About This Guide
These listings are a selective, rotating guide to area restaurants. The summaries reflect independent judgments; no fees were paid for inclusion. Price ranges, necessarily somewhat subjective, are: Inexpensive = $ or $20, Moderate = $$ or $21-30, Expensive = $$$ or $31-45, Very Expensive = $$$$ or $45 or up.
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AZ-179, South of the “Y”
Creekside Restaurant (New American) 
The menu at Creekside Restaurant changes seasonally, but rest assured you’ll be able to choose from American comfort food, gluten-free dishes and vegetarian options. During our visit, it was all about the Ahi Tuna Burger, chunks of tuna mixed with green onion, fresh ginger and shallots topped with a delicious wasabi aioli that’s sure to open your sinuses. The ahi is served on a roll and comes with your choice of arugula salad or – our favorite – crispy, skin-on, seasoned fries. If the weather is warm, make sure you request a table on the veranda, which is suspended above Oak Creek in the boughs of sycamore and cottonwood trees. Open daily, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., for breakfast, lunch and dinner. • 251 AZ-179 at Creekside Plaza (928-282-1705) ($$ TO $$$)
El Rincon Restaurante Mexicano (Mexican)
Since April of 1976, El Rincon has served Arizona-style Mexican food. Diners will also see Navajo influences on this unique menu, and the oversized margaritas are some of the best in town. The “secret” is the fresh ingredients. These are made with fresh homemade sweet and sour with real lime juice, powdered sugar, fresh egg white, tequila and triple sec. When we last visited, we ordered the house specialties: Chimichangas and Navajo Pizza. The first dish consists of hand-rolled sopaipilla masa stuffed with either meat or veggies and topped with your choice of red or green chile sauce. Instead of fry bread, El Rincon’s Navajo Pizza is built on top of a thin sopaipilla crust. Toppings include beans, lettuce, tomato, cheese and your choice of sauce. On Sunday through Tuesday evenings during the summer months, enjoy live flamenco music. Open daily, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., for lunch and dinner. • 336 AZ-179 at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village (928-282-4648) ($ TO $$)
FreeForm Coffee Roasters
Monica and Daniel Garland – who owned and operated Indian Gardens Cafe & Market in Oak Creek Canyon for many years – are the ones behind Central Sedona’s FreeForm Coffee Roasters. Customers can enjoy a variety of specialty coffee drinks (we’re fans of the flat white) in FreeForm’s light-filled shop accented by natural elements like wood beams on the ceiling. The coffee here is truly excellent. This is likely due to the care that’s put into each cup. FreeForm’s sustainably sourced coffee beans are roasted in small batches in a facility on Brewer Road. Coffee is also roasted fresh every week. • Open daily (closed on Tuesdays), 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. 411 AZ-179, #7, in South of the “Y.” (928-800-2885) ($)
Hideaway House (Italian)
We can’t get enough of the friendly vibe at Hideaway House. It’s a place where old friends gather at a very lively bar and new friends meet to enjoy “curious country Italian,” as the restaurant describes its cuisine. We started with the Roasted Vegetables and Polenta, featuring roasted eggplant, ricotta, tomatoes, onions and chilled seasonal vegetables on polenta with balsamic and goat cheese. This house specialty is a great example of the stellar vegetarian fare on this menu. For dinner, we ordered the New Zealand Green Lipped Mussels with Pasta. Pick your own pasta – we went with spaghetti noodles – and then choose between Fra Diavola (a spicy Calabrian red pepper marinara sauce) or a garlic white wine sauce. They’re both excellent. Dip the leftover sauce in the house-made bread. For dessert, we went with the classic and decadent espresso-laced Tiramisu. Open daily, 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. (9 p.m., Friday and Saturday), for lunch and dinner. • 231 AZ-179 in South of the “Y” (928-202-4082) ($$ TO $$$$)
The Hudson (American)
The Hudson has been a Sedona favorite since it opened its doors back in 2015. And it’s easy to see why this restaurant has thrived. For starters, it’s gorgeous. The contemporary, light-filled main dining room features high ceilings, dark blue walls and floor-to-ceiling windows that provide a stunning view of Sedona’s red rocks. Those views never get old. And neither does the chef-driven fare served at The Hudson. The starters are hearty and crowd-pleasing. We’ve quickly devoured the Salted Soft Pretzel Bread served with brown mustard and Guinness cheese sauce and Meatballs and Garlic Bread more times than we can count. The salads on the menu are all stellar. The Sedona Quinoa Salad, a mix of grilled chicken, quinoa, super greens, cabbage, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, Craisins, black figs and cinnamon almonds that’s drizzled with poppy seed dressing, is