After years of anticipation, luxury travelers and local foodies can finally experience the unique charm of The Global Ambassador. Conceived by dining mogul Sam Fox, the hotel – designed to mimic the weathered elegance of a classic European apartment building – opened in December and marks Fox’s debut in the hospitality industry. Nestled in the heart of Arcadia mega-development The Grove at the corner of 44th Street and Camelback, the 141-room hotel offers a pool, wellness center and, true to Fox form, five distinct restaurants.
3 PLACES TO EAT
- Le Market
This hotel lobby café features handcrafted lattes, exquisite pastries and savory breakfast entrées that fit the bill for brunch or an early business meeting. With the Phoenix Suns’ practice facility within walking distance, you may catch your favorite player sampling the wide selection of cold-pressed juices and smoothies.
- Le Âme
The hotel’s luxurious Parisian steakhouse is perfect for a working lunch or post-hike bite. In addition to its salads, soups and French dip sandwiches, its “Jewish Quarter” selections include local bagels from Bagelfeld’s and a reuben with Gruyère cheese over perfectly seasoned pastrami that’s easy on the dressing.
- théa
The Global Ambassador’s rooftop restaurant boasts an extensive collection of rosés, flavorful Mediterranean-inspired entrées and a stunning view of Camelback Mountain. Go up early to grab a refreshing cocktail and nosh on the baked feta as you take in a beautiful Arizona sunset.
3 THINGS TO DO
- Hike Camelback Mountain
The Cholla Trail on the Valley’s most popular mountain has undergone significant enhancements since your last visit. For starters, the trailhead moved to Invergordon Road. There’s also a new drinking fountain, bike racks and renovated bathrooms. Unstable boulders have been removed, so you can enjoy the trail without worrying about spraining your ankle.
5150 N. Invergordon Rd., Paradise Valley
- The Spa
The Spa at The Global Ambassador offers everything from cleansing facials to therapeutic body treatments to relaxing massages. The Sleep + Restore massage helps you unwind with CBD-infused essential oils, and a short cryotherapy session energizes you with a blast of cold air.
- Pink Dolphin
Despite what your parents told you growing up, there’s no rule saying you can’t swim and snack at the same time. Grab a cocktail, sample Mexican and Peruvian cuisine like ceviche or grilled fish tacos and spread out underneath the shade at this poolside bar that resembles a resort along the French Riviera.
THE LAWN
If you can’t check out the vistas at théa, the central courtyard is a gorgeously manicured botanical delight and the perfect spot to catch up on your reading.
OVERNIGHT OPTION
The Global Ambassador
You’d be foolish – or frugal – not to stay in. Mix a cocktail with ingredients from the minibar, step outside, and take in the view of Arcadia. Then, sleep the night away on beds draped in luxurious sheets and pillows. Rooms currently range from $370 a night in the summer months to $1,350 during Final Four weekend. 4360 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, 480-800-2211, globalambassadorhotel.com
