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Foodie 15: Best Restaurants in Flagstaff, Arizona

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Foodie 15: Best Restaurants in Flagstaff, Arizona

by Sam JumpDec 29, 2023Updated Jul 26, 202410 min read
Flagstaff isn’t just a pit stop on the way to the Grand Canyon. Nor is it a tourist trap. Thanks to restaurants in Flagstaff, the food scene and dedication to local ingredients have exploded over the past few years, making it worthy of a day trip, or better yet, a full-fledged food vacation.
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15 spots

Photo courtesy of Atria

Atria

103 N Leroux St

Atria features a contemporary yet comfortable space, adorned with white brick walls and cozy banquettes in soft hues of teal and rose. Renowned chef Rochelle Daniel, a James Beard nominee, creates a symphony of flavors applied to contemporary American dishes.  Their team is on a mission to delight Flagstaff residents and passers through with tasty, straightforward dishes that pay homage to the bounty of farm-fresh ingredients accessible across Northern Arizona. Their menu promises to leave an indelible impression on your palate and senses. Undeniably, one of the best places to eat in Flagstaff!

Photo courtesy of Brix Restaurant & Wine Bar

Brix Restaurant & Wine Bar

413 N San Francisco St

Named after the measurement of sugar content in grapes — owner Paul Moir is a true wine aficionado – Brix is charming as can be. 

Whether you prefer a snug seat at the bar, an intimate table vibe, or observing passers-by from the patio, Brix offers quite the ambiance for exploring their menu, which is full of locally farmed, sustainable, and organic foods, while sipping on a glass of wine from their stellar selection. 

Photo courtesy of Flagstaff Vegan (Delhi Palace Cuisine of India)

Delhi Palace Cuisine of India

2500 S Woodlands Village Blvd #8

Don’t let the strip mall location fool you – a visit to Delhi Palace will have you feeling like you took a trip to India without leaving Flag. Renowned for its Indian cuisine, the menu has garnered much praise from around the world as a testament to its authenticity and flavor.

Where every rich bite tells a story of tradition and passion, Delhi Palace aims to become a treasured part of your culinary Flagstaff traditions. Stop by and be carried away to the heart of India by the aromas alone.

Photo courtesy of Diablo Burger

Diablo Burger

120 N Leroux St

A list of the Best Restaurants in Flagstaff without Diablo Burger would be incomplete.   The restaurant has been dominating the “best burger” scene since its doors opened in 2009. The menu boasts 11 combos, with the “Señor Smoke” proving a crowd favorite — topped with ancho grilled onions, grilled avocado, bacon, cilantro, and sriracha mayo.  If you’re feeling like a burger architect, you’ve also got the choice to BYOB (build your own burger) from an array of ingredients, including beets, chimichurri, and coffee barbecue sauce.  Owner Derrick Widmark’s passion extends beyond the kitchen as he sources his grass-fed beef from Diablo Trust, a conservation collaborative formed by two local ranching families. His approach is proof that quality and care can really take something to the next level.  While you’re there, don’t sleep on their fries and DB Special Sauce. You’ve been warned. 

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Photo courtesy of FLG Terroir: Wine Bar & Bistro

FLG Terroir Wine Bar & Bistro

17 N San Francisco St

FLG Terroir occupies a cozy second-story wine haven with a panoramic view of San Francisco Street, transcending the underground bar allure. The wine selection hosts an impressive 500 labels with a whopping 30 wines available by the glass. But FLG Terroir isn’t just about wine; libations also include craft cocktails and a curated collection of Belgian ales and bottled beers.  The food menu offers quite the journey, too, making it one of Flagstaff's best restaurants. It features a build-your-own meat and cheese board, a rotating selection of oysters on the half shell, and creative bites like ricotta gnudi. Leave room for the ice cream spiked with Pedro Ximenez sherry — it’s a real treat.

Photo courtesy of Lumberyard Brewing Co.

Lumberyard Brewing Company

5 S San Francisco St

While taphouse menus often feature familiar bar food items like wings and fish ‘n chips, Lumberyard Brewing raises the bar, and patrons agree that they’re doing it right in so many ways.

Since its grand opening in 2010, Lumberyard has become a Flagstaff institution, located just south of the railroad tracks on San Francisco Street. The rehabilitated Copeland Lumberyard building has served as a gateway to the Southside community, inviting locals and tourists alike to gather for beer, food, and fun times for over a decade now. 

Stop by to vibe with the Lumberyard community and experience the fusion of craft beer, tasty dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the essence of Flagstaff’s scene.

Photo courtesy of Melanie Grimes Neale (Macy's Coffeehouse)

Macy’s European Coffeehouse & Bakery

14 S Beaver St

Macy’s isn’t just a cafe, it’s a local treasure in Flagstaff. One that’s been winning hearts and building a loyal following for over thirty years. Whether you’re in search of a lively restaurant or a top-notch coffeehouse, flavor, affordability, and community converge at Macy’s.

The star of the show, believe it or not, just may be the vegan waffle, which stands as a testament to Macy’s commitment to diverse and delicious offerings. Beyond the waffle, the entire menu makes it the perfect pitstop — from weekday mornings to refueling on your way to the Grand Canyon.

Photo courtesy of MartAnnes Burrito Palace

MartAnnes Burrito Palace

112 E Rte 66

MartAnne’s is a family-run Mexican restaurant that beckons with its bright red exterior and Day of the Dead-themed art. While this spot is open for both lunch and dinner, it’s gained attention for its hearty all-day breakfasts with portions that are nothing short of gargantuan. The restaurant’s slogan is “the house that chilaquiles built,” and upon the first bite, we believed it.

