Top Local Eateries You Must Try: Best Spots to Dine

Nestled amidst vibrant red-rock buttes and steep canyon walls, Sedona, Arizona, offers more than just stunning landscapes. This charismatic city is a veritable culinary oasis, boasting an array of eateries that satiate every palate.

From southwestern flavors and authentic Mexican cuisine to bold new fusions and traditional American fare, Sedona has it all. Each serving mouthwatering dishes that are sure to leave you craving for more.

Sedona’s Diverse Cuisine Landscape

What sets Sedona apart is its ability to blend the old and the new in its food scene. Here, timeless southwestern flavors meet innovative culinary trends, creating a gastronomic landscape as diverse and colorful as Sedona’s picturesque views.

You’ll find eateries here run by passionate chefs who pour their love for food into every dish they serve.

They take pride in offering meals that delight the taste buds and warm the soul, with recipes that have endured the test of time and some that dare to venture off the beaten path.

This fusion of traditional and contemporary, combined with an embracing of international influences, makes Sedona a true food lover’s paradise.

Best Places to Eat in Sedona

Hideaway House: Rustic Italian in the Heart of Arizona

Offering a slice of Italy in the heart of Sedona, Hideaway House serves up rustic Italian cuisine in a cozy and inviting setting. The restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere, complete with stunning views and a lovely outdoor patio, makes it a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Italian Comfort Food: Hideaway House’s menu is filled with hearty and flavorful Italian dishes, each one a testament to the comforting and soulful qualities of Italian cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, pizza, or a classic Italian entrée, you’re in for a treat.

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Hideaway Highlights: The Four Cheese Sacchetti—little pasta “purses” filled with cheese and served with a creamy garlic sauce—is a standout.

Pizza lovers will appreciate the Hideaway Special Pizza, topped with sausage, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and black olives. Don’t forget to try the Tiramisu for dessert, a perfect end to any Italian meal.

Cowboy Club Grille: A Slice of the Old West

Step into the world of cowboys and pioneers at the Cowboy Club Grille, a Sedona institution that has preserved the spirit of the Old West through its hearty dishes and charming ambience.

Whether you’re a seasoned local or an adventurous tourist, you’re sure to appreciate the authentic flavors and warm hospitality this place offers.

A Nod to Tradition: Cowboy Club Grille is known for its unique menu, featuring Southwestern delicacies like rattlesnake bites and buffalo skewers.

True to its heritage, the restaurant specializes in high desert cuisine, incorporating indigenous ingredients and cooking methods that have been used in the region for centuries.

Recommended Dishes: When dining at Cowboy Club Grille, don’t miss out on their signature Cactus Fries accompanied with Prickly Pear sauce, a dish that beautifully showcases the local flora’s flavors.

For the main course, try the Grilled Elk Medallions or Buffalo Ribeye for a true taste of the Wild West.

Cap off your meal with a piece of their homemade Apple Pie, an all-American classic that will make you feel right at home in this charming cowboy setting.

Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill: A Taste of South America

Sedona’s culinary scene takes a delightful detour south of the border with Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill. Here, Latin American cuisine takes center stage, bringing a wealth of flavors, colors, and textures to your plate.

Set against the backdrop of Sedona’s stunning landscapes, Mariposa offers a dining experience that’s both exciting and deeply satisfying.

A Dance of Flavors: Chef Lisa Dahl masterfully weaves together a menu of Latin-inspired dishes that are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the palate.

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With a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and expertly balanced flavors, Mariposa serves up meals that are a true homage to South American culinary traditions.

Signature Dishes: When dining at Mariposa, the Pollo Asado, a marinated grilled chicken served with Peruvian purple potato and salsa verde, is a standout.

Another must-try is the Mariposa Picanha, a Brazilian-style top sirloin served with chimichurri. For seafood lovers, the Seared Sea Scallops served with roasted corn emulsion and aji panca oil are an absolute delight.

Coffee Pot Restaurant: Sedona’s Breakfast Staple

Named after the famous rock formation that towers over Sedona, Coffee Pot Restaurant has been serving up hearty breakfasts and homey American fare for decades. Known for its generous portions, cozy atmosphere, and friendly service, it’s no wonder locals and tourists alike consider it a staple.

Must-Try Breakfast Items: The Coffee Pot Restaurant boasts a staggering 101 omelets on their menu. Don’t miss out on the Cowboy Omelet with spicy sausage and green chilies, or the Garden Omelet for veggie lovers.

The restaurant’s namesake, the Coffee Pot Biscuits and Gravy, is a hearty and satisfying dish that you’ll want to try at least once. And of course, no breakfast here is complete without a steaming pot of their robust coffee.

