A culinary renaissance is set to take place at The Esplanade in Phoenix, thanks to 151 Hospitality’s unveiling of three new restaurants. This exciting development is a significant part of The Esplanade’s $50 million renovation project, aimed at invigorating the local dining scene. Led by seasoned restaurateurs Peter Hearn and Rick Phillips, these new ventures promise to offer sophisticated and dynamic dining experiences. The introduction of these venues is expected to not only elevate the culinary landscape but also create a multifaceted social hub that caters to a diverse range of tastes and preferences.
Camello: An Elevated Mexican Dining Experience
The first of the new additions, Camello, aims to be a luxurious and high-energy venue. Named after its stunning views of Camelback Mountain, this chef-driven Mexican restaurant will span 6,000 square feet and accommodate up to 150 guests. The ambiance promises to be vibrant, featuring live music, a dance floor, and a visually captivating bar and cocktail lounge. This restaurant is designed to deliver an engaging and multifaceted experience that goes beyond just dining to create a holistic and memorable outing.
The main dining room at Camello will be designed to offer an engaging experience, complemented by an inventive menu focusing on shared plates and large-format entrees. Patrons can expect an impressive tequila and cocktail program to perfectly pair with their dishes. For those looking for a more private setting, the restaurant will feature two intimate private dining rooms, which can be merged for larger gatherings. Each element of the venue has been meticulously planned to offer a seamless blend of culinary excellence and social vibrancy.
Adding to the allure, Camello will offer an al fresco dining experience with a patio adorned with lush tropical greenery. The space will include a wrap-around indoor-outdoor bar, fire pits, and more, providing a picturesque setting for diners. This combination of culinary ingenuity and atmospheric charm positions Camello as a future staple in Phoenix’s dining landscape. Its unique blend of features aims to make every visit an event, ensuring it becomes a go-to destination for both locals and tourists.
151 Tavern: Upscale New York Tavern in Phoenix
The second dining venture, 151 Tavern, will reinvent the existing MercBar into an upscale New York tavern. This new concept promises to blend traditional American cuisine with refined sophistication, resulting in what they’re calling “fancy comfort food.” Signature dishes will include a dry-aged burger, house-made pasta, sandwiches, prime rib, and a sushi and raw seafood bar. The focus here is on taking beloved classics and elevating them to new heights through quality ingredients and meticulous preparation.
The cocktail program will celebrate the golden era of fine spirits with classic mixers like Manhattans and Martinis taking center stage. The comprehensive wine program will further enhance the dining experience, offering robust pairings for every meal. In addition, 151 Tavern will feature a private speakeasy bar and space for intimate private events, catering to groups of up to 14 guests. This blend of exceptional cuisine and curated drink offerings is expected to position 151 Tavern as a cherished spot for gatherings of all kinds.
With its combination of familiar yet elevated dishes, an excellent cocktail program, and intimate event spaces, 151 Tavern is set to become a beloved fixture for both locals and visitors looking for a refined yet comforting dining experience. The venue aims to create an environment where patrons can enjoy the essence of a New York tavern without leaving Phoenix. By merging comfort and class, 151 Tavern seeks to offer an exceptional dining experience that feels both special and accessible.
The Little Pickle: Revival of a Beloved Jewish Deli
The final concept is the permanent establishment of The Little Pickle Jewish Deli. Following a successful six-month pop-up, this beloved deli has found a permanent home at The Esplanade. It will reintroduce its popular breakfast items and signature pastrami sandwich, a top-seller during its pop-up phase. The move to a permanent location marks an exciting chapter for the deli, allowing it to expand its offerings and deepen its connection with the community.
The menu will also feature New York-style bagels, house-smoked salmon, and the classic breakfast egg and cheese sandwich served on a Challah roll. In addition to its dine-in options, The Little Pickle will offer catering services for various events, making it a versatile addition to The Esplanade’s dining lineup. This combination of nostalgic flavors and modern convenience aims to make The Little Pickle a cherished local favorite.
With its nostalgic menu and focus on quality, The Little Pickle aims to provide comfort through familiar flavors, further diversifying the culinary offerings at The Esplanade. The emphasis on traditional Jewish deli fare is expected to attract a wide range of guests, from those seeking a nostalgic meal to newcomers eager to discover classic flavors. The permanent establishment of The Little Pickle is likely to contribute to the rich tapestry of dining experiences at The Esplanade.
Visionaries Behind the New Concepts
Peter Hearn and Rick Phillips, the masterminds behind 151 Hospitality, bring a wealth of experience to this ambitious project. Hearn’s career spans over forty years, including management roles in renowned restaurant and bar concepts in New York and Arizona. Phillips, with a background in publishing and festival production, has made significant contributions to Phoenix’s dining scene through media outlets and establishments like The Little Pickle and Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse. Their combined expertise sets the stage for a transformative culinary experience at The Esplanade.
The duo’s vision for these new dining concepts is well-supported by Executive Chef Fidencio Alatriste, known for his work at esteemed restaurants such as The Mission and Toro Latin Restaurant at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. Their collective expertise promises to deliver an exceptional culinary experience across all three venues. This collaboration ensures that each restaurant offers not just good food, but an immersive and exceptional dining adventure.
Artistic Ambiance by Volenec Studio
A culinary transformation is about to unfold at The Esplanade in Phoenix, driven by 151 Hospitality’s launch of three new restaurants. This thrilling update aligns with The Esplanade’s broader $50 million renovation effort, aimed at revitalizing the local dining scene and enriching the area’s cultural tapestry. Helmed by experienced restaurateurs Peter Hearn and Rick Phillips, these newly announced establishments promise to bring refined and lively dining experiences to the forefront.
The anticipated introduction of these food venues is set to significantly uplift the culinary landscape, offering something for everyone—from casual food enthusiasts to gourmet aficionados. These new restaurants are expected to become not just dining spots but vibrant social hubs, fostering community and providing diverse taste experiences. They aim to cater to a wide array of preferences, making The Esplanade a go-to destination for both locals and visitors alike. This multifaceted development signifies a new era for Phoenix’s food scene, infusing it with innovation and making it more appealing than ever.
