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In the southwestern corner of the state, reflecting the pioneer heritage of the region, traditional and contemporary American cuisines are most common, followed closely by those with Mexican and Southwestern influences. St. George and Springdale have the greatest number and diversity of dining options. Around St. George there are a number of restaurants that serve seafood; keep in mind that at nicer restaurants the fish is flown in daily from the West Coast; at the less expensive locales the fish is usually frozen. Because this is conservative Utah, don't presume a restaurant serves beer, much less wine or cocktails, especially in the smaller towns, and don’t be surprised if you are carded no matter what your age. Most restaurants are family-friendly, and dress tends to be casual.
This laid-back Springdale institution has been delighting locals and tourists since the late 1980s, offering a well-rounded menu that includes fresh fish and pasta dishes, but the emphasis is on creative Southwestern fare, such as roasted-sweet-potato-and-pork tamales and chili-rubbed rib-eye steak. Craft beers and the popular house-made sangria complement the zesty cuisine.
Prepare for an active day with a filling breakfast, or reward yourself after a long hike with lunch or dinner at this welcoming Southwestern café with a big, inviting patio offering stunning mountain views. The pork verde breakfast burrito and huevos rancheros are hearty and delicious, and excellent lunch and dinner options include flame-broiled garlic burgers topped with provolone cheese and shrimp tacos with a creamy lime sauce.
This upbeat, art-filled eatery inside the town's former post office focuses on slow-cooked meals made from scratch, such as the Kanab-A-Dabba-A-Doo burger, a half-pound patty topped with Hatch chilies, bacon, cheddar, and avocado, and a chargrilled bison tenderloin with a fig demi-glace. Several excellent vegan options are available, too, such as yellow coconut curry with miso-marinated tofu.
