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As the largest state capital in the United States, Phoenix has always been one of the Untied States' hottest tourist destinations. Indeed, in the Navajo language, Phoenix is known as 'Hoodzo' - perhaps best translated in a modern context as 'this place is hot!' One of Phoenix's most exciting landmarks is the fantastic Biltmore Fashion Park, serving the nation's favourite sport - shopping.

Located at the confluence of Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, the Biltmore Fashion Park can be found in one of Arizona's best locations. But as well as boasting more than seventy retail outlets, including designer labels like Gucci, Ralph Lauren, Cartier and Escada, the Biltmore Fashion Park is also home to a variety of interesting restaurants and cafes. Whichever type of cuisine you're craving during your shopping trip you're likely to find it: from upmarket to homely eateries, North American seafood to European fare.

Sam's Cafe, for example, aims to serve food and drink influenced by the American Southwest; so if you're visiting Arizona and are looking for an authentic culinary experience, Sam's Cafe may be the way to go. Visit Sam's to enjoy its unique hand-shaken Margaritas or its chef's special dishes. Steamers Genuine Seafood also endeavours to provide shoppers and diners with a stylish yet comfortable atmosphere in which to enjoy the day's fresh catch. Whether you're looking for a bowl of hearty New York-style clam chowder or a light snack from its oyster bar, enjoy a meal at Steamers as you watch the sun set on the Camelback Mountain in the distance.

If you're craving a pizza during your shopping trip at the Biltmore Fashion Park, then opt for the California Pizza Kitchen. Here, you'll find pizza toppings from around the world, from the Far East to the Caribbean, so you can enjoy a pizza with a difference. Alternatively, Bamboo Club will provide you with an upscale yet casual Asian bistro; its innovative approach to Asian cookery combines influences from across the Far East, including, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. Of course, if you're simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, then you should visit The Cheesecake Factory to find the best selection of cheesecakes in the area.

Clearly, Biltmore Fashion Park offers much more than just shopping. There are many hotels located nearby, including the world-renowned Waldorf Astoria Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa, the only existing hotel in the world with a Frank Lloyd Wright-influenced design. So if you're looking to spend more than a day browsing through Biltmore Fashion Park's numerous shops, restaurants and cafes, you will not find yourself stuck for accommodation in the vicinity.

Andrew Regan began his career in Advertising, Film and Television and worked for 20 years at the HTV Studios.