Hotel Review: The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale
Scottsdale, Arizona is a vibrant city known for its unique lifestyle, upscale resorts, thriving golf scene, and a rich blend of art, culture, and entertainment. Among the choices is The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale, and it is a luxury resort at the base of Camelback Mountain. Its stunning and serene setting surrounded by gorgeous nature made it an ideal destination for our minimoon following our wedding in France. We were delighted with our decision to stay at The Phoenician as it provided us with a rejuvenating experience, leaving us feeling completely refreshed after our extended weekend getaway. Here is my review of The Phoenician.
The Phoenician is located at 6000 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251.
What Card(s) Should You Use to Book?
I earn tons of Marriott Bonvoy points by using my American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card. It currently offers a sign-up bonus of 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy points when you spend $6,000 within your first 6 months of card membership. The card earns 6X Marriott Bonvoy points per dollar when you book directly with Marriott, 3X points on dining and flights booked directly with airlines, and 2X on all other purchases. Paired with Marriott’s promotions and AMEX offers, it opens doors to endless points-earning opportunities.
The AMEX Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card has great benefits that can substantially offset its annual fee.
The AMEX Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card does come with a hefty $650 annual fee but offers tons of perks to significantly offset its costs. The card features the following benefits:
Automatic Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status
$25 monthly dining credit—$300 total in a year
$100 property credit when booked directly with Marriott and staying a minimum of two nights at Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis properties
An 85,000-point Free Night Award
Access to Priority Pass lounges
25 Elite Night Credits for chasing Marriott Bonvoy status
Even if you don’t stay at Marriott properties often, this card is still a must-have, in my opinion. It’s a true example of a keeper card that offers benefits that outweigh the annual fee.
If you’d like to apply for the AMEX Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, please consider using my referral link. It will continue to help fund my blog operations and help visitors make informed decisions to maximize their rewards. Thank you! Click HERE to access my referral link!
If you are looking for a Marriott Bonvoy credit card with a low annual fee, consider the Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless card. It currently offers a sign-up bonus of five Free Night Certificates after spending $5,000 in the first three months from account opening. Each certificate is worth up to 50,000 points, totaling a potential bonus worth up to 250,000 points. I personally value Marriott Bonvoy points at 0.8 cents each, making the 250,000 points offer worth $2,000. The Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless card earns 6X points per dollar when you book directly with Marriott, 3X points on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases every year on dining, grocery stores, and gas stations, and 2X points on all other purchases.
Be aware that 15 elite night credits from the Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless card can’t be combined with 15 elite night credits from the AMEX Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card.
The Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless card’s annual fee is $95, and it offers useful perks to offset the cost:
Automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status, the low-tier status offered in Marriott’s member ecosystem
A 35,000-point Free Night Award
15 Elite Night Credits that will help you achieve a higher Marriott Bonvoy status
Please note that you can’t combine Elite Night Credits from two Marriott Bonvoy personal credit cards, but you can stack Elite Night Credits from one personal and one Marriott Bonvoy business card. Thus, if you own both AMEX Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant and Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless, you would only earn 25 elite night credits.
If you’d like to apply for the Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless card, please consider using my referral link. It will continue to help fund my blog operations and help visitors make informed decisions to maximize their rewards. Thank you!
The last Marriott Bonvoy credit card you could use would be the AMEX Marriott Bonvoy Business card. It currently offers a sign-up bonus of five Free Night Certificates after spending $8,000 in the first six months from account opening. Each certificate is worth up to 50,000 points, totaling a potential bonus worth up to 250,000 points. Considering that the annual membership costs $125, you get paid to have the card! The card earns 6X Marriott Bonvoy points per dollar when you book directly with Marriott, 4X points on dining, U.S. shipping purchases, U.S. wireless telephone services, and at U.S. gas stations. All other purchases earn 2X points.
The AMEX Marriott Bonvoy Business card is the only Marriott business card on the market.
