11 Arizona Restaurants With Unbeatable Views And Amazing Food
Growing up in Tucson, I thought I’d seen the best of Arizona. Then one day, a friend dragged me to a cliffside spot near Flagstaff for “just drinks.”
Two hours later, I was finishing a wild mushroom flatbread with views that looked painted by the Grand Canyon itself,and wondering why I hadn’t explored my own state like this sooner.
That moment sparked a mission: find every Arizona restaurant where the view is as memorable as the meal.
From desert hideaways with sunset salsa to lakeside grills where the water sparkles with every bite, these 11 spots deliver unbeatable scenery and dishes you’ll dream about. Pack your appetite, and maybe a camera.
1. Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill (Sedona)
Perched high on a scenic bluff at 700 W Highway 89A, Mariposa delivers panoramic red-rock vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Sedona’s iconic formations glow at sunset, painting the horizon in shades of crimson and amber while you savor seasonal Latin-inspired dishes.
The menu changes with the seasons, highlighting fresh ingredients and bold flavors that dance on your palate. Executive chefs craft plates that balance tradition with creativity, from tender grilled meats to vibrant ceviches.
Large windows and an expansive patio ensure every seat captures the drama of the landscape. It’s hard to decide what’s more captivating: the sizzle of perfectly seared fish or the way sunlight ignites the cliffs outside.
Service here feels warm and unhurried, letting you linger over each course without feeling rushed.
Reservations fill quickly, especially during peak tourist months, so booking ahead is smart. Locals and visitors alike return for the way Mariposa marries exceptional cuisine with one of Arizona’s most breathtaking backdrops.
Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or simply treating yourself to a midweek escape, this spot delivers.
The combination of elevated Latin flavors and sweeping Sedona scenery makes every visit feel like a special occasion worth remembering.
2. Cress On Oak Creek at L’Auberge De Sedona
Stepping into Cress on Oak Creek feels like entering a hidden garden where the creek babbles just beyond your table.
Located at 301 L’Auberge Lane, this creekside gem sits beneath towering cottonwoods that sway gently in the breeze. The refined menu complements the natural setting, offering dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients with elegant precision.
Chefs here focus on farm-to-table philosophy, sourcing locally whenever possible to ensure freshness and flavor. Each plate arrives as a work of art, thoughtfully composed and beautifully presented.
The sound of flowing water creates a soothing soundtrack that makes the dining experience feel almost meditative. Outdoor seating puts you right alongside the creek, where dappled sunlight filters through leaves overhead.
Inside, large windows maintain the connection to nature, so you never lose sight of the serene landscape.
It’s the kind of place where conversation flows easily and time seems to slow down.
I once visited on a crisp autumn evening and watched leaves drift lazily downstream while savoring a perfectly cooked duck breast. The combination of exquisite food and tranquil surroundings made it one of those meals you replay in your mind for months.
Cress on Oak Creek proves that dining beside nature can elevate a meal from good to unforgettable.
3. The Hudson (Sedona)
Rooftop dining at The Hudson brings wide Sedona vistas straight to your table at 671 State Route 179, Suite D. The deck offers unobstructed views of red-rock formations that shift in color as the day progresses from bright noon light to dusky twilight.
Food here is reliably good and crowd-pleasing, with a menu that covers everything from burgers to fresh salads and hearty entrees.
What makes The Hudson shine is its ability to satisfy a wide range of tastes without sacrificing quality.
Families, couples, and groups of friends all find something to love, whether it’s a crisp flatbread or a juicy steak.
The casual yet polished atmosphere strikes a balance between laid-back and special-occasion worthy. Sunset reservations book up fast because the view transforms into a show-stopping display of oranges, pinks, and purples.
Even on a midday visit, the scenery provides a stunning backdrop that makes every bite taste better. The staff keeps things moving smoothly, ensuring drinks stay filled and plates arrive hot.
It’s one of those spots where you can dress up or keep it casual and still feel perfectly at home. The Hudson proves you don’t need fancy frills to create a memorable meal when the view does half the work for you.
Consistent quality and killer scenery make this a Sedona staple that deserves a spot on any dining itinerary.
4. Elements At Sanctuary Camelback Mountain (Paradise Valley)
Elements sits at 5700 E McDonald Drive, offering dramatic valley and Camelback Mountain views that stretch for miles.
Farm-driven cuisine takes center stage here, with chefs sourcing ingredients from local growers to create dishes that taste as fresh as they look. The menu changes regularly to reflect what’s in season, ensuring every visit brings something new to discover.
Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the rugged beauty of Camelback Mountain, making it impossible to ignore the landscape.
