10 Small Town Family Kitchens In Arizona That Serve Meals To Die For
By Monica Spencer|Published June 07, 2017
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Monica Spencer
Author
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.
I don’t know about you but when I’m having a bad day, there’s nothing that lifts my spirits like a plate of comfort food. The food always reminds me of home and my family’s love. Depending on your cultural background, those home-cooked comfort meals can look different from person to person. Mine, for example, includes a rich chicken and dumpling stew and piping hot Navajo tacos but for others, it may be a serving of savory meatloaf, perfectly moist tamales, or perhaps some other dish. Either way, they’re a reminder of love in our lives.
Here’s a look at some family-owned restaurants in Arizona’s small towns that will not only fill your belly but also your heart.
Does your idea of comfort food involve plenty of gravy with your breakfast? You’ll love the meals found at this restaurant in Parker and it’s in the perfect location because it’s just a half mile from the Colorado River.
One look at that dinner above should tell you everything you need to know about dining at this small town establishment. Darbi’s Cafe is known for being a welcoming family restaurant that serves delicious meals all day long.
Address: 235 East White Mountain Boulevard, Pinetop
If you’ve ever craved a delicious plate of Mexican food, this is one of several restaurants in the Globe area that serve incredible meals and make you feel at home. In fact, this is one of several family-owned Mexican restaurants started by four sisters decades ago.
If Mexican food is your version of homey comfort food, then you’ll love dining at Mi Casa Restaurant in Benson. This little spot serves dishes that are a little more upscale compared to what you may get at home but still incredibly delicious.
Have you seen a better looking plate of meatloaf anywhere? This hearty dish is served hot and juicy with just the right sides for a meal that will take you back to mom’s kitchen.
Few people realize there's a little slice of Louisiana hiding in Arizona. The moment you step inside Bayou By You, you'll be transported to a world of authentic Cajun and Creole food by a couple from New Orleans. Photographed above is a Shrimp Remoulade Po'boy -- just one of many mouthwatering offerings at Bayou By You.
This family-owned restaurant has been serving the local community for 77 years and feels a bit like home when you sit down at one of the dining tables. Enjoy a plate of biscuits and gravy or a hearty sandwich for lunch when you arrive.
Greer has a lot going for it: beautiful views, a quiet setting, and delicious restaurants. Rendevous Diner is one spot where you can enjoy not only biscuits and gravy for breakfast and pastrami sandwiches for lunch, but you’ll also be treated to great pie and cobblers. Order that with a coffee and you’ll feel like you’re enjoying a treat at home.
If comfort food to you means traditional American dishes with German options, then you’ll enjoy the hearty meals served at Westside Lilo’s. Meals, like the jägerschnitzel shown above, look and taste incredible!
Address: 22855 West Route 66, Seligman
How many of these restaurants have you had the chance to visit? Is there a favorite that we missed? Be sure to let us know your thoughts by leaving a comment here or on our Facebook page.