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Clarendon Hotel
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66 reviews for Clarendon Hotel
Seems that a lot of negative reviews of the Clarendon come from never having experienced all that is the Clarendon. I've been there on several occasions and never had a bad time. This past weekend was the first time I stayed there, and it was complimentary thanks to the gift certificates I received when I attended their Snow Ball New Years Eve party at the beginning of this year.
First off, the decor should be enough to sweep you off your feet. The lobby is exquisite and I want that wall treatment in my next house. The rooms are well thought out and modern and stylish. When you first enter, the lights are on for you, and soothing instrumental music is playing from the alarm clock. That right there was enough to make me want to fall asleep. Then I made the mistake of laying on the bed. I have to revoke my claim that I have the worlds comfiest bed. This bed was so seductive that I went to bed at 10:30 that first Friday night. Yes you heard me. 10:30. Lights out for Tonia.
I enjoyed having Gallo Blanco right in the same building as well as the rooftop bar, which made for a great Saturday night. When I left Sunday morning, for some reason my 2nd night was charged to my account, but Matthew, who was working the front desk carefully went through and corrected the situation for me. He was awesome.
My only complaint about the Clarendon is that I'd love to see some cute glassware instead of the disposable cups in the rooms. Also, being that it's an old building, despite having four or five routers for guests, I was never able to get a wireless signal, and was told by the front desk they barely get one either. There should be some way to make that work.
With reasonably priced, modern, comfortable as hell rooms and a staff that will sweep you off your feet, I'll definitely be back.
I'm really surprised at the negative reviews of the Clarendon from people on here. I've never had anything but get bar service either on the roof or in the lounge. While I've never stayed at the Clarendon, we go every so often to hang out with friends for a few drinks.
To begin, the rooftop is amazing. It is the perfect place for those cool winter nights. They even have heaters if you get too cold. The bar upstairs isn't fully stocked but they have enough to save you a trip downstairs. Finally, the view is really impressive. It is great to escape the craziness every so often.
The pool area is one of the best in Phx. I guess they charge now but I hear you get a towel and sunblock so I don't suppose that's a bad thing. The pool is gorgeous, especially at night, and there are always pretty people around it.
The interior of the hotel is classic. Strange art pieces and Rolling Stone-inspired urinals really bring out the quirks of this place. The lounge and bar are nicely appointed and really make for a great place to hang out when the temperatures are inhospitable. Also, don't forget the amazing Gallo Blanco restaurant inside.
I simply love the Clarendon and am totally excited for the temps to cool off so I can hit the rooftop again!
After hearing about this hotel for years and seeing all the pictures, I finally went! Lord, that was a long time coming. I wanted to love it, I thought I would love it, but I was not impressed. I won't be stopping by any time soon.
The place was swarming with hot men and women. No complaints. The restaurant was packed with more hot men and women. No complaints. But I went up to the bar for a drink and was ignored! Major complaints. I waited 10 minutes, just standing there until the bartender begrudgingly asked if I wanted something (uh, yeah, that's why I'm standing here). The bar had a menu of drinks posted and they did not deviate from it. So don't you dare ask for something that's not listed. They will roll their eyes and point at the sign. And don't ask about the micro-brews on tap because the answer will be an irritated, "Don't know. Never had it." And don't ask for a red bull and vodka because the answer will be, "We don't have that." And don't ask, "What kind of energy drinks do you have?" because the answer barked back at you will be, "Coffee!"
"Holy crap," I thought as I walked away. I'd expect that kind of attitude in Scottsdale, but Central Phoenix?! Puh-lease!
I took the non air-conditioned elevator up to the rooftop. It was a beautiful night with a beautiful view of the Central Phoenix corridor. But no bar service. I had to go all the way back to the unpleasant bartender girl downstairs. Ugh.
The pool area was nice. I liked the big wall of water and the City of Phoenix logo sculpture. But the oppressive chlorine vapor stung my eyes and reminded me of a wave pool at a water park. The problem is the pool is not that big and the excessive use of chlorine was not necessary.
The room that my friends were staying at was nice. (I didn't spend the night though.) It smelled like a dorm room. The furnishings were nice and had an enormous flat-screen TV, but did I mention it smelled like a dorm room.
I did like the awareness of history. In the 1970s an investigative reporter was a victim of a violent, awful crime after having left the hotel. Today, there is a statue of him in the lobby with a brief description of what happened. And down the hall by the gym are much larger photographs and newspaper clippings about the event too. I liked that the Clarendon acknowledges this event. It felt part hotel and part history museum.
But these pluses are outweighed by many more negatives.
First rule of business (according to me): don't treat the people who come into your establishment and give you money like crap. It pisses them off and they don't come back.
I thoroughly enjoyed my most recent business trip to Phoenix because of the staff at the Clarendon.
Ben Bethel went out of his way to introduce himself to me and invite a call on his cell phone regardless of the time. The front desk staff were unfailingly polite and welcoming. The bartender loves talking football and served up prognostications between drinks and dinner. When I had an impromptu business meeting, the staff offered up the conference room at no extra charge. It is that type of service that will make the Clarendon my first choice for business stay when in Phoenix.
In the interest of transparency, you're probably wondering why I rated the hotel only 4 stars. The elevator was out-of-order. While it wasn't a huge inconvenience, walking to the second story in 107 degree heat certainly qualified as "less than perfect". The lobby is decorated in that "hip, urban warehouse" look and it doesn't quite come off like you might expect.