Outdoor seating lets you dine under the stars, with the mountain silhouetted against the night sky. Every detail, from the plating to the service, reflects a commitment to excellence that elevates the entire experience.
One spring evening, I sat on the terrace and watched the mountain glow pink in the fading light while enjoying a perfectly grilled salmon.
The combination of impeccable food and stunning scenery felt almost cinematic, like something out of a travel magazine. It’s the kind of meal that reminds you why people flock to Arizona for both its natural beauty and culinary scene.
Reservations are essential, especially for weekend dinners when the terrace fills quickly. Elements proves that farm-to-table doesn’t have to mean rustic; here, it’s polished, sophisticated, and utterly delicious.
The pairing of thoughtful cuisine and breathtaking views makes this a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience.
5. Different Pointe of View at Tapatío Cliffs Resort (Phoenix)
Mountaintop fine dining reaches new heights at Different Pointe of View, located at 11111 N 7th Street in Phoenix.
Floor-to-ceiling windows wrap around the dining room, providing sweeping valley sunsets that paint the sky in brilliant hues. The elevation gives you a bird’s-eye perspective of the sprawling city below, especially magical as lights begin to twinkle at dusk.
The menu leans toward classic fine dining with modern touches, featuring steaks, seafood, and creative seasonal preparations. Each dish arrives meticulously plated, showing the kitchen’s dedication to both flavor and presentation.
Service is attentive without being intrusive, striking that perfect balance that makes you feel pampered but not hovered over.
Sunset reservations are the most coveted, and for good reason: watching the sun dip behind distant peaks while savoring a perfectly cooked filet is pure magic.
The dining room’s circular design ensures nearly every table gets a slice of the view, so you won’t feel shortchanged no matter where you sit.
It’s a popular spot for proposals and anniversaries, thanks to the romantic ambiance and jaw-dropping scenery.
Dress code leans upscale, so leave the flip-flops at home and embrace the chance to dress up a bit. Different Pointe of View lives up to its name, offering a perspective on Phoenix dining that few other restaurants can match.
6. El Chorro (Paradise Valley)
A longtime Arizona favorite, El Chorro has been serving up classic dishes and warm hospitality at 5550 E Lincoln Drive since 1937.
Patio seating offers views toward Camelback Mountain, framed by lush desert landscaping and swaying palm trees. The menu features reliably tasty, classic dishes that have stood the test of time, from sticky buns to perfectly grilled steaks.
What sets El Chorro apart is its blend of history and consistency; generations of families have celebrated milestones here.
The atmosphere feels welcoming and unpretentious, a refreshing change from some of the area’s more formal dining spots. You can sense the care that goes into every detail, from the friendly greetings to the thoughtfully prepared plates.
Outdoor dining is especially pleasant during cooler months, when the Arizona weather turns perfect for alfresco meals.
The mountain views provide a stunning backdrop without overwhelming the experience, letting the food and company take center stage.
It’s the kind of place where you can relax, enjoy good conversation, and trust that the kitchen will deliver exactly what you’re craving.
Locals consider El Chorro a hidden gem that somehow remains accessible even as Paradise Valley continues to grow. The combination of history, solid food, and scenic surroundings makes it a reliable choice for any occasion.
Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, El Chorro feels like coming home.
7. Talavera At Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale At Troon North
Talavera sits at 10600 E Crescent Moon Drive, offering an upscale steak and Spanish-influenced menu paired with wide desert and mountain vistas.
The terrace provides unobstructed views of the Sonoran Desert, where saguaros stand sentinel against rugged peaks. It’s a setting that feels quintessentially Arizona, capturing the wild beauty that draws visitors from around the world.
The menu showcases bold flavors inspired by Spanish cuisine, from perfectly seasoned cuts of beef to seafood preparations that sing with Mediterranean flair.
Each dish reflects a commitment to quality ingredients and expert technique, resulting in plates that satisfy both the eyes and the palate. The drink list is extensive, offering selections that complement the rich, savory flavors beautifully.
During a summer visit, I watched a monsoon storm roll across the desert while enjoying a ribeye that practically melted on my tongue.
The drama of the weather only added to the experience, making the meal feel like an event rather than just dinner. It’s moments like these that remind you why great restaurants invest in location as much as cuisine.
Service at Talavera is polished and professional, reflecting the Four Seasons standard of excellence. Reservations are recommended, especially for terrace seating during peak season.
Talavera proves that upscale dining and stunning desert views make a combination that’s hard to beat.
8. Top Of The Rock At Marriott Phoenix/Tempe At The Buttes
A circular dining room at 2000 W Westcourt Way provides panoramic valley views that are especially striking at sunset.