The Sundowner: Sedona’s Sunset Dining Spot

There’s nothing quite like dining with a view, and The Sundowner offers just that, with its prime location offering panoramic views of Sedona’s magnificent sunset skies.

Known for its inviting atmosphere and exquisite menu, The Sundowner truly lives up to its name.

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A Scenic Dining Experience: At The Sundowner, you get more than just a meal – you get a whole sensory experience.

With the sun setting in the backdrop, the warm colors of the sky mirroring Sedona’s red rocks, and a menu that keeps you coming back for more, it’s the perfect setting for a memorable meal.

Top Menu Picks: Make sure to try their Grilled Salmon served with lemon butter sauce and seasonal vegetables.

The Sedona Sunset Burger, made with juicy Angus beef and topped with all the fixings, is another crowd favorite. For dessert, the Red Rock Velvet Cake is a delectable choice that you’ll want to save room for.

SaltRock Kitchen: Where Modern Meets Southwest

At SaltRock Kitchen, you’ll find an innovative menu that creatively blends Southwestern flavors with modern American cuisine. Set within the Amara Resort and Spa, SaltRock offers an upscale dining experience with breathtaking views of Sedona’s famed red rocks.

A New Take on Traditional: Under the guidance of Chef Massimo De Francesca, SaltRock Kitchen pays homage to Southwestern culinary traditions while introducing innovative and modern elements that make each dish unique and exciting.

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Dishes Not to Miss: The Southwest Paella, a creative take on the Spanish classic featuring local ingredients, is a must-try.

If you’re looking for something on the lighter side, the Kale & Apple Salad with its Southwestern vinaigrette won’t disappoint. Pair your meal with one of their handcrafted cocktails, like the refreshing Prickly Pear Margarita.

Creekside American Bistro: Dining by Oak Creek

Located on the banks of beautiful Oak Creek, Creekside American Bistro offers a relaxed dining experience with scenic views. The restaurant serves a range of dishes, from classic American favorites to international fare, all crafted with a dedication to fresh, quality ingredients.

A Scenic Treat: With stunning views of the red rocks and the soothing sounds of Oak Creek in the background, dining at Creekside is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the food. The outdoor patio is particularly popular, allowing diners to fully enjoy the natural beauty of Sedona.

Recommended Bistro Delights: The Creekside Prime Rib is a house favorite, slow-roasted and served with rich au jus. Seafood lovers should try the Pan Seared Sea Scallops served with roasted corn puree and bacon jam.

For breakfast, the Huevos Rancheros with homemade green chili is a local favorite. Pair your meal with a selection from their extensive wine list for a truly unforgettable dining experience.

Tamaliza: The Best Tamales in Town

For a truly authentic taste of Mexico in Sedona, you can’t go wrong with Tamaliza. Specializing in homemade tamales, this family-owned eatery is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering an authentic and intimate dining experience that leaves you feeling like you’ve been welcomed into a Mexican home.

Authentic Mexican Delicacy: Tamaliza’s mission is to share the beauty of traditional Mexican cuisine, and they do so spectacularly with their tamales. Handmade from scratch daily, their tamales are a labor of love that speaks to the heart of Mexican comfort food.

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Popular Choices: Try the Green Chile and Cheese Tamale for a spicy kick or the Sweet Pineapple and Coconut Tamale for a unique sweet-savory experience.

The Vegan Tamale filled with vegetables and served with salsa verde is another crowd-pleaser, offering a lighter but equally delicious option.

Tortas De Fuego: Mexican Street Food Delight

If you’re seeking the vibrant flavors of Mexican street food in Sedona, look no further than Tortas De Fuego. This family-run joint, known for its delicious tortas (Mexican sandwiches), is a slice of Mexico’s bustling street food scene right in the heart of Arizona.

A Flavorful Journey: At Tortas De Fuego, you’ll find hearty Mexican dishes crafted with fresh ingredients and plenty of love.

Their menu is teeming with traditional dishes, each one more inviting than the last, guaranteeing a delightful gastronomic journey through the streets of Mexico.

Top Tortas to Try: The Torta Ahogada, a Guadalajara-style sandwich drowned in a flavorful sauce, is a must-try for those who like it spicy.

For meat lovers, the Torta De Carne Asada is a popular choice, filled with grilled steak and garnished with fresh avocado, lettuce, and tomato. And don’t forget to round off your meal with some refreshing Horchata, a sweet, milky drink made from rice.

