Opened In 1951, The Pinon Café Is A Longtime Icon In Small Town Payson, Arizona
By Katie Lawrence|Published November 30, 2022
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
When a restaurant has withstood the test of time, you know the food has to be good. That’s exactly the case at The Pinon Café, a Payson icon that first opened its doors in 1951. One of the best small-town diners in Arizona, this humble, family-owned eatery serves up homestyle fare like burgers, chicken-fried steak, and breakfast all day. After just one bite, you’ll see why it’s been going strong for so long!
Next time you find yourself traveling through the small mountain town of Payson, keep your eyes peeled for The Pinon Café.
The first and oldest restaurant in town, this Beeline Highway gem was built way back in 1951. It has changed hands several times over the decades, but all of the owners have been local families committed to serving delicious, homemade food to the people of Payson.
When you step inside and see the red-and-white-checkered tablecloths and homey décor, you'll feel like you're sitting down to a meal in someone's very own kitchen - and in a way, that's exactly what you're doing. The current owners, the Conways, make it a point to treat everyone who comes in like a member of the family.
If you prefer sweet over savory, the buttermilk pancakes are to die for. Pillow-soft and as big as your head, you can get them stuffed with blueberries, cranberries, banana, or chocolate chips.
The Pinon also serves lunch, and the menu is equally as vast and varied as breakfast. From hand-smashed burgers to meatloaf to chili with cornbread, there's something to please every palate. Cap off your meal with a slice of homemade pie, and you'll leave the table a very happy (and full) camper.
Have you ever eaten at the Pinon Café? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for a breathtaking natural wonder to visit while you’re in town.
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