Good and casual dinner near Oak Creek

Question

Hello,

We will visit Sedona early next month. We will drive to Sedona from Grand Canyon South Rim. We plan to stop at Red Rock Crossing for sunset before getting to our hotel in Oak Creek area. I have made a reservation for Cucina Rustica for the next night. I have a hard time to find a restaurant nearby the Holoday Inn Express Oak Creek. I googled the forum and it keeps showing me the restaurants in uptown which is at least 30 minutes away from Oak Creek( The Vault Uptown, 89Agave Cantina, SaltRock Southwest kitchen, etc). Do you know any casual and good food restaurants in the Oak Creek area? We will be in our hiking gears so don’t want to go anywhere fancy. TIA

Answer

The Oak Creek area in Sedona is quieter than Uptown and has fewer dining options, but there are several casual restaurants where you can enjoy a relaxed meal without changing out of your hiking gear. Most of these spots offer Southwestern, American, or casual Italian fare, and are suitable for a low-key evening after a day of hiking and sunset viewing.

Here are some casual dining options near the Holiday Inn Express Oak Creek:

Wildflower Bread Company – A casual café serving sandwiches, salads, soups, and baked goods. Perfect for a light dinner in a relaxed atmosphere.
Pisa Lisa – Casual Italian restaurant offering pizzas, pastas, and salads. Great for families or groups looking for a hearty, unpretentious meal.
Rasta Pasta – Combines Italian cuisine with a fun, casual vibe. Pasta dishes, pizzas, and seafood options, all in a relaxed environment suitable for hiking attire.
The Hudson – Although slightly more upscale than a café, it maintains a casual feel with scenic views. Serves American comfort food, burgers, and salads in a comfortable, laid-back setting.
Creekside Coffee & Café – If you’re looking for a lighter dinner or café-style option, this spot offers sandwiches, soups, and coffee with a cozy, informal atmosphere.

For a convenient and casual first-night dinner after Red Rock Crossing, any of these options will work well. They’re all within a short drive from Oak Creek and don’t require changing out of hiking gear. If you prefer, you could also stop at a small market or deli for takeout and enjoy a picnic-style meal with views of the nearby red rocks, which is very fitting for Sedona’s outdoor vibe.

Overall, while Uptown has more variety, the Oak Creek area offers a handful of solid, casual options that will be comfortable, quick, and tasty after a day of sightseeing and hiking.

Good and casual dinner near Oak Creek

More Sedona Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions