Zion National Park is known for its towering red cliffs, slot canyons, and some of the most breathtaking hikes in the country. The surrounding towns of Springdale, La Verkin, and Hurricane offer a mix of small-town charm and easy access to outdoor adventure.
While the landscapes are unforgettable, the local food scene turned out to be a surprise highlight of our trip. We spent just over a month exploring the area, hiking by day and checking out local restaurants by night.
From casual food trucks to sit-down spots with personality, we tried a little bit of everything. Here’s a look at some of our favorite eats around Zion.
Oscar’s Cafe
Oscar’s Café in Springdale, Utah, started as a humble walk-up eatery, but 21 years after Hank and Kathy Moore took over, it’s become a beloved full-service spot just outside Zion National Park.
We stopped in for the Oscar’s Chicken Burrito, and it did not disappoint—crispy on the outside, stuffed with chicken, beans, rice, and all the good stuff you want in a burrito. It’s advertised as Tex-Mex but felt more like Colorado-Mex, if you ask me.
But the real star of the meal was the carrot cake, which came out warm with the icing gently melting over the top. We’re not usually carrot cake people, but this one changed our minds completely—it was rich, soft, and hands-down the best we’ve had. Just look at that thing….
The cozy atmosphere and mountain views make it even better. There’s something special about dining at a place born from a casual promise and a love for European-style cafes. Whether you’re wrapping up a hike or just passing through, Oscar’s is a must.
Red Fort Cuisine of India
Red Fort Cuisine of India, tucked behind the Ramada Inn, serves up bold, flavor-packed Indian dishes that are worth seeking out.
On one visit for a to go order, we tried the lamb vindaloo with garlic naan—the lamb was tender, the sauce rich and tomato-forward with just the right medium spice level, and the naan, though a bit thin, had great flavor that paired beautifully with the curry.
On another visit, we dined in and ordered chicken vindaloo, vegetable samosas, and more garlic naan. The samosas were crisp and golden, served with two sauces: a sweet, plum-like chutney and a mildly spicy green sauce, both enhancing the savory filling.
The chicken vindaloo was spot-on again—deeply spiced, aromatic, and perfectly balanced.
Dining in seemed to offer slightly more generous portions than takeout, and the naan arrived warm and perfectly cooked. Whether you go for lamb or chicken, the vindaloo here is consistently excellent. If you can, grab a table inside—you won’t regret it.
Zion Pizza & Noodle Company
Zion Pizza & Noodle Co., founded by father-son team Bruce and Josh Vanderwerff, blends decades of culinary expertise with a warm, welcoming atmosphere — oh, it’s also located inside a repurposed old church. We stopped in for dinner and were blown away.
The grilled chicken fettuccine Alfredo was rich, creamy, and loaded with Parmesan, with big chunks of broccoli and carrots that made it as hearty as it was delicious—just as perfect as I remembered from the last time we’d visited many moons ago.
The Focaccia Pizza was a standout, topped with green olives, fresh tomato, chopped basil, and a drizzle of olive oil over an airy, flavorful crust. The combination was light yet full of bold, briny notes from the olives. Every bite felt thoughtfully crafted, and the ingredients tasted fresh and vibrant.
Between the stunning setting, friendly service, and outstanding food, it’s a spot I’d recommend to anyone visiting Zion National Park. Simply put, Zion Pizza & Noodle is unforgettable.
Muddy Bees Bakery
Muddy Bees Bakery in Hurricane, Utah, is a charming spot run by a beekeeper and a baker who put heart, honey, and heritage into everything they make.
Known for using honey from their own bees, the bakery even features a live beehive you can view right in the middle of the shop — a fun, local touch that kids and adults alike will love.
We tried their giant cinnamon roll, which had great flavor but was just a bit overbaked, as that often happens with oversized pastries.
The mini orange sweet roll was a highlight, bursting with citrusy zest and topped with just the right amount of icing (extra available on the side).
The “Muddy Pie” — a rich blend of peanut butter and chocolate on an Oreo crust — was our favorite and an absolute must-try.
Their hot chocolate cake was indulgent and gooey, with fudge, marshmallow fluff, and whipped cream layered to perfection.
But the tres leches cake also stole the show for us — easily one of the best I’ve ever had, soaked just right and finished with a perfect dusting of cinnamon. It’s a bakery that buzzes with warmth, creativity, and serious dessert game.
Peruvian Flavors
Peruvian Flavors in Hurricane, Utah is a hidden gem serving up bold Peruvian cuisine with a Venezuelan twist—and it’s seriously worth a lunch stop.
We tried a few arepas, starting with the Reina Pepiada (chicken, mayo and avocado) and were immediately hooked. The chicken was tender and shredded just right, but the real star was their house-made green and red sauces—layers of complex flavor that are hard to put into words. The cheese and butter arepa may sound simple, but with a splash of that red sauce, it became something craveable.
The shredded beef empanada was another winner, wrapped in a sweet cornmeal crust and filled with deeply flavorful stewed beef.
