Friday, May 27, 2016

Food in Flag

This is going to be controversial. But I can take it.

We have some awesome food in Flagstaff. So awesome in fact, I would encourage everyone to never eat at a chain restaurant again. The local food here is rich, fun and will keep you wanting more. By supporting local you are supporting Flagstaff which is something we can all get behind.

I visit each of these places as often as possible. While there are MANY more yummy goodies to find in our town, I went with those I immediately think of when someone asks where to go get food. I also tried to give some variety (anyone who knows me knows I lean toward eating Mexican food all the time, so I tried to ensure the top 5 weren't homogenous).

5. Criollo
Mmmmm just the name of the restaurant makes me think: MARGARITAS!!! And they are so fresh, cool and unique. I had a butternut squash margarita here....like, what??? What are they thinking?!?!? Clearly they are thinking great things because I remember it so vivdly as being one of the best margaritas of my life.

Criollo is a latin themed bistro with an inspired menu. Their breakfast, lunch and dinner are just perfect. They serve local Arizona goodies and the menu is consistently changing to accommodate what is in season. I am always impressed by their chips and salsa, nachos, tacos and really everything about this place.

4. LaFonda
When I was a freshman at NAU I heard about a hidden mexican restaurant only known among locals. I had to find it. In the middle of a snowstorm I loaded up my little Ford Ranger with a few friends and we made the trek across town to discover this diamond in the rough. While sliding in the ice and being terrified my truck would get stuck in the snow we found it and instantly become infatuated.

Margaritas, horchatas, enchiladas, tacos, burritos...oh my. I was and am obsessed. This place gets packed and for a good reason. While the atmosphere isn't the most clean, the food makes it worth it. LaFonda serves the best enchiladas I've ever had. And as you stuff your face with chips and salsa, your meal and cocktails you think "I can't possibly eat more." But just then, they bring out the sopapillas. Pillows of fried dough and honey nestle on your table and suddenly an opening in your tummy is created so you can enjoy this special treat.

3. Fratellis
Perfection in a box. Best pizza in Flagstaff, possibly best pizza I've ever had. This place is no joke. I get jalapenos and sun-dried tomatoes on mine and am set. Great prices, great venues and just delicious. I don't even need to write anymore, the pizza speaks for itself.

2. Diablo Burger 
While I can't speak to the actual meaty burger (which I consistently hear is incredible) I can speak to the veggie burger. Perfection in a bun. I get the Netsky with a fried egg and green chilis. You'll order inside, but I recommend finding a spot outside to hangout while you wait for your basket of goodness to arrive. You'll receive about 1000 french fries along with a gigantic burger. Savor each moment, it is just so perfect.

1. Karma
Tempest. Enough said. While I love every sushi roll I have ever had there, the tempest is what you'll dream about.I don't even know what is in it. I just know it is what brings me back as often as I do. When locals think sushi, they think Karma. The venue is gorgeous and the wait is worth it. They have a great happy hour and so many sushi varieties to choose from.

Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Hiker Update!

Well it has been a long road, but I am here. I underwent a major surgery weeks ago and have been missing my trails, being outside and exploring Northern Arizona. While I hated being away from my favorite pieces of life, it gave me time to research more places to explore for you all!

Being away and incapable of hiking has made me appreciate it 100x more. The moments of deep breath, smelling pine and the crunch of dirt I hear with each step were gone. The moments of connecting with trails and trees and other hikers were deleted for what feels like forever.

This weekend I make my return. While I can't fully dive into a huge hike until I feel 100% healthy, I am thrilled to tie my hiking shoes, buckle my hiking belt and fill up my Nalgene.

So get ready for me to be back in gear with blogging and helping you discover all that is Northern Arizona!!!