The Inside Spin on the Hyatt Regency Phoenix, and Its Revolutionary Restaurant
Last month, Hyatt Regency Phoenix and its rotating rooftop restaurant, The Compass, celebrated its golden anniversary.
“For 50 years, Hyatt Regency Phoenix has embodied the spirit of purpose that defines our brand, including thoughtful care, authentic hospitality, and unique spaces that bring people together,” says General Manager Eric Fink. “Our history is filled with remarkable guests, unforgettable celebrations, and a community we feel privileged to serve every day.”
The festivities took place in the hotel’s restaurant, The Compass, which, as might be expected after five decades in the hospitality industry, has evolved since it opened in 1976.
“Before The Compass was a restaurant, it was a lounge, initially designed to be a copy of the Playboy Bunny Club idea,” says Jerry Herschede, who has been a server there for 50 years. “The serving staff at the time was exclusively female. Hyatt brought an actual Bunny to do the first training.” Cocktails were served in souvenir hurricane glasses priced at $1, and guests used a dedicated express elevator to reach the lounge.
The Compass evolved to attract midday businessmen looking for a bite to eat. “At lunch, it was a staple to order a ‘Martini foot,’ which served two men two Martinis each,” Herschede says. “All garnishes were served on the side, with servers pouring and garnishing the Martinis tableside.”
Throughout her long career, Herschede has experienced memorable events at The Compass, including the Formula One United States Grand Prix, held from 1989 to 1991. “The race going through the downtown streets was so exciting, from this high vantage point,” she says. “The Compass was packed with fans; everyone was drinking, smoking [then allowed in restaurants], and having a great time.”
Clint Eastwood was a favorite among Herschede’s guests, stopping by while filming The Gauntlet in Downtown Phoenix in 1977. “He came up wearing sunglasses, trying to be discreet, but you could tell it was him by his walk,” she says. “All the servers were fighting over who’d get to be his waiter. Per Hyatt policy, we weren't allowed to request autographs, but I’m left with the fond memory that he was delightful!”
Another unforgettable guest dined at the Compass on her birthday for 20 consecutive years until she turned 100. “Mary sat next to the window and was blind, which I did not know at first,” Herschede says. “She would look out the window, and her companion, Henry, would tell her about the view and read off the markers they were passing.”
In honor of its 50th anniversary, Hyatt Regency Phoenix is featuring two specialty packages. The “Signature Stay” experience is offered for the anniversary year and features early check-in and check-out flexibility, breakfast for registered guests, and free self-parking. A limited-time “Culinary Delight” package is also offered at The Compass, featuring upscale dining with enhanced amenities, including a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine.
Herschede has watched the view from The Compass change from when the only skyscraper was the Valley Bank Center to today’s impressive downtown skyline. “After 50 years, I still cannot get enough of the view and those awe-inspiring sunsets,” she says.
Douglas C. Towne is the editor of Arizona Contractor & Community magazine, www.arizcc.com