Sam Fox never disappoints. It is noteworthy in the hospitality industry when a food and beverage expert also creates the concept and leads the design of an entire hotel. But Sam Fox is an innovator and that’s exactly what he did with The Global Ambassador, a 141-room hotel that opened in December in Phoenix’s highly coveted Arcadia neighborhood.
Fox, a nine-time James Beard Award nominee for Restaurateur of the Year, has been a culinary trendsetter and used all his ingenuity to create the hotel’s five restaurants that incorporate and fuse several international cuisines.
But at the the heart of The Global Ambassador’s culinary collection is Le Âme, which translates to “The Soul.” That is appropriate because the Parisian steakhouse is nestled in the soul of The Global Ambassador and pays homage to traditional French fare through the lens of an American steakhouse. Infused with romantic whimsy, you’ll discover handwritten daily specials and a familiar warmth that transports you to the heart and soul of France.
At Le Âme, guests can expect classic French dishes such as steak frites ($39), loup de mer ($44) and french onion soup ($16), along with innovative menu items like wagyu bolognese ($32) and truffle roasted chicken. ($38).
Some other highlights that were experienced during a recent visit include:
Duck spring rolls ($19), with carrots, mushrooms, ginger, sesame and plum sauce that work together to create one of the most amazing starters you will ever taste.
Crab cake ($28) with a French pickle dressing that will make you think about making this incredible appetizer your main course during your next visit (which will surely come after you experience the deliciousness that defines every menu item at Le Âme.)
The crispy brussel sprout ($14) with pine nuts, pecorino breadcrumbs and maple-mustard dressing will leave you wanting more … and more.
The seven-ounce filet mignon ($54) and 20-ounce ribeye ($87) are perfectly prepared and are as good as any you will find at high-end specialty steakhouses.
The king crab bucatini ($68) with lemon, garlic, parsley and pecorino breadcrumbs is one of the most innovative and amazing dishes on the menu and cannot be missed.
And while it might sound basic, do not let yourself leave Le Âme without indulging in a Paris baguette ($8) with salted butter and olive oil. It’s a heavenly complement to an out-of-this-world dining experience.
With live music emanating from the lively lobby bar and a spirited happy hour crowd from the nearby commercial real estate office filling the ground floor, Le Âme is the place to be and be seen in Phoenix right now. The Global Ambassador offers people watching and networking opportunities at their highest level.
Le Âme was one of the most eagerly anticipated new restaurants to enter the Phoenix market in years. And not only does Le Âme live up to the hype, the ambience, energy and deliciousness of the food exceeds it.
