UPDATED March 3, 2023–Looking for the best places to eat in Flagstaff, AZ? The locals know, so we asked Flagstaff foodies to tell us where to eat in Flagstaff Arizona, and why they deem the following establishments to be the best restaurants in Flagstaff. Here are their picks for favorite restaurants in Flagstaff, listed in no particular order:
1.) JITTERS LUNCHBOX: Nicholas A. Allen, digital marketing guru, father, foodie
“It would seem an impossible feat, but for all of the years I have been eating at Jitters Lunchbox, they have not once been less than stellar. I feel like a broken record when asked about my favorites, and there are many other amazing restaurants in Flagstaff, but Jitters is the hands down the best.” Read the rest of what local Flagstaff foodie Nick Allen has to say about Jitters below
2.) JOSEPHINE'S AMERICAN MODERN BISTRO: Jeanne Steiner, REALTOR®
“I usually pick Josephine’s when my Dave asks, where do you want to go for lunch or dinner. The ambiance makes me feel so comfortable, and the staff makes me feel so pampered. The experience starts when I walk through the door. The building in which Josephine’s is housed is on the National Historic …” Read Jeanne’s full reco for where to eat in Flagstaff Arizona below
3.) KARMA SUSHI BAR GRILL: Kevin Schindler, historian, stargazer, foodie
“As a person who loves good food as much as local lore, I can’t say enough about Karma Sushi Bar Grill,” says Kevin Schindler. “Opened in May 2006, this locally owned staple of the Route 66 strip is, not surprisingly given its name, known for its tantalizing selection of sushi (though it does offer a nice selection of options for the non-sushi people in your group.)” Read more below
4.) MY PITA WRAP MEDITERRANEAN GRILL: Annette Fallaha, dance tutor and merry-maker
“My Pita Wrap so reminds me of my grandmother’s cooking when I was a child in her kitchen. What memories of the good old days! You walk into this cozy establishment, and what you see is what you get. Fresh Arabic bread made daily, spinach pies, Za’atar bread and a little grocery section to buy your needed essentials and ingredients.” Read the full ‘best Flagstaff restaurant’ review below
5.) THE OAKMONT: Regina Salas, Filipino-American gourmand
“The Oakmont is my go-to restaurant in Flagstaff whether for brunch, happy hour or dinner. It’s spacious, with patio seating overlooking the greens at Continental Golf Club. Consistent superior customer service since it opened in 2015 is the major reason why I love Oakmont. Their friendly staff gladly accommodates any dietary restrictions and … Read more below
6.) BEAVER STREET BREWERY: Stacey Wittig, travel writer, outdoors gal, foodie
Beaver Street Brewery’s consistency in food and brews keeps us coming back year after year. They opened their doors and turned on the taps in 1994 when I first moved to Flagstaff. The wood and brick interior reminded me of my old haunts back in Duluth, MN, and so this became my fave hangout… Read more below
7.) OREGANO'S PIZZA BISTRO: Dan Wittig, computer wiz, husband, Xtreme dirt biker
“The fun atmosphere at Oregano’s Pizza Bistro and the friendly servers are two reasons that make this my favorite restaurant in Flagstaff. I’m a fan of their thin crust pizza with black olive and pepperoni. If not in the mood for pizza, my wife orders the Pablo Picasso Mexican salad or Big Beefstro Salad with shaved ribeye. I order the Italian Stuffed sandwich, big enough to take home half.”
8.) BRIX RESTAURANT & WINE BAR: Gordon Watkins, innkeeper, Flagstaff foodie
Since 2006 I have sent thousands of happy B&B guests to Brix Restaurant & Wine Bar located right next door to me in Uptown Flagstaff. Owners Paul and Laura Moir, along with Chef Logan, ensure that the ambiance, food and service meet an incredibly high standard of professionalism. “Farm to Table” is not just a “bi-line,” says Inn at 410 owner Gordon Watkins. See more below
9.) ROUTE 66 DOG HAUS: Scott Talboom, retired Ad Man, apprized Flagstaffian
“When Bill Unkovich, a long-time Flagstaff resident, purchased the Dog Haus, he did something brilliant; nothing. Too frequently, people buy successful restaurants and immediately change everything, often alienating loyal customers and altering formulas that worked. The Dog Haus menu is virtually the same and the atmosphere too,” says Scott Talboom. The rest of the story below
1.) Leave your lunchbox at home recommends Flagstaff foodie Nicholas A. Allen
“It would seem an impossible feat, but for all of the years I have been eating at Jitters Lunchbox, they have not once been less than stellar. I feel like a broken record when asked about my favorites, and there are many other amazing restaurants in Flagstaff, but Jitters is the hands down the best,” says Flagstaff foodie Nick Allen.
