I Drove Through Sedona, Arizona, Sampling 6 Southwestern Steakhouses (And 3 Were Stunningly Scenic)
Sedona. The name itself whispers of magic, of red earth under a vast blue sky, and of a certain palpable energy. I’d always been drawn to its allure, but this trip, my friends, was a little different.
While the spiritual seekers might have been meditating on ancient energies, I was busy meditating on marbling, searching for the perfect char. Yes, I embarked on a culinary quest, driving through the stunning landscape of Sedona with a singular mission: to sample six of its finest Southwestern steakhouses.
And the kicker? Three of them offered views so jaw-droppingly spectacular, they elevated every bite into an unforgettable experience.
1. Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill – Perched Views, Elegant Steaks
Chef Lisa Dahl built something special on this hillside perch. Mariposa combines wood-fired Latin-inspired cooking with panoramic red-rock vistas that stretch for miles. The menu leans heavily into excellent steak and grill options, giving Southwest flavors a fine-dining twist that feels both elevated and approachable.
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends when the dress-up vibe kicks in. Watching the sun set over those crimson cliffs while cutting into a perfectly charred ribeye might just ruin every other dinner view for you.
The combination of culinary craft and natural beauty makes this stop unforgettable, and I found myself lingering long after my plate was empty.
2. Cress On Oak Creek (L’Auberge de Sedona) -Creekside, Romantic, Refined
Few meals feel as magical as dinner beside a babbling creek. Cress sits right on Oak Creek at L’Auberge de Sedona, offering elevated Arizonan cuisine that often showcases steak and locally sourced proteins.
The creekside tables are shaded by a dappled canopy, creating an atmosphere that belongs on a postcard. If you want scenery with your sirloin, this is the place. I grabbed a table near the water and listened to the gentle rush of the creek while savoring every bite.
The ambiance alone is worth the trip, but the food backs it up with thoughtful preparation and fresh ingredients. Romantic, refined, and ridiculously pretty-Cress checks every box.
3. SaltRock Southwest Kitchen (Amara Resort) -River-Adjacent With Red-Rock Outlooks
SaltRock sits at the Amara Resort, where Southwest-leaning plates meet river and red-rock vistas. The setting opens onto stunning natural scenery, making it a dependable pick when you want a steak or steak-style entree with a view.
The menu balances local flavors with hearty proteins, and the outdoor seating area capitalizes on every angle of that trademark Sedona landscape. I ordered a grilled cut and spent half my meal staring at the cliffs glowing in the afternoon light.
The food is solid and satisfying, and the location does the heavy lifting when it comes to ambiance. For a resort restaurant, SaltRock delivers on both the culinary and visual fronts without feeling overly stuffy or pretentious.
4. Cowboy Club Grille & Spirits – Classic Sedona Southwest Steakhouse Energy
Walking into Cowboy Club feels like stepping onto a movie set. This longtime local favorite serves bold Southwestern dishes alongside true steakhouse cuts, including bison and other regional proteins. The rustic, memorabilia-filled dining room nails that Old West vibe, offering an authentic counterpoint to the fancier view-driven rooms around town.
During my visit, I tried the bison ribeye and was blown away by the rich, earthy flavor. The atmosphere here is warm and unpretentious, filled with locals and tourists who appreciate hearty food and a side of history.
If you want a taste of high-desert cuisine without the resort price tag or dress code, Cowboy Club delivers in spades with character and flavor.
5. Golden Goose American Grill – Locals’ Go-To For Steaks And Prime Rib
Voted frequently for best steak by local outlets, the Golden Goose is a reliably good American grill. It offers hearty steak plates and prime rib that attract residents and repeat visitors alike. If you want a classic, no-surprises steak night, this is where locals go when they crave a solid meal without the fuss.
I chatted with my server, who told me she eats here on her nights off. That kind of endorsement says everything. The cuts are generous, the sides are comforting, and the vibe is easygoing.
Golden Goose may not have the scenic drama of some other spots, but it wins on consistency, value, and that welcoming neighborhood feel that makes you want to come back again and again.
6. Steakhouse 89 – Contemporary Steakhouse With A Sedona Spin
Steakhouse 89 markets itself as a modern steakhouse with a Sedona twist. Wood-fire grilling, generous cuts, and a sizeable drink program define the experience. It is a solid choice when you want a proper steakhouse meal without the tourist-price tag of some resort dining.
The menu is straightforward but well-executed, and the atmosphere strikes a nice balance between polished and approachable.
I appreciated the attention to detail in both the cooking and the service. The drink list offers plenty of options to pair with your steak. For a contemporary take on the classic steakhouse experience, Steakhouse 89 hits the mark with style, substance, and satisfying flavors that linger long after the meal ends.