By Norman E. Hill & Maralyn D. Hill
Royal Palms Entry Photo: Maralyn D. Hill
Years ago, Gene Autry had a hit song, “In My Adobe Hacienda.” His glowing description pales in comparison to the elegant hacienda-like setting for the October reception. You felt the intimacy of a hacienda, but the décor was fresh and inviting, welcoming you to come in to relax or explore.
The MixUp Bar Photo: Maralyn D. Hill
When we arrived, we were very impressed with the setting that combined hacienda and American flavors. We went inside and started to experience a host of stations, providing different drinks and food. These were all offered throughout the MixUP Bar and T.Cook’s dining and patio area. Even though there were a good number of guests, the flow of drinks, food, and people was smooth.
T. Cook’s Dining Room Photo: Maralyn D. Hill
We started outside with champagne, always a favorite of ours. Once inside, Maralyn received from Brad the mixolorgist, the complete recipe for a most tasty drink, Blackberry Bramble Shrub. It was very good, although I didn’t want to drive home after consuming this full drink. So Maralyn enjoyed her cocktail and Norm will have the Blackberry Bramble Shrub next time we visit.
T’Cooks 2 Seafood Dishes Photo: Maralyn D. Hill
The MixUP Bar has an amazing list of creative cocktails. Their mixologists have put their skills to good use.
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The MixUp Bar Blackberry Bramble Shrub Photo: Maralyn D. Hill
Blackberry Bramble Shrub
Ingredients:
1.5 ounces Hendricks Gin
.5 ounce Creme de mure
.5 ounce Blackberry Balsamic Vinegar (from Outrageous Olive Oils)
.75 ounce Simple Syrup
Sparkling Water
Method:
Pour in shaker. Shake well and pour over ice cubes. Garnish with blackberry on a toothpick.
Cheers!
T.Cook’s Antelope Photo: Maralyn D. Hil
Talented chefs in the kitchen served from various stations, providing everything you could imagine. This enabled every guest to be satisfied with some aspects of the selections. We certainly were. Creativity displayed in the presentation and flavor were outstanding.
T.Cook’s Pastry Cook Emma Photo: Maralyn D. Hill
Matthew, a pastry chef and his assistant Emma, offered us several of his excellent creations. These included bread pudding and a unique rendition of a frosted chocolate cookie base with caramel sauce.
Royal Palms Courtyard Photo: Maralyn D. Hill
We plan to visit Royal Palms again and look at its guest rooms and spa facilities. Guest rooms are being refurbished and 26 are completed. It would be nice to spend a night or two there and just relax and enjoy. We both like the size and intimacy of the Royal Palms surroundings.
We hope you enjoy our photographs from our evening to remember. Let us know if you try T.Cook’s and The MixUp Bar. We always enjoy feedback from our readers.
- 5200 East Camelback Road Phoenix, AZ 85018
- 602.840.3610
- Maralyn and Norm Hill
Maralyn D. Hill, The Epicurean Explorer & Norman E. Hill, Journalist
MDH-Board Member & Past President, NEH – Member International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association
MDH- Member SATW & SPJ, NEH – Member SPJ
Where and What in the World, Books By Hills & Success with Writing
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Author: Maralyn
Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.
