Safford, AZ, a desert town where the parking is plentiful but the culinary gems require a keen eye. You won’t find the flashiest hotspots here, but what you will discover are family-run diners, authentic Mexican kitchens, and cozy cafes serving up genuinely excellent food with a side of small-town warmth. Let’s dig in.
Subway
$ | (928) 428-3381 | WEBSITE
This budget-friendly sandwich spot is tucked inside a Walmart and feels like it’s been serving up deals since the dawn of the $5 Foot Long. It’s the kind of place you’d swing by with your kids after a long shopping trip or grab a quick lunch during a busy workday. And bringing the whole family is a smart move so you can sample all the vegetarian options and healthier choices, along with those irresistible cookies and chips.
You’re definitely going to want to use the convenient app for ordering, so make sure your phone’s charged before you head over.
Frontier Steak & Spirits
$$ | (928) 348-8400 | WEBSITE
Frontier Steak & Spirits has been serving up hearty meals in Safford for years, with the welcoming vibe to match. The steak here is cooked to perfection, and you should absolutely order the lamb chops and a side of those shoe string fries. But whatever you choose, make sure you save room for the mashed potatoes. No one has ever regretted the cozy atmosphere and attentive owner, even if the service arrangement could use a little polish.
Branding Iron Steakhouse
$$ | (928) 428-7427 | WEBSITE
The inside of this Safford steakhouse feels like a rustic Western lodge that’s also really into valley views (panoramic windows are everywhere). And after sitting at one of their comfortable booths or bar seats, you’ll want to linger here with one of their perfectly cooked steaks all evening. They also have a fantastic bar area and a lot of great food options, like a solid cheeseburger with plenty of toppings and delightful ranch fries, that you should definitely get into.
El Coronado Family Restaurant
$ | (928) 428-7755 | WEBSITE
In the mood for steak picado with perfectly cooked eggs? Or maybe you’re with a friend who wants huevos rancheros and salsa off the griddle, before getting into a southwestern breakfast. Whatever you want, this charming 1960’s cafe has something for everyone.
You’ll want to keep an eye on the well-seasoned steak highlighting more authentic dishes, like the standout salsa, and head here on mornings when you don’t feel like making a reservation—you can walk-up and usually get a table, or, at least, a seat at the counter.
Los Jilbertos Restaurant
$ | (928) 428-4887 | WEBSITE
Los Jilbertos fulfills Safford’s casual Mexican restaurant quota. There’s excellent food, generous portions, and fair prices, and the atmosphere is laid-back and unpretentious, to the point that it could be (and probably is) considered a classic ‘hole in the wall’ spot. There’s also a large parking lot, in case you need to grab a quick bite from the drive-thru or decide to dine in.
Cottage Bakery
$ | (928) 428-5118 | WEBSITE
As soon as you finish the first bite—a buttery croissant sandwich piled high with freshly roasted beef—you’ll know Cottage Bakery is something special. This cozy bakery goes all in on simple, freshly made treats based on classic baking traditions, and has also done the seemingly impossible: make baked goods that look unassuming taste rich and splendid.
From the flaky feta & spinach croissant to the blueberry muffin that feels like eating a spoonful of morning sunshine, Cottage Bakery is a spot you should experience at least once. Be sure to check out their inviting courtyard outside, perfect for enjoying the morning sun.
Trailhead Hideaway Bar and Grill
$ | (928) 428-1289 | WEBSITE
We love the original Trailhead Hideaway in Safford, and this spot makes food that’s just as good, in a welcoming space so you’ll have a great chance of enjoying a relaxed meal when you walk in with a few friends. The pastrami burger is cooked perfectly and packed with flavor, and topped with things like caramelized onions and melted Swiss cheese. Fill out the table with a few dishes from the menu, especially the Philly cheese steak sandwich that’s in the running for our new favorite lunch plate.
Jumbo Chinese Restaurant
$ | (928) 428-2888 | WEBSITE
We harbor an abiding love for this Chinese spot that also happens to feature spectacular flavors and generous portions. Bring a friend, bring your appetite, bring your patience for the occasional wait—just get to this place. The pepper steak is awesome, and you can’t go wrong with any of the classics, like the lo mein or sesame chicken.
Even better is this place provides a pleasant dine-in atmosphere, so be sure to sit back and enjoy as you savor hot egg drop soup and watch the satisfying meal unfold.
Fancy Pizzeria
$ | (928) 424-3663 | WEBSITE
Pizza is the main attraction at this Safford spot. One large pie comes with eight slices for $18.99 (the $24.99 special includes a fresh Cobb salad). They also have a few classic options to choose from, but some of our favorites include the Margherita; the fungi with mushrooms and herbs; and “The Bandit” topped with pepperoni and sausage. This place, which feels like a cozy Italian kitchen with its genuine large pizza oven from Italy and warm lighting, also does serious takeout business.
But there are several comfortable tables inside, so if you want to enjoy the friendly atmosphere, you can dine here, too.
The Main Street Bean
$ | (928) 432-6951 | WEBSITE
The Main Street Bean is a cozy retreat where the coffee flows steadily and the chatter level might make you want to linger all afternoon. This charming cafe looks like an old mercantile store, complete with nostalgic gourmet items and shelves of olive oils and vinegars where simple wooden tables are the norm.
While the turkey avocado panini is a bit standard, the flavorful chicken basil panini and buttery blueberry scones are the perfect companions to all that quality coffee you’ll inevitably order. Either way, all of the food is appreciated, especially after the friendly service that makes you feel right at home.
JOE’S Ride N Dine
$ | (928) 424-2661 | WEBSITE
One of the best burgers in Safford is also at a spot that welcomes big rigs. JOE’S does a pretty damn good double with cheese and bacon, and we like the fries, too. For dessert, skip the regular options and go for the make-your-own ice cream cone that kids adore. The space isn’t fancy, but there’s live music on weekends, so you can also try to catch a show. We love the car show events with extremely family-friendly vibes and owner greetings.