Julie Baxter
Concierge
Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa
Phoenix
What service can you provide to groups that they normally might not receive?
Management at my resort gives us a long leash. We as concierges can do anything for a guest as long as it is not illegal, immoral or unethical. We will try to fill any and all requests.
What are your group restaurant recommendations?
Our favorite restaurants are Donavan’s, Lon’s at the Hermosa, Capital Grille, Avanti, T. Cook’s, Tarbell’s, and The Estate House. We are also lucky enough to have one of the best restaurants right here at the Arizona Biltmore, Wright’s at the Biltmore. It offers a beautiful atmosphere with excellent food and service has one of the most extensive wine lists in the Valley. Private dining is available in its wine cellar for eight or in its private dining room for up to 18.
What are your bar or nightclub recommendations?
Bar recommendations include Six, The Estate House and Maestros. Nearby Scottsdale offers a lively nightclub scene with places such as Martini Ranch, Axis/Radius and Jackrabbit.
Can you recommend a good place to take a stroll?1
The Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa is centrally located in the heart of Phoenix and is surrounded by breathtaking mountain views and gorgeous mansion estates. We often direct guests to the two-mile loop around the estates.
Are there any quirky places we should check out?
The Phoenix area offers many quirky places to visit, such as the Mystery Castle, Arcosanti and Cave Creek. Quirky restaurants include Los Dos Molinas, Richardson’s and Geisha a Go Go.
If we only have an hour or two, what should we definitely check out nearby?
Definitely Carefree and Cave Creek, Old Town Scottsdale, and the Desert Botanical Gardens.
A party of 12 wants to have dinner right away. What restaurant can accommodate last-minute requests of this size?
Our signature restaurant, Wright’s at the Biltmore, is steps from the concierge desk and offers fresh, local ingredients, including herbs from the chef’s herb garden here on-property. Another great suggestion is Donovan’s, a local steakhouse that offers uniquely designed private rooms, one featuring historic pictures of the Arizona Biltmore.
What’s a unique event that has taken place at your property?
Just recently John McCain headquartered his election here for Super Tuesday. The hotel has had too many famous guests to list. However, every president since Hoover has been a guest at the hotel at least once. My favorite historical footnote is that Ronald and Nancy Reagan stayed here on their honeymoon.
What has been an unusual request from a group?
Probably my most unusual and my most honored request came from a bride who was getting married that afternoon and needed a maid of honor. I was glad to step in—of course, wearing my uniform—and have the wedding pictures to prove it!