The 30 Best Restaurants in Arizona: Ultimate Dining Guide
Arizona’s culinary landscape is as diverse and vibrant as its iconic desert scenery. From upscale dining establishments in Phoenix to charming bistros in Tucson and hidden gems in Sedona, the state offers an impressive array of gastronomic experiences that showcase both local traditions and international influences.
These 30 restaurants represent the pinnacle of Arizona’s dining scene, carefully selected for their exceptional food quality, service, ambiance, and innovation.
Each establishment brings something unique to the table, whether it’s inventive Southwestern cuisine, farm-to-table freshness, or authentic cultural flavors that reflect the rich heritage of the region.
Here are the 30 best restaurants in Arizona:
1. Pizzeria Bianco – Phoenix
Pizzeria Bianco stands as a culinary landmark in Phoenix, consistently ranked among the best pizzerias in the United States. Chef Chris Bianco, a James Beard Award winner, opened this establishment in 1988 and has maintained exceptional quality for decades.
The restaurant’s wood-fired pizzas feature a perfect balance of chewy and crisp crust that has become legendary among food enthusiasts. Their signature Margherita pizza showcases simple, high-quality ingredients: house-made mozzarella, fresh basil, and tomato sauce.
Located in Heritage Square in downtown Phoenix, the cozy brick building adds to the authentic Italian dining experience. Wait times can often exceed an hour, particularly during peak dining hours, which speaks to its enduring popularity.
Visitors should note that Pizzeria Bianco sources ingredients locally when possible, reflecting Chef Bianco’s commitment to sustainability and regional flavors.
2. Kai Restaurant – Chandler
Kai Restaurant stands as the only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star restaurant in Arizona. Located at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass, it offers a unique dining experience that celebrates the heritage of the Pima and Maricopa tribes.
Executive Chef Drew Anderson crafts innovative menus that blend indigenous ingredients with classical techniques. The restaurant’s signature dishes include grilled tribal buffalo tenderloin and Arizona-raised lamb, often accompanied by native seeds, roots, and squashes.
The elegant dining room features floor-to-ceiling windows with spectacular views of the Sierra Estrella Mountains. Décor elements throughout the space thoughtfully reflect Native American artistry and cultural significance.
Reservations are recommended well in advance due to Kai’s popularity and limited seating. The restaurant offers both à la carte options and a multicourse tasting menu that guides diners through a culinary journey of Arizona’s indigenous foods.
3. The Mission – Scottsdale
The Mission in Scottsdale stands out as one of Arizona’s premier dining establishments, offering a sophisticated take on modern Latin cuisine. Chef Matt Carter expertly blends traditional recipes with contemporary techniques, creating distinctive and flavorful dishes.
The restaurant’s atmosphere combines rustic elegance with warm, intimate lighting from Himalayan salt walls. Diners frequently praise the tableside guacamole preparation, which adds an interactive element to the experience.
Signature dishes include the pork shoulder tacos and chorizo porchetta, both highlighting the restaurant’s mastery of bold flavors. The Mission also boasts an impressive selection of tequilas and craft cocktails that complement the cuisine.
Located in Old Town Scottsdale, the restaurant attracts both locals and visitors seeking an upscale yet approachable dining experience. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends.
4. FnB Restaurant – Scottsdale
FnB Restaurant has established itself as a culinary gem in Scottsdale, known for its farm-to-table approach and seasonal menus. Chef Charleen Badman, a James Beard Award winner, creates dishes that showcase Arizona’s local produce and artisanal ingredients.
The restaurant’s name stands for “Food and Beverage,” highlighting their equal commitment to exceptional cuisine and outstanding drinks. Their wine program features an impressive selection of Arizona wines, supporting local vineyards.
The menu changes regularly based on what’s fresh and available from nearby farms. Vegetable-focused dishes often take center stage, prepared with innovative techniques that bring out their natural flavors.
The intimate dining space offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere that complements the thoughtfully crafted food. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, as FnB has become a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts exploring Arizona’s dining scene.
5. Mariposa – Sedona
Chef Lisa Dahl is one of the country’s leading female chefs and restaurateurs and has pioneered the culinary scene in Sedona, Arizona, for more than 27 years.
Dahl is the executive chef and owner of six outstanding restaurants in Northern Arizona’s red rock country, where she has earned international acclaim for Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante Italiano, Cucina Rustica, Pisa Lisa Woodfired Pizza (2 locations), Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill, and Butterfly Burger, A Couture Burger Lounge.
Chef Dahl lives by her mantra, “When you cook with love, you feed the soul.” She believes that flavors should never be overworked, food should speak for itself, and only the finest ingredients should be used from the best sources available.
Lisa is in the process of expanding the Butterfly Burger and Pisa Lisa concepts into other markets.
In addition to the restaurant business, her largest project is strictly humanitarian – Project Soup Hope aims to stem national and global hunger in a unique and effective method.
6. Elote Cafe – Sedona
Elote Cafe stands as a culinary landmark in Sedona, showcasing the refined Mexican cuisine of Chef Jeff Smedstad. The restaurant’s signature dish, elote (Mexican street corn), remains a must-order appetizer that perfectly represents the establishment’s commitment to authentic flavors.
The menu features sophisticated interpretations of regional Mexican dishes, with standouts including the lamb adobo and smoked pork cheeks. Each plate demonstrates thoughtful preparation and exceptional ingredient quality.
The restaurant’s atmosphere combines rustic charm with contemporary elegance, offering diners mountain views from its location. Reservations are strongly recommended, as Elote Cafe consistently draws crowds of locals and visitors alike.
The carefully curated tequila and mezcal selection complements the robust flavors of the cuisine. Elote Cafe’s commitment to regional Mexican cooking techniques and seasonal ingredients has cemented its reputation as one of Arizona’s premier dining destinations.
7. Cafe Monarch – Scottsdale
Cafe Monarch stands as a family-owned gem in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. The restaurant offers an intimate fine dining experience with a rotating four-course prix fixe menu that changes weekly, ensuring fresh seasonal ingredients take center stage.
The elegant atmosphere features candlelit tables in a charming courtyard setting, perfect for special occasions and romantic dinners. Impeccable service complements the culinary experience, with knowledgeable staff guiding guests through each course and wine pairing.
Chef Gustavo Lewkowicz crafts dishes that blend European techniques with Southwestern influences. Popular offerings have included the duck confit with cherry reduction and the Chilean sea bass with saffron risotto.
Reservations are essential, often booked several weeks in advance, particularly during peak tourist season. The restaurant maintains a business casual dress code, adding to its sophisticated ambiance.
8. Gertrude’s – Tucson
Gertrude’s has established itself as a culinary gem in Tucson’s vibrant food scene. Located in the historic downtown area, this restaurant offers an intimate dining experience with its rustic décor and warm ambiance.
Chef Maria Sanchez brings her unique vision to the menu, focusing on locally-sourced ingredients that highlight Arizona’s rich agricultural heritage. The restaurant’s signature dish, the Sonoran Desert-inspired prickly pear glazed pork belly, consistently draws praise from diners and food critics alike.
The wine selection at Gertrude’s features an impressive array of Arizona vintages alongside international options. Their seasonal cocktail program showcases the bartenders’ creativity with regional ingredients like mesquite honey and desert herbs.
Reservations are recommended, especially during the weekend dinner service when tables fill quickly. Gertrude’s also offers a popular Sunday brunch that provides a perfect introduction to their culinary philosophy.
9. Durant’s – Phoenix
Durant’s has been a staple of Phoenix dining since 1950, offering a classic steakhouse experience with timeless charm. The restaurant’s signature red velvet décor and leather booths create an atmosphere reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour.
Patrons often enter through the kitchen, a tradition that has become part of Durant’s unique character. The menu focuses on perfectly prepared steaks, fresh seafood, and traditional steakhouse sides that have remained consistent for decades.
The bar is known for strong, well-crafted cocktails and has long been a gathering spot for local politicians and business leaders. Durant’s commitment to service is evident in their attentive staff, many of whom have worked there for years.
The restaurant maintains its reputation for quality and consistency, serving as a living piece of Phoenix history. Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service.