The AMEX Marriott Bonvoy Business card’s annual fee is $125, and it offers valuable benefits to justify the cost:
Automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status, the low-tier status offered in Marriott’s member ecosystem
A 35,000-point Free Night Award
15 Elite Night Credits, which can be combined with 15 Elite Night Credits from other personal Marriott Bonvoy credit cards
As you can see, the card’s benefits are less substantial than the ones from the AMEX Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, but it is a great long-term keeper card due to its annual Free Night Award perk. Furthermore, it is absolutely necessary if you want to chase a higher Marriott Bonvoy status because it is the only Marriott business card that is on the market and will grant you an additional 15 Elite Night Credits. Lastly, even though it is a business credit card, it is very likely that you could get it approved. Check out my article on how to apply for a business credit card as a sole proprietor.
If you’d like to apply for the AMEX Marriott Bonvoy Business card, please consider using my referral link. It will continue to help fund my blog operations and help visitors make informed decisions to maximize their rewards. Thank you! Click HERE to access my referral link!
Location
The Phoenician hotel is a 250-acre property with lush gardens situated at the base of Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale, Arizona. The hotel's location offers breathtaking views of the Sonoran Desert and a peaceful ambiance that is perfect for relaxation. It is located within driving distance of various cultural attractions such as the Heard Museum, the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation.
Lobby & Check-In Review
Due to our early 6 AM flight, we arrived at our destination ahead of schedule. The Phoenician was absolutely breathtaking. From the moment we entered the property, we were greeted by a beautiful display of cacti, desert plants, and palm trees that were meticulously curated throughout the property. The golf courses were also in impeccable condition.
The Camelback Mountain created a breathtaking natural backdrop.
As our Uber pulled up to the passenger loading zone, a valet promptly appeared to assist us with our luggage. Stepping into the lobby, we were immediately struck by its grandeur. The flooring was flawlessly maintained, and everything was spotlessly clean.
The lobby was pristine and flawlessly maintained, mirroring the grandeur of the hotel.
The ambiance screamed luxury resort living and the pristine cleanliness and high-end finishes were a testament to why this resort has been consistently voted as one of the best in the country for many years. There were dedicated staff members available to assist multiple guests with the check-in process.
The check-in process was thorough, and we were provided with a map of the property for exploration.
Although we were promptly attended to, our room was not yet prepared as expected. However, the staff informed us that it would only be a short wait. In the meantime, we made our way to the concierge desk to book various activities offered by the resort. Being that it was the Independence Day weekend, the resort had planned an extensive schedule of both complimentary and paid activities suitable for both children and adults.
The Phoenician provided a range of complimentary and paid activities catering to both children and adults alike.
While we initially considered participating in a tequila tasting, we ultimately decided to go with a complimentary beer tasting at the Phoenician Tavern, which takes place daily at 11 AM. The Phoenician is renowned for its pristine golf courses and also boasts seven hardtop tennis courts, two pickleball courts, and a half-basketball court.
The resort features an 18-hole course that highlights the natural beauty of Arizona's Sonoran Desert.
Having tennis courts was one of the reasons for choosing to stay at The Phoenician, and we brought our rackets along for that specific reason. Each guest is entitled to a complimentary hour-long reservation on the courts, so we asked the concierge representative to make a swift booking for us. Additionally, she suggested that we take a self-guided tour of the Phoenician cactus garden, providing us with a map and guide of Old Town Scottsdale, which is conveniently just a four-minute car ride away from the hotel.
The concierge was fantastic at recommending local gems and exciting on-site activities.
Just as we finished up with the concierge, our room was ready, and the front desk representative not only gave us a detailed rundown of the resort facilities but also handed us a map of the resort. Although my Suite Night Award didn't go through, the hotel still upgraded us to a Deluxe room with a pool-view balcony.
The staff's exceptional service and attention to detail left a lasting impression, ensuring we felt connected and well-cared for from the very beginning.
The level of service and attention to detail from the staff truly impressed us, making us feel connected and well taken care of right from the start. After receiving my card keys and complimentary breakfast vouchers, we went up to the 30th floor, where our room was located.
Bedroom Review
The upgraded deluxe room offered plenty of space, comparable to a junior suite in a regular hotel. Upon entering the room, I immediately noticed a dedicated makeup vanity complete with a mirror, conveniently located next to the in-room closets that provided ample storage space for guests.