filling, healthy and satisfying. When we’re searching for comfort, we order the oversized Chicken Pot Pie. Crack the crust, and dig into rotisserie chicken, carrots, onion, celery, peas and potato. Another go-to order is the BBQ Braised Pork Tacos. Each one is filled with pepper jack cheese, cabbage, avocado-tomato salsa, lime cream and includes your choice of fries and cole slaw. Dessert here is a must. They’re all good and homemade, but our absolute favorite is Ellie’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie. This unbelievably decadent pie features a chocolate cookie crust and is filled with peanut butter mousse, bittersweet chocolate ganache and whipped cream. It’s also served with chocolate ganache balls covered in cookie crumbs and rests in dark chocolate sauce. This dessert is perfection and our favorite way to end a meal at The Hudson. Open daily, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., for lunch and dinner. • 671 AZ-179, Ste. D, in the Hillside Shopping Center (928-862-4099) ($$$ TO $$$$)
Javelina Cantina (Mexican)
When we’re searching for a patio with stellar views and tasty Mexican cuisine, Javelina Cantina is one of our go-to places. There are many reasons why it’s been in business for many years. The drinks menu here is fantastic. A chilled margarita paired with Javelina’s show-stopping Chef Ramos Signature Mango Ceviche and accompanied by cilantro chips is a go-to order. Served in an oversized glass, we can never get enough of this citrusy and refreshing take on the classic dish. The Mexican Street Corn, Javelina Bean Dip and Guacamole are all great starters we’ve devoured many times. We also love the sheer variety of options on the extensive menu here. Javelina Cantina features many vegetarian and vegan options. We’re big fans of the Chorizo Queso Dip that’s made with cashew cheese and soy chorizo. This classic appetizer is so thick and rich that you’d honestly never know it wasn’t real cheese. The restaurant also serves multiple gluten-free options and a special, four-item fur friends menu that caters to the dogs that are welcome on the patio. After we devoured our appetizer, we started on the Chicken Mole Enchiladas. The mole was seasoned just right, and the chicken was perfectly tender. We also shared some Baja Shrimp Tacos. These tacos were stuffed with grilled shrimp, a tangy Southwestern tartar sauce, lettuce and pico de gallo that was all wrapped up in a warm flour tortilla. The plate was finished with rice, beans, guacamole and crème fraiche. The spicy shrimp and tartar sauce were balanced out by the light veggies, and the filling sides make for one satisfying meal. For dessert, the cheesecake chimichangas are always a good idea. We love these flaky, savory yet sweet pastries. The crust gives these a savory flavor that’s complemented by the sweet strawberries, custard, chocolate and caramel sauces. This dessert is finished with a dusting of powdered sugar. Like nearly everything on the menu here, this dish is filling, satisfying and leaves us wanting to come back for more. Open daily, 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. (Friday through Sunday, 10 p.m.), for lunch and dinner. • 671 AZ-179 in the Hillside Sedona Shopping Center (928-282-1313) ($$ to $$$)
Mole’ Sedona (Mexican)
Diners can enjoy authentic, made-from-scratch Mexican cuisine at this restaurant perched on the second floor of the Arabella Hotel Sedona. Find homemade tortillas, salsas and mole. Nearly everything on the menu has a Southwest twist. You can see that influence in menu items including the Iron Skillet Cornbread that’s made with hatch green chilis or the Lamb Abodo, a Colorado lamb shank that’s served with ancho molé sauce, mint crema, queso fresco and cilantro. Finish your meal with Prickly Pear Flan or with the classic Mexican dessert, Tres Leches. We also can’t get enough of the creative brunch menu. Dig into entrees like the Chipotle Crab Eggs Benedict or Chicken Chilaquiles. Open Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., for brunch. Open daily, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., for lunch and dinner. • 725 AZ-179 at the Arabella Hotel (928-282-7177) ($$ TO $$$)
Mooney’s Irish Pub (Pub Fare)
In some bars, pub fare translates to a bowl of pretzels and wasabi peas. Not at Mooney’s Irish Pub. You’ll find hearty food options like shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, burgers, fish n chips and pizzas served until the wee hours. The pub also boasts Irish and Arizona beers on tap in addition to nearly 400 beer and liquor options. Located next to Mooney’s Irish Pub, the Sedona Food Truck serves international street food. Anticipate Key West Bang Bang Shrimp, Hong King Salt n Pepper Ribs and Chocolate Hazelnut Churros. The food truck menu will be available within Mooney’s for sit-down service and separately to go from the food truck hatch. The pub and food truck serve food until 11 p.m. daily. Open daily, noon to 2 a.m., for lunch and dinner. • 671 AZ-179 at Hillside Sedona (928-282-2331) ($ TO $$)
