5 New Food Discoveries in Arizona

I always think of food as a huge part of the culture when traveling to a new destination. During our family vacation to Arizona last summer, I said "Wow!" more times than I could count. The food scene is completely different than I am used to on the East Coast. Local food production is a big part of their life and it has to be with the extreme temperatures and weather patterns. We tried new foods that I've never experienced before, as well as familiar foods that are grown a bit differently which adds to their flavor. 

Five New Favorite Tastes And Food Discoveries In Arizona

Prickly Pear

My number one new taste I discovered is the prickly pear. And it's surprisingly very good for you. Prickly pear is known for its healing properties, including antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. It's high in fiber, antioxidants, and carotenoids. Many people believe it can be used for treating diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity and even hangovers. With a gorgeous pink color, this cactus fruit is sweet and used in many refreshing culinary specialties. We tried prickly pear margaritas and lemonade at Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock and prickly pear sorbet at Rocky RD Ice Cream, also in Sedona. We became so obsessed with it, we left with prickly pear syrup and candy. ​I'm not sure about the healing properties but it's delicious! 

Prickly Pear Cactus

Prickly Pear Sorbet

Prickly Pear Lemonade and Prickly Pear Margarita

Citrus

I was truly surprised how much citrus is growing in Arizona. I always thought citrus needed an overzealous amount of water to grow but citrus happens to be one of Arizona's biggest producers. There are acres and acres of orange and citrus groves found in many areas. Even on the grounds of the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa they have a variety of beautiful lime trees growing right on the property. They use them in their restaurants and don't miss sampling them in the guacamole!     

Lime trees

Limes waiting to be used in delicious guacamole.

PB&J Brisket sandwich?!

You are making a face, right? This is a taste you have to try! At Jalapeno Bucks in Mesa, Arizona, they serve this creative brisket sandwich and it's a hit. It may sound odd but think smoky tender brisket with a creamy nutty and fruity sauce set on a buttery bun. There you have it! It's an original mouthwatering taste you'll want to keep coming back for. 

Foodie Tip: You'll need to ask for this specialty since you won't find it on the menu. ​

Peanut Butter & Jelly Brisket Sandwich from Jalapeno Bucks.

Breakfast wine

Wine for breakfast? Well, if that's how they do it in Arizona, I'm in! ​

Garage-East in the Barnone Craftsman community of Gilbert, Arizona makes a refreshing citrus flavored wine. It's not really meant to drink for breakfast but it beautifully compliments a brunch or light meal. AND it comes in a can! 

Breakfast Wine from Garage East

The Seafood

Who would think that you'd come to Arizona to eat seafood? It's not full of fishing villages or vast beaches. But the seafood is phenomenal everywhere we went. From a seafood tower in Scottsdale to lobster and various shellfish in Sedona, it was amazingly flavorful and fresh. I had more lobster in Sedona than I usually enjoy on the East Coast. Don't hesitate to order the seafood when dining at Mariposa, Latin Inspired Grill or Cucina Rustica in Sedona, Arizona. It's wonderfully decadent and prepared perfectly!  

Lobster Mashed Potatoes at Mariposa

Fresh Pasta and Seafood at Cucina Rustica

We loved all of our new food experiences while visiting Arizona. But we barely scratched the surface of what this gorgeous state has to offer and we can't wait to get back to taste more.

One of the best ways to discover new foods and tastes when visiting a new destination is to take a food tour. We discovered a fabulous tour given by VisitMesa. They provide a history and hearty sampling of many kinds of new food. Definitely hop on the Fresh Foodie Trail if you visit Mesa, Arizona. ​

Do you have a favorite food from Arizona? Leave it in the comments below...I'd love to hear! ​