Wright inspired property has maintained all the best parts of the original property.  The design team of Virserius Studio and PHX Architecture reimagined the property in what can only be called an effortless sense of magic.  

The new property, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, is both family-friendly and a great location for a romantic getaway.  Valley locals who aren't looking for an overnight visit, can still take advantage of the incredible new dining options as well as a visit to the spa...which is absolutely in the running to be my new favorite.  Read on to learn all the details on this reimagined classic.

The resort offers 701 rooms, 36 suites, 28 cottages (some with private rooftops) and 54 villas.  Additionally there are seven pools and multiple dining and bar options.  I could write all day about the history of the resort: the stained glass, the infamous Biltmore blocks, the Sprite statues (because who doesn't love the good luck that fairies bring) but I'm picking and choosing my favorites. It was not as easy as I thought it would be because there are so much to love.

DINING AND BARS
Renata's Hearth
Open for dinner only, with a menu that is described as "refined Latin", Renata's is around the philosophy of "the essence of smoke".  In addition to innovative food, the decor details are just as enticing.  Upon entering the restaurant, take a peak into the cocktail room (to your left) or the guacamole and tapas room (to your right).  Enjoy the upscale decor and wide windows as you settle into an evening that is certain to be a delight.

Frank and Albert's
The bistro, name for architect Albert Chase McArthur and consulting architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  The menu is inspired by our local Southwest ingredients.  My favorite was the bread bowl with fontina cheese.  Firstly, because who doesn't love interactive food?  Secondly, because it's so thin and light it's hardly counts as carbs (at least that's what I'm telling myself).

The Spire Bar
Front and center as you walk out of the lobby doors with amazing views of Piestewa Peak.  Cozy lounge areas, fire pits and multiple televisions around the bar make it the social hub of the resort.  It's the perfect place to settle in for sunset, happy hour or to watch the latest sporting events.  The centerpiece of the Spire bar is the 30-foot spire on the center lawn.  It's one of the newer pieces to the property and a tribute to Mr. Wright himself. 

The Wright Bar
You can't help but to feel glamorous having a cocktail here.  The decor, glassware and lighting all make you feel effortlessly fabulous and like you've stepped back into a golden age.  Fun fact...the original Tequila Sunrise was created there.  

SPA
Tierra Luna Spa
This new space features 12 treatment rooms and some innovative new treatments as well.  Not only do you feel immediately relaxed upon walking through the front doors, the signature scent they've selected makes you want to stay all day.  Therapies are inspired by the Sonoran Desert.  My favorites include the mud and crystal bar, an onsite astrologist, and the celestial circadian ritual.  Find the full spa menu here.

POOLS
The resort offers seven pools, but two were the clear standouts for me. 

The Paradise Pool
Perfect for a day with family and friends.  The cabanas have been updated to include air-conditioning and private bathrooms.  It also boasts a swim up bar and a splash pad for the kids.  But the highlight is absolutely the 65' triple water slide.  It's a perfect place to spend our Arizona summer days.

The Saguaro Pool
This adult only pool, located on the far side of the lawn opposite the Spire Bar, has chic cabanas and day beds. Mosaic pieces, with glass imported from Italy, offer unique poolside decor in a spot that is both tranquil and fun.

My final take....
It's summer in Phoenix and it's HOT.  If you want a break from your day to day, reserve a couple of days the the Biltmore.  I suggest a cottage for a couple, booking a couple's massage with happy hour at The Wright Bar and dinner at Renata's.  Or gather the family, rent a cabana and spend the day in The Paradise Pool and settle into The Spire Bar to watch the sunset.  
The updated property isn't going to be a secret for long.  Book now to enjoy a chic way to cool down as the Valley heats up.