Oak Creek Brewery & Grill (Pub Fare)
There’s something comforting about sitting down with a frosty microbrew and good conversation at the end of the day. That must be why Oak Creek Brewery & Grill has been packed for lunch and dinner ever since it opened its doors in 2001. The most popular menu item is the fish and chips, and it’s this writer’s favorite fish and chips plate in all of Northern Arizona. Four large chunks of North Atlantic cod are battered in beer and deep-fried until golden brown. The cod comes with a mound of waffle-cut fries, coleslaw studded with golden raisins and black sesame seeds, tartar sauce and ketchup. The second most popular item on the menu is the barbecue pork ribs, available as a half or full slab. The tender, smoky ribs have just the right amount of sauce. Open daily, 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. • 336 AZ-179, Ste. D201, at Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village (928-282-3300) ($$ TO $$$)
Pump House Station Urban Eatery and Market (New American)
Tucked away in Tlaquepaque North, this urban eatery is nestled between the sycamore trees. The back patio is the perfect gathering spot during warmer months and is pet-friendly. Accolades go to Chef Cord Chatham, whose culinary approach and presentation of food are outstanding. For breakfast, try the eggs benedict, savory quiches or the Urban Burrito. The Avocado Toast is one of our go-to orders. For lunch, the salads are all good as are the sandwiches – try the Pump House Grinder. For dinner, begin with the Griddled Noble Bread appetizer. This selection changes daily. For the main entrée, check the daily specials first. Other favorites: Golden Beet Wellington, Brick Chicken and the Spiced Southwestern Blackened Salmon. For dessert, Chef’s Apple Tart served in a warm iron skillet and topped with ice cream will seal the deal. Pair your dessert with some of Pump House’s top-notch coffee. Open Sunday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Open Friday and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., for breakfast, lunch and dinner. • 313 AZ-179, Ste. D10, at Tlaquepaque North (928-862-4141) ($$$)
Rene Restaurant (French)
Rene has long been a Sedona dining destination, and it’s easy to see why. Rene features fine French food, a truly excellent wine selection and an elegant setting that comes complete with white tablecloths and a cozy outdoor patio. Helmed by celebrated chef Mercer Mohr, the restaurant is romantic and classy – the perfect setting for an unforgettable night out. We’ve enjoyed some of our best meals in Sedona at Rene, which has been open since 1978. Our latest visit was no exception. Although Rene is a great dinner spot, the restaurant also has a dynamite lunch menu. We read some rave reviews of the seabass and knew we had to try it out for ourselves. We delighted in the flaky white fish accompanied by a hearty warm potato kale and served with a savory, rich tomato saffron sauce. The best part? The dish is served with fresh, seasonal ingredients so it’s a little different every time you order it. For dinner, we just had to order the French Onion Gratinee to start. Rene’s version is creamy and decadent. Breaking the three cheese layers with a spoon and enjoying the gooey cheese along with the Cognac caramelized onions in the rich broth is a true culinary delight. Another decadent appetizer is the rich Hot Crab & Artichoke Dip served with spicy wonton chips and apple slices for an added crunch. If you want to be more adventurous, the Escargot is a wonderful place to start. Be sure to bring a healthy appetite to Rene. If you’re looking to really indulge, consider ordering the Steak & Lobster course. It represents the best of what Rene has to offer: decadence and excellence. The petite filet is wrapped in bacon for a truly rich touch. The Dover Sole a la Meuniere is another highlight. This is flown in from Europe, seared and basted with brown butter, parsley, lemon and capers for a fantastic finish. Speaking of endings, you can never go wrong with the Flourless Chocolate Cake. This decadent dessert is perfectly complemented by fresh whipped cream and cool gelato. Like Rene itself, it’s a timeless classic. Open daily, noon to 3:30 p.m., for lunch; 3:30 to 9 p.m., for dinner. Reservations are suggested. • 336 AZ-89A, Ste. B-118, in Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village. (928-282-9225) ($$$ TO $$$$)
Secret Garden Café (Vegetarian)
This tranquil eatery located at the edge of Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village serves up breakfast, salads, sandwiches, pastries, coffee and even has a wine bar. Sit in the shaded garden (heated and enclosed in the winter) and enjoy a warm Caprese Panini on homemade bread topped with tomato, mozzarella, basil and roasted red pepper. The quiche of the day is another favorite. On our most recent visit, the large slice featured fluffy eggs, a flaky crust, arugula, caramelized onions, broccoli, cauliflower, jack cheese and cheddar. Try it with a side of Gorgonzola Cole Slaw. Open daily, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., for breakfast; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. for lunch; 4:30 to 8 p.m., for dinner. • 336 AZ-179, Ste. F101, at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village (928-203-9564) ($$)