10. Noble Eatery – Phoenix
Noble Eatery stands out in Phoenix’s dining scene with its commitment to artisanal bread and wood-fired cooking techniques. Chef-owner Claudio Urciuoli crafts simple yet flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dishes using locally sourced ingredients.
The menu changes regularly based on seasonal availability, but consistently features exceptional sandwiches on house-baked bread. Their handmade pasta dishes showcase traditional Italian preparation methods with modern Arizona influences.
The space itself is modest and unassuming, creating an intimate dining experience where the food takes center stage. Lunch service draws crowds of locals and visitors seeking their renowned bread and thoughtfully prepared meals.
Noble Eatery’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship has earned it recognition as one of Phoenix’s essential dining destinations. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours, as the restaurant’s small size and popularity often result in wait times.
11. The Stockyard – Scottsdale
The Stockyard in Scottsdale stands as Arizona’s original steakhouse, operating since 1947. This historic establishment has served generations of diners with its time-honored recipes and classic ambiance.
The restaurant specializes in perfectly aged steaks and prime rib, prepared using traditional methods that have remained consistent for decades. Their signature dishes include the Cattleman’s Cut Prime Rib and Wild West Ribeye, both served with classic steakhouse sides.
Beyond beef, The Stockyard offers exceptional seafood options and an impressive wine selection. The dining room features authentic Western decor, with vintage photographs and memorabilia that celebrate Arizona’s ranching heritage.
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist season and weekends. The Stockyard maintains a business casual dress code, adding to its reputation as a destination for special occasions and business dinners.
12. The Breadfruit & Rum Bar – Phoenix
The Breadfruit & Rum Bar stands as a distinctive culinary gem in downtown Phoenix, specializing in modern Jamaican cuisine. Chef Danielle Leoni brings authentic Caribbean flavors to the desert, creating dishes that balance traditional recipes with contemporary techniques.
The restaurant’s signature jerk chicken exemplifies this approach, offering tender meat infused with a house-made spice blend that delivers just the right amount of heat. Their seafood options, including the popular Jamaican rum-glazed salmon, showcase the kitchen’s commitment to sustainable sourcing.
As the name suggests, rum plays a central role in the experience. The bar features over 150 varieties from across the Caribbean, with knowledgeable staff guiding guests through carefully crafted tasting flights.
The intimate space creates a warm atmosphere with its wood accents and tropical touches. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when local diners gather to enjoy this slice of island cuisine in Arizona.
13. Barrio Queen – Phoenix
Barrio Queen has established itself as a Phoenix favorite for authentic Mexican cuisine since opening its doors. The restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere draws diners looking for a genuine taste of Mexico in Arizona.
Their extensive menu showcases traditional dishes prepared with high-quality ingredients and time-honored techniques. The tableside guacamole preparation remains a customer favorite, offering both entertainment and fresh flavors.
Barrio Queen is particularly known for its impressive selection of over 500 tequilas and mezcals. This collection makes it a destination for spirits enthusiasts seeking to explore Mexico’s diverse agave offerings.
The restaurant’s colorful décor celebrates Mexican culture with authentic artwork and festive designs. The space balances casual comfort with a lively energy that enhances the dining experience.
Chef-driven specialties include regional dishes rarely found outside Mexico, giving patrons a culinary tour without leaving Phoenix.
14. Beckett’s Table – Phoenix
Beckett’s Table has become a Phoenix institution since opening in 2010, founded by Chef Justin Beckett. The restaurant specializes in sophisticated comfort food made with seasonal ingredients sourced from local producers.
The warm, inviting space features a large community table made from a fallen tree, creating a gathering spot for diners. Their signature dishes include the short ribs with creamy grits and the fig and pecan pie that has developed a loyal following.
The restaurant offers an impressive wine list focusing on American producers, with many affordable options by the glass. Their happy hour is particularly popular among locals who appreciate the reduced prices on select menu items.
Beckett’s Table maintains a commitment to sustainability through their farm partnerships and waste reduction practices. The restaurant consistently earns recognition for its balance of refined cuisine and welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere.
15. Little Miss BBQ – Phoenix
Little Miss BBQ has established itself as a barbecue destination in Phoenix, drawing long lines of eager patrons since opening. The restaurant specializes in Central Texas-style barbecue, smoked to perfection over Arizona oak and pecan wood.