Even the fries impressed us, especially when used as a vehicle for those addictive sauces. They also offer ice cream, and discounts for veterans and students, which just adds to the charm. It’s casual, welcoming, and one of those spots where you can taste the pride in every bite.
MeMe’s Cafe
After a long hike in Zion, we grabbed dinner at MeMe’s Café — a charming local spot in Springdale, Utah, located right in the heart of town near shuttle stop 5. Opened in 2012 by Mechelle “MeMe,” who turned her lifelong love of cooking into a dream come true, this café offers hearty, comforting meals with a personal touch.
We tried the Very Berry Crepe, generously filled with a tangy mix of berries and topped with a vibrant compote — the crepe itself was a bit rubbery, but the flavors were all there.
The bacon and egg burger stole the show, layered with crispy bacon, melty cheese, a fried egg, and creamy Hollandaise sauce. It came with golden waffle fries that were perfectly crunchy.
What truly stood out, though, was the staff — some of the friendliest we’ve ever met, making us feel right at home. MeMe’s isn’t just about good food — it’s about the warm, welcoming vibe that perfectly matches the beauty of Springdale and Zion.
El Rancho
El Rancho in La Verkin, Utah, may be small in size, but it delivers on flavor. We ordered chimichangas to go, each filled with tender carne asada, rice, and beans, then topped with sour cream.
While the cheese was missing—a detail that would have added extra richness—the flavors still held their own. The tortilla had a satisfying crunch from the fry, giving way to well-seasoned, hearty fillings.The carne asada was flavorful without being overpowering, and the rice and beans added comfort-food substance.
It’s not fancy, but it’s the kind of honest, satisfying food you hope to find in a roadside spot. A little more attention to the details would make it great, but as it stands, El Rancho is worth a stop if you’re craving a crispy, flavorful chimichanga after a day of exploring.
Siam Sapp Thai Cuisine
Siam Sapp Thai Cuisine in Hurricane, Utah, may be small, but it stays true to its roots with recipes inspired by the owner’s upbringing in a Southern Thailand village. The name itself means “Spicy Delicious,” and the flavors live up to it.
We started with steamed dumplings, perfectly tender and paired with a bright ginger soy dipping sauce.
The chicken Pad Thai (spice level 2) had just enough heat to make our nose run, while the chicken Pad See Ew (level 1) packed surprising spice for a mild order. The Pad Thai was flavorful and well-balanced, better than versions we’ve had elsewhere.
Portion-to-protein ratio aside, the fresh ingredients and authentic taste still shone through. If you’re craving Thai with a true backstory and a touch of heat, Siam Sapp is worth a visit.
Dixie Pizza Wagon
Dixie Pizza Wagon in Hurricane, Utah, may look unassuming, but it delivers seriously impressive pizza from a small building in a cozy food truck park. You can actually watch them bake your pizza right in their outdoor wood-fired oven, which adds a fun, personal touch to the experience.
We ordered a half pepperoni, half chicken bacon ranch—though it leaned heavier on the pepperoni—and both were delicious. The crust was perfectly cooked with that classic wood-fired texture, and the sauce had a homemade, slightly sweet flavor that really stood out.
The chicken bacon ranch had great toppings, including red onion and BBQ sauce, though the ranch itself was hard to taste. Still, the ingredients were clearly high quality and the pizza was extra cheesy in the best way. It’s a laid-back spot with serious flavor, perfect for grabbing a fresh, hot pie after a day of exploring southern Utah.
Bonrue Bakery
Bonrue Bakery in St. George, Utah, is a European-style gem founded by three chefs with serious culinary cred, including experience at iconic spots like French Laundry. We tried a trio of pastries, and each one had its own charm.
The blueberry croissant was unique—flattened with a light cream cheese topping and fresh blueberries, not overly sweet, and beautifully flaky. The milk chocolate croissant was a showstopper, both in looks and taste, perfectly layered, rich, and buttery. But the real standout was the vanilla cronut, filled with smooth vanilla custard and impossibly crisp and tender. It was my first cronut and I was pretty much immediately hooked.
Bonrue breaks bread daily in honor of their late co-founder Chris Herrin, and it’s clear his passion lives on in this bakery. It’s a must-visit if you’re in town and craving pastries done right.
Little China Taste of Asia
Little China Taste of Asia in St. George, Utah, serves up authentic Chinese comfort food that’s both flavorful and well-prepared. We tried their lunch specials to go, which came with egg drop soup—hot, thick, and exactly as it should be—and hot and sour soup with a nice kick of spice.
The chicken lo mein was a standout, packed with flavor without being overly oily, while the fried rice was light on its own but came alive with a splash of soy sauce.
Orange chicken was tasty, though light on the actual orange flavor, and the General Tso’s chicken was crisp, not overly breaded, and full of savory goodness.
