Food & Drink
Sedona’s Unique Culinary Offerings
Sedona’s culinary scene is a melting pot of influences, where Southwestern flavors mingle with global cuisines, and fresh, local ingredients take center stage. This blend of cultural influences is evident in the diversity of dining options, from Mexican and Native American fare to contemporary American and international cuisines. The community’s food and drink culture is enriched by its history and the abundance of indigenous ingredients that local chefs creatively incorporate into their menus.
Historical and Cultural Influences
Sedona’s culinary evolution is deeply intertwined with its history and the migrations of various peoples who have settled in the region. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, whose traditional foods and cooking methods still influence the local cuisine today. The arrival of Spanish settlers and later waves of Mexican immigrants introduced new ingredients and flavors, such as chilies, corn, and beans, which are now staples in Sedona’s culinary repertoire.
The modern culinary scene in Sedona has evolved to include a wide range of global influences, reflecting the town’s appeal as a tourist destination and a haven for artists, spiritual seekers, and nature lovers from around the world. This diversity is celebrated in the eclectic array of restaurants and eateries that offer everything from rustic Southwestern dishes to refined international fare.
Local Delicacies
Sedona’s traditional dishes often feature indigenous ingredients like prickly pear, mesquite, and native beans. Popular street foods include tamales, tacos, and Navajo fry bread, while signature beverages range from prickly pear margaritas to locally brewed craft beers and Arizona wines.
Traditional Dishes
- Navajo Tacos: A delicious blend of fry bread topped with seasoned ground beef, beans, lettuce, cheese, and tomatoes.
- Posole: A hearty stew made with hominy, pork, and red or green chilies, often garnished with fresh cilantro, lime, and radishes.
- Prickly Pear Jelly: A sweet and tangy spread made from the fruit of the prickly pear cactus, commonly enjoyed on toast or as a dessert topping.
Popular Street Food
- Tamales: Corn dough stuffed with various fillings like pork, chicken, or cheese, wrapped in corn husks and steamed.
- Tacos: Soft or crispy tortillas filled with a variety of ingredients such as carne asada, carnitas, or grilled vegetables.
- Fry Bread: A deep-fried dough that can be topped with savory or sweet ingredients, reflecting Native American culinary traditions.
Signature Beverages
- Prickly Pear Margarita: A refreshing cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and prickly pear syrup.
- Arizona Craft Beer: Locally brewed beers that often feature unique regional ingredients like mesquite or juniper.
- Sedona Wines: Wines produced in the Verde Valley, known for their distinctive flavors and excellent quality.
Top Dining Destinations in Sedona
Elote Café
Elote Café is a beloved Sedona restaurant known for its innovative take on Mexican cuisine, blending traditional flavors with contemporary twists.
Address
771 State Route 179, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Elote: Fire-roasted corn with spicy mayo, lime, and cotija cheese.
- Lamb Adobo: Slow-cooked lamb in a rich adobo sauce.
- Margaritas: A variety of flavored margaritas, including the signature Elote Margarita.
Directions
From the city center, head south on AZ-179 for approximately 1 mile. The restaurant is located near the Arabella Hotel.
Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill
Mariposa offers stunning views and an exquisite menu inspired by Latin American flavors.
Address
700 AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Grilled Argentinean Skirt Steak: Served with chimichurri and roasted vegetables.
- Empanadas: Flaky pastries filled with a variety of savory ingredients.
- House-Made Sangria: A refreshing blend of wine, fruit, and brandy.
Directions
From the city center, head west on AZ-89A for approximately 2 miles. The restaurant is on the right.
Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante Italiano
Dahl & Di Luca is a fine dining Italian restaurant offering classic and contemporary dishes in an elegant setting.
Address
2321 AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Osso Buco: Braised veal shank with saffron risotto.
- Tiramisu: Traditional Italian dessert made with mascarpone cheese and espresso-soaked ladyfingers.
- Italian Wine Selection: An extensive list of Italian wines to complement your meal.
Directions
From the city center, head west on AZ-89A for approximately 3 miles. The restaurant is on the left.
