Top 10 Restaurants in Arizona
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Arizona is a land of contrasts, where the rugged beauty of the desert meets the refined pleasures of urban living. The state’s culinary scene reflects this diversity, offering everything from Southwestern flavors to international cuisine. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant food culture of Phoenix or the artistic flair of Sedona, Arizona’s top restaurants promise memorable dining experiences. Here’s a guide to the top 10 restaurants in Arizona, each offering a unique taste of the Grand Canyon State.
1. Kai Restaurant (Chandler)
Kai Restaurant in Chandler is a true gem in Arizona’s culinary crown. Located at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass, Kai is the only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star restaurant in the state. The restaurant’s menu is inspired by Native American culture, particularly the Pima and Maricopa tribes. Dishes like grilled tenderloin of buffalo with cholla buds and saguaro syrup are not just meals but a journey through Arizona’s indigenous flavors. The exquisite presentation, paired with breathtaking views of the desert, makes dining at Kai an unforgettable experience.
2. FnB (Scottsdale)
FnB in Scottsdale is often referred to as the “crown jewel” of the Arizona food scene. Chef Charleen Badman, a James Beard Award winner, is known for her farm-to-table approach, turning local ingredients into culinary masterpieces. The menu changes seasonally, but staples like the braised leeks with mozzarella and a fried egg showcase the restaurant’s commitment to simplicity and flavor. The cozy atmosphere, combined with a carefully curated wine list featuring Arizona vintages, makes FnB a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
3. Pizzeria Bianco (Phoenix)
Pizzeria Bianco in downtown Phoenix is legendary for its wood-fired pizzas, widely considered some of the best in the country. James Beard Award-winning chef Chris Bianco has perfected the art of pizza making, using simple, high-quality ingredients to create mouthwatering pies. The Margherita, with its fresh mozzarella, basil, and San Marzano tomatoes, is a crowd favorite, but the Wiseguy—topped with fennel sausage, roasted onions, and smoked mozzarella—is equally divine. The unpretentious setting and commitment to perfection make Pizzeria Bianco a culinary landmark in Arizona.
4. Café Monarch (Scottsdale)
For an opulent dining experience, Café Monarch in Scottsdale is unparalleled. This fine dining establishment offers a prix-fixe, multi-course menu that changes weekly, allowing the chefs to highlight the best seasonal ingredients. The restaurant’s elegant, European-inspired decor, complete with chandeliers and candlelit tables, creates a romantic ambiance perfect for special occasions. Dishes like the Chilean sea bass with truffle risotto or the filet mignon with foie gras exemplify the restaurant’s commitment to luxury and sophistication.
5. The Mission (Scottsdale)
The Mission in Scottsdale blends traditional Latin flavors with modern techniques, resulting in a dining experience that’s both vibrant and refined. Located in Old Town, the restaurant’s chic, candlelit interior sets the stage for a memorable meal. The menu features a mix of classic and contemporary dishes, with highlights like the tableside guacamole, pork shoulder tacos, and the grilled street corn. The Mission’s tequila and mezcal selection is also impressive, making it a great spot for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner.
6. Tinderbox Kitchen (Flagstaff)
Nestled in the mountain town of Flagstaff, Tinderbox Kitchen offers a creative take on New American cuisine. The restaurant’s menu focuses on locally sourced ingredients, with dishes that change with the seasons. Standouts include the braised short rib with polenta and the seared duck breast with cherry compote. The casual, rustic atmosphere is inviting, and the friendly service makes you feel right at home. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Tinderbox Kitchen is a must-visit for a delicious, comforting meal.
7. Elote Café (Sedona)
Elote Café in Sedona is a destination in itself, attracting food lovers from near and far with its bold, Southwestern flavors. Chef Jeff Smedstad draws on his extensive travels through Mexico to create a menu that’s both authentic and innovative. The signature elote (Mexican street corn) is a must-try, as is the lamb adobo, slow-cooked to perfection with a rich, spicy sauce. The restaurant’s vibrant, colorful decor, combined with stunning views of the red rocks, adds to the overall experience, making Elote Café a Sedona favorite.
8. The Turquoise Room (Winslow)
Located in the historic La Posada Hotel in Winslow, The Turquoise Room is a fine dining experience with a Southwestern twist. Chef John Sharpe, a James Beard Award nominee, focuses on using regional ingredients to create dishes that reflect the flavors of the Old West. The Painted Desert soup, a striking combination of sweet corn and spicy black bean soups, is a visual and culinary delight. The restaurant’s elegant, vintage-inspired decor and the charm of the historic hotel make The Turquoise Room a unique and memorable dining destination.
9. Binkley’s Restaurant (Phoenix)
Binkley’s Restaurant in Phoenix offers an avant-garde dining experience that’s as much about artistry as it is about flavor. Chef Kevin Binkley, another James Beard Award nominee, has created a multi-course tasting menu that evolves nightly. The dishes are small, intricate, and meticulously plated, often featuring unexpected flavor combinations and presentations. The intimate setting allows for close interaction with the chefs, making the dining experience at Binkley’s both personal and extraordinary.
10. Cartwright’s Modern Cuisine (Cave Creek)
Cartwright’s Modern Cuisine in Cave Creek pays homage to Arizona’s Western heritage while offering a menu that’s distinctly modern. The restaurant’s “Sonoran Desert cuisine” highlights indigenous ingredients like mesquite, cholla buds, and prickly pear. Dishes like the mesquite-grilled elk chop and the Arizona citrus salad reflect a deep connection to the land. The rustic, Western-themed decor, complete with cowboy artifacts, adds to the restaurant’s unique charm, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