A dedicated makeup vanity streamlined the getting ready process effortlessly.
The bed was a luxurious king-sized bed with an oversized leatherette headboard adorned with unique patterns. The mattress was exceptionally comfortable and plush, ensuring a restful night's sleep throughout our stay.
The king-sized bed was not only comfortable but also accompanied by ample, spacious nightstands.
On each side of the bed, there were oversized nightstands that were even larger than the work desk at Hôtel Bienvenue in Paris. Across from the bed was a media stand featuring a wall-mounted, flat-screen TV.
Unfortunately, the TV lacked smart TV capabilities; however, the hotel provided me with generous welcome amenities.
However, it was disappointing to note that the TV was not a smart TV, which didn't quite align with the hotel's lavish image. On the media stand in the room, I discovered that the hotel had generously showered me with welcome amenities.
Receiving two distinct welcome cards from the hotel was a first for me, and it truly highlighted The Phoenician's deep appreciation for its guests.
Alongside a bottle of cuvée, I received artisanal chocolates from Norman Love Confections, three different types of snacks from the hotel's dining establishments, and a heartfelt written letter from the front office manager and the entire Phoenician team. It was the first time I had ever received two separate letters from a hotel, which truly showcased how highly Marriott Bonvoy members are valued by the staff.
Browsing the catalog was helpful in discerning the diverse flavors of the artisanal chocolate.
The three snacks included the signature trail mix from The Phoenician Spa, spiced potato chips from Mowery & Cotton, and green chili cheddar popcorn from Thirsty Camel. Each portion was substantial and complemented the bottle of cuvée perfectly.
These signature snacks were the perfect accompaniment to the bottle of cuvée.
Moments like these make me feel appreciated and connected to the Marriott brand as a whole, and I was truly grateful for the genuine care and attention shown by the hotel. The media console in the room served a dual purpose as both a dresser and a storage unit. It was equipped with a fully stocked mini fridge, snacks, and a Keurig coffee machine.
The mini-fridge came fully stocked, complete with snacks and a Keurig coffee machine.
I was relieved to discover that the mini fridge was not pressure sensitive, allowing me to temporarily remove the in-room beverages and make space for storing water bottles. The rest of the bedroom space was thoughtfully furnished with extra tables and seating options, enhancing the overall comfort of the accommodation.
The bedroom was outfitted with additional tables and a variety of seating arrangements.
A circular dining table with comfortable chairs became my dedicated workstation throughout my stay, while the L-shaped sectional provided the perfect spot for afternoon lounging or taking a quick nap.
I valued the convenience of a dedicated dining area that also served as my remote work station.
Even though we didn’t utilize the balcony as much due to the heat outside, it was still nice to have a private balcony. The balcony was furnished with an outdoor couch and a table, providing a perfect setting for dining or simply relaxing for guests.
The private balcony was a great hangout spot at night, especially when the temperature became more pleasant.
As my room overlooked the hotel's pool area, I had a clear view of all three pools from my balcony. Additionally, the hotel's clever curved design ensured a decent level of privacy between neighboring balconies.
The resort's view at sunset was breathtakingly picturesque, casting a magical glow over the property.
Initially, I was disappointed when I discovered that my Suite Night Award was denied due to the high occupancy rate; nevertheless, I was more than pleased with the upgrade to the deluxe room, which included a living space and a private outdoor balcony, reminiscent of a junior suite. My lodging experience at The Phoenician served as yet another example of how the hotel went above and beyond to express gratitude towards loyal Marriott Bonvoy members. I truly appreciated the thoughtful gestures and generous offerings that made me feel not only welcomed but also deeply connected to the hotel.
Bathroom Review
The bathroom was incredibly spacious, matching the size of the bedroom itself. It featured a double-sink vanity and elegant marble flooring.
The bathroom boasted an elegant double-sink vanity set and an extensive backlit mirror.
One impressive element was the backlit mirror that spanned the entire side of the wall, accompanied by an equally expansive countertop area, offering ample space for storing personal toiletries and other belongings. To enhance privacy, there was a separate water closet, although it was unfortunate that there was no fan available to activate.