Their brisket stands out as the crown jewel, featuring a perfect smoke ring and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Weekends bring special treats like beef ribs and pastrami, which regularly sell out due to high demand.
The casual, no-frills atmosphere keeps the focus on the quality of the meat. Sides including jalapeño cheddar grits and mac and cheese complement the smoky main attractions.
While the original location on University Drive built its reputation, the second Sunnyslope location has expanded their reach. Both maintain the same commitment to craft and quality that makes Little Miss BBQ a standout in Arizona’s culinary landscape.
16. Taco Guild – Phoenix
Housed in a historic 1893 church building, Taco Guild offers a unique dining experience that blends architectural character with innovative Mexican cuisine. The restaurant retains many original church elements including stained glass windows and wooden pews, creating a distinctive atmosphere.
Taco Guild specializes in craft tacos made with locally sourced ingredients and unexpected flavor combinations. Their menu features both traditional options and creative interpretations like the Al Pastor with pineapple habanero salsa and the Coffee Braised Beef.
The bar program complements the food with an extensive selection of tequilas and mezcals. Guests can choose from numerous agave spirits or opt for one of their signature margaritas.
Weekend brunch draws crowds with specialties like chilaquiles and breakfast tacos. The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation has made it a standout in Phoenix’s competitive dining scene.
17. 20th Century Cafe – Tucson
20th Century Cafe brings a nostalgic yet contemporary dining experience to downtown Tucson. The restaurant’s art deco interior pays homage to its namesake era while the menu offers modern interpretations of classic American dishes.
Chef Maria Gonzalez sources ingredients from local Arizona farms, ensuring fresh flavors in every dish. Their signature breakfast items, including the green chile eggs benedict and prickly pear pancakes, attract weekend crowds seeking distinctive Southwestern flavors.
The lunch and dinner menus feature innovative sandwiches and southwestern-inspired entrees that change seasonally. Their hatch chile burger and mesquite-grilled trout have become local favorites.
The cafe also serves an impressive selection of craft cocktails with prohibition-era influences. Happy hour specials run Tuesday through Friday, making it a popular spot for after-work gatherings.
Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend brunch when wait times can exceed an hour.
18. Luce – Scottsdale
Luce in Scottsdale offers an elevated Italian dining experience with a modern twist. The restaurant’s menu features handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and seasonally inspired entrées that showcase both traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine.
The sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere makes Luce ideal for both special occasions and casual dinners. Dark wood accents, soft lighting, and thoughtful design elements create an elegant space that complements the refined menu.
Chef Marco Bianco brings extensive experience and passion to each dish, emphasizing quality ingredients and authentic preparation methods. The restaurant sources many ingredients locally while importing specialty items directly from Italy.
Luce’s wine program deserves special mention, featuring an impressive selection of Italian varietals alongside domestic options. The knowledgeable staff provides excellent pairing recommendations to enhance the dining experience.
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season when the restaurant attracts both locals and visitors seeking authentic Italian flavors in Scottsdale.
19. Joyride Taco House – Scottsdale
Joyride Taco House brings vibrant Mexican street food to Scottsdale with its casual, energetic atmosphere. The restaurant opened in 2013 and quickly became a local favorite for its fresh take on tacos and other Mexican classics.
The menu features handmade tortillas filled with creative combinations like the slow-roasted carnitas and grilled fish tacos. Their street corn, served with lime aioli and cotija cheese, stands as a must-try side dish.
The restaurant’s bright, airy space includes colorful decor and an inviting patio perfect for Arizona evenings. Their bar program showcases an impressive selection of tequilas and mezcals alongside fresh-squeezed margaritas.
Joyride maintains consistent quality while keeping prices reasonable, making it accessible for both quick lunches and relaxed dinners. Their attentive service and lively ambiance complement the flavorful food, creating a complete dining experience.
20. House of Tricks – Tempe
House of Tricks stands as a beloved institution in Tempe, offering a unique dining experience inside a renovated 1920s cottage. The restaurant has been serving exceptional cuisine since 1987, creating a reputation for excellence among locals and visitors alike.
