I enjoyed by first Nello’s pizza about 20 years ago and have been a fan ever since. Now we have one in the central Phoenix area… life is the region is just keeps getting better.
The Parlor is the latest offering from the Mei family with Dan's son, Aric, teaming up with noted Valley chef Jared Porter to create an inspired version of Nello’s.
The moment you drive up to Parlor you sense it’s not your typical pizza joint… how many mid-century modern pizza parlors do you know?
Aric must have had some fun designing/creating this place. The building is a blend of bare brick, a classic 50’s deco wall, recycled wood and fun remnants of the beauty salon that formerly called this place home.
I had a chance to sit down and chat with Monica Castillo, Parlor’s manager. She is a proud member of the staff here. Monica took me through the menu and offered fun tidbits of information.
- The pizza dough uses the original Nello’s recipe and all breads, pastas and such are made on site.
- Aric’s grandfather’s original sausage recipe was used to create their unique sausage and is artfully reproduced by the good people at Schreiner’s Sausage on 7th Street.
- McClendon Farms, considered by many the top organic grower in our region, supplies produce and other tasty goods to the Parlor… they're the same grower that supplies Pizzeria Bianco and Tarbell’s. I bet chef Porter had something to do with that bit of luck since it’s not easy to get on McClendon’s customer list.
- Several other locally-owned suppliers offer goods to the Parlor including Queen Creek Olives and Four Peaks Brewery.
I tried their signature salad, Parlor Insalata, for lunch. It was a delightful mix of greens, feta, olives, salami and more. Best of all it wasn’t over dressed and the clean flavor of the organic ingredients shined.
A variety of build-your-own and signature pizzas, pasta, appetizers and salads offer patrons many choices.
I look forward to taking a gang for dinner to try more of the menu. Prices are quite reasonable, especially when you consider everything is made from scratch with fine ingredients. It looks like a couple could have a great meal, a bit of vino and walk out spending under $40.00.
Parking is in the back and plentiful. Signage is subtle so be ready to pull in to the driveway just west of 20th Street on the north side of Camelback.
The Parlor
1916 E. Camelback Phoenix, AZ
602-248-2480
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Best to you on your next dining experience...
Gene Urban
The Urban Team at Realty Executives
602-234-5777
