Yellowbell Reimagines Southwestern

The emphasis here is on local, starting with the name of the hotel: “Camby” was coined to celebrate the hotel’s location on Camelback Road.

Those who are used to equating Phoenix flora with the iconic saguaro, take note: The yellow bell shrub, while not native to our region, is ubiquitous in landscape all around town – a local standout of our culture and community.

That’s the sensibility permeating the Yellowbell menu, developed by Executive Chef Alfredo Alvarez to give a modern twist to Southwestern flavors in this newly reimagined space at The Camby.

Shrimp Frybread takes the famous Navajo frybread, spreads it thickly with guacamole and tomatillo sauce, and folds it around roasted spiced corn, shredded lettuce and lightly breaded shrimp for a filling hand-held.

Yellowbell’s signature Green Chile Cornbread makes a great meal starter or go-with. The cornbread comes to the table straight from the oven in its own baking dish, liberally slathered with a sweet tomatillo jam. It’s served with Chimayo butter, which takes its subtle flavor from chiles unique to the Chimayo town in New Mexico.

Chimayo’s more famous neighbor, Hatch, has its place on Yellowbell’s menu also. For instance, Hatch chiles are among the toppers – with white American cheese, arugula and bacon aioli – on the Grass Fed Beef Burger.

The Chopped Salad incorporates native ingredients, combining juliennes of pickled cactus and pepitas with chopped apple, avocado and sweet onions in a smoked tomato vinaigrette. Turn the light salad into a heartier meal by adding salmon, carne asada or grilled chicken.

While the menu may spice things up, the décor is decidedly soothing. Coffered ceiling and walls create a gentle elegance, finished in light, neutral colors. There is also a patio that wraps around the front and side of Yellowbell, open to views of Camelback Mountain and the bustling business district of which the hotel is part.

Yellowbell at The Camby

2401 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix
(602) 522-6655

Green Chile Cornbread Served with tomatillo jam and Chimayo butter $15

Chopped Salad Pickled cactus, apples, sweet onions, pepitas and avocado, dressed with smoked tomato vinaigrette $12 (add salmon, +$12; carne asada, +$16; or grilled chicken, +$10)

Grass Fed Beef Burger Beef patty served with Hatch chiles, white American cheese, arugula and bacon aioli on a Noble bun $22

Did You Know: “Cheers to Us”: As a welcoming neighbor, every day at 4:30, Yellowbell treats any and all guests in the outer lounge at that time to champagne and a sampling of tastes from the kitchen.