The menu features contemporary American cuisine with global influences, emphasizing seasonal ingredients and artful presentation. Chef Kelly Fletcher crafts dishes that balance innovation with familiar comfort, resulting in meals that satisfy both traditionalists and culinary adventurers.
The charming outdoor patio, shaded by mature trees and adorned with twinkling lights, provides a romantic atmosphere that complements the refined dining experience. This serene setting makes it an ideal choice for special occasions or intimate dinners.
House of Tricks also boasts an impressive wine selection, carefully curated to pair with their menu offerings. Their knowledgeable staff provides attentive service, enhancing the overall dining experience at this Tempe gem.
21. Toca Madera – Scottsdale
Toca Madera offers a modern take on traditional Mexican cuisine in an upscale, vibrant atmosphere. Located in Scottsdale, this restaurant combines bold flavors with sophisticated presentation to create a memorable dining experience.
The menu features organic, sustainably sourced ingredients with plenty of options for various dietary preferences. Their tableside preparations add an element of spectacle to the dining experience, particularly with their signature guacamole and flaming dishes.
The restaurant’s ambiance is equally impressive, with intricate wood carvings, lush greenery, and stylish lighting creating an enchanting environment. Their bar program deserves special mention, showcasing an extensive selection of tequilas and mezcals.
Toca Madera is known for transforming as the evening progresses, with a more energetic atmosphere taking over. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak hours when the restaurant becomes a sought-after destination for both locals and visitors.
22. The Cabin Grill – Flagstaff
Nestled in the pine-covered mountains of Flagstaff, The Cabin Grill offers a rustic dining experience with sophisticated flavors. The restaurant’s timber-framed interior creates a cozy atmosphere that perfectly complements its hearty cuisine.
Chef Daniel Montoya specializes in elevated comfort food using locally sourced ingredients from northern Arizona farms. The menu changes seasonally, but signature dishes include their cedar-plank salmon and bison meatloaf with juniper berry glaze.
The Cabin Grill’s extensive wine list features several Arizona vineyards alongside international selections. Their handcrafted cocktails incorporate local spirits and fresh herbs grown in their rooftop garden.
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. The restaurant also offers a popular Sunday brunch featuring pine-needle smoked bacon and prickly pear pancakes that draw locals and visitors alike.
23. Richardson’s Restaurant – Flagstaff
Richardson’s Restaurant in Flagstaff offers a delightful culinary experience with its Southwestern-inspired menu. The restaurant’s warm, rustic ambiance creates an inviting atmosphere for both locals and tourists exploring Northern Arizona.
Chef Martin Richardson brings over two decades of culinary expertise to each dish, focusing on locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. The signature green chile stew has earned particular acclaim among regular patrons.
Richardson’s boasts an impressive selection of regional wines and craft beers that perfectly complement their flavorful dishes. Their outdoor patio provides stunning views of the San Francisco Peaks during warmer months.
The restaurant’s commitment to exceptional service matches its dedication to quality cuisine. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons when tables fill quickly.
Since opening in 2018, Richardson’s has established itself as a standout dining destination in Flagstaff’s increasingly diverse culinary landscape.
24. Cibo Urban Pizzeria – Flagstaff
Cibo Urban Pizzeria brings its celebrated Italian cuisine to Flagstaff with a welcoming atmosphere and wood-fired specialties. Located in downtown Flagstaff, this restaurant offers a rustic yet modern setting that appeals to both locals and tourists exploring Northern Arizona.
The menu features artisanal pizzas with perfectly charred crusts and fresh, locally-sourced toppings. Their signature Margherita pizza showcases the kitchen’s commitment to simplicity and quality with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil.
Beyond pizza, Cibo offers exceptional antipasti, homemade pasta dishes, and seasonal specials that highlight regional ingredients. The restaurant maintains an impressive wine list featuring selections from Italy and Arizona vineyards.
Service at Cibo strikes the ideal balance between attentive and relaxed, creating a dining experience that feels both special and comfortable. Reservations are recommended, particularly during peak tourist seasons and weekends.
25. Fassler Hall – Scottsdale
Fassler Hall brings a taste of German beer hall culture to the heart of Scottsdale. This popular establishment opened in 2023 and quickly became known for its house-made sausages and extensive beer selection.
