151 Hospitality, a restaurant group co-founded and led by Phoenix restaurateurs Rick Phillips and Peter Hearn, opened Camello, the flagship of their three dining concepts at The Esplanade, on Feb. 2. The “luxurious and theatrical high energy Mexican restaurant” is named after its panoramic views of Camelback Mountain.
Spanning across 6,000 square feet and accommodating 150 guests, the concept features elevated Mexican cuisine. Executive Chef Julio Mata, who got his start at the fabled Barrio Café, is leading the culinary direction at Camello. Mata hails from Guaymas, Mexico and describes his style of food as based on his roots growing up, but modernized to today’s diners.
The cocktail program focuses on what the owners call a discerningly crafted list and fan favorites, putting its real energy into creating a variety of signature frozen drinks taken to a mixology level, “not just your typical poolside slushy.”
The main dining room is built for large parties with its flexible seating, and the indoor/outdoor bar also serves an al fresco dining experience with a patio adorned with a sea of pink umbrellas, sofas, firepits and more.
Camello will be open for lunch, dinner, brunch, and late-night cocktails from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. during the week and until 1 a.m. on weekends, welcoming daytime guests with a relaxed lunch menu of tacos, bowls, salads, and of course chips and salsa, before transitioning to a more formal, elevated evening experience and into late-night lounge party hours.
The Esplanade is located at 2425 E. Camelback Road. Find information about Camello at www.camellobiltmore.com.