The Don Bolles "museum" is morbidly interesting. For those of you unaware of the story, Arizona Republic reporter Bolles died 11 days after his car exploded at the Clarendon Hotel, in 1976. the clarendon displays a bust of Bolles in the lobby and has 10-12 pictures, along with the story, in a hallway. I suppose there is no other choice but to acknowledge the fact that the murder happened there and honor the man who was executed. Like a train wreck, I couldn't stop reading the account on the walls of the hotel.
The pool are and hot tub is pretty cool but not as great as the pictures on the website. The restaurant is simply amazing; I had dinner at the bar and Huevos Rancheros for breakfast the next morning. I'd return for the dining experience alone.
Anyone could disparage the physical plant as not living up to the website but it would be a rare person who could actually criticize the staff. Warm, friendly, helpful, and eager to make your stay comfortable. THAT...is hard to beat.
The Clarendon Hotel, located in Downtown Phoenix, is a very cool hotel with a brand new restaurant located in the lobby. I was turned onto this place by none other than Dallas G when he began to bartend here. Or was it before that? Anyway, they have a rooftop bar with tables, cushy chairs and big couches. I believe that the bar is not open during the summer, but you can still go sit up there. In the spring, fall, and winter, the rooftop is great. Incredible views of the city, great weather, and just relaxing.
The pool is super cool too. I have yet to enjoy the pool itself, but have attended some events around the pool. The pool has some fiber optic lights in the bottom that remind me of stars, a little runway from one side to the other, and is open to the public on the weekends. They have several large beds surrounding the pool. There are also the customary chaise lounges and tables. I believe there is a bar outside during the day also.
I have sampled some of the food from the restaurant, Gallo Blanco, but not enough to review the entire restaurant. The corn on the cob with Mexican cheese is amazing, can't remember the real name. The little soft tacos they serve were very good as well.
Be sure to check out the Mens room ladies. The urinals are like The Rolling Stone lips, not sure if the Womens room has anything cool. I have yet to stay here so I can't comment on the rooms, but I have heard very good things. Go check this place out.
The Clarendon is best described as half-baked. Imagine this: "Design on a Dime" starts filming an episode and abruptly pulls out right after constructing the hand-painted, particle board "masterpieces" that cover the windows. Okay, so I'll give them props for resourcefulness but not for good design. Unfortunately, bad design is the least of the problems at the Clarendon.
The location is okay... about 10 minutes from the Metro lightrail, which is great considering there is absolutely nothing else to do in the area. A major hotel booking website listed the location as Mid-town Museum District. If there were museums nearby I didn't see any. There were museums about 12 stops away via the lightrail.
I booked a poolside suite on the third floor. In theory, the poolside suites should be the nicest since they're the most expensive. It was definitely spacious but reeked like mildew. Mildew in Phoenix? Where Summer temps are in the triple digits with extremely low humidity? Now that's impressive. The smell never went away. Glade anyone?
The A/C was old and pretty much ineffective even on MAX. Now, I know it was on MAX because that's what the switch on the ceiling said. Wait. On the ceiling? Huh? The front desk said they're working on upgrading their system. Not a bad idea considering it's SUMMER in PHOENIX. I called down to the front desk and the desk person brought me a fan. She was sweet but it was like the dirtiest, grossest fan I'd ever seen in my life. I seriously considered the ramifications of turning it on. Would dust blow all the room and cause an unstable reaction with the mildew spores? Would I be asphyxiated in my sleep?
The rest of the amenities were lacking, even the basics: like a pen and a few sheets of paper. The ironing board (which matched the fan) was stained with god knows what. The Kleenex box looked like it had been retrieved from the trash to be reused and stuffed with two different colors of Kleenex. The faucet in the bathtub was probably the cheapest, most difficult to operate fixture I'd ever used in my life.
The room had a folder of information sheets that were totally outdated. It listed room service which I later found out was not available. I mean, how hard would it be to update the information? All the pages looked like they were created in Microsoft Word. Everyone at the front desk looked bored out of their minds and more than capable of updating the information sheets with accurate information.
I did actually call down for room service and the person said "You can come down, order food, and take it back to your room." Gee! Can I really?!? Thanks! So is that called "room self-service" or "self room service" or were you just full of shit when I checked-in and told me to ask for anything I need?
The honor bar, er, "mini-fridge" contained two lonely bottles of Fiji water priced at $5 each. A tumbleweed came out when I opened the door. Just kidding about the tumbleweed. The fridge wasn't working anyway, I can only assume it was damaged from someone trying to MacGyver a makeshift A/C out of it.
WiFi was sporadic. Sometimes it worked, sometimes it didn't. It seemed okay in the lobby / bar / restaurant place. Incidentally, I ordered a dirty martini at the bar for $11. Spendy but tasty. I really needed that drink. The bartender was more friendly than all the other staff I interacted with.
The pool is probably the nicest part of the place. The waterfall was well executed and a nice touch. The giant Phoenix sculpture seemed really out of place and bizarre.
Elevator... you guessed it: no A/C and slow, slow, slow. There's a window in the elevator that displays the bare cement wall of the elevator shaft. Why? Or a better question: Why not paint the inside of the shaft?
I headed up to the rooftop bar to check out the sunset around 7pm but there was no one up there. Seems like it could be fun to hang out but not by yourself. LOL.
