Take a look at this new boutique-style hotel stay in Tempe Arizona! The Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown is designed with a modern southwest feel. It offers guests the experience of a boutique-style hotel stay by incorporating local artists, designers, and chefs from within the community.
About This New Boutique-Style Hotel Brand – Canopy by Hilton
Firstly, What is Canopy? This new boutique-style hotel brand came about from Hilton’s newest lifestyle brand development concept. The Canopy brand of hotels is designed to be an integral part of the community. Employees of Canopy, also called “enthusiasts”, are extremely knowledgeable about the local area. They help educate and inform guests of Tempe’s experiences and attractions. Modern-Southwest design touches showcase the state and give all who visit a divine sense of place.
Boutique-Style Hotel | Tempe Location
Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown is located just down the street from Arizona State University, off of Mill and University. The striking artwork of John Randall Nelson and Isaac Caruso is featured throughout the property both inside and out. These storytellers showcase their southwest design aesthetic by introducing oversized rock cairns, steel sculptures, and painted murals around the property.
I loved the rock cairns at the entrance. It reminded me of the Arizona hiking trails!
Allen + Philp, a Scottsdale based Architecture firm, partnered with Driftwood Capital to bring a sense of community to those looking to stay here. From furniture to finishes, this interior has an urban vibe that pulls in many nature-inspired elements. Bright natural light beams through these high windows and really pops the natural wood tones within the space.
All Canopy enthusiasts, from check-in to check-out were cheerfully helpful and informative. Upon speaking with Lead Sales Enthusiast Jennifer Worthley-Gasca, I was thrilled to learn about the Hotel’s detailed design process. Hearing about Canopy’s plans to integrate into the Tempe community and surrounding areas was a welcomed message.
Boutique-Style Hotel | Tempe Rooms
Canopy Tempe Downtown’s spacious guest rooms also integrate the local vibe into its modern architecture and design. For example, custom headboard artwork from Emily Brakefield can be found depicting the desert local plants. This artwork acts as a focal point in these guest rooms. The bedside lighting casts a dim warm glow, really poping the brand’s bright orange color scheme throughout the hotel.
As a designer, I previously worked for an architecture and interior firm for 8 years. I always pay close attention to the details of a space and the quality of materials. The Canopy brand’s quality is exceptional — the guestrooms introduce sleek millwork, decorative tile, and quality finishes from floor to ceiling. Similarly, the uncommon patterns and tones in the carpets and rugs also add a unique touch to the space.
Boutique-Style Hotel
Tempe Restaurant & Bar | Alter Ego
In addition to the rooms, this boutique-style hotel features a stunning restaurant on the first floor — Alter Ego. Focused on a modern-American fusion-style cuisine, the restaurant aims to incorporate fresh, locally-sourced ingredients into their dishes. Along University Dr., the garage-door style doors open up to an outdoor patio. This allows the space to fill with natural light and guests to enjoy the weather during the cooler evenings.
Dining Area & Outdoor Patio at Alter Ego
Fun Fact: Inspiration for the cutout in the ceiling’s soffit is designed to reflect the Grand Canyon.
The Menu at Alter Ego
Tim and I had the pleasure of meeting both the Chef Ken Arneson and Tim Salgado. We were blown away by the passion these two brought to this restaurant. Salgado, a seasoned 16-year chef, invited Tim & I to pull up a seat to the chef’s counter for dinner. The flavors of every single dish he prepared had us astounded.
In addition to our wonderful meal, Chef Salgado educated us about the ingredients and the creation of the recipes. Claudia, another friendly Canopy enthusiast, brought over a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc by Squealing Pig. It is now my go-to summer wine for hot Arizona days like this one.
This Ponzu glazed seared salmon on top of a bed of shishito pepper and green chile fried rice was absolutely delightful! Both Chef Ken and Tim are very thoughtful when it comes to the ingredients they use. For example, they partner with local vendors like Arizona Cheddar Company, Noble Bread, and Laura’s Gourmet Granola. You can see they are extremely proud of the products they use in their work.
The gallery above shows some of our favorite dishes from our visit. The Steamed Pork Buns were an amazing fusion of char sui pork, pickled red onion, cotija cheese and chili mayo! It was one of our absolute favorites and that we will be back for again and again.
Alter Ego restaurant at Canopy Tempe certainly showcases the creativity of these two talented chefs. The level of detail they’ve shown in their work can be found down to the last chocolate shaving upon the handmade chai tea gelato. In other words, you must try the desserts!
Boutique-Style Hotel
Tempe Rooftop Restaurant & Bar | Albi
Canopy Tempe also has a second restaurant and bar, this one is atop the 14th floor. Alibi serves tapas-style bites and has a custom craft-cocktail selection. The Tamarind Mule is a refreshing way to end the evening. You’ll also get a front-row seat to watch the sunset over the cities sparkling lights below. Alibi is Tempe’s newest spot to grab a drink and one of the only East Valley rooftop bars around.
The 14th story dining area is set to open to the public in late Summer 2020. You do not need to be a hotel guest to be able to visit.
Boutique-Style Hotel | Tempe Rooftop Pool
Next, if you are staying at the hotel during Arizona’s blistering hot summers, you’ll want to pack a swimsuit. The Canopy Tempe rooftop pool not only is a great place to cool off but the views are unbelievable.
A soft orange glow reflects off the nearby building windows as the sun begins to set. Tim and I enjoyed a glass of wine by the pool and watched as the sun dipped below the mountains. We couldn’t wait to get back to the pool the next morning.
The next day started off with a sunny glass of OJ and poolside cabanas! With misters, TVs, and a perfect blend of summer music, the 14th floor was a much-needed escape from our typical weekend responsibilities.
After breakfast, Tim and I worked on our tans before checking out and heading back home to reality. Truly feeling spoiled, this one night staycation left us refreshed and excited. We now have a new favorite spot in Tempe for future stays like this!
Overview
At around $120 a night, Canopy Tempe is a perfect hotel option for anyone planning on visiting Tempe. In conclusion, you’re going to want to come and experience the rooftop views, elevated design, and creative cuisine. With a focus on Tempe and the expanding local community, Canopy Tempe won’t disappoint!
- Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown – Starting at approx. $120 / night. Check their website for current rates.
- Alter Ego Restaurant and Bar is located on the first-floor near Mill and University.
- Alibi is a wonderful rooftop restaurant and bar on the 14th floor.
- The hotel does offer pet-friendly rooms!
- Located near Arizona State University ( ASU ). Walking distance to many spots like Tempe Town Lake, Mill Ave, and the schools.
Looking for a fun hike just 30 minutes from Tempe? Check out my post here.
