The Royal Palms Resort and Spa is well-known throughout the Valley for being one of the top destination resorts. Located at the base of Camelback Mountain, the resort boasts stunning views.
The panoramas are drool-worthy, but not quite as much as the food and beverage program. We chatted with Charlie Zeiler, head barman at The Mix Up Bar, to learn what he drinks and asked about a delicious cocktail to enjoy with the warm weather.
The Entertainer: What is your number one pet peeve when working?
Zeiler: When you work in the hotel industry, you are never really closed to the public. We are here to serve our patrons, and we are happy to do so, but it can feel a little hectic when you aren’t able to prep your bar the way you would like before opening each day.
What is your go-to drink when elsewhere?
I am a fan of pretty much all spirits, so if they are busy I will just have something neat or on the rocks. If they are not too busy, I order an old fashioned, negroni or a last word, which is equal parts gin, chartreuse, maraschino liqueur and fresh lime juice.
What does ordering rosé say about a person?
Rosé is one of the most popular drinks of the summer. It is light and refreshing while still packing a tasty punch which makes it perfect for lounging by the pool or relaxing outside on an Arizona night. I would say that rosé is having a moment right now in the cocktail industry.
What do you like about this drink, the Smoking Berries?
The Smoking Berries cocktail on our menu has mezcal and tequila, which I love and all kinds of flavors going on—fruity, smoky, citrus. [It’s] nicely balanced and it’s refreshing. Wish I could have one now!
MAKE YOUR OWN THE SMOKING BERRIES
1 oz. Maestro Dobel Tequila
½ oz. Xicaru Mezcal
¾ oz. lemon juice
½ oz. honey syrup
¼ oz. crème de cassis
¼ oz. blackberry ginger shrub
1 oz. water
The Mix Up Bar at Royal Palms Resort and Spa, 5200 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, 602.977.6458, royalpalmshotel.com/themixupbar