I came back in the late afternoon and found my room door was left open after the maid had been in to clean earlier that day. Thanks guys! Fortunately nothing was stolen including my 2K laptop. Incidentally, they didn't bother to replace the moisturizer I used up (Phoenix can be a tad dry).
Overall, I would not recommend the Clarendon Hotel to anyone. If you prefer boutique hotels, like I do, this place is not a boutique hotel done well. The best boutique hotels have character that is clearly defined and well executed. The Clarendon doesn't really execute anything well and I'll be damned if I can figure out what they want to be. Their attention to detail lacks and their corner cutting is way too obvious. Nothing could compel me to spend my money there again.
Okay, maybe the waterfall was sorta cool.
I love this hotel! I've been staying at the Clarendon exclusively for the past 5+ years every time I work in the Phoenix area. Whenever I DJ at parties out here I always insist the promoters book me here at the Clarendon. I love the fact that this hotel is an old apartment building that looks like it was built in the 1960's, the retro decadent look is so cool. The swimming pool and jacuzzi are definitely the highlight here especially in the evening when the bottom of the pool is sparkling with fiber optic lighting. Every year I visit here the hotel is changing and improving it's look and amenities. I'm looking forward to the newly remodeled rooftop with plush seating and bar and a wonderful view of the city skyline
Well, I FINALLY stayed at the Clarendon this past weekend so I figured it was high time to write an update to my review!
Clarendon is the perfect place for a staycation! The rooms are reasonably priced and with the addition of the Gallo Blanco restaurant, this boutique hotel has everything you need. My room had the most comfortable bed, contemporary decor, a huge flat panel tv and a little fridge!
The pool is fabulous and attracts some pretty awesome looking cats on the weekends. I love that they provide the towels AND the sunscreen :-) During the weekends they also open up the poolside bar where you can get food and beverage service. I love not having to leave the water!
Overall I think Clarendon is pretty amazing and I am stoked to have a new place to lounge on the weekends!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/9/2008
I really wish I didn't wait until it was too cold to swim to actually come to The Clarendon, because… Read more »
During some particularly hairy home renovations, I decided to book a room at the Clarendon to give my 9-year old son and a visiting friend a bit of a break.
I've spent many fun evenings on the rooftop and restaurant, but had never been a guest - and I am glad I listened to my impulse! The room was very inexpensive but quite posh, with lovely bedding and lots of space. We had a 4th floor junior executive suite with a view of the pool, and really I couldn't have been happier with the room.
After I explained my renovation hell, we were permitted to check in several hours early, which was very kind of the front desk staff. We spent the day lounging by and playing in the pool, watching people, and snacking on tacos from the restaurant. And hooray for free wifi!
Everyone was incredibly nice to me, and I was really pleased to see how nice they were to my son. It's a very friendly place, not perfect or predictable, but exactly what I want out of a hotel. We had such a great time that we're planning on doing this every couple of weeks as a fun local getaway. I can't wait to go back!
Your opinion of the Clarendon will depend greatly on what kind of experience you're looking for in a vacation. Scottsdale puts on a great charade of Arizona, fast becoming a Disneyland with boob jobs. Its clean, and new and largely soulless. The visitors that stay there end up with an anesthetized view of the Valley.
When I think of uniquely "Arizona" experiences, the Clarendon ranks right up there. Here is a building that has seen it all, and rather than strip it of its history, new ownership has polished and buffed it to a beautiful shine.
From the moment your feet hit the entry, with its embedded glass in the driveway, you understand the vibe. The lobby is largely positioned to encourage lounging- ample room, tables, power plugs and free wifi.
You know how normally the last place you'd eat it as your hotel? The food is crap, expensive, and served by people who really would rather be shaving their toes? Gallo Blanco defies that in every way. The food is no nonsense authentic sonoran, served at prices that can't be believed, by staff who seem genuinely happy to be around.
The margaritas are worth noting separately- as a local I've been nursed on tequila, but it never tasted like this. Everything about it is fresh-everything came from something in the ground, not a bottle. Sugar cane, fresh lime- it was singularly fabulous. Sangria ranks high as well for being white, not too sweet, and well balanced. A perfect poolside treat.
Which brings us to the reason you're staying at the Clarendon: the pool. Hollywood sets wish they were this cool. Its big, its blue, with ample, bright poolside beds and couches. A wall of waterfalls, an epic hot tub. As I hit my room finally at midnight, I was tickled by the inlaid stones of the pool, glittering in the moonlight.
My friends and I were impressed by the rooms. It provided something most rooms don't in hotels: space. Four of us sat comfortably around, people watching through the window, enjoying our cocktails and the inroom fridge. The flatscreen, appreciated, never even was turned on. I did however appreciate the advanced alarm radio which slowly lulled me from sleep Sunday morning. Both men in our party noted somewhat humorously about the relative size of the sink. My morning shower provided immediate hot water and who can't appreciate a hotel that is generous with the high end shampoo and soap.
My evening out was a hop on the light rail, I was in the center of everything. Ample COVERED parking made the summer heat bearable. My checkin and out was smooth.
But my overwhelming reason you should stay at the Clarendon? Trust a local. The place is packed all the time with locals, working and hanging out in the lobby, enjoying the pool or the rooftop.
End of story? If a truly uniquely Arizona experience, complete with local flavor and personality is what you're looking for, you can do no better than the Clarendon.