The Hudson
The Hudson is a modern American bistro known for its relaxed atmosphere and creative menu.
Address
671 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Short Rib: Braised short rib with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
- Seared Ahi Tuna: Served with wasabi mashed potatoes and ponzu sauce.
- Craft Cocktails: A variety of expertly mixed drinks using fresh ingredients.
Directions
From the city center, head south on AZ-179 for about 1.5 miles. The restaurant is located in Hillside Sedona.
Creekside American Bistro
Creekside American Bistro offers casual dining with stunning views of Oak Creek and the red rocks.
Address
251 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Creekside Burger: A juicy burger with all the fixings, served with truffle fries.
- Salmon: Fresh salmon served with seasonal vegetables and a citrus glaze.
- Creekside Cocktails: A range of unique cocktails perfect for any time of day.
Directions
From the city center, head south on AZ-179 for half a mile. The restaurant is on the left, just before the bridge over Oak Creek.
Indian Gardens Café & Market
Indian Gardens Café & Market is a charming spot for breakfast and lunch, offering fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Address
3951 N State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Breakfast Burrito: Filled with eggs, cheese, and your choice of meats or veggies.
- Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens, veggies, and house-made dressing.
- Local Coffee and Pastries: Freshly brewed coffee and a selection of house-made pastries.
Directions
From the city center, head north on AZ-89A for approximately 4 miles. The café is on the right.
Pisa Lisa
Pisa Lisa offers a casual dining experience with gourmet pizzas, salads, and gelato.
Address
2245 AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Margherita Pizza: Classic pizza with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
- Truffle Fries: Crispy fries tossed in truffle oil and Parmesan cheese.
- House-Made Gelato: A variety of flavors made in-house.
Directions
From the city center, head west on AZ-89A for approximately 2.5 miles. The restaurant is on the left.
Cowboy Club Grille & Spirits
Cowboy Club offers a Western-themed dining experience with a menu featuring Southwestern and American classics.
Address
241 N State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Buffalo Burger: A hearty burger made with buffalo meat, served with sweet potato fries.
- Cactus Fries: Lightly battered and fried cactus strips served with prickly pear sauce.
- Craft Cocktails and Local Brews: A selection of drinks that pair perfectly with the menu.
Directions
From the city center, head north on AZ-89A. The restaurant is located in Uptown Sedona, on the left.
Cress on Oak Creek
Cress on Oak Creek offers fine dining with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, set against the beautiful backdrop of Oak Creek.
Address
301 L’Auberge Ln, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Tasting Menu: A multi-course experience featuring the chef’s seasonal selections.
- Local Trout: Freshly caught trout served with farm-to-table vegetables.
- Wine Pairings: Expertly selected wines to complement each course.
Directions
From the city center, head south on AZ-179 and turn left onto L’Auberge Ln.
Gerardo's Italian Kitchen
Gerardo’s Italian Kitchen offers authentic Italian dishes in a cozy, family-friendly setting.
Address
2675 W State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Wood-Fired Pizza: Traditional Neapolitan-style pizza with a variety of toppings.
- Pasta Carbonara: A classic pasta dish with pancetta, eggs, and Parmesan cheese.
- Tiramisu: Traditional Italian dessert made in-house.
Directions
From the city center, head west on AZ-89A for approximately 3.5 miles. The restaurant is on the left.
Sedona Pizza Company
Sedona Pizza Company offers a variety of pizzas, salads, and sandwiches, all made with fresh ingredients.
Address
320 N State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Sedona Pizza: A signature pizza with local ingredients and house-made dough.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction.
- Craft Beer Selection: A rotating selection of local and regional craft beers.
Directions
From the city center, head north on AZ-89A. The restaurant is located in Uptown Sedona, on the left.
Chocolatree Organic Oasis
Chocolatree Organic Oasis offers a menu of organic, vegan, and gluten-free dishes in a serene garden setting.
Address
1595 W State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Vegan Enchiladas: Made with organic ingredients and topped with cashew cheese.
- Raw Chocolate: House-made chocolate using organic cacao.