Although there was no fan, I appreciated the added privacy of a separate water closet.
The walk-in shower showcased marble walls and delivered fantastic water pressure. However, the showerhead didn’t disperse water in a regular streamlined manner, leaving me wishing it was a rainfall showerhead.
A handy clothing hanger line for drying swimsuits was thoughtfully provided inside the shower booth.
On a positive note, the toiletries provided were from Byredo—one of my favorite brands at the moment. The communal-sized bottles allowed for generous usage as needed, granting a touch of luxury to the overall experience.
Byredo is one of my favorite fragrance brands at the moment.
In the shower booth was a convenient clothing hanger line provided for drying swimsuits. However, it may be quicker to hang them on the balcony to ensure faster drying. Furthermore, the bathroom included a separate bathtub, which comfortably accommodated one adult at a time.
The bathroom came fully outfitted with a tub, albeit designed for single-person use at any given time.
The depth of the bathtub added to the overall relaxation during bath time. One of the unique amenities that caught my attention in the bathroom was the provision of a lip balm with 15 SPF sun protection. It was the first time I had come across such an offering, and it proved to be perfect for the sun-soaked weather in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Pool Review
The pools can be conveniently accessed from the second floor of the hotel, and it is open 24/7. There were three distinct pools, and exiting the hotel building on the second floor would lead you to the largest pool, which was on the uppermost platform.
The main pool, situated on the highest platform, was the most easily accessible of the three pools.
It tended to be popular among families with children, creating a livelier atmosphere compared to the other pools that cater more to adults. During the day, we preferred to steer clear of the area, but in the evening, it transformed into a vibrant gathering spot for adults, enhanced by romantic and intimate lighting.
Throughout the day, the pool was a favorite spot for families, while at night, it became a bustling hub for adult guests.
After a short flight of stairs from the uppermost pool, we discovered an adults-only pool. Unlike a traditional swimming pool, its narrow design was specifically developed for adult guests to relax and enjoy refreshing beverages.
Some guests at the adults-only pool were irresponsibly claiming multiple lounge chairs for themselves without actually being present.
However, we encountered a challenge—despite the hotel's policy of not allowing towels to be left unattended on lounge chairs for more than 30 minutes, numerous chairs remained vacant with only towels occupying them. Consequently, finding available lounge chairs became impossible, prompting us to venture down to the lower level where the captivating Mother of Pearl pool awaited us.
The intricate mother-of-pearl tiles on the pool floor were stunning, especially as they shimmered under the sunlight's illumination.
The pool area earned its name due to the mesmerizing mother-of-pearl tiles that adorned the pool floor. It was a joy to see the tiles glisten as the sunlight illuminated them, and thankfully, it was much easier to find unoccupied lounge chairs on the lower platform.
Just a few steps from the mother-of-pearl pool, the Phoenician Spa awaited, offering an array of lavish spa treatments.
Given that we visited in July when the temperature in Scottsdale soared to a scorching 110 Fahrenheit, the water in all three pools was only lukewarm at best. However, despite the sweltering heat, I still found it refreshing to spend time in the pools. The breathtaking backdrop of Camelback Mountain added to the allure, and I highly recommend visiting the pools at night when the lower temperature makes the outdoors more manageable.
The pools at The Phoenician are an absolute must-visit for all guests, set against a stunning backdrop.
Though the pools could get quite crowded during peak hours, they were an absolute must for any guests. I suggest planning your visit for early morning or late evening to avoid the crowds.
Activity Review—Cactus Garden, Tennis, and Beer Sampling
The Phoenician is a massive resort, and to match its caliber, it charges a daily resort fee of $50 per guestroom per night. Unfortunately, even when using Marriott Bonvoy points to book your stay, the daily resort fee is not waived. However, in an effort to offset the damage on your bill, The Phoenician offers a selection of "complimentary" activities tailored for kids, families, and adults. One such activity is a tour of the cactus garden, conveniently located just across from the passenger loading zone by the lobby. Although there was a scheduled free tour at 8 AM during our stay, we opted to explore at our leisure after indulging in some pool time.
The cactus garden featured an impressive collection of over 250 varieties of cacti, succulents, and desert flora.