Have you ever seen that SNL skit with Chris Farley and Adam Sandler where they house sit and the dumpy, empty pool transforms into a tropical paradise complete with oodles of hot, gay men? That is what Nico and I had walked into. Now I hope this does not come off as offensive to any gay person reading this. I think that skit is hilarious no matter who you are. And Sandler and Farley are true comic gems. http://vids.myspace.co...
I did not realize that we came to lounge by the pool on the last day of the Phoenix Gay Pride weekend. Not that there is anything wrong with that. I wanted to have a splash fight with all the hot guys. To be fair, Nico enjoyed the lovely ladies too.
I loved the decor inside and pool side. Vibrant colors and just a cool, hip vibe to the place. The entrance plastic banner was a little unexpected, but it's clear to see they are in the middle of some upgrades. I'm sure they will have a trendy-looking, bright sign up in no time.
We lounged and had a few drinks before I spilled half of my awesome Lemon Drop on the pool deck. The female bartender said it was a secret recipe. It hit the spot in the hot sun.
After pool time, we headed up to the roof top bar to check things out. It was about 5pm and a staffer was setting up for the evening. The views were great and we took a few photos with the skyline in the background. I could see this place would be a blast at night.
I'm looking forward to heading back soon. I see on their website that the restaurant is open. A girlfriend and I may actually go today after work. I'm craving a Lemon Drop and splash fight!
Hotel Clarendon (http://www.goclarendon...) is a recently renovated hotel located in the midtown area of downtown Phoenix, not far from the art museum and conveniently located just a couple of blocks from the new light rail system.
The hotel has been decorated in mid-century style -- giving it a hip and trendy appearance similar to the Ian Schrager boutique hotels. However, it's not the sort of place for people who enjoy Marriott, Hilton, or Starwood-flagged 'beige box' resort properties.. you have to accept the quirks that come with an independent boutique operation in an older (although renovated) building in a transitioning neighborhood. The owner strives to incorporate local businesses from decor to food offerings. The hotel is also adding more modern amenities that are expected -- like individually controllable air conditioning units in each room. The GM and staff genuinely appreciate your business and are 'make it happen' types who will go out of their way to make sure you're completely satisfied.
The rooftop bar offers one of the best views of the Valley at sunset; the pool area's design is amazing; and the hotel's restaurant serves tasty and inexpensive TexMex cuisine.
EPIC FAIL.
Yet again.
Every time I come to the Clarendon, I just have the most atrocious experience, and last Saturday was no different. The afterparty for the VMarie fashion show was supposed to be on the roof deck. Apparently no one at the Clarendon bothered to mention a 49 person max occupancy on the roof, meaning half of the party goers couldn't actually party. Also, since there's no bathroom on the roof, it meant if you had to piss you either did it in a potted plant, off the ledge into the pool, or had to leave the roof never to return since someone else would take your precious spot.
It's no shock that the restaurant is undergoing it's 4th major renovation/reinvention in the last 2 years. It maintained 1 consistent factor through all of its incarnations. The same consistent factor that just seems ubiquitous at the Clarendon.
It fucking sucks.
*NOTE: I've never stayed in a room, nor do I know anyone that has, nor would I ever suggest doing so based on my other experiences.
I stayed at the Clarendon the weekend of 6/19 - 6/21 and I was very happy with my stay. I had a sitting room and a bedroom, both of which were very comfortable.
I particulary liked the restaurant... great tacos with one of the hottest salsas I've had in a very long time. The drinks at the bar were very very good. I recommend any of the special drinks... refreshing and different.
great pool, nice people. I'll stay here next time I'm in Phoenix without a doubt.
I"m so happy that it's warming up! Cuz that means that I can go swim yet again at the Clarendon's awesome swimming pool! I love that they let non-guests come, swim, change and lounge in their uber cool swimming pool. they'll even give you water and towels! How cool is that?!
At night, Clarendon comes to life... sorta. If you supply the friends and plenty of drinkin' money, this place can be oodles of fun! I've had awesome conversations at the rooftop bar and have the chance to party at the craziest costume party I ever been to! But dude! $7 a shot?! WTF?! that's waaaay too much to spend for a friggin' drink unless you promise me that my funds are going towards cooling down that oven they call an elevator!
But no more complaints. They have the BEST bathroom I've been in a while (except for Pan Asian Fusion Sushi, their can kicks ass!) and everything is so chic and funky lookin' I could just spit! I especially love the lounge furniture. The quirky things make this place an excellent place to hang out. I hope ya'll go to their next event!
A smaller version of the W hotel, not as classy as the Ritz or Four Seasons and not comparable to the Waldorf. I'm not comparing, Im just saying.....
Moderately price, good location, comfortable, good style, nice views. Would stay here again if I were back.
You can get a room here for around $100 bucks a night. That makes it totally workable, for me, as a little stay-cation spot when I really, really need it. I think that Gallo Blanco is fucking awesome, I love the rooftop bar, and I enjoy the pool and hot tub.
I really love everything about the Clarendon. The staff is always friendly and happy to chat about the hotel's interesting history. The rooms are tastefully decorated and have interesting artwork and photographs on the walls. Whenever I come here I leave feeling absolutely pampered and what's better is that I didn't have to spend a gazillion dollars on the experience.
Sucks that the rooftop bar can only fit 50 people in it, though.