The spacious interior features long communal tables and a vibrant atmosphere that encourages socializing. Outdoor seating is available year-round, with misters keeping diners comfortable during Arizona’s warmer months.
The menu highlights include traditional bratwurst, jagerwurst, and currywurst, all made in-house. Each sausage can be customized with toppings ranging from sauerkraut to spicy peppers.
Their beer selection features both German imports and local Arizona craft brews. The bar staff is knowledgeable about beer pairings and happy to make recommendations.
Weekend brunches have become particularly popular, featuring German-inspired morning dishes alongside their signature sausages.
26. El Charro Cafe – Tucson
El Charro Cafe stands as Tucson’s oldest Mexican restaurant, continuously operated by the same family since 1922. The restaurant has earned national recognition for its authentic Sonoran cuisine and historic significance in Arizona’s culinary landscape.
Their signature dish, Carne Seca, features beef that is marinated and dried in the Sonoran desert sun before being shredded and grilled with green chiles. The charming downtown location occupies a historic building that adds to the authentic dining experience.
El Charro’s menu extends beyond their famous dried beef to include traditional enchiladas, tamales, and their innovative chimichanga, which some claim was invented here. The restaurant maintains three locations throughout Tucson, with the original downtown site remaining the most popular among visitors.
Seasonal specialties showcase local ingredients and heritage recipes passed down through generations of the Flores family. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist season.
27. The Grill at Hacienda Del Sol – Tucson
The Grill at Hacienda Del Sol offers a refined dining experience nestled in a historic ranch resort in Tucson. The restaurant showcases panoramic views of the Santa Catalina Mountains through its large windows, creating a memorable backdrop for any meal.
Executive chefs craft seasonal menus featuring locally sourced ingredients, many grown in the property’s own organic gardens. The menu blends Southwestern flavors with contemporary American cuisine, offering options like mesquite-grilled steaks and fresh seafood.
The restaurant boasts an award-winning wine program with over 900 selections. Their extensive cellar has earned Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence multiple times.
Diners can choose between the elegant indoor dining room or the picturesque patio. The rustic-elegant ambiance reflects the property’s 1930s heritage while delivering modern culinary excellence.
28. Black Cow Cafe – Scottsdale
Black Cow Cafe brings a touch of homestyle comfort to Scottsdale’s dining scene. This charming establishment has built a loyal following since opening in 2019, offering a menu that balances classic American dishes with southwestern influences.
Breakfast remains their standout service, with fluffy pancakes and green chile omelets drawing morning crowds. Their house-blend coffee, roasted locally, pairs perfectly with their signature cinnamon rolls.
For lunch and dinner, the cafe transitions to heartier fare including their renowned black angus burgers and homemade meatloaf. The restaurant’s warm, rustic interior features reclaimed wood and black-and-white photography of Arizona landscapes.
Service consistently earns high marks from patrons, with staff known for remembering regular customers’ preferences. The outdoor patio provides a pleasant setting for enjoying Arizona’s cooler months while people-watching along the busy street.
29. Blue Adobe Santa Fe – Tucson
Blue Adobe Santa Fe brings authentic Southwestern cuisine to Tucson with bold, flavorful dishes. The restaurant combines New Mexican and Arizona culinary traditions to create a unique dining experience that locals and tourists appreciate.
Their signature blue corn enchiladas are topped with their famous Santa Fe sauce, offering a perfect balance of heat and flavor. The chile rellenos and carne adovada have earned particular praise from patrons who appreciate traditional Southwestern fare.
The restaurant’s warm ambiance features adobe-style architecture and Southwestern décor that complements the menu. Terracotta accents and local artwork create a welcoming atmosphere for diners.
Blue Adobe’s attentive service and consistent food quality have helped it maintain its reputation as one of Arizona’s best restaurants. Their house-made sopapillas with honey make for a sweet ending to any meal.
30. SumoMaya – Scottsdale
SumoMaya offers a unique fusion of Mexican and Asian cuisines in an upscale yet vibrant atmosphere in Scottsdale. The restaurant’s creative menu features innovative dishes that blend flavors from both culinary traditions, creating unexpected and delightful combinations.
