The Parlor: rich on history, fresh in taste
Published: Jun 22, 2009
Open since May 2009, The Parlor has been quickly earned a loyal following of pizza connoisseurs in Phoenix. The Parlor combines funky retro décor with a rustic pizzeria menu offering salads, sandwiches, pizza and a wide choice of wines.
With nine different house-specialty pizzas — or the freedom to create your own — you’re sure to find something to satisfy your tastes. Maybe the Spicy Barbecue Chicken pizza, made with grilled chicken, barbecue sauce, provolone, cilantro, grilled scallions and Serrano chilies? Or the Margherita pizza, made with house-made mozzarella, vine-ripened tomatoes, basil and extra virgin olive oil.
You can also get a variety of salads — including the house favorite, roast beet salad, prepared with heirloom beets, walnuts, crusted goat cheese, fennel, avocado and onion.
If it’s a sandwich you crave, try the duck club, made with duck breast, applewood-smoked bacon and red-wine tomato jam. Or try the Parlor Burger with aged white cheddar, bacon and Gorgonzola.
But it isn't the fare that has Phoenix abuzz. The eclectic look of The Parlor creates a good part of the appeal.
Father and son team Aric and Dan Mei had been in the restaurant business in the Valley for more than 25 years before they settled on using the site of Salon de Venus, a beauty parlor that served Phoenix patrons for more than 50 years.
The Meis wanted to offer a hip vibe, which they got by preserving as much of the salon's design aesthetic, including vintage paintings and beauty chairs. Many of the original building materials have been repurposed as fixtures, tables and even the wine rack. Also, The Parlor has a built-in thermal solar hot-water system.
This newly renovated 4,300-square-foot space offers a patio for outdoor dining, a full-service bar and a cozy dining room space capable of accommodating large groups.
- by Jennifer Pruett, Phoenix Reporter for HelloMetro
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