We were lucky enough to find ourselves in Phoenix, in August, during a heatwave. Not the best time of year to visit, but we made the most of it. I was chosen to present at a conference that was being hosted at the J.W. Marriott resort and spa in Scottsdale Arizona. A first class resort, and honestly for a work trip I felt kinda spoiled. I was able to enjoy a brief respite from work by taking a dip in the luxurious pool or unwinding with a rejuvenating spa treatment. The peaceful desert surroundings added a unique touch to the experience, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere to balance out the demands of the conference.
The conference itself was an enriching experience. I had the opportunity to connect and collaborate with industry peers from different parts of the world, gaining valuable insights and expanding my professional network. The presentations were enlightening, and the discussions sparked new ideas that I’m eager to implement in my own work. The J.W. Marriott resort provided the perfect setting for this gathering, offering top-notch facilities and impeccable service that enhanced the overall experience.
Despite the scorching heat outside, the resort was an oasis of comfort and luxury. From the elegant rooms to the delectable dining options, every aspect of the stay was truly delightful. I found myself marveling at the seamless blend of business and leisure, as I navigated between engaging conference sessions and moments of relaxation in the opulent surroundings.
Reflecting on the trip, I genuinely appreciated the chance to combine professional engagement with a touch of indulgence in such a captivating destination. It was an experience that left a lasting impression, and I returned home with not only valuable knowledge but also a sense of rejuvenation from the unexpected delight of a work trip turned luxurious retreat.
The pool zone at the J.W. Marriott was absolutely fabulous, but even that was no match for the scorching heat. They’ve got a lazy river, slides, a bunch of pools, and cabanas for that much-needed R&R. The prickly pear margaritas and the poolside service? A-grade!
We did not limit ourselves to the confines of the resort; rather, we ventured into the dining scene in Phoenix. On the more luxurious end of the spectrum, we found ourselves at Wren and Wolf in downtown Phoenix. This establishment exudes a chic atmosphere combined with a rustic decor. Enjoy a cocktail while perusing the menu; I indulged in the “old money, young wife”. For my main course, I opted for the 10oz. filet with mashed potatoes. This proved to be the finest steak I had the pleasure of enjoying at a restaurant throughout the year. It was flawlessly prepared and seasoned with what seemed to be a simple blend of salt and pepper, allowing the true essence of the beef to shine. My wife selected the wild boar bolognese, which rivaled my steak in quality. Every dish we sampled at Wren and Wolf was exceptional. This establishment is ideal for marking special occasions. Treat your spouse or partner to a visit on a spontaneous Friday or Saturday evening; sharing such a fine dining experience with a loved one elevates the overall experience.
On the more informal end of Phoenix’s dining scene lies a remarkable establishment: Pizzeria Bianco. If the name rings a bell, you may have seen it featured on the Netflix series “Chef’s Table.” The owner of this Phoenix pizzeria was showcased on the show in 2022 and is none other than Chris Bianco, a James Beard award-winning chef. This unassuming pizzeria offers a dining experience that will linger in your memory for years to come. The traditional wood-burning pizza oven is prominently displayed and visible from every seat in the cozy dining area. The menu is succinct, featuring only six types of pizzas and a few additional options. Each ingredient is sourced at the peak of freshness and meticulously arranged on the house-made dough in perfect proportions. It’s no wonder there was a three-hour wait the first time we attempted to dine there. Pizzeria Bianco is an absolute treasure. If you find yourself in Phoenix and can only visit one dining establishment, make it Pizzeria Bianco.
Our experience in Phoenix was truly exceptional. The vibrant art and cultural scene, exquisite dining options, and the outstanding resort collectively contributed to the success of our trip, even amidst record-breaking heat. The simplicity, precision, and emphasis on showcasing the quality of the ingredients truly resonated with us. I sincerely hope that all those who read this will have the opportunity to explore and appreciate what Phoenix has to offer. It is evident why individuals endure the extreme heat and choose to establish their lives amidst the cactus-filled landscape.
Some more photos from our trip…