Missed the roof this visit, but got to check out the poolside bar setup. We had fun (epic discussion with people in the know about the new Jellyfish Sculpture, aweseom!) but it was a bit pricey for what we got, and I wish they could have moved the lounge chairs a bit, as we had a decently-sized group.
I'm really excited for the new restaurant to be open soon-ish. Getting a restaurant operator in there is a good idea.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/1/2008
The rooftop bar is really cool. They need to add something overhead to make the couch areas more… Read more »
I'm a local Phoenician who has been here since 1980 and I must say that the Clarendon Hotel is one of my favorite destinations in the entire Phoenix Metro area. Ben Bethel and co. have a true eye for detail, the entire place is both modern and hip yet at the same time relaxing and comfortable. The Starlit pool and 50 person jacuzzi are to die for and the beds are the most comfortable around (same mattresses used by the Four Seasons!) The newly revamped restaurant, Gallo Blanco, is another welcomed addition to the Hotel, the food is stellar, top notch quality. And no, I am not an employee nor do I have any other vested interest in the Clarendon. I simply love the place, its staff and owners. The Clarendon is our go-to spot to celebrate our birthdays and anniversary or otherwise just relax and unwind a bit. If you're looking for a hidden gem in the heart of Phoenix, the Clarendon is it. You will not be disappointed.
:)
-Andres Yuhnke
While not a guest of the hotel, I had the chance to check out the public amenities at the hotel and Yay! I'm a fan...
- The rooftop bar: the hipsterist of hipstery places in PHX. The view is pretty breathtaking and the music had a nice, lounge-y vibe. Its definitely a place to be seen - and see the white skinned hipsters avoid the sun and smoke cigarettes. The drinks were bad (the soda in my vodka was flat) and pricey, but still a great place to catch a drink.
- The pool: apparently, despite the sign, anyone can come to the pool and take advantage of the somewhat sporadic poolside waitress. Again, pricey, but the drinks were good. And nothing feels like vacation more than poolside bar service.
If you can afford it, the Clarendon will make you feel like you're hanging out with the cool kids in a hipster paradise. Right down to the urinals shaped like mouths from the Rolling Stones logo.
I had the pleasure of staying at this ultra swanky, mid-century styled boutique hotel this past weekend, and from now on, I will probably stay here every time I go to Phoenix.
From the lobby to the pool to the bar/restaurant to the rooms, The Clarendon is one cohesive design aesthetic. It's unlike any place you've stayed before. From the bottom, to the top, here's my review.
The lobby is small but funky. The friendly staff sit at a smallish desk with silver wallpaper behind them. Beyond that is the pool with cool water features and color shifting lights changing the water from blue to green to purple and back, comfortable lounge seating is readily available poolside. A giant jacuzzi is attached to the pool.
The bar /restaurant is just off to the right of the lobby, and features a Mexico influenced menu. I did have brunch here and the food was pretty good, however it was nothing you couldn't find at any other Mexican restaurant...well except for the chorizo mac'n cheese. Which I did order and polish off. The night before we had the horchata milkshakes with amaretto which were super tasty and had cream whipped so stiff it was almost like a dollop of butter floating on top. mmm mmmmm.
The whole place is painted in bold primary colors and has interesting whimsical photography adorning the walls from the purple hallways to the blue rooms. Our room was massive and had plenty of room for an easy chair which I could have used. The only seating options are the bed, and a desk chair. Maybe they spent the furniture money on the giant flat screen TV complete with DVR. Other room amenities include a cappuccino machine, WiFi, Aveda toiletries, mod lighting, central air, mini bar, carpet tiles, robes, and multiple outlets for plugging in all your recharge-ables.
I wish I could say I got a good night sleep, but I didn't. I think I am too used to my sagging bed at home, and have a difficult time on a firm mattress. I woke up with my back hurting each morning. Ultimately you are supposed to sleep like the dead at a hotel, and this is the major reason The Clarendon doesn't get 5 stars.
Extra coolness points for catering to the gay community, (but don't worry you straight folks.....you're welcome too), and for being centrally located.
I liked the hotel very much...so lets just get the list started here:
Good Points:
A+ for overall style
Awesome Views
Cool flatscreens
Nice Art in the Rooms
Great Jacuzzi (love the underwater music)
Staff was almost too friendly (orginally from the Eastcoast)
Good food & Great Drinks on Rooftop Bar
Free Covered Parking!! (Luxury not available in LA)
One BIG FAT Negative Point:
Ummm...my Coffee Mugs were dirty!!...I was grossed out - and I really should have complained...well this is my formal complaint...get it togethor...no dirty mugs please...
I haven't stayed at the Clarendon Hotel, nor have I dined in the restaurant. What I have done at the Clarendon is get ridiculously hammered at the roof top bar...... more than once.
The hotel itself does boast eclectic modern decor with some quirky, interesting details. As mentioned before the back of the elevator is glass and having the brick wall that close kinda gave off a "coffin" feel. (not to mention that all the air was sucked out of my lungs upon stepping inside) It was HOT in there.
The roof top bar is fabulous. I'm pretty sure they're doing some remodeling up there as there is, as previously mentioned, caution tape etc. around the edge of the seating area.
With the hand full of slight annoyances such as having a pretty limited bar selection and only one bartender (fellow yelper Dallas G. who pours a fabulous drink and also happens to be pretty easy on the eyes bitches) the view of downtown more than makes up for it.