- Fresh Juices and Smoothies: A variety of healthy beverages made to order.
Directions
From the city center, head west on AZ-89A for approximately 1.5 miles. The restaurant is on the right.
The Golden Goose American Grill
The Golden Goose American Grill offers a casual dining experience with a menu of American and Southwestern dishes.
Address
2545 W State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Ribeye Steak: Grilled to perfection and served with garlic mashed potatoes.
- Southwestern Chicken Salad: Fresh greens topped with grilled chicken, black beans, corn, and avocado.
- Signature Cocktails: A variety of house-made cocktails.
Directions
From the city center, head west on AZ-89A for approximately 3 miles. The restaurant is on the left.
Hideaway House
Hideaway House offers Italian-inspired comfort food with stunning views of the red rocks.
Address
231 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Lasagna: A hearty dish made with layers of pasta, cheese, and house-made marinara sauce.
- Meatball Sandwich: House-made meatballs served on a toasted bun with marinara and mozzarella.
- House-Made Sangria: A refreshing blend of wine, fruit, and brandy.
Directions
From the city center, head south on AZ-179 for half a mile. The restaurant is on the right.
René at Tlaquepaque
René at Tlaquepaque offers fine dining with a menu of French-inspired dishes and a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
Address
336 State Route 179, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Duck à l’Orange: Classic French dish with a citrus glaze.
- Escargot: Traditional French appetizer served with garlic butter.
- Wine Pairings: An extensive selection of wines to complement your meal.
Directions
From the city center, head south on AZ-179 for approximately 1 mile. The restaurant is located in Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village.
Tamaliza
Tamaliza offers authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh, organic ingredients.
Address
1155 W State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Tamales: Made with organic masa and a variety of fillings, including pork, chicken, and vegetarian options.
- Pozole: Traditional Mexican soup made with hominy and pork.
- Agua Fresca: Refreshing fruit drinks made daily.
Directions
From the city center, head west on AZ-89A for approximately 1 mile. The restaurant is on the left.
Casa Sedona Restaurant
Casa Sedona Restaurant offers a tranquil dining experience with a menu of New American cuisine.
Address
55 Hozoni Dr, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Lobster Mac & Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese with chunks of lobster.
- Filet Mignon: Tender steak served with roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
- Craft Cocktails: A variety of house-made cocktails.
Directions
From the city center, head west on AZ-89A and turn left onto Hozoni Dr.
Picazzo's Healthy Italian Kitchen
Picazzo’s Healthy Italian Kitchen offers a menu of organic, gluten-free, and vegan Italian dishes.
Address
1855 W State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Gluten-Free Pizza: Made with organic ingredients and a variety of toppings.
- Vegan Lasagna: Layers of pasta, vegetables, and vegan cheese.
- Organic Salads: Fresh greens and vegetables with house-made dressings.
Directions
From the city center, head west on AZ-89A for approximately 1.5 miles. The restaurant is on the right.
Mesa Grill Sedona
Mesa Grill Sedona offers a menu of Southwestern and American dishes with panoramic views of the Sedona Airport Mesa.
Address
1185 Airport Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Southwestern Benedict: Poached eggs with chorizo, avocado, and hollandaise sauce on an English muffin.
- Mesa Burger: A juicy burger with green chilies, cheddar cheese, and chipotle mayo.
- Margaritas: A variety of flavored margaritas.
Directions
From the city center, head south on AZ-89A and turn right onto Airport Rd.
Javelina Cantina
Javelina Cantina offers a festive atmosphere with a menu of Mexican and Southwestern dishes.
Address
671 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Carne Asada: Grilled steak served with rice, beans, and tortillas.
- Chiles Rellenos: Poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and topped with ranchero sauce.
- Margaritas: A variety of flavored margaritas.
Directions
From the city center, head south on AZ-179 for about 1.5 miles. The restaurant is located in Hillside Sedona.
Wildflower Bread Company
Wildflower Bread Company offers a menu of fresh, homemade bread, sandwiches, salads, and soups.