Dellepiane Sedona: A Burger Lover’s Paradise

For burger enthusiasts, Dellepiane Sedona is a must-visit. Inspired by the popular Argentine burger joint, Dellepiane offers a selection of gourmet burgers, each one carefully crafted and packed with flavor. This place proves that burgers can be much more than just fast food—they can be an art form.

Gourmet Burgers Done Right: Dellepiane Sedona’s menu boasts an impressive array of burgers, each one as tempting as the last. Whether you prefer a classic burger or something a little more adventurous, you’re sure to find a burger here that hits the spot.

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Standout Burger Choices: The Dellepiane Burger, featuring a juicy patty topped with ham, cheese, egg, and a special house sauce, is a crowd-pleaser.

Another must-try is the Blue Cheese Bacon Burger, a delicious medley of flavors that’s hard to resist. Pair your burger with some crispy Papas Bravas or a side of their delicious Homemade Coleslaw for the perfect meal.

The Hudson: Elevated American Cuisine

Serving up creative American fare with an upscale twist, The Hudson is a welcome addition to Sedona’s dynamic dining scene.

The restaurant’s casual yet stylish atmosphere, coupled with its commitment to quality ingredients and flavorful dishes, makes it a hit among both locals and visitors.

A Contemporary Twist: At The Hudson, traditional American dishes are reimagined with a modern and sophisticated touch. Their innovative menu reflects the diverse flavors of America, offering a dining experience that’s both familiar and excitingly different.

Hudson’s Favorites: The Hudson Burger topped with smoked bacon and cheddar is a standout, as is the Pork Osso Bucco slow-cooked to perfection.

If you’re a seafood lover, the Baked Lobster Mac and Cheese is a decadent dish you won’t want to miss. For dessert, their Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée is a sweet ending to any meal.

Outlaw Grille: A Tribute to Sedona’s Pioneers

With its rustic charm and hearty meals, Outlaw Grille pays tribute to the pioneering spirit that defines Sedona. The restaurant specializes in classic American fare, serving up dishes that are satisfying in their simplicity and authenticity.

Homage to the Old West: Outlaw Grille creates a dining atmosphere reminiscent of the old frontier, complete with wooden décor and cowboy-inspired dishes. This unique ambiance, coupled with their friendly service, makes for a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience.

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Pioneer Picks: Try the Outlaw Burger, topped with BBQ pulled pork and cheddar, or the Arizona Rancher Steak, grilled to perfection and served with cowboy beans. Round off your meal with the Bread Pudding, a delightful nod to a classic frontier dessert.

Elote Café: A Cornucopia of Mexican Flavors

Named after a popular Mexican street food, Elote Café serves up a tantalizing array of dishes inspired by the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Mexico. This award-winning restaurant is a haven for foodies, offering an immersive dining experience that captures the essence of Mexican cuisine.

A Fiesta of Flavors: At Elote Café, Chef Jeff Smedstad masterfully blends traditional Mexican ingredients with modern culinary techniques, resulting in dishes that are both authentic and innovative. The vibrant atmosphere and warm service further enhance the dining experience, making every visit a delight.

Mexican Favorites: The Elote (fire-roasted corn with spicy mayo, lime, and cotija cheese) is a must-try starter. For the main course, the Lamb Adobo—braised lamb shank with ancho chile and chocolate sauce—comes highly recommended.

The Empanadas de Elote, corn cakes filled with fresh cheese and tomatillo sauce, are another crowd favorite.

Sound Bites Grill: Eat to the Beat

Sound Bites Grill combines two of life’s greatest pleasures—good food and great music. Offering live music alongside an enticing menu of American classics, this eatery is a beloved hotspot for locals and tourists alike.

Music to Your Ears—and Your Palate: The lively atmosphere at Sound Bites Grill is as much a part of the dining experience as the food. The restaurant hosts a variety of musicians, from local talents to touring bands, providing a soundtrack to your meal that’s sure to make it all the more enjoyable.

Hits from the Grill: The Lobster Ravioli in a rich creamy sauce is a hit among patrons. The BBQ Ribs—slow-cooked and slathered in tangy barbecue sauce—are another standout. For a sweet encore, the Chocolate Sin Cake is sure to leave you swooning.

Conclusion

From the rustic charm of the Cowboy Club Grille to the Latin flair of Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill, the diverse food scene in Sedona, Arizona is a food lover’s paradise.

Whether you’re after a casual burger at Dellepiane Sedona, an upscale meal at SaltRock Kitchen, or authentic Mexican food at Elote Café, you’ll find an array of enticing dining options that promise to delight your palate.

No matter where you choose to eat, one thing’s for sure—Sedona’s vibrant culinary landscape is a testament to the city’s unique blend of cultures, flavors, and history.