Expect a short wait on weekends. You’ll be stoked that you did. 

Photo courtesy of Pizzicletta

Pizzicletta

203 W Phoenix Ave

The stories of how some Flagstaff restaurants came to be, never cease to amaze. And what could be a better example of this than Pizzicletta? Owner Caleb Schiff went to NAU to be a geologist, but after biking through Italy one summer, he came back to Flagstaff, found a tiny space on Flagstaff’s Southside, and started cranking out pizza from his Italian-made wood-burning oven. And nothing about his Neapolitan-style pies is average — not the chewy fermented crust or the nontraditional toppings.  The menu also offers housemade gelato along with solid beer and wine lists. 

Photo courtesy of Proper Meats + Provisions

Proper Meats + Provisions

110 E Rte 66

Nestled in a historic building on iconic Route 66, Proper Meats + Provisions isn’t just a gem, it’s an experience.

As the region’s premier butcher, Proper specializes in local, sustainable whole-animal butchery, ensuring that meats are given the respect they truly deserve. Set against the backdrop of New York strips and T-bones dry-aging out back, and sausages crafted by hand within view, Proper is a celebration of the artistry of meat.

Photo courtesy of Red Curry Vegan Kitchen

Red Curry Vegan Kitchen

10 N San Francisco St

Red Curry Vegan Kitchen was born out of a desire to bring Flagstaff the best of both worlds — authentic Thai flavors and a comprehensive vegan menu. Whether you want to indulge in veggie rolls, spicy coconut milk-based curries, or the classic Pad Thai, these guys can ensure a fresh and fully vegan experience.  Seasoned restauranteur and chef Suchhada Tirakul combines a passion for good food with an inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home while the menu transports you with its flavors to the bustling street markets of Phuket. Red Curry Vegan Kitchen is a standout among the many excellent restaurants in Flagstaff AZ, and it's not hard to see why.

Photo courtesy of Satchmo's

Satchmo’s

2320 N Fourth St

The heart and soul of Southern cuisine is alive and well in Flagstaff thanks to Satchmo’s. In a celebration of Cajun, Creole, and barbecue tradition, 

Voted Flagstaff’s best barbecue restaurant by Southern Living Magazine, the Satchmo’s experience isn’t just about the food; it’s about family, friends, and community coming together over great food — a tradition that has been at the heart of Satchmo’s since day one.

They say their food isn’t just good for the stomach, it’s good for the soul. And we can vouch. 

Photo courtesy of Shift Kitchen & Bar

Shift Kitchen & Bar

107 N San Francisco St #2

At Shift Kitchen & Bar, innovation meets contemporary American flavors nestled in a cheery, intimate space. Executive chef Christian Lowe often draws inspiration from the Appalachian cuisine of her childhood and invites diners to indulge in dishes like creamy mascarpone-enriched grits paired with dandelion greens. 

Shift offers an excellent burger and the renowned pickled French fries — a must-try for those opting for a more casual delight. And, of course, save room for pastry chef and owner Dara Wong’s desserts. 

The menu undergoes regular changes so they suggest you visit often. 

Photo courtesy of SoSoBa (Tori Paitan Ramen with Tsukune)

SoSoBa

12 Historic Route 66

At SoSoBa, noodles take center stage. These guys don’t aim to preserve tradition; instead, they champion a dedication to local ingredients sourced from farmers’ markets and CSAs, ensuring a fresh and vibrant experience.

The concept captures the hearts of Flagstaff locals with its innovative approach to noodles and cocktails, represented by a slew of accolades and awards. But what sets them apart isn’t just the inventive noodle creations but also a bar that stands as a worthy companion to the bold offerings from the kitchen. 

Whether you’re itching for unconventional noodles dishes or award-winning sake, SoSoBa has you covered with their seemingly boundless creativity.

Photo courtesy of Tinderbox Kitchen

Tinderbox Kitchen

34 S San Francisco St

Tinderbox offers visitors the chance to dine in a laid-back atmosphere without compromising sophistication. Bolstered by a wine list that caters to enthusiasts and an updated contemporary American menu that blends elegance with comfort, you’d best prepare your taste buds for a journey

Pro tip: Level up your experience by popping into the Annex next door — an extension of the T-Box empire — where you can sip on pre- or post-dinner cocktails.

Frequently asked questions

Flagstaff has a diverse food and beverage scene. The city boasts of excellent restaurants serving contemporary American fare with locally sourced ingredients. It's also renowned for its authentic Mexican offerings. Burritos, Tacos, Gourmet Burgers, Fish and Chips, Wood-Fired Pizza, and Craft Beer are among some of the highlights of Flagstaff’s culinary scene. Whether you're craving hearty Southern cuisine, authentic Thai dishes, or inventive noodle creations, the best restaurants in Flagstaff got you covered.

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Read the full story on tucsonfoodie.com.IOU Sushi III has closed. The all-you-can-eat sushi restaurant on North Oracle Road announced the news on Facebook after about 10 years in Tucson. “This is the hardest post I’ve had to write,” the owners said. The post continued, “we have met some great friends who have become family to us.” Tucson Foodie first visited the restaurant in 2017, when it operated as IOU Sushi IV. Read the full story on tucsonfoodie.com.
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Three-time Iron Chef Tucson champion @Chef_antbanks of @Obonsushi takes the Culinary Showcase Stage Saturday at noon. 

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WHEN: Oct. 16-18 | 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
WHERE: TCC 📍260 S. Church Ave.
TICKETS: $8 | $4 with discount coupon | Kids 12 & under free
 
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• Saturday: Half-price for seniors and the same groups
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Read @sea_lyon’s article on Tucsonfoodie.com 
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