Southwest Inn at Sedona Blog - Sedona AZ Hotel Blog

Dining in Sedona: Southwest Inn's Top 5 Picks

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While the guests of the Southwest Inn come from all over the world, come from diverse backgrounds, and come to Sedona for a variety of reasons, there is one thing that they all have in common, they're all looking for a good meal. The most common question we are asked at the front desk is, "can you recommend a good restaurant."  After extensive "research" in our local eating establishments, and because we are asked this question so often, we have each developed somewhat of a sixth sense for matching our guests with the "perfect" restaurant for their individual tastes and needs. While we definitely have our "favorites,"  we by no means have a stock answer to the all familiar "where should I eat?" question.  There are over 75 restaurants in Sedona so choosing just five is not an easy task, but we have put together a list of The Southwest Inn at Sedona's favorite five restaurants to assist visitors in making their dining choices. 

1. Elote Cafe - A traditional Mexican restaurant offering a lighter fare, not a Mexican restaurant like you might expect.  No heavy refried beans here.  Elote is always crowded, so get there early (5 pm) or late (8 pm), or expect that you might have to wait.  Reservations are not accepted.  Our guests consistently give Elote excellent reviews.
2. Dahl and Diluca - One of the best and most popular restaurants in Sedona.  Dahl and Diluca serves delicious Italian food in an intimate and luxurious atmosphere.  Open for dinner only.  Reservations suggested
3. Judi's - A local favorite with an extensive menu, warm atmosphere and friendly service.  Judi's is known for their baby back ribs, but they have something for everyone.  Great for families. Open Monday - Saturday for lunch and dinner
4. Cowboy Club - This is the place if you're looking for local cuisine, as in rattlesnake, cactus fries and buffalo burgers.  But not to worry, they have a full menu of more familiar items as well.  The Cowboy Club is casual and family friendly with a cowboy western decor.  Located in Uptown.  Open for lunch and dinner.
5. Rene at Tlaquepaque - Understated and elegant, Rene at Tlaquepaque has long been a Sedona landmark.  If you're celebrating a special occasion, this is the place.  Wonderful ambiance, attentive and pleasant service, and of course, outstanding food.  For more than twenty-eight years, locals and tourists have made Rene their "special place" for lunch and dinner.
6. El Rincon - Has proudly served tradition Mexican cuisine with local Navajo Indian influences creating our own "Arizona" style for over 25 years. Located in Talaquepaque, with great patio seating.
7. Ken's Creekside - Offers a weekly changing menu with some traditional American comfort food with unique taste sensations to seduce the pallet. Ken's offers a full coffee and bar menu with chef crafted in fusion drinks and specialty house teas. All served in a relaxing atmosphere with wonderful outside seating overlooking the Oak Creek along with great views of the red rocks.
8. Javelina Cantina - Great views of the red rocks with plenty of outdoor seating. Great place for early eaters to sit outside and watch the sun go down. Known for their two salmon tostadas: "grilled salmon" served with black bean mango salsa, cabbage, and topped with avacado, vinigarette dressing. Also their shrimp quesadilla: tiger shrimp, sautteed with onions and chilis, broiled on a flower tortilla with fresh cheese. Lastly, grilled steak and cheese torta: thinly sliced sirloin steak, grilled with pablano chilis and onions. Topped with fresh lettuce tomato, asardo cheese and guacamole on crusty bread. Served with chili dusted fries.
9. Heartline Cafe - Fine food with a casual mood for 20 years. Beautiful main dining room, patio, and fire-side room. Extensive wine list. The word 'Cafe' in the title indicates a casual, intimate atmosphere, but don't be fooled by the name. The food is world class culinary art.
10. Hiro's Sushi - Beautiful views from the outside patio. Fantastic sushi bar including fresh fish sourced from Pacific Northwest or Atlantic sources. All fish is radiation free.

Visit our website for an extensive listing of Sedona Dining Establishments, and of course, if you're in town, stop by or call 800-483-7422 and we'd be happy to make a recommendation and a reservation too!