Allow me to sum up my experience:
I drank.
I received a bag of gay porn and like 8 types of lube from a pre-op transgender named Sara.
I kissed her on the cheek and told her I loved her.
I drank.
I had fun.
I will be back.
Location, style, exactly what I was looking for! Classy but with gay twist. It is one of the best places to stay in Phoenix. Except they could have had a better more comfortable bed. Maybe it was just our bed? Maybe room 324 is the last room due for a new bed.
I'll go back and stay here again for sure. Crossing my fingers about the bed.
Shot the "govenor" here.... the movie not the acual govenor...
Stayed here once when trying to get away from everybody...
love the lighting in the whole place... great Idea to incorporate the art into shutters on the windows...
great rooftop and pool area...Water fall!
realy cool retro ...
only reason why its 4 stars is it is still a apartment complex converted to a really cool hotel with lots of history... still cool but theres a few things that of the design can't hide.
Friday night started out great. Beautiful sunset view from the top of the Clarendon, plenty of people on the roof and festivity in the air.
The rooftop on the Clarendon is a great place to hang out, no question. Few kinks to be worked out before it's ready for the big time though.
First, they hit the limit on capacity pretty quickly. Though it's obviously a fire code thing, it's frustrating when a group gets split up just because someone went downstairs to use the facilities or, in our case, to take pictures. The addition of another stairwell should alleviate this, and it can't happen fast enough.
The staff, while certainly not rude, was missing something. Spark, charisma...not sure, but it wasn't there. The rooftop bartender Dallas was one of the pokiest bartenders I've ever seen, a problem that was only magnified by the apparent unintuitiveness of what machine they were using to ring up drinks. Credit cards took forever to run and odd drink prices ($4.87 for a bottle of Heineken? Really?) made counting out change a necessity, further increasing the wait times. Please just round out the prices. Raise some and lower others, but don't give us odd numbers. Either that or find a bartender who's faster at counting.
After realizing that our group wasn't going to make it back up top, we all moved poolside, which was beautiful. The flowing water backdrop coupled with the rainbow-like walkway (it's actually designed by the notes from So Long, Farewell, owner Ben Bethel's tribute to his best friend who passed away in 2007) lead to many comments about photo shoots and questions about how to install the same device in their homes. The Clarendon walks the very fine line between modern and retro cool.
While the area itself was great, the service wasn't. It really shouldn't take nearly a half an hour to receive a beer and appetizers (I had the guacamole and shrimp ceviche, were were quite good). At least bring the drinks out right away if the food takes time to prep, please.
Our recommendations? Simplify the drink prices, tell the staff to work a little faster and get that extra stairwell up, pronto.
The Clarendon was the last stop on my fun Friday night with Amy D. We headed to the rooftop lounge. When we first got to the hotel, we were greeted by the receptionist who opened the door for us and welcomed us. He directed us to the elevator which was like a sauna once we got in.
Headed up a few flights of stairs to make it to the roof. What a pretty view! We weren't too terribly high up. I wasn't afraid of a nose bleed but the song "Up on the Roof" popped into my head as I took in the pretty night view. After musing at the fact that a Drifters song managed to make it into my head, I ordered a drink. I asked for Effen Cherry with Soda. Um... it was more soda then Effen vodka and they were out of straws... Oh well.
Amy and I sat on a couch. I noticed how dirty all the tables were. It looked like we had just missed a frat party.Another thing that bothered me was that the north side of the lounge was barricaded by ugly Caution tape. I wish they would put something else up there. It ruined their sleek motif. There was some cool lounge music being played that didn't drown out our conversation and managed to relax me.
The other patrons were mixed. There was the classic "Scottsdale" crowd that bothered us to share the couch, and take their picture for them, in the middle of a juicy conversation. There was a "Tempe" crowd which was kind of loud but not too bad. And then the "Phoenix" crowd which were your average joes on an night out.
My b-day is coming up and Clarendon is in the running for my bash. I will have to visit the lounge again to make a final decision. I hope to upgrade the rating very soon!
I can't give Clarendon the full five stars because I haven't actually stayed there as a hotel guest, but I think the modern decor, striking lobby, rooftop deck, and cordial staff merit four stars even though I haven't seen the rooms. We had a friend in town for the weekend and I thought it would be fun to stop by in the early evening to grab a drink and hang out on the rooftop deck. We were so happy we did because the panoramic views from the deck were absolutely stunning (hard to believe that you can see so much just by going up six floors) and the drinks that the bartender stationed on the roof mixed for us were really good (he makes a mean, not-too-sweet margarita if that's your thing!).
There weren't many other people there (it was a Sunday night around 6 pm) - ok, to be honest, we were the only people on the rooftop deck (although the restaurant/bar and pool area were a little more occupied), but in some ways, that was part of the charm. We just got our drinks, sat down on the very modern and super-comfortable orange sectionals, and caught up on each other's news while watching the amazingly beautiful sunset reflect off the buildings downtown and the mountains on all sides of us.
If you are in town for a weekend getaway and want to stay somewhere with a more urban feel (but also get a chance to see Phoenix's natural beauty at night), I think you would really enjoy staying here. There is also a lot within walking distance, which isn't true of many nicer Phoenix-area hotels. Or, you could do what we did and just stop by for an hour or two and enjoy some good drinks on the amazing rooftop deck!
I love this place.
