The Camby, located in Phoenix across the street of Biltmore Fashion Park, might only be a few months old but it is already gaining the reputation as one of the Valley’s best-looking spots to check in. Every where you look–from the moment you pull up to the drive and see the magnificent “C” in the hedge to the lighting fixture that spells out “chandelier” in the elevator hall–The Camby is chock-full of cool, thoughtful design elements that are sure to keep you entertained during your stay. Colors are bursting everywhere you turn, from dark purple and navy to beautiful bronze and turquoise. You won’t find tired tones here–you’ll find inspired ones. The fun elements aren’t restricted to the public areas, either. Even the rooms are decked with elements to make you laugh or at least take notice. For instance, above the bed, you might be reminded by a large quote that “don’t worry–it’s almost time again to drink coffee” or be entertained by a faux cow skull lighting fixture that reflects the word “moo” underneath. At The Camby, it is all about fun and not taking yourself–or your surroundings–too seriously.
The Camby is the perfect escape for couples or groups of friends looking for a hip spot to staycation. You won’t find lazy rivers and breakfast buffets at this spot; what you will find is a rooftop pool that hosts a great poolside bar and DJs on Saturday afternoons. One of the hotel’s coolest gathering spots is The Bees Knees. This cocktail lounge located next to the lobby (an equally gorgeous spot to hang out for a bit) has an incredible menu of craft cocktails that will knock your socks off. The signature cocktail, The Bees Knees, is a great to-start cocktail, a slightly sweet and refreshing concoction of Nolet’s Silver, lemon and orange blossom honey syrup. If you’re feeling adventurous, simply let Head Mixologist Libby Longlott know what flavors or spirit you’re craving, and she can whip up something magical, right on the spot. While sipping, listen to live music every Thursday and Friday evening from 7 to 10 p.m. or during Jam Sessions (during which guests are invited to sing or play an instrument for the audience) every Tuesday night beginning at 7:30 p.m.
After a few top-notch cocktails, dinner at Artizen is in order. Chef Dushyant Singh is simply a master at making each dish an artful creation and putting a spotlight on ingredients that people might not give a chance. At Artizen, veggies are not an afterthought. Chef Singh has created several veggie-centric dishes that are worthy of their own course, with favorites being the grilled asparagus with green chile teriyaki and preserved lemon aioli and the quinoa “kung pao,” loaded with eggplant. Both dishes are temptingly sweet and savory and downright addicting.
While burrata can be found on just about any Valley menu these days, the small-plates presentation at Artizen is something special. The burrata salad features roasted strawberries, oranges, marinated tomatoes, truffle honey and, the showstopper, hazelnut butter. Slather the hazelnut butter and burrata on top of the accompanying, buttery crostini, and top it with some of the delish fruits, for a dish that could actually be served again at dessert time.
For the main course, a hearty offering of parmesan-arugula-crusted lamb chops is in order. The chops are paired perfectly with tamarind bbq sauce, and, on the side, it’s impossible now to simply inhale the charred artichoke (again, putting a spotlight on the veggie) and polenta fries. Order the grilled red potatoes on the side, too. The potatoes are warming and crispy and paired with a cold, refreshing cream sauce that you won’t be able to get enough of.
Save the date: National Bow Tie Day on Sunday, August 28. The Camby (the “m” in “Camby” is designed to look like a bow tie in the logo) is celebrating the dapper holiday with the launch of Artizen’s Weekend Brunch at Artizen, Crafted American Kitchen & Bar, a fashion show with artist Aleksandr Berki in partnership with Saks Fifth Avenue, and many more “double take” surprises and elements. The public is welcome to join The Camby for Artizen’s Weekend Brunch. Reservations can be made by calling 602.522.6655 or by visiting ArtizenAZ.com.
