Alexandra Baum

Arizona is a culinary treasure trove, offering an eclectic mix of flavors and experiences that mirror its diverse culture and history. From authentic Mexican cuisine influenced by its geographical neighbor to innovative Southwestern fusion, there’s a world of flavors to explore in the Grand Canyon State. Let’s embark on a gastronomic journey to uncover some of the hidden gems and must-try dishes across Arizona.

The Heart of Mexican Traditions: Tucson & Beyond

Tucson, a designated UNESCO City of Gastronomy, is the perfect starting point to dive into authentic Mexican cuisine. One of the city’s standout dishes is the Sonoran hot dog, a mouth-watering concoction of a bacon-wrapped hot dog, pinto beans, onions, tomato, and mayonnaise, nestled in a soft bolillo-style bun. El Güero Canelo or BK’s are famed spots to try this local favorite.

Beyond hot dogs, Tucson’s culinary landscape thrives on traditional Mexican dishes. Taquerias like Taqueria Pico de Gallo offer tacos filled with succulent carne asada, while Café Poca Cosa provides an upscale twist on classic Mexican flavors, with a menu that changes twice daily to showcase the freshest ingredients.

Phoenix’s Fusion and Fine Dining

Phoenix, Arizona’s bustling capital, is a melting pot of culinary innovation. Here, Southwestern cuisine meets global influences, creating a fusion that’s uniquely Arizonan. Restaurants like FnB and Binkley’s offer menus that reflect the region’s agricultural bounty and culinary creativity, serving dishes like prickly pear cactus tacos or mesquite-grilled rabbit.

For those seeking a taste of Arizona’s fine dining scene, Kai at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass offers a luxurious experience with Native American-inspired dishes, using ingredients sourced from the Gila River Indian Community.

Flagstaff’s Foodie Renaissance

In the northern part of the state, Flagstaff is experiencing a foodie renaissance. The city’s cool climate and eclectic community have given rise to a range of eateries that highlight local ingredients and innovative cooking. Places like Proper Meats + Provisions champion the farm-to-table ethos, offering locally sourced meats and artisanal sandwiches.

For a unique dining experience, try Shift Kitchen & Bar, where the menu offers inventive plates that challenge conventional flavor combinations, like beet tartare or smoked trout doughnuts.

Sedona’s Scenic Suppers

In Sedona, the stunning red rock landscapes provide a breathtaking backdrop for dining. Restaurants here blend exquisite views with equally impressive cuisine. Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill offers panoramic vistas alongside a South American-inspired menu, featuring dishes like grilled Argentinean beef and Chilean sea bass.

For a taste of local wine, visit Page Springs Cellars, where you can enjoy a glass of Arizona-made wine paired with artisanal cheese and charcuterie, overlooking the verdant vineyards and Oak Creek.

Uncovering the Gems

Arizona’s culinary scene is as varied and vibrant as its landscapes. From the historic Mexican influences of Tucson to the innovative fusion flavors of Phoenix, the hearty and homegrown offerings of Flagstaff, to the scenic and sumptuous eats of Sedona, there’s a plate for every palate in the Grand Canyon State. So, next time you find yourself in Arizona, venture beyond the usual tourist spots and dive into the local foodie scene—you won’t be disappointed.

Arizona, a land of stark contrasts and breathtaking landscapes, offers more than the iconic Grand Canyon and the red rocks of Sedona. Beyond these well-known tourist attractions lies a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover the lesser-known attractions and off-the-beaten-path destinations that make Arizona truly unique.

The Wave, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

In the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, The Wave presents a geological marvel with its undulating sandstone formations. This surreal, wave-like structure, accessible only by a lottery-permit system, rewards the lucky few with its intense, swirling colors and is a dream for photographers seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Antelope Canyon X, Navajo Tribal Park

While Antelope Canyon often captures global attention, Antelope Canyon X offers a more serene yet equally stunning experience. This lesser-known section of the canyon features narrow slot canyons and dramatic light beams, providing a peaceful alternative to its more famous counterpart.

Bisbee: A Quirky Historic Town

Bisbee, nestled in the Mule Mountains, is a vibrant town rich in mining history. Its Victorian architecture, colorful houses, and unique art scene create a charming and eclectic atmosphere. Explore the underground mine tours, visit local art galleries, and relax in quaint cafés or breweries.

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, home to the world’s largest natural travertine bridge, is a marvel often missed by visitors. Trails offer stunning views of the bridge and pine forest, while paths descending into the canyon allow visitors to stand beneath the impressive 183-foot arch.

