On the lookout for a new restaurant to dine at this weekend? Well, you’re in luck because today we’re going to be taking a look at some Arizona restaurants that are hidden away from plain sight and, in some cases, require a pretty long drive to even find! Here are eight we managed to find.
1. Bigfoot BBQ Restaurant (Flagstaff)
Located in the Old Town Shops Basement Marketplace, finding this restaurant is a bit like trying to locate Bigfoot himself. However, instead of braving the thick woods to find the big, hairy guy, you just need to wind through clothing racks to get your hands on this mouthwatering barbeque. Address: 120 North Leroux, Flagstaff
2. Cliff Dwellers Restaurant (Marble Canyon)
This restaurant is so remote and hidden away that it doesn’t even have a town attached to its location. Sitting a short distance from Marble Canyon in northern Arizona, this restaurant requires an hour-long drive from Page and offers some surprisingly sophisticated meals that will delight your tastebuds. Location: Mile Post 547 on Highway 89A near Marble Canyon.
3. Courtyard Cafe (Phoenix)
You would be surprised at the quality of museum restaurants in our state! One fantastic example is the Courtyard Cafe located in the middle of the Heard Museum and you probably wouldn’t know it’s there unless you walk onto the museum’s grounds. You’ll find some delicious and innovative Southwestern meals that are a lovely mix of Indigenous, Mexican, and American ingredients. Address: 2301 North Central Avenue, Phoenix
4. The Desert Bar/Nellie E. Saloon (Parker)
This seasonal saloon is one of the most remote restaurants you’ll find but don’t expect to be quiet. When it operates during its peak season (October through April), this place is packed with boaters, bikers, and others enjoying Arizona’s West Coast. Location: From Parker, take Highway 95 through Cienega Springs and turn right on Billy Mack Mine Road. Drive a half-mile, then turn right on Cienega Springs Road. Drive along this road for four miles to the bar.
5. Dutchman’s Hide Out (Burned Down Tragically)
Tucked away in a residential section near the base of the Superstition Mountains, Dutchman’s Hideout is a steakhouse that is about as hidden as the Dutchman’s gold. You’ll find some typical steakhouse cuisine here (steaks, burgers, seafood, and drinks) plus some gorgeous views of the Sonoran desert. Address: 6100 East Mining Camp Street, Apache Junction
Update: Unfortunately, Dutchman's Hide out burned down in a fire in July 2017.
6. Sausage Shop Meat Market and Deli (Tucson)
I personally think some of the best restaurants are tucked away inside strip malls, just waiting to be discovered. This deli is one example; it’s mixed with a post office and small shops, often getting passed up for more visible restaurants but they serve some amazing sandwiches. Address: 1015 West Prince Road, Tucson
7. Teresa’s Mosaic Cafe (Tucson)
Sandwiched between a McDonalds, Big O Tires, and some little town homes, this restaurant is out of almost everyone’s sight unless you’re really looking for it. The restaurant serves Mexican food for breakfast and lunch, so be sure to stop by if you’re looking for some tasty huevos rancheros. Address: 2456 North Silver Mosaic Drive, Tucson
8. Tortilla Flat Superstition Saloon (Tortilla Flat)
It’s not often you find a restaurant that requires a long drive along dirt roads but this one in Salt River Canyon requires it. You’ll find tasty burgers, sandwiches, and other lunch favorites. Get a seat early, however, because they close at 5pm (7pm on weekend) so the staff can drive home before the lonely Apache Trail gets too dark. Address: 1 Main Street, Tortilla Flat
Want to find more hidden gem restaurants that promise a tasty meal and a satisfied belly? Check out our article, These 13 Mom And Pop Restaurants In Arizona Are A Must Visit, for some inspiration.
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