Best Food in Sedona: Local Cuisine, Restaurants, and Festivals

Sedona, Arizona, is known for its stunning red rock formations and vibrant arts scene. In the heart of the Coconino National Forest, Sedona is a nature lover’s paradise, offering endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the great outdoors. But Sedona is also home to a vibrant culinary scene, with a wide range of delicious dishes and restaurants to choose from. From the best local cuisine to the top food festivals in town, here’s everything you need to know about the best food in Sedona.

Savoring the Local Flavor

When it comes to local cuisine, Sedona has plenty to offer. One of the most popular dishes in the area is the Sonoran hot dog, a grilled frankfurter served in a bun and topped with beans, tomatoes, onions, mustard, and mayonnaise. Other local favorites include Navajo tacos, made with frybread and topped with beans, lettuce, cheese, and your choice of meat, and the Sedona red chili, a spicy stew made with red chili peppers and various meats and vegetables.

Try some of the region’s famous green chile for a taste of the Southwest. This spicy sauce is made with roasted green chile peppers and adds flavor to various dishes, from burritos to enchiladas. Another must-try local dish is the prickly pear margarita, made with the sweet and tangy juice of the prickly pear cactus.

The Best Restaurants in Sedona

Elote Cafe: This cozy spot is known for its Mexican-inspired dishes, including street tacos, enchiladas, and of course, the famous Elote salad, made with grilled corn, black beans, avocado, and a zesty lime dressing.
Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill: This popular restaurant serves various Latin-inspired dishes, from ceviche to paella. Don’t miss the popular Pollo a la Plancha, grilled chicken served with different sauces and sides.
Heartline Cafe: This vegetarian-friendly spot is known for its healthy, organic dishes and smoothie bowls. Try the famous Acai Bowl, made with acai berries, bananas, and various toppings.
Javelina Cantina: This laid-back spot is the perfect place to enjoy some cold beers and classic Southwest dishes. Don’t miss the famous Javelina Nachos, topped with beans, cheese, and your choice of meat.

Food Festivals in Sedona

Sedona Winefest: This annual event, held in the fall, features a variety of local and international wines, live music, and delicious food from local restaurants.
Sedona Beerfest: This popular event, held in the spring, showcases a variety of craft beers from around the country, live music and food from local vendors.
Sedona Chili Festival: This annual event, held in the winter, features a variety of chili dishes from local restaurants and chili cook-offs.

The Best Time to Visit for Foodies

The best time to visit Sedona for foodies is during the fall and spring when the weather is mild, and the local produce is at its peak. During these seasons, you’ll find a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables at the local farmer’s markets and many food festivals and culinary events.

Other Attractions in Sedona

In addition to its delicious food, Sedona is home to several other attractions, including:

Red Rock State Park: This popular park, located just outside of Sedona, offers a variety of hiking trails, picnicking areas, and breathtaking views of the red rock formations.
Sedona Art Gallery Association: Sedona is home to a thriving arts scene, with many galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists.
Sedona Heritage Museum: This museum, located in the heart of downtown Sedona, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history, with exhibits on the indigenous peoples, pioneers, and early settlers who have called Sedona home.