This is where to eat in Flagstaff Arizona, for breakfast and lunch
“Jitters Lunchbox offers a weekly featured sandwich and daily soup specials that are always on point. Many of these specials include local and regional ingredients you won’t find anywhere else. See the Santa Fe Carnitas; even though I am lactose intolerant, this sandwich and those Hatch Green Chiles covered in melty cheddar cheese regularly find their way to my plate.
“They do leave me with one burning question, though. How doe Jitters get me to eat piping hot beef barley stew in 90+ degree Arizona heat?
“While their lunch and breakfast entrees are a homerun, their desserts and pastries might be the real all-stars. It’s pretty much a given that I’m taking something to go from Jitters, and that’s usually a freshly baked something times three.
“Forget your lunchbox tomorrow and check out Jitters on the East Side of Flagstaff,” reports Nick when asked where to eat in Flagstaff Arizona.
Nicholas A. Allen, Flagstaff Foodie and owner, Sublimedzine
2.) Flagstaff foodie divulges 'Our special place' at Josephine's Modern American Bistro
“Let me tell you about one of my favorite restaurants in Flagstaff. I love sharing my thoughts about this unique place, Josephine’s Modern American Bistro,” says Jeanne Steiner, Flagstaff REALTOR® and foodie.
“I usually pick Josephine’s when my Dave asks, where do you want to go for lunch or dinner. The ambiance makes me feel so comfortable, and the staff makes me feel so pampered.
“The experience starts when I walk through the door. The building in which Josephine’s is housed has been placed on the National Historic Register for its outstanding example of Craftsman Bungalow architecture. And I love dining in so many of the different rooms,” shares the Flagstaff foodie.
“But when we go there for a special date like our anniversary, my Dave usually calls ahead and requests our special place next to the fireplace. When we arrive, they greet us with, ‘so glad to see you on your special anniversary celebration.’
What to order at Josephine’s, one of the best restaurants in Flagstaff
“Many times, I will choose Josephine’s special – especially if it is scallops. And if not, then my go-to is French Onion Braised Short Ribs over Gruyere and Swiss cheese risotto with a sherry wine caramelized onion sauce.
“And one of my hubby’s favorites is The Seared Scottish Salmon with southwestern farro, organic arugula, blood orange vinaigrette, avocado tomatillo salsa, cilantro pepita pesto and pickled red onions.
“And dessert is always a must, and one of my favorites is the Chocolate Molten Cake with milk chocolate grenache, middle vanilla bean anglaise and raspberry coulis,” Jeanne reveals about one of the best restaurants in Flagstaff.
“Check it out when you’re in town, I highly recommend it!” the Flagstaff foodie says.
“PS: And a secret item that will thrill your taste buds is the Diablo Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese.”
Jeanne Steiner, retired REALTOR®, ABR, GRI
3.) Karma Sushi Bar Grill is 'Out of this World,' declares observatory historian
“As a person who loves good food as much as local lore, I can’t say enough about Karma Sushi Bar Grill, located on Historic Route 66 in downtown Flagstaff.
“Opened in May 2006, this locally owned staple of the strip is, not surprisingly given its name, known for its tantalizing selection of sushi (though it does offer a nice selection of options for the non-sushi people in your group),” says Kevin Schindler, Lowell Observatory historian.
“Karma Sushi’s chefs might better be described as artists. Using as their media a rich array of fresh seafood, perfectly matched garnishes, and exotic sauces, they create masterpieces such as the Kaptain Krunch, Rocky Point, and Kaibab (named after a local Native American word meaning “mountain lying down” in honor of the nearby San Francisco Peaks).
Favorite menu items at my choice for best place to eat in Flagstaff AZ
“Another favorite is the Black Cat, whose name hearkens back to a restaurant that stood on this site decades ago. That eatery gained a certain amount of fame in 1930, for it was here that Clyde Tombaugh ate the night he discovered Pluto at nearby Lowell Observatory.
“In honor of this heritage, the restaurant periodically offers their classic Pluto Roll, stuffed with tempura lobster, snow crab, cream cheese, vegetables, and sauces that results in a flavor that is, well, out of this world,” the long-time Flagstaff resident reveals.
“Upbeat and sophisticated, Karma Sushi is a perfect place to tantalize your taste buds while absorbing some of the rich heritage of this northern Arizona town,” sums the observatory chronicler and book author.
Kevin Schindler, historian, Flagstaff foodie | www.kevinscottschindler.com
4.) Authentic tastes of the Middle East keeps bringing this Flagstaff foodie back
“Why do I go there, you ask? The smells, the tastes. My Pita Wrap Mediterranean Grill so reminds me of my grandmother’s cooking when I was a child in her kitchen!” reminisces Annette Fallaha, Flagstaff dance instructor.