My husband and I decided to spend a night downtown to celebrate our first year of marital bliss. We booked a king suite poolside and the room was much more than we could ever imagine. The decor is right up my alley- modern, quirky, unique. Our room was huge and comfortable. The bed was comfy and I absolutely loved how the art work could be used as a blackout curtain. The pool makes you feel like you are caught in a trendy scene in a movie. the perfect place to chill out and forget about what lies outside the courtyard. The price was right and I can guarantee we will be back and recommend this place to all of our friends.
A group of friends and I decided to venture out to Phoenix and try something new for our NYE celebration. $25 got us access to the Clarendon's Snowball party. The food was good (however, some stations were out of food before I got to them), drinks were affordable, crowd was mixed, live band played a nice variety of music, and the staff was very accomodating. Even though it was really chill and low-key, my party of 7 had an enjoyable time. Hanging out on the rooftop with the heating lamps was a nice way to finish off the night.
It's really 3.5 stars, but went with a 3 for now. We're supposed to get a gift certificate for a future visit so I'll be sure to update my review once I receive it.
Stayed here for one night, and absolutely LOVED it.
Our room was really clean and had a nice view of the pool and the hot buns laying out below. The bed was one of the most comfortable I have ever slept in.
The front desk staff was always really helpful and friendly.
We had a great time hanging out at C4. The waitresses were super nice, even after having to deal with some of my pretty drunk friends. The drinks were stiff enough for me to get a nice buzz going, and well priced.
Ordered room service and it was taking a little longer then I was told it would, so I called and it was sent up a few minutes later, and was told it would be NO CHARGE..Nice!
The sandwich was delicious too!
This will definitely be the hotel we stay at next time we are in Phoenix.
Same price as the other hotels around town, but so much cooler.
The Clarendon was also a staycation spot for me and a friend and I went and had a pretty lovely time.
Great things:
*The rooftop- the bar wasn't open but it was easy to just get a drink downstairs and bring it up. The view of the city and the pretty pool is great.
*The restaurant- Gallo Blanco: I'm going to crave that guacamole every day for the rest of my life.
* The pool and huge hot tub- the hot tub could have been warmer but it's great to have one so big.
*The Beds: So comfortable- they don't lie when they brag about their beds & sheets.
*The decor- so much character.
*The staff- great waiter in the restaurant, great hotel staff, great bartenders. Quick and easy check-in and check-out.
*Attention to details- they have to-go coffee cups for you so you can make and take coffee from your room.
Bad things:
*They need to update their pool furniture. It looks like it's seen better days- the outdoor chaises looked too dirty for me to want to lay on them and the other outdoor furniture was faded and pretty dirty.
*They could really use an outdoor pool bar because it's impossible to be in a swimsuit and go into the bar to get a drink.
*A lot of people complain about the AC- it seems they're in the process of adding individual air conditioners to rooms and ours definitely had one so we were comfortable. However, the elevator is uncomfortably lacking in AC.
*Spotty housecleaning- there was "something suspicious" on my headboard and a dirty pool towel left in our room.
*They make you sign something that says you won't bring alcohol into the hotel...
Overall, I will definitely go again and had a great time.
Atmosphere: Urban Mess!
Price: Fair
Service: Excellent
Rooms: Need Work
Bathrooms: Cool
Shower: Horrible
Bed and Bedding: Very Comfortable
HVAC: Blows on your face
TV: Amazing
Pool: The Best Part of the Hotel Awesome!
Elevator: Get a NEW ONE!
With some major work this place could really rock. It seems as if the owner is trying to make it great! So I give an A for effort!
Hire a professional designer to finish the idea you were going for and get out of the way!
Love the huge Flat Screens!
Stayed here last night after visiting the bar earlier in the week. This is the best pool in the Valley! We took advantage of their summer special and not only loved our room, but enjoyed the food and beverages served at the pool. There didn't really seem to be service at the pool and we had to make a few trips inside to place orders. Late in the afternoon a waiter, Josh, began his shift and he was very attentive and just a really cool guy.
The people took care of all our needs and we will be back...even if it is just to hang out at the pool (open to the public and open until midnight!)
Asked for a late checkout and they let us stay until 1PM...had breakfast by the pool and relaxed until about noon. Looking forward to trying out the roof top lounge when it reopens.
The only thing that bummed us out was that the water effects they have were not working....you have to go at night and check them out.
Updates, February 9th, 2008--
1. A NEW POINT OF MENU
Say goodbye to the Far East, and welcome back to the Arizona deserts. Beginning last week, C4 was happy to welcome a new head chef at the helm - Daniel Roman, an up-and-coming whiz kid trained in the delicate culinary arts and traditions of the Southwest. That means an entirely new menu of native dishes drawing influences from every kitchen in the state - Native American, Sonoran, New Mexican, Tex-Mex and Baja, you name it.
2. "SUNSETS at THE CLARENDON"
Think Happy Hour, five floors up. Every Wednesday through Sunday evenings from 4:00pm to 9:00pm, The Clarendon Hotel and C4 are going above (literally) and beyond your typical "happy hour."
Every evening (at "sunset") will now be punctuated with a sort of casual "twilight spectacular." Cocktail specials, small bites from C4's new Southwest -inspired dining menu, and down-tempo, jazzy lounge tunes spun live, all served atop the 5th floor of The Clarendon.
Come one, come all.