Address
101 N State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Wildflower Salad: A mix of fresh greens, vegetables, and house-made dressing.
- Turkey Cranberry Sandwich: Roasted turkey with cranberry sauce on homemade bread.
- Fresh Pastries: A variety of pastries made in-house.
Directions
From the city center, head north on AZ-89A. The restaurant is located in Uptown Sedona, on the left.
The Secret Garden Café
The Secret Garden Café offers a menu of fresh, organic dishes in a charming garden setting.
Address
336 State Route 179, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Garden Omelet: Made with fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Quinoa Salad: A healthy mix of quinoa, vegetables, and house-made dressing.
- Fresh Juices and Smoothies: A variety of healthy beverages made to order.
Directions
From the city center, head south on AZ-179 for approximately 1 mile. The restaurant is located in Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village.
Coffee Pot Restaurant
The Coffee Pot Restaurant is a beloved Sedona institution known for its extensive breakfast menu and casual atmosphere.
Address
2050 W State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Omelets: Over 100 varieties to choose from, each made with fresh ingredients.
- Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes served with a variety of toppings.
- House-Made Pastries: Freshly baked goods available daily.
Directions
From the city center, head west on AZ-89A for approximately 2 miles. The restaurant is on the left.
The ChocolaTree Organic Oasis
The ChocolaTree Organic Oasis offers a menu of organic, vegan, and gluten-free dishes in a serene garden setting.
Address
1595 W State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Specialties
- Vegan Enchiladas: Made with organic ingredients and topped with cashew cheese.
- Raw Chocolate: House-made chocolate using organic cacao.
- Fresh Juices and Smoothies: A variety of healthy beverages made to order.
Directions
From the city center, head west on AZ-89A for approximately 1.5 miles. The restaurant is on the right.
Cooking Classes
Sedona offers a variety of cooking classes where visitors can learn to prepare local dishes using fresh, indigenous ingredients. These classes provide a hands-on experience and an opportunity to meet local chefs.
Food Tours
Join a guided food tour to explore Sedona’s culinary scene. These tours often include stops at top restaurants, local markets, and specialty shops, offering tastings and insights into the region’s food culture.
Market Visits
Visit Sedona’s farmers markets to sample and purchase fresh, local produce, artisanal products, and handmade crafts. Markets are a great way to connect with local producers and learn about the region’s agricultural bounty.
Wine and Beer Tastings
Sedona is home to several wineries and breweries that offer tastings and tours. Sample local wines and craft beers, learn about the production process, and enjoy the scenic vineyard and brewery settings.
Best Times to Visit
- Spring and Fall: Ideal for enjoying outdoor dining and culinary events.
- Summer: Hot temperatures, but excellent for early morning or evening dining experiences.
- Winter: Cooler temperatures, perfect for cozy indoor dining.
Price Ranges
- Casual Dining: $10-$20 per person
- Mid-Range: $20-$50 per person
- Fine Dining: $50 and up per person
Dress Codes
- Casual: Most casual diners and street vendors.
- Smart Casual: Mid-range restaurants and some upscale establishments.
- Formal: Fine dining restaurants.
Reservations
- Recommended: For mid-range and fine dining restaurants, especially during peak seasons.
- Walk-Ins: Often acceptable at casual diners and street vendors.
Dietary Preferences and Restrictions
- Communication: Inform your server of any dietary preferences or restrictions.
- Options: Many restaurants offer vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and other dietary options.
Immersive Culinary Experiences
Sustainable Dining
Sedona is committed to sustainability, with many restaurants supporting local producers and practicing farm-to-table principles. Look for establishments that prioritize organic ingredients, environmentally friendly practices, and ethical sourcing.
Sedona’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich cultural tapestry and natural bounty. From fine dining to casual eateries, each establishment offers a unique taste of what makes this region special. Whether you’re sampling traditional Navajo dishes, enjoying a glass of local wine, or participating in a cooking class, Sedona promises a memorable and delicious adventure.
We invite you to explore Sedona’s culinary delights firsthand, immerse yourself in the local culture, and create lasting memories through food. Bon appétit!
