Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
Now that the new year is here, you might be thinking of how to make the best of 2017. Why not try changing things up a bit, starting with your dining routine? Here are a few incredible restaurants we highlighted in 2016 that you should definitely try out this year! Don’t forget to click the links provided in each description for more details about each restaurant.
We’re starting this list with one of the most renowned Mexican restaurants in Phoenix,
Barrio Cafe. This restaurant has received quite a few awards, including the coveted James Beard, and is known for its guacamole made table-side.
If you like trains and barbeque, then you should try out this little restaurant the next time you’re in Willcox. Big Tex Bar-B-Que sits inside a vintage dining car that will make your meal both memorable and amusing.
Calling all sugar lovers! You need to try out Cerreta Candy Company, a family-owned candy store that has hand made and sold their own candy since 1948. You can get a tour of the little factory, sample some of their sweets, and take home your favorites.
Need an opportunity to wind down and get some peace and quiet? Cliff Dwellers Restaurant sits at the base of Vermilion Cliff and is one of the most remote restaurants you will find in Arizona! Try the pie!
This restaurant is perfect for special occasions or just your annual Treat Yo’self Day brunch with mimosas. Cress on Oak Creek at the L’Auberge de Sedona resort sits right along the banks of the picturesque creek and is perfect for day and night dining. You won’t regret it!
Another restaurant centered around trains, the Crown Railroad Cafe in Flagstaff offers a perfect view of the passing trains and has a model train running the tracks right above your head. What a way to enjoy your meal!
Route 66 has always been known for its iconic vision of American life and this little restaurant in Seligman offers an eclectic view. Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In is the perfect spot to grab a burger and shake and enjoy a piece of American (and Arizona’s) history with a touch of whimsy.
If you’re looking for a remote spot to get a few drinks and some chow in between your boating excursions on the Colorado River, then you need to visit the Desert Bar. It’s a bumping ride to the bar/saloon but you’ll love the view of nothing but mountains, desert, and sky from your seat.
One of the most well-known restaurants in Arizona, Guayo’s El Rey is often touted as one of the best places to get Mexican food in the state. You’ll find classic Sonoran dishes in this family-operated restaurant.
The oldest continuously operated restaurant in Tombstone and one of (if not the) oldest in the state, Longhorn Restaurant is a spot rich in history and perfect for getting a dinner.
Looking for a restaurant with both character and delicious food? Give Lute’s Casino a try! This restaurant has some crazy décor but the food (especially the burgers) will keep your attention.
Or, if you’re looking for a chance to relax and engage in some good Western-themed fun, then check out the Pinnacle Peak Steakhouse at the Trail Dust Town attraction in Tucson. It’s so casual that if you arrive wearing a tie, be prepared to have it cut off by your server!
For a good slice of pie, visit Rock Springs Cafe in Black Canyon City, just off the I-17. You’ll find a wide variety of pies to eat on-site or to take home.
Address: 35900 South Old Black Canyon Highway, Black Canyon City
Dine inside a part of Phoenix history at Taco Guild. Located in midtown Phoenix, the restaurant once was the home of a small church in what was then a farming community in Phoenix. The church was deconsecrated a few years ago and was brought back to life as a place to get upscale tacos.
Address: 546 East Osborn Road, Phoenix
How many of these restaurants have you visited before? Which ones are you most looking forward to visiting this year?