The 360-degree perspective means every table gets a piece of the scenery, from distant mountain ranges to the sprawling cityscape below. It’s a unique design that ensures no diner feels left out when the sun begins its colorful descent.
The menu offers a range of options, from seafood to steaks, prepared with care and presented with style.
While the food is solid, the real star here is the view, which transforms throughout the meal as daylight fades into twilight.
Watching the city lights flicker on while you finish your entree feels like watching a live performance from the best seat in the house.
The circular layout creates an intimate yet open atmosphere, perfect for romantic dinners or special celebrations. Service is attentive, with servers who know the menu well and can guide you toward dishes that pair beautifully with the scenery.
It’s a popular spot for locals celebrating birthdays and anniversaries, thanks to the wow factor of the setting.
Reservations are wise, especially if you want a window seat during golden hour. Top of the Rock delivers exactly what its name promises: elevated dining with views that make you feel on top of the world.
It’s proof that sometimes the best restaurants are the ones where the scenery and food work together to create something truly memorable.
9. El Tovar Dining Room At Grand Canyon South Rim
Historic, rim-side dining at 1 El Tovar Road makes every meal feel like part of the Grand Canyon experience itself.
The canyon stretches beyond the windows, a vast chasm of layered rock and shadow that defies easy description. Dining here isn’t just about the food; it’s about being present in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.
The menu features classic American fare with regional touches, from bison steaks to trout, prepared simply to let quality ingredients shine.
Service reflects the historic nature of the building, with a nod to tradition that feels appropriate given the setting.
It’s not the fanciest food you’ll ever eat, but it’s honest, well-prepared, and perfectly suited to the environment.
I once had breakfast here and watched the canyon slowly reveal itself as morning light crept across the rocks.
The way the colors shifted from deep purple to glowing orange felt like witnessing a secret the earth was sharing with just a few lucky observers.
That meal became as much about the view as the scrambled eggs and toast on my plate. Reservations are essential, especially during busy summer months when the South Rim draws crowds from around the globe.
El Tovar Dining Room reminds you that sometimes the setting is so powerful it becomes part of the meal itself. It’s dining with a side of wonder, and that’s something truly special.
10. Shugrue’s Bridgeview Dining (Lake Havasu City)
Waterfront dining at 1425 N McCulloch Boulevard offers views of the London Bridge channel and sparkling lake beyond.
Lake Havasu’s unique claim to fame, the relocated London Bridge, provides a quirky yet charming backdrop for your meal.
The broad menu covers steaks, seafood, and local favorites, ensuring everyone in your group finds something satisfying.
Shugrue’s has been a Lake Havasu staple for years, earning a reputation for consistent quality and friendly service. The waterfront location makes it especially popular during summer months when boaters pull up for a meal after a day on the water.
Large windows and outdoor seating keep you connected to the lake, where boats glide past and water shimmers in the sunlight.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for families or groups looking for a relaxed meal with a view.
Fresh seafood options stand out on the menu, a pleasant surprise this far inland, thanks to careful sourcing and preparation.
It’s the kind of place where you can kick back, enjoy the scenery, and let the laid-back vibe wash over you. Sunset dining is particularly lovely, as the sky turns shades of pink and gold over the water.
Shugrue’s proves that great views aren’t limited to mountains and canyons; sometimes a sparkling lake and a historic bridge do the trick just as well.
It’s a Lake Havasu gem that locals and visitors alike return to time and again.
11. LON’s At The Hermosa Inn (Paradise Valley)
A historic hacienda setting at 5532 N Palo Cristi Road provides garden and pool views that transport you to another era.
LON’s occupies a beautifully restored adobe structure that once served as the home and studio of cowboy artist Lon Megargee.
The refined, globally influenced cuisine reflects a worldly approach to dining while honoring the Southwest’s culinary traditions. Each dish showcases ingredients sourced from local farms and artisan producers, resulting in flavors that feel both fresh and sophisticated.
The menu changes seasonally, inviting repeat visits to discover new creations that highlight the best of each harvest. Presentation is elegant without being fussy, striking a balance that feels approachable yet special.
Dining on the patio surrounded by lush gardens and the gentle sound of water features creates a serene escape from the city.
The hacienda’s thick adobe walls and intimate courtyards make you feel like you’ve stepped into a hidden oasis. It’s romantic without being overly formal, making it ideal for date nights or quiet celebrations.
I visited one winter evening and sat by the fireplace, savoring a duck confit while the garden twinkled with soft lights. The warmth, the flavors, and the setting combined to create one of those meals you wish could last forever.
LON’s at The Hermosa Inn proves that historic charm and modern culinary excellence can coexist beautifully, offering a dining experience that’s as memorable as it is delicious.