The cactus garden proved to be nothing short of breathtaking. Spanning across two acres, it showcased more than 250 varieties of cacti, succulents, and desert plants.
Guests could book rooms overlooking the cactus garden, which presented a unique ambiance distinct from those facing the pools.
As someone without expertise in botany, I genuinely enjoyed seeing the diverse varieties of plants in different shapes and sizes.
If hiking Camelback Mountain isn't on your agenda, why not consider exploring the cactus garden instead?
If simply strolling through the cactus garden doesn't deliver enough cardio exercise for you, I highly recommend exploring The Phoenician's renowned golf courses and tennis courts. In fact, my wife and I brought our own tennis rackets from home and made our way to the Phoenician Athlete Club, situated below the gym. It not only served as a shop selling athleisure apparel but also supplied a range of gear specifically tailored for tennis and pickleball enthusiasts.
The ground level of the Phoenician Athlete Club featured a retail space selling athleisure wear, along with tennis and pickleball gear.
Since we had reserved a court through the concierge, all we needed to do was check-in. The well-maintained hardtop tennis courts were a pleasure to play on, and for those seeking relief from the sun, they were also available for use during the evening. With the awe-inspiring backdrop of Camelback Mountain, every moment spent playing tennis at The Phoenician was truly enjoyable.
Playing tennis in Arizona's summer heat was certainly a challenge, but I couldn’t pass up the opportunity.
The Phoenician offers a variety of food and beverage-related activities, such as a cocktail mixology course or a wine-tasting experience. However, it's important to note that these activities are generally not complimentary and require reservations. Seeking a simpler and cost-free option, we chose to sample beer at Kalio Kabobery, a Mediterranean restaurant located by the uppermost pool level.
Kalio Kabobery delivered a laid-back Mediterranean dining experience right by the poolside.
While guests were able to order food and drinks from their lounge chairs by the poolside, dining inside the restaurant was necessary to partake in the free beer tasting. The entrées at Kalio Kabobery typically ranged from $18 to $24, with cocktails falling within a similar price range.
While the menu's pricing wasn't the most competitive, the convenience might justify the cost.
In the end, we opted to forego ordering extra drinks and instead only participated in the complimentary beer tasting. I was delighted to be served three different types of beer - Pilsner, pale ale, and wheat beer.
The complimentary beer sampling was worthwhile, allowing me to taste three distinct local beers.
Each sample was generously portioned, and when combined, they equated to a full glass of beer. The complimentary beer sampling takes place daily at 11 AM. However, for a more extensive experience, guests can choose to participate in a tasting of four distinctive Arizona brews at Phoenician Taven on select days for a fee of $25. Although labeled as "free" activities, it's important to note that these experiences came with a cost due to the mandatory daily resort fee of $50. Every guest is obligated to pay the resort fee so if you want to make the most out of complimentary activities, it’s essential for individuals to be proactive in finding activities that align with their schedule and prioritize options that do not require strict reservations.
Bar Review—Thirsty Camel
Located in the main lobby of the hotel, Thirsty Camel is one of the bars at The Phoenician. It welcomes guests starting at 2 PM and provides live entertainment on weekdays from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM, as well as on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 PM to 11 PM.
Thirsty Camel, situated on the lobby level, captured the resort's classic elegance and sophisticated ambiance.
The bar offers both indoor and outdoor seating options, and due to the heat, we opted to sit inside.
The outdoor seating was ideal for evening gatherings under the sunset.
However, the outdoor seating area provided a fantastic view of the estate adorned with palm trees and the majestic Sonoran mountains in the distance.
The outdoor seating presented stunning views of the palm-studded estate and the Sonoran mountains beyond.
The interior of the bar exuded vibrancy, decorated with elegant and stylish furniture. Visiting the bar at sunset unveiled a fresh dimension of the space, transforming the atmosphere.
As evening fell, a solo guitarist livened up the night with country-pop tunes.
After finding a cozy candle-lit table, we wasted no time in placing our cocktail orders. The cocktails were not cheap, but it was understandable considering the hotel’s market position.
While not the most budget-friendly choice for alcoholic beverages at the resort, the premium ambiance of the bar justified its higher price point.