“What memories of the good old days. You walk into this small cozy establishment, and what you see is what you get. Fresh Arabic bread made daily, spinach pies, Za’atar bread and a little grocery section to buy your needed essentials and ingredients.
“You can order authentic beef or chicken shawarma wraps, kefta, lamb, chicken or beef gyros, falafel, fresh tabbouleh, hummus, tahini, garlicky baba ghanoush and more!
“Plus, they have a kids menu too. Whatever you get at My Pita Wrap is freshly made to order and given to you with a smile.
“This family-owned restaurant brings the tastes from the Middle East to Flagstaff so you can experience the food, even if you never have a chance to go there. It’s such a big hit they have regular customers, including the university students who come back time and time again.
They also do catering for groups up to 1000 for all occasions. Don’t want to cook, then call My Pita Wrap and they are happy to take your order for lunch, dinner or that special occasion. You can order online, on Grubhub rated 4.5/5 and see them on Facebook rated 4.8/5, Twitter, Yelp and Instagram too!”
Annette Fallaha, Flagstaff foodie, dance tutor and merry-maker
5.) Where to eat in Flagstaff Arizona? Former City councilmember votes 'The Oakmont'
“The Oakmont is my go-to restaurant in Flagstaff, whether for brunch, happy hour or dinner. It’s spacious, with private rooms for gatherings, and patio seating overlooking the greens at Continental Golf Club. Consistent superior customer service since it opened in 2015 is the major reason why I love Oakmont. Their friendly staff gladly accommodates any dietary restrictions and preferences.
For instance, I recently tried the Steak & Cheese Sandwich and asked to substitute peppers with mushrooms, and side salad instead of French fries. Oakmont creates it with hearty yummilicious shaved ribeye with caramelized onions, provolone and cheese sauce.
I have enjoyed the succulent, flavorful Green Chile Stew on a cold day. It’s pork slowly braised in Hatch green chile served with corn tortilla. The Chicken Nachos platter is meant to be shared as an appetizer or snack while enjoying Happy Hour (daily 3-6 pm).
My all-time favorite is the mouth-watering Spicy Shrimp Tacos with chipotle crema, Thai chili and Pico de gallo. It pairs perfectly with a refreshingly fruity Frosé (frozen rosé with vodka, strawberry, peach, lemon and lime).
Where to Eat in Flagstaff Arizona, for festive occasions
I’ve had plenty of wonderful memories at Oakmont over the years: Mother’s Day brunches with my sons, 4th of July festivities, get-together with besties, fundraising events for local nonprofits, and monthly lunches with my Flagstaff Communicators crew.
Occasionally on weekends in the summer, there are outdoor yoga, Pilates or Barre classes held on the greens. I’ve attended some of those classes with gal pals and then stayed for brunch at Oakmont.”
Regina Salas, a Filipino-American gourmand, living and thriving in Flagstaff since 2006, elected Flagstaff City Councilmember
6.) Best place to eat in Flagstaff, AZ brews 'fave red beer on the planet' says Flagstaff foodie
“Beaver Street Brewery’s consistency in food and brews keeps us coming back year after year,” discloses Flagstaff foodie UNSTOPPABLE Stacey Wittig.
“They opened their doors and turned on the taps in 1994 when I first moved to Flagstaff. The wood and brick interior reminded me of my old haunts back in Duluth, MN, and so this became my fave hangout as a single gal.
“Later, my husband fell in love with the Brewer’s Platter, and it’s been a match made in heaven ever since. The match that I’m referring to is this eatery and us!
“Beaver Street Brewery is our go-to spot when friends come in from out of town or for a casual bite after a day on the trails.”
We’re regulars at this best place to eat in Flagstaff AZ
“If you see us eating at Beaver Street, the plate in front of Dan will most likely contain two bratwursts and one Louisiana hot link, caramelized onions, sweet and sour red cabbage, chunky applesauce, skin-on mashed potatoes with parsley butter and beer-mustard. (That’s a mouthful! Yes, the sentence AND the Brewer’s Platter!)
“I’ll be sipping a Railhead Red—my fave red beer on the planet—and enjoying the Enchanted Forest Wood-Fired Pizza.
“It’s a delightful mess of artichoke-olive pesto, portobello mushrooms, spinach, French brie, roasted red bell peppers, walnuts and more. And, of course, be sure to say ‘hi,'” invites the food, wine and travel blogger.
“All our favorites made it to the post-lockdown menu, including:
- Bavarian Soft Pretzels, the
- Lumberjack Burger served with french fries and the
- Beaver Street Pizza created with roasted garlic pesto, four kinds of cheese including goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes and basil.”
