University Club offers downtown haven

Downtown Phoenix campus denizens who enjoy University Club membership in Tempe can also take advantage of the club’s Phoenix counterpart. Just like on the Tempe campus, the University Club of Phoenix offers its members an elegant setting for special events, socializing during meals or simply relaxing over a cup of coffee. <br />Housed in a spacious home dating from the 1940s, the University Club of Phoenix offers breakfast and lunch service in a comfortable, gracious atmosphere. Choose from a varied menu of salads, sandwiches and entrees as well as daily seafood specials. The menu changes every quarter, offering new selections among old favorites. <br /> “I try to keep a menu with a lot of variety,” says Jan Haase, University Club of Phoenix general manager. Breakfast hours are from 7 to 9 a.m. and lunch is served from 11:30 to 2 p.m. Monday to Friday. <br />University Club of Phoenix is a favorite choice for special events, especially outdoor weddings where up to 200 people may be accommodated outside. Indoor spaces are perfect for cocktail parties, anniversary parties or other special occasions. <br />“It’s a very quaint atmosphere,” Haase says. The home features wooden and parquet floors as well as natural lighting streaming in from many windows throughout the building. Rooms throughout the club seat groups ranging from 10 to 80 people. <br />Special events at the club include Easter and Mother’s Day brunches. A wild game dinner may include fare such as rattlesnake, kangaroo, elk and venison. The club’s Madrigal Dinner during the holidays features Santa and Mrs. Claus with gifts for children. <br />Members who come to the club love the atmosphere and the welcoming staff, many of whom have been with the club for years. <br />“They (the staff) are very accommodating,” Haase says. “It’s just a nice, comfortable feeling.” <br />Chef Carlos Hidalgo has been whipping up specialties at University Club for the past 25 years. <br />“We (also) have our own pastry chef,” Haase says. Birthday and wedding cakes are among Carmen Solorzano’s specialties. <br />Members of the Tempe University Club can contact the University Club of Phoenix (39 E. Monte Vista Road) at (602) 254-5408 to make reservations. Dress is business casual. <br />For additional information, visit www.universityclubphoenix.com.</p&gt;