Montezuma’s Castle

Venturing into central Arizona reveals Montezuma’s Castle, an ancient cliff dwelling that offers a glimpse into the lives of the Sinagua people who inhabited the area over 600 years ago. This well-preserved structure, nestled within a limestone cliff, showcases the ingenuity of native architecture and provides a fascinating window into the past.

The Mogollon Rim

The Mogollon Rim features an extensive escarpment with panoramic views of Arizona’s diverse landscapes. It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities, with viewpoints that showcase the state’s lush forests and desert valleys.

Chiricahua National Monument

Chiricahua National Monument, the “Wonderland of Rocks,” is a mesmerizing landscape of towering rock spires and hoodoos in southeastern Arizona. Its trails wind through a fantastic rock forest, providing solitude and unique natural formations.

Arizona’s hidden wonders extend beyond the common tourist trails, offering unique experiences and a deeper connection with the state’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the geological marvels of The Wave to the ancient cliff dwellings of Montezuma’s Castle, Arizona’s best-kept secrets are a testament to its diverse and rich landscape. Embark on a journey off the beaten path and discover the secluded splendors and untold stories of this magnificent state.

A recent trip with the Rancho Feliz Charitable Foundation to Agua Prieta, Mexico provided a weekend of community building, providing food and shelter for those in need

 Recently Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty and the RL Foundation, the non-profit charitable and service work branch of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, returned to Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico to continue building houses with the Rancho Feliz Charitable Foundation and assisting individuals at the local migrant center who were deported from the United States and awaiting asylum. 

 “There is nothing like a weekend at Rancho Feliz to put life into perspective,” said Stephanie Stewart, president of the Russ Lyon Foundation. “The work Rancho Feliz does to help the quality of life for those just across our border is heartwarming. It is an honor and it is humbling to be able to serve those who have so much less than we do. It makes you grateful for all that you have, but also increases your desire to share more of what you have.”

Upon the group’s arrival in Agua Prieta, Mexico, the team from RL Foundation, which consisted of 26 agents, owners, managers and their families, visited a local Migrant Center that is dedicated to assisting individuals deported from the United States or awaiting asylum. The center provides essential resources such as food, water, and clothing, and aids in transportation back to their places of origin. The team was deeply moved by the heartbreaking stories of two women seeking refuge from the violence of the Cartel in southern Mexico, said Stewart. 

 Following their visit, the team spent the weekend with the dedicated staff of the Rancho Feliz Charitable Foundation, with whom they engaged in meaningful work, contributing to the construction of three houses led by RFCF and assisting at a dog rescue facility. Completing two houses, handing over the keys to families, and participating in the painting and drywall installation of the third house marked a rewarding experience. 

“The Russ Lyon Foundation has been involved with Rancho Feliz for 10 years,” said Founder of the RL Foundation Todd Gillenwater. “The RLF provides multiple education scholarships for children, direct financial investment and annual hands-on service work weekends. The consistency of RLF support helps Rancho Feliz budget and plan for future growth and stability, while providing our real estate advisors and employees the soul-nourishing opportunity to help so many deserving people that live so close to us, yet a world apart.”

 The group dedicated their final days to aiding a dog rescue that housed 160 dogs, many of whom would either find homes in the US or spend their lives at the shelter. Followed by serving local families as they distributed 750 bags of food and warm blankets to those living in extreme poverty. The food bags, designed to sustain a family of five for a week, were distributed based on a careful selection process by a food distribution committee. Recipients earned their provisions by collecting a minimum of 20 discarded plastic bags or bottles, fostering a sense of community involvement and environmental responsibility.

Branch Manager Sherri Monteith, who brings her son with her each time she goes, stated that “Grateful isn’t a sufficient enough word to describe this experience, however, it’s all I have. To be born where we were, to have the opportunity to serve those in need is a feeling like none other. Watching a single mom have a safe place for herself and her children, providing food for a family and even the dogs are going to live a better life because of these efforts is something that you can’t buy, you just have to feel.”

The trip to Agua Prieta not only allowed the team to witness the challenging circumstances faced by migrants and those living across the border, but also provided an opportunity to actively contribute to positive change. 

To view photos from the RL Foundation’s trip, visit https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1vErk5jXgraekuHu0JZoxnK0XOdZV6FDE?usp=drive_link.

Across the state of Arizona, real estate agents achieve significant milestones in their careers every month. This January, we are proud to have been part of these REALTORS’ first sales as Global Real Estate Advisors with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty!

Enjoy!