Escaping the Grey to Beautiful Phoenix, Arizona

Although I can’t complain about the weather in Ohio this winter, last week I escaped west to Phoenix, Arizona where the sun welcomed me and the flowers were in full bloom.

What struck me as I pulled into the Phoenician Resort and Spa was the beautiful color of the flowers!   In Ohio we have had several months now of grey scenery, it’s amazing how much you miss the beautiful colors of the landscape in the spring and summer!  Seeing the vibrant colors instantly put me in a better mood instantly.

Although my trip was a quick weekend getaway – I thought I would give you my recommendations on where to stay and eat in Phoenix.
While in Phoenix I stayed at the wonderful Phoenician Resort and Spa.  The property is meticulously maintained with well-appointed guest rooms, their beds are some of the most comfortable I have EVER SLEPT IN!  It was hard to climb out of them in the morning to start your day.  The Phoenix hotel also had wonderful dining options on property with Il Terrazzo, J&G Steakhouse and Relish just to name a few.
The Phoenician Resort has fantastic wellness initiatives like massage therapies and signature treatments utilizing plants and minerals indigenous to the Southwest which I indulged in during my stay.

The Phoenician is also golf property, which my fellow travelers enjoyed while I was in the wellness center!   If you enjoy golf you’ll want to experience the resorts 27-hole USGA championship facility with three nines, each one named for its surrounding landscape: Canyon, Desert and Oasis.  I would have given it a few swings if my trip wants so short.

We dined out a few evening and here are two of my top picks for restaurants in Phoenix– one for casual and one for a fine dining experience.

Phoenix Casual Dining: 

Los Sombreros Cafe & Cantina is a Mexican restaurant in Phoenix is owned and managed by a local family.  One tip – you will want to make reservations early as it was STANDING ROOM ONLY!  From the moment you step foot on the restaurants property you can smell the delicious wood fired grill and rich Mexican flavors.  I had the fish tacos and they were some of the best I have ever had.  There were 5 of us dining, everyone tried something different from the menu and every dish was uniquely delicious!

Phoenix Fine Dining:

T. Cook's in the Royal Palms Resort is a very special place for dining.  It is located on The Phoenician grounds, the Mediterranean décor is followed through in the cuisine. 

Dessert at T. Cook's

I had the special of the evening which was a delicious pear salad, Sea Bass and a chocolate decadence dessert that was out of this world!  Take your time when you visit T.Cook's – enjoy your surroundings and the live music.  The grounds are magical!  Again make sure to make reservations a head of time - there is no walking in here!