The cheese rangoon hit that perfect sweet-and-creamy note, and the egg roll had a fresh veggie filling and nice seasoning. You can tell the kitchen takes pride in what they serve—everything tasted freshly made. For a casual, satisfying meal, Little China lives up to its reputation.
River Rock Roasting Company
River Rock Roasting Company in La Verkin, Utah, is the perfect stop for a quick breakfast or a leisurely break with stunning views of the Virgin River canyon.
We grabbed breakfast to go and tried Aunt Becky’s Bodacious Bun—a cinnamon roll that might just be the best in the area. It was perfectly baked, super soft, and topped with rich, flavorful icing that made every bite feel like a treat.
The Big Bad Wolf burrito was equally impressive, packed with bacon, sausage, ham, red potatoes, pepper jack cheese, and eggs. Don’t skip the salsa—they give you some on the side, but trust me, ask for extra because it really elevates the flavors.
River Rock roasts their coffee with care on a vintage Diedrich roaster, sourcing beans from fair-trade farms, so you know your morning cup is top-notch. Their baked goods are made fresh daily using local ingredients when possible, making this a true taste of Southern Utah. Whether you’re headed to Zion or just passing through, this cozy spot is worth the stop.
Archie’s Food to Die For
Archie’s Food Truck is a great little roadside stop if you’re headed toward Bryce Canyon and need a quick, satisfying bite. We cooled off with their mango slushy—ridiculously sweet in the best way, packed with flavor, and perfect for a hot day.
The Utah Philly cheesesteak was a standout: flavorful meat, cooked just right, and refreshingly light on cheese, which gave it a cleaner, more balanced taste than your typical Philly.
Archie’s menu has a solid range, and if I went back, I’d be curious to try the chicken tenders next. Friendly, fast service and casual outdoor vibes make it a fun stop.
The Stage Coach Grille
Stage Coach Grille in La Verkin isn’t your typical cookie-cutter roadside stop—it’s a made-from-scratch, slow-cooked kind of place where quality comes first. Owned by lifelong restaurateurs Benito and Dania, who took over from mentor and former owner Rich Tabish, this spot feels personal in all the right ways.
We stopped in for dinner and tried the chicken fried chicken with mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, and a house salad. The salad was fresh and the house-made ranch stood out—it’s the kind of dressing you actually remember.
The chicken had a unique breading, and while the mushroom gravy wasn’t our favorite, the mashed potatoes were creamy and well-seasoned. The veggie medley had great flavor but could’ve used a bit more cook time.
Still, there’s something honest and comforting about the whole experience. If you’re tired of chain restaurants and want a meal with heart, Stage Coach Grille is worth the stop.
The Big Chill
If you’re craving something cold and fun in Hurricane, Utah, The Big Chill delivers big-time. This tiny shaved ice hut—tucked next to Dixie Pizza Wagon in a cozy food truck lot—serves up ultra-fluffy snow with an impressive lineup of flavors, from the classics to creative combos.
We tried the Hurricane Tiger (a punchy blend of hurricane and tiger’s blood), the Spider-Man (strawberry and blue raspberry with nerds on top), and the Moana (pina colada, blue Hawaiian, and coconut cream)—and honestly, each one hit just right.
The Moana especially stood out with its creamy, tropical vibe. You can even add ice cream underneath or choose sugar-free options if that’s more your speed. Bonus: they serve “pupcones” so your dog doesn’t get left out. Whether you’re a shaved ice purist or love trying wild new combos, The Big Chill is a cool little gem perfect for beating the southern Utah heat.
The Creamery (Bonus Location)
The Creamery in Beaver, Utah, is more than just a pit stop—it’s a slice of local dairy history dating back to 1952, when area farmers came together to build the original plant. Their deep-rooted commitment to community shows not only in their support efforts—like donating over 360,000 servings of dairy since 2019—but also in the care they put into their food.
We started with lunch at the Creamery Kitchen and the braised short rib grilled cheese did not disappoint: tons of tender meat on hearty multigrain bread, though it could’ve used a bit more cheese to match the name. The au jus, however, was rich and flavorful and made the sandwich shine.
We also tried the patty melt—classic and satisfying with melty cheese, grilled onions, and tangy dressing on toasted marble rye.
But the real standout? The ice cream. We tried Monkey Business and Brownie S’more, both packed with flavor and served in fresh, perfectly crisp house-made waffle cones that were just as good as the ice cream itself.
Final Word
After spending over a month exploring Zion National Park and the surrounding towns, we came away with more than just incredible hikes and scenic views—we found some truly memorable food. From hidden gems in Hurricane to cozy stops in Springdale and La Verkin, the local dining scene surprised us in the best ways.
Whether it was a wood-fired pizza, a giant plate of chicken fried chicken, or a scoop of homemade ice cream, each place added something special to our trip. The passion and friendliness of the people behind these restaurants really stood out. You can tell many of them are deeply rooted in the community and love what they do. If you’re visiting Zion, don’t just fuel up—make the food part of the adventure.
Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo. He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio.
