Whether you're looking for creekside dining, panoramic views, or bold Southwestern flavors, Sedona delivers. And at the center of it all are four standout restaurants led by acclaimed Chef Mercer Mohr: Creekside American Bistro, Rene at Tlaquepaque, Rascal Modern American Diner & Bar, and Mesa Grill.
Each of these spots offers something unique, but they all share one thing in common: a deep connection to the local community and a passion for unforgettable food experiences.
Rascal Modern American Diner & Bar: Retro Meets Refined
For something a little more playful, Rascal Modern American Diner & Bar delivers a vibrant take on the classic American diner inside The Wilde Resort & Spa. The space feels colorful and energetic, pairing retro charm with chef-driven cooking that’s fun, polished, and easy to love. It’s an ideal stop whether you’re grabbing a quick bite before exploring Sedona or settling in for a longer meal with friends.
Rascal is a reliable Sedona favorite for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, built around comfort food done right. On the menu, diners keep coming back for standouts like the Crispy Fried Chicken & Honey-Butter Biscuit, the Baja Fish Tacos, and the Rascal Wagyu Burger. If you want something more chef-driven, the Shrimp & Grits is a signature dish, and the Crispy Cajun Spiced Snapper brings a bolder, coastal twist. For plant-based diners, the Vegan Bento Box makes Rascal an easy “everyone wins” pick.
The bar program stays strong too, with well-made cocktails that fit the upbeat vibe. If you want one spot that feels approachable, lively, and consistently delivers on food first, Rascal belongs on your Sedona list.
Creekside American Bistro: Sedona’s Favorite View with a Side of Comfort
Overlooking Oak Creek with front-row views of Sedona’s red rocks, Creekside American Bistro pairs the scenery with bold, comforting food that feels elevated without feeling fussy. The menu blends local and seasonal ingredients with craveable staples like Ahi Tuna Nachos and High Country Shrimp & Grits, plus hearty entrées that hold their own in any big-city dining scene. Guests love the relaxed-meets-refined vibe, from the dog-friendly patio (with a dog menu) to the warm service that makes brunch linger and sunset dinners feel like an event. If you’re planning your day around views and value, Creekside also offers daily happy hour (3:30–5:30 pm) at the bar and bar patio. You’ll also find a strong beverage program with craft cocktails and a deep wine selection that fits the setting.
Creekside American Bistro has been voted by Market Surveys of America as:
- Best Happy Hour (9 years running)
- Best Brunch
- Best Wait Staff (5 years running)
Rene at Tlaquepaque: A Sedona Classic, Reimagined
Located in the heart of the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, Rene by Chef Mercer Mohr stands as one of Sedona’s most enduring fine dining culinary landmarks. Under Chef Mercer Mohr’s leadership, this fine dining restaurant has evolved into a vibrant showcase of European technique and Southwestern ingredients. Guests enjoy filet mignon grilled over mesquite, saffron seafood risotto, and locally foraged mushroom dishes paired with an award-winning wine list that has earned the prestigious Wine Spectator Award of Excellence year after year, including 2025 for its dedication to quality and breadth.
Rene has won consistent praise for its quiet elegance, thoughtful service, and exceptional cuisine on trusted platforms such as TripAdvisor and Yelp. It also holds the DiRoNA Achievement of Distinction in Dining, a mark of excellence that sets it apart in Sedona’s restaurant scene. Under Chef Mohr, the restaurant has earned recognition from the James Beard Foundation as well as honors like San Francisco Chef of the Year, cementing its reputation for culinary leadership.
The romantic garden patio and warm indoor dining spaces make Rene a must for special occasions and those who appreciate the art of the meal. In 2025, it was honored as Sedona’s Best Romantic Restaurant, a testament to its timeless ambiance and unforgettable experience.
Mesa Grill: Scenic Dining with a High-Altitude Twist
Perched atop Airport Mesa beside the Sedona Airport, Mesa Grill is widely regarded as having one of the best views in all of Sedona. Sweeping red-rock panoramas stretch in every direction, with planes landing just steps away, creating a setting that feels uniquely Sedona and impossible to replicate. It’s the kind of place visitors plan their day around and locals proudly bring out-of-town guests to experience. The semi-enclosed, heated patio makes those views accessible year-round, whether you’re starting the morning with coffee or settling in for a sunset dinner.
Mesa Grill serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, focusing on fresh, seasonal dishes with a Southwestern flair. The menu works just as well after a morning hike as it does for a relaxed midday lunch or an early evening meal timed with golden hour. Guests consistently praise the balance of approachable comfort and polished execution, which helps explain why Mesa Grill remains one of Sedona’s most popular restaurants on OpenTable, Yelp, and TripAdvisor. Reservations are frequently booked in advance, especially for patio seating, reinforcing its reputation as a must-visit dining destination.
Mesa Grill at the Sedona Airport has also been recognized by Market Surveys of America, earning top local honors for:
- Best Breakfast
- Best Casual Restaurant
- Best Sandwich
Between the views, the all-day menu, and the steady stream of glowing reviews, Mesa Grill stands out as a quintessential Sedona dining experience that delivers on both scenery and satisfaction.
Supporting Local Makes Every Bite Better
Dining at locally owned restaurants does more than satisfy your cravings. It helps sustain Sedona’s small business community, supports local farmers and artisans, and preserves the character that makes this town special. Each of these restaurants plays a role in Sedona’s culinary ecosystem, creating jobs, sourcing locally, and giving back to the region they call home.
Visitors often come to Sedona for the scenery, but what they discover is a food culture that’s just as inspiring. From elegant garden patios to high-elevation grills and retro-modern diners, Sedona offers a table for every taste.
Plan Your Sedona Food Tour
Here’s how to find these standout dining destinations:
All locations accept reservations through OpenTable and are well reviewed on TripAdvisor and Yelp, but walk-ins are always welcome. If you live in Sedona or the Verde Valley, we’d love to have you in and take care of you. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or you’re a local looking for your next go-to meal, there’s always a great table waiting.