8.) 'Simply the best dining experience in Flagstaff,' states discerning innkeeper
“Since 2006, I have sent thousands of happy B&B guests to Brix Restaurant & Wine Bar located right next door to me in Uptown Flagstaff,” says Gordon Watkins, who owned the Inn at 410, now Bespoke Inn Flagstaff.
“Owners Paul and Laura Moir, along with Chef Logan, ensure that the ambiance, food and service meet an incredibly high standard of professionalism. ‘Farm to Table’ is not just a bi-line for the origins of their creative dishes but is a reality in their use of fresh organic food products sourced from all over Arizona, the Four Corners region and worldwide.
“My most recent dinner here started with their five-cheese board with cheeses from France, California, Wales, Holland, and Spain along with Lavosh, Queen Creek olives, fresh berries and a seasonal fruit spread,” described the owner of the award-winning bed and breakfast.
“Our second course featured a delicious ‘Charred Cauliflower’ with a complement of tangy sauces. My main course of ‘Bronzino’ brought back memories of Italy—buttery Mediterranean Sea Bass with a crispy edible skin on a bed of tangy lentils.
Frank enjoyed the Braised Lamb Shank that melted in his mouth. Pleasantly full after three courses, we declined their yummy dessert menu.”
Best places to eat in Flagstaff, AZ
“We rounded out our dinner with a bottle of Washington State Black Magnolia Pinot Noir 2018, an easy-going wine for our savory courses,” says Gordon.
“Brix wine list is extensive, with many fairly priced wines in the $40-$70 range. Our server Hannah was very knowledgeable about their complete menu, which you can see on their website, brixflagstaff.com and reserve there.
“In my opinion, quite simply the best dining experience in Flagstaff!”
Gordon Watkins
Former owner, The Inn at 410 B&B
inn410.com
9.) 'Delightful dogs keep landmark ROUTE 66 DOG HAUS relevant' says Flagstaff foodie
“When Bill Unkovich, a long-time Flagstaff resident, purchased the Dog Haus a few years ago, he did something brilliant; nothing,” states Flagstaff foodie Scott Talboom.
“Too frequently, people purchase a successful restaurant and immediately change everything, often alienating loyal customers and changing a formula that worked, subsequently going broke.
“The Dog Haus menu is virtually the same and the atmosphere too, right down to a laminated relic, a piece of paper that has been taped to the drive-through window for years about an interview with musician Jackson Browne.
Connect to Eagles’ ‘Take it Easy’
“The story is about the legendary song Take it Easy, recorded by the Eagles. Even more legendary than the song is a line written by Browne that says, ‘I was standing on a corner in Winslow Arizona, such a fine sight to see, it’s a girl my Lord in a flatbed Ford, slowing down to take a look at me.’
“According to the story, Browne wrote the lyrics as he watched a young lady pull out of Der Wienerschnitzel in Flagstaff (the previous name for the Dog Haus) in a Toyota pickup. He just thought Winslow and a flatbed Ford were catchier,” relates Scott.
“While researching the story, I observed that the drive-through line moved swiftly as friendly employees darted out to collect money and credit cards and deliver drinks.
“As for the food, it is truly iconic as well. Scarfing down my favorite all-beef hot dog with sauerkraut, a root beer and small fries, I confirmed that the new owner was wise to leave well enough alone.
“The bun was steamed to perfection, the all-beef dog, in my opinion, the only choice. The hot kraut topping the dog tasted homemade, and the fries were perfect, a little crispy and not greasy.
“Their famous breakfast croissants and burritos are a great way to start a road trip. If you have just visited and headed out of town, the simplistic menu dominated by a plethora of delightful dogs is all that is needed for this landmark to remain relevant.
One of the best places to eat in Flagstaff, AZ
“All in all, the Dog Haus is a must-stop spot in your quest to discover old Route 66. Locals often lament that Flagstaff is just not the same, with big-city traffic and high-rise apartments blocking the view of their beloved San Francisco Peaks.
“The Dog Haus is loved because it is the one thing that has not changed. Some will argue that change is good. However, Dog Haus devotees will likely disagree because of the charm, nostalgia and great food that have endured since Route 66’s glory days.”
Scott Talboom
As is common in the travel industry, UNSTOPPABLE Stacey was provided with accommodations, meals, and other compensation for the purpose of review. While it has not influenced this review, the Arizona travel writer believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest.
In addition, this blog, UNSTOPPABLE Stacey Travel, contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, she will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help reduce the ever-increasing costs of keeping this travel blog active. Thanks for reading.
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2 thoughts on “Flagstaff Foodies Reveal: Where to Eat in Flagstaff Arizona”
I guess you haven’t dined at Cornish Pasty? Food all made on premises and incredibly delish and diverse!
You’re correct! I have not dined at Cornish Pastry. What do you like to order there, Priya?