The interior design is equally impressive, with colorful décor and a lively ambiance that makes it perfect for both casual lunches and special occasions. Their cocktail program complements the food perfectly, with signature drinks that incorporate elements from both cuisines.
Popular dishes include the lobster mango roll, Korean beef tacos, and pad thai with a Mexican twist. Weekend brunch at SumoMaya has become a local favorite, featuring unique items like churro waffles and miso huevos rancheros.
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist season and weekends when locals flock to this culinary hotspot.
Arizona Dining Scene Overview
Arizona’s culinary landscape reflects the state’s rich cultural heritage and geographic diversity. From sophisticated urban establishments to rustic desert outposts, the dining options showcase a remarkable blend of traditional and contemporary influences.
Culinary Diversity Across the State
Phoenix and Scottsdale lead Arizona’s fine dining movement with internationally recognized restaurants helmed by award-winning chefs. James Beard nominees and winners have established numerous destination restaurants in these metropolitan areas, focusing on elevated Southwestern cuisine and global fusion concepts.
Tucson, designated as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2015, celebrates its 4,000-year food heritage through restaurants that honor indigenous ingredients and Mexican culinary traditions. The city’s farm-to-table movement draws food enthusiasts seeking authentic regional flavors.
Northern Arizona, particularly Flagstaff and Sedona, offers distinctive dining experiences that cater to tourists while maintaining local character. Many establishments feature spectacular views of red rocks or pine forests, complementing their southwestern-inspired menus.
Small towns like Bisbee, Jerome, and Prescott harbor surprising culinary gems, often housed in historic buildings that tell stories of Arizona’s mining and ranching past.
Influence of Local Ingredients
Arizona chefs increasingly embrace native ingredients that reflect the state’s desert environment. Prickly pear, mesquite, cholla buds, and native tepary beans appear on menus, connecting diners to the Sonoran Desert’s natural bounty.
The state’s agricultural regions, particularly Yuma and areas along the Colorado River, supply fresh produce year-round. Winter vegetable harvests make Arizona an important national food source during colder months, giving chefs access to exceptional seasonal ingredients.
Indigenous cooking techniques like pit-roasting and mesquite grilling influence contemporary preparations throughout the state. Many restaurants smoke or grill using native mesquite wood, imparting distinctive regional flavor profiles to meats and vegetables.
Mexican and Native American culinary traditions strongly shape Arizona’s food identity. Dishes featuring chilies, corn, beans, and game meats reflect centuries of cultural exchange across the region’s diverse communities.
Craft producers of artisanal cheese, wine, and spirits have emerged across the state, creating distinctive Arizona products that complement the local cuisine.
Tips for Dining Out in Arizona
Arizona’s dining scene requires some insider knowledge to fully enjoy. The desert state’s unique climate and culture influence when to dine and what to wear.
Best Times to Make Reservations
Peak dining hours in Arizona run from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays. Book at least 1-2 weeks in advance for popular establishments in Scottsdale and Phoenix, especially during winter tourist season (January-March).
Many high-end restaurants offer early bird specials from 4:30-6:00 PM with reduced prices and better availability. This is particularly valuable during winter months when snowbirds flock to the state.
Sunday brunches are extremely popular in Arizona. Make reservations for these 2-3 weeks ahead, especially at places with mountain or desert views.
During summer (June-August), reservations become easier to secure as temperatures rise and tourism declines. This is an excellent opportunity to try normally busy restaurants.
Dress Codes at Upscale Restaurants
Arizona dining attire varies significantly between establishments and locations. In upscale Scottsdale and Paradise Valley restaurants, business casual is the minimum standard, with many fine dining venues expecting cocktail attire after 7:00 PM.
Men should typically wear collared shirts and closed-toe shoes. Slacks are preferred over jeans at high-end establishments, though dark, well-fitted jeans may be acceptable at trendy spots.
Women have more flexibility but cocktail dresses or smart separates are appropriate for fine dining. Even in summer, bring a light layer as restaurant air conditioning can be quite cold.
Resorts maintain stricter dress codes, often prohibiting athletic wear, flip-flops, and overly casual attire. When in doubt, check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to confirm expectations.