I selected the Pineapple Sour, while my wife chose the Match Play, which featured jalapeño infused tequila. Her drink had a refreshing kick to it, making it a perfect choice to combat the Arizona heat in the summer.
The cocktails were delightful, particularly the Pineapple Sour, which impressed with its creamy texture and vibrant flavor—definitely worth trying.
As for mine, it had robust pineapple flavors with a subtle Smokey undertone from the mezcal. The addition of egg white created a harmonious blend, enhancing the overall taste of the drink. The waitress surprised us with complimentary bar snacks, including spiced pecans and green chili cheddar popcorn. These treats uniquely complemented our cocktails and showcased the flavors that Arizona is renowned for.
I appreciated the local twists added to familiar bar snacks like popcorn and nuts.
As our cocktails arrived, a solo guitarist took the stage, creating a delightful atmosphere for the evening with country-pop songs. If you're looking for a more refined experience, I suggest you try the afternoon tea at Thirsty Camel. While the live entertainment in the evenings was enjoyable, the afternoon tea offers a mature ambiance and exquisite presentation that may just win you over despite the higher price tag.
Gym Review
The fitness center was situated near the resort entrance, so it took about three minutes on foot to reach the gym. The gym was on the upper level of the building, and the lower level was a tennis shop and a game room, providing guests with various entertainment options.
The Phoenician Athlete Club housed a gym, a game room, and a store that sold gym apparel.
The game room featured a cozy lounge area with a television, where guests could relax and enjoy their favorite shows. In addition, it presented a pool table, foosball table, and ping pong table, providing opportunities for indoor entertainment. To further enhance the experience, the game room also boasted arcade games, creating a welcoming family-friendly environment that catered to both children and adults alike.
The game room was an excellent choice for families with young children to hang out.
Following a satisfying game of tennis, I made my way up to the upper level of the workout facility, where the gym was situated. Upon arrival, I discovered a small lobby area with comfortable seating for guests to relax or wait.
Although it was a bit of a walk from our room, the gym proved to be well worth the visit.
The highlight of the gym was the floor-to-ceiling windows that presented breathtaking views of the hotel's magnificent golf course.
The fitness center was expansive, equipped with a broad selection of cardio and strength training equipment.
Positioned strategically in front of these windows was the cardio equipment and I very much enjoyed the scenic surroundings while working up a sweat.
I visited the gym early in the morning while it was still dark outside, but by day, the gym showcased a clear view of the resort's pristine golf course.
The gym was impressive with its wide array of strength machines, including dumbbells, curl bars, a Smith machine, and an all-in-one exercise machine, ensuring that guests had everything they needed to push their limits and achieve their fitness goals.
The indoor gym was full of state-of-the-art exercise machines for any fitness goals.
During the summer months, the gym experiences a noticeable increase in attendance, as the challenging outdoor temperatures drive individuals to seek indoor fitness alternatives. The overcrowding makes it challenging to find open space for activities such as yoga or bodyweight workouts.
For a less crowded experience at the gym, I suggest going early in the morning.
Fortunately, the gym had a designated area called the Movement Studio—fully equipped with gym balls, medicine balls, and yoga mats.
The Movement Studio provided a specialized open area designed for intense body workout sessions.
To elevate the experience, there was a wall-mounted TV on a mirrored wall where guests could participate in group classes.
While the indoor gym at The Phoenician is exceptional, be sure to also take advantage of the resort's outdoor amenities.
While the fitness center provided a great indoor exercise option, one of the highlights of The Phoenician was its array of outdoor amenities. I had the opportunity to play basketball on the half court, and its renowned golf course was bustling with guests. Although I didn't have a chance to play golf this time, I am eagerly looking forward to returning to the resort in the future to fully enjoy its premium offerings.
Breakfast Review—Mowry & Cotton
As a Titanium Elite member, my wife and I enjoyed a complimentary breakfast at Mowry & Cotton, conveniently located on the second floor.
Mowry & Cotton serves contemporary American cuisine with a unique Arizona flair.