Regards,
Justin Lee
The Clarendon | C4
401 W. Clarendon Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85013
(602) 252-7363
http://GoClarendon.com
http://Myspace.com/the...
The Clarendon hotel perfectly embodies the desert modern aesthetic that I miss so much about Arizona and (parts of) California. I lived in Arizona for seven years before moving to New York City and then Boston. I still come to Arizona for business and when I do I stay at the Clarendon. I wish we had something like this on the east coast.
The decor is modern and in perfect harmony with the surroundings; it all just feels right. The rooms are well-appointed and comfortable and it's the nice touches like the big flat-screen televisions, the comfortable beds, the very creative and artistic "curtains" and the quirky selection of snacks in the rooms that make this place really stand out.
In addition, I think this has to be the best value in Phoenix. Not only is it fun and unique but the prices are extremely competitive and they're centrally located; close to everything!
On top of this, the pool and water wall and lighting are simply amazing. It sets a tone that cannot be beat. I haven't been to the hotel since the opening of the roof top bar area, but the bar and restaurant at the lobby level are also very awesome. This is the type of place where you want people to meet you because it is simply beautiful and your friends will think you have great taste. Admittedly this hotel may not be for everyone, but if you are a fan of Dwell or DWR this is the place to be in Arizona.
One of my favorite hotels in Phoenix. I worked there for a year and have stayed there a few times as well.
Love the boutique feel, the colors, the furniture, the great atmosphere, the art, the pool, the rooftop.... I have been to fashion shows here and spent the most awesome new years eve ever here. I have gotten guys to get naked and jump in the pool, I have done naughty dirty things in the hallways! I have met numerous celebrities here. I hung out with Cheech from Cheech and Chong at the bar. I have been to magazine launches and birthday parties.....
Every time I go in there something new and exciting has happened or changed!
I love this place and I love Ben too! I hope it is around forever!
Phoenix AZ has the potential to be a great place. It's not there yet and probably won't be for quite a while. Until that happens and until the snowbird resorts with bad southwestern art and food close down, at least there's the Clarendon to keep hope alive.
This place is a cool , fun, and affordable hotel smack in the middle of town. It's a little less refined then the Standard hotels in LA but it's also cheaper (and not in LA so stop with your fancy expectations already!) It's a mid century building actually embracing it's architectural style and celebrating it. My room was huge with a bar and flat panel TV and stereo system. The pool was large, clean, and had rubber duckies floating in the water. Where are the rubber duckies at the Hilton???
The front desk staff really made the hotel extra cool. Special props go to Laura! She was so cool and really sealed the deal as far as my opinion of this hotel goes.
The hotel has a Prius they will drive you around in if you need to hit the town. Where's the Prius at Starwood????
In short, this hotel isn't for everyone. If you are feeling like something left of center, definitely give them a shot.
Did the rooftop bar tonight. Walking into the hotel, the lobby is super-chic! I loved the bright colors and especially all the red!
The elevator to the roof was different - the back wall was glass so you could see the bricks as you went up to the 4th floor. It was hot in there, though.
Got out of the elevator and I noticed all the rooms had AZ license plates to announce the room number. Original idea!!!
Got to the roof and...it's like the world stopped. It's only 4 floors, but the view of the city is great. The place was empty - 10pm on a Friday night??? I guess since it was First Friday and there was quite a crowd downtown, that people were still doing the art walk.
Headed straight for a comfy couch and sat down, completely relaxed by the atmosphere. I knew instantly that this would become a regular hangout for me.
Only gripe was that, despite us being the only patrons, the tables were covered in empty glasses and bottles. Bartender is Dallas, a fellow Yelper. He's friendly and super-cute!
Crowds started arriving around 11pm. It was such a mix of people. Dottsy and I came up with nicknames for each group: Tempe crowd (one girl was showing off her tattoo of the band Tool. What a tool!); Scottsdale crowd (the girls asked us to take a pic, though one didn't even smile); Phoenix crowd (just regular people, not trying to impress, like us!) and then a few random folk.
Soft music in the background. This is what I liked best. I spend a lot of time in clubs and it was nice to be able to have a conversation without trying to shout over the music.
I'll be back. Dallas, you'd better remember what I drink next time! (diet Coke with a hunk of lime)
This isn't for the experience of staying here but for the experience of working here.
I really loved my job here. I worked with incredible men who were inspired and passionate about what they do (Ben Bethel, Andre Bonhote, and William Reed). They made my job much more than a job. Despite the various downfalls the hotel experienced, they made a great leadership team who could absolutely pull it together and come out of it all ahead.
Working at the front desk is a great job for a young, creative person who wants to learn hospitality or flex their talents learned at school/other properties that wouldn't give them the creative and personality freedom they wish for. The scheduling was flexible, the job was challenging, and provided a great catapult for my career path!
As far as the property itself is concerned, it attracts a really diverse crowd; this means every day is a grab bag of emotions. One day can be alarmingly overwhelming and blood-boiling (like my first day, when we were overbooked and the guests we were getting in all had cancelled flights [very curt and beyond rude to the staff, usually]]); the next can be culturally fulfilling and flat-out honorable (like getting free tickets to the Rolling Stones or a sincere thank you from a long term guest here for brain surgery who credited his quick recovery to an incredibly attentive staff).
The Jack-of-All-Trades aspect is what made me leave, but, in retrospect, all hourly jobs end up being like that.