Shorebird Restaurant (American/Seafood)
A high-end seafood centric restaurant in the heart of Sedona is our idea of heaven, and Shorebird Restaurant exceeded our expectations. The setting is charming with a large window showcasing glorious red rock views during the day. The patio is a nice place to eat al fresco. At night, the lighting under the white bar offers a chic glow. The menu is long and stellar. We love oysters and immediately devoured the half-shell bivalves from the expansive raw bar menu. The two piece Ahi Tuna nigiri tasted straight from-the-sea fresh and paired well with the ginger dressing. The Spicy Tuna Eggroll was a stand-out appetizer. Housed in a crunchy fried shell, the spicy tuna was complemented by five-spiced pineapple, avocado and cucumbers. When it comes to main courses, we couldn’t resist the lure of the signature Japanese Black Cod. The flaky white fish was made with a miso marinade that gave it a bold, delectable flavor. We’d be remiss not to mention the daily brunch. Yes, daily. We’re partial to the brunch specialties. These include the outstanding Maryland Crab Eggs Benedict. We enjoyed every bite of the tasty crab cakes, eggs, tomatoes and asparagus that was draped in hollandaise and served alongside crispy potatoes topped with a dollop of tangy lemon aioli. For dessert, we opted for the classic Valrhona Chocolate Brownie. The generously sized and decadent brownie was served warm and with cold vanilla bean ice cream, savory salted caramel and crunchy toasted walnut that made for a mouthwatering dessert. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., for breakfast, lunch and dinner; 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., for brunch. • 150 AZ-179, #1, (928-203-5465) ($$$ TO $$$$)
Spoke & Wheel Tavern (American)
Bicycles are the theme at this casual eatery at Los Abrigados Resort & Spa. The menu features sandwiches, salads and entrées that range from salmon to steaks, but we recommend the creative pizzas and burgers. The Mediterranean pizza is topped with lots of chewy mozzarella, parmesan, pine nuts, tomatoes, olives and truffle oil. Instead of the traditional red sauce, the pie features a fresh spinach pesto. Spoke & Wheel’s burgers are all seasoned with the chef’s umami dust and topped with innovative ingredients. We love the Bacon Truffle Burger, a beef patty topped with lettuce, tomato smoked bacon, white truffle oil, provolone cheese and balsamic syrup. Open Monday through Friday, noon to 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. • 160 Portal Lane in Los Abrigados Resort & Spa (928-203-5334) ($$ TO $$$)
Willows Kitchen & Wine Bar
Named after the willow trees on property at the Poco Diablo Resort, the Willows Kitchen & Wine Bar is a contemporary light-filled restaurant features a 12-seater bar with a gleaming white counter, a handful of tables outfitted with bright orange chairs and expansive windows that show off Sedona’s red rocks. For breakfast in the morning, we loved noshing on the savoy and sweet Lemon Ricotta Pancakes. The fluffy pancakes were perfectly complemented by thick maple and blueberry syrup. The dinner menu is a delightful mix of small plates, flatbread, sides and hearty entrees. We started with the Firecracker Shrimp Wraps. A piece of bibb lettuce was topped with signature crispy shrimp, pico de gallo and drizzled with hot and spicy Sriracha cream sauce was a flavorful and light appetizer to kick off our dinner. We also feasted on the Ahi Tuna Tacos served on a crispy wonton shell topped with charred avocado, pickled pepper salsa and micro cilantro. This colorful and fresh plate was light, crunchy and seasoned just right. Next, we moved on to the Artichoke Flatbread served with grilled baby artichoke, shaved red onion, baby arugula, goat cheese and artfully drizzled with aged balsamic. The goat cheese was tempered by the balsamic, making for a delightful combination. Dough is made in-house with yogurt to give it some fat content and had a crisp finish to it. Our meal concluded with a Bone In Beef Short Rib served with red pickled cabbage. The meat was tender and juicy. Likewise, our steak was perfectly seasoned and easily one of the best we’ve ever had. Being in the Verde Valley, we loved seeing Arizona wines on the menu. The wine list was rounded out by old and new world wines. Overall, the Willows’ chef has designed a creative menu that is a welcome, fresh addition to Sedona’s dining scene. Open daily, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. (10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday), for breakfast, lunch and dinner. • 1752 AZ-179 at the Poco Diablo Resort (928-203-5936) ($$ TO $$$$)
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