The restaurant operates from 7 AM to 11 AM daily, offering a dining experience for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The restaurant's modern interior, highlighted by sleek and rustic accents, complemented its overall brand very well.
With both indoor and outdoor seating options present, the upscale farmhouse ambiance was enhanced by its lofty ceilings, creating a spacious and inviting atmosphere.
Mowry & Cotton also had an outdoor dining area, complete with a falcon named Tony who helps deter other animals.
Upon arrival, a receptionist kindly escorted us to our table and provided a brief tour of the buffet area, where guests could enjoy a variety of delectable options for $35 per person.
Even with my Titanium Elite status, my breakfast voucher only allowed for à la carte options and didn't include the buffet.
The buffet showcased traditional American hot breakfast items with dedicated gluten-free options and extensive charcuterie selections.
The breakfast buffet was comprehensive, featuring a dedicated gluten-free section.
Upon being seated, I inquired about alternative options for the breakfast voucher. The server kindly informed me that each voucher covered up to $37.90, which I found to be quite generous, especially for a luxury resort. However, it couldn’t be used for the buffet, and after perusing the menu, my wife and I ordered huevos rancheros and avocado toast, as the continental breakfast only included boring items like croissants, yogurt, parfait, and coffee.
Each breakfast voucher, valued at up to $37.90, allowed me to choose any entrée from the menu, with room to add more.
When our food arrived, it became evident that the huevos rancheros stood out as the restaurant's signature menu. The avocado crema delivered a creamy and tangy element, while the tinga chicken was tender and bursting with flavors.
The huevos rancheros was a signature dish of the restaurant and lived up to its reputation.
The avocado toast was skillfully presented and featured a light and airy ricotta cheese, complemented by a hint of lemon that brightened the dish.
The avocado toast was perfectly paired with light and airy ricotta cheese.
Beyond the delectable dishes, the service provided by the wait staff was exceptional. I greatly appreciated the flexibility with the breakfast vouchers, and I look forward to exploring Mowry & Cotton's lunch or dinner menu during future visits.
Positives & Negatives
Positives
The Phoenician hotel featured exceptional amenities and an array of enjoyable activities. I particularly enjoyed swimming at night, and the tennis courts and golf courses were meticulously maintained, ensuring a top-notch experience for enthusiasts. Moreover, I had the pleasure of participating in complimentary activities such as beer tasting and a cactus garden tour, further enhancing my stay at The Phoenician.
I thoroughly enjoyed the delicious breakfast at Mowry & Cotton. As a Titanium Elite member, I was eligible for complimentary breakfast, and while continental options can often be underwhelming, I was pleasantly surprised that I could order a full-sized entree from the entire menu.
Negatives
The resort fee of $50 per day may seem substantial, even with the inclusion of certain complimentary activities. However, by actively planning schedules to take advantage of the wide range of activities offered, guests have the potential to not only offset the fee but also come out ahead in terms of value and experiences.
The internet connectivity at The Phoenician was poor. After frequent drops in the connection, we had to resort to going to a nearby cafe to take care of some work. Luckily, there are some great work-friendly cafes in Old Town Scottsdale, which is a five-minute Uber ride from the hotel.
Summary
The Phoenician is part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection Resort portfolio and is located in Scottsdale, Arizona. Nestled by the stunning Camelback Mountain, The Phoenician offers an unparalleled experience. Set on a sprawling 250-acre property, the resort features world-class amenities including golf courses, tennis courts, multiple pools, a cactus garden, and more. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by attentive staff who made me feel welcome. Stepping into my deluxe room with a private balcony, I was delighted to find myself surrounded by elegance and comfort. The spaciousness and upscale ambiance of the room truly reflected the hotel's luxury persona. However, it was the resort's outstanding facilities and activities that truly set The Phoenician apart. While it's unfortunate that the daily resort fee of $50 is not waived for award stays or guests with elevated Marriott Bonvoy status, the resort offers numerous paid and complimentary events to deliver an exceptional resort living experience to guests. Surrounded by boutique resorts, The Phoenician stood out as a top choice for those seeking a luxurious property with excellent amenities and facilities, and I recommend The Phoenician to anyone looking for an ultimate resort in Scottsdale, Arizona.
