4 Best Restaurants in Southwestern Utah, Utah

On the stunning grounds of the Boulder Mountain Lodge and a frequent James Beard Award semifinalist, this remote eatery—its creative, oft-changing menu is inspired by indigenous, Western range, Southwestern, and Mormon pioneer recipes—is worth the 40-mile drive from Torrey or 25-mile drive from Escalante along scenic Highway 12. The amiable chef-owners (and cookbook authors) source many ingredients they use—in dishes like braised beef with kale, tomatoes, and green-chile polenta; and pappardelle with smoked trout and farm veggies—come directly from their own organic farm or one of the area's sustainable purveyors.

A charming patio overlooking Ancestor Square with contemporary Southwestern art on the walls provides a romantic setting for enjoying contemporary American fare with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients, many from the owners' private organic garden. Consider chorizo-stuffed quail with a tamarind glaze, followed by a juniper-brined bone-in pork chop with stuffed pears and smoked-tomato relish, and don't pass up the standout sides that include chipotle bread pudding, zucchini fritters, and blue cheese–walnut–stuffed pears. The white chocolate cheesecake tower is a standout among several excellent desserts.

With a palatial dining room with chandeliers and white napery, this elegant restaurant east of downtown (and formerly in Ivins) specializes in haute American and European fare and is a favorite destination for special occasions. Think rich, creamy lobster bisque with Spanish sherry, risotto with black truffles and grilled prawns, fall-off-the-bone lamb osso buco, and chateaubriand for two. Everything, including the sumptuous desserts, is artfully plated.

Cabin decor, friendly service, and canyon views are the hallmarks of this dinner spot 10 minutes southeast of downtown Cedar City by car. Expect traditional, hearty steak house cuisine: teriyaki beef kebabs, prime rib, and shrimp scampi, accompanied by loaded baked potatoes, deep-fried zucchini, and similar sides. Save room for the warm apple crisp à la mode or another of the delicious desserts. Hunting trophies decorate the log cabin–style interior, and in winter deer feed outside while logs blaze away in the big stone fireplace inside.