The Best Restaurants in St. George, Utah (2026 Guide)
St. George has quietly become one of southern Utah’s most exciting food destinations. What was once a stopover town for travelers heading to Zion National Park now boasts a diverse culinary scene that ranges from elevated Southwestern cuisine to authentic international flavors. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or refueling after a day on the trails, these restaurants deliver memorable meals against a backdrop of red rock landscapes.
Upscale & Fine Dining
Painted Pony – 6762967629
Widely regarded as St. George’s best restaurant, Painted Pony sits on the upper level of Ancestor Square downtown. The menu showcases contemporary American cuisine with Southwestern influences: think pan-seared duck breast with chipotle cherry sauce, and elk tenderloin with juniper berry reduction. The rooftop patio offers sweeping views of the red cliffs at sunset. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends. Expect to spend -70 per person for dinner. See our Fine Dining guide for more upscale options.
Cliffside Restaurant – 6762967629
Located at the Holiday Inn Resort near Snow Canyon, Cliffside delivers a polished dining experience with panoramic desert views. The menu leans into steakhouse territory with prime cuts, fresh seafood flown in daily, and creative seasonal specials. Their wine list is one of the most extensive in the region. Sunday brunch is a local favorite. Budget -80 per person for dinner.
Xetava Gardens Cafe – 67629$
Tucked into the village of Kayenta near Ivins, Xetava Gardens is equal parts restaurant and art gallery. The globally-inspired menu changes seasonally and features dishes like Moroccan lamb tagine, Thai coconut curry, and house-made pasta with locally foraged mushrooms. The outdoor garden patio, surrounded by desert landscaping and sculpture, creates an atmosphere unlike anything else in the region. Dinner runs -45 per person.
Casual & Mid-Range Dining
George’s Corner Restaurant & Pub – 67629
A downtown St. George institution occupying a historic corner building, George’s Corner serves American comfort food with flair. The menu covers everything from gourmet burgers and fish tacos to hearty salads and craft cocktails. Their weekend brunch draws crowds for dishes like lemon ricotta pancakes and eggs Benedict with house-smoked salmon. Live music on weekend evenings makes this a great after-dinner hangout. Entrees -28.
Wood Ash Rye – 67629$
One of St. George’s newer additions, Wood Ash Rye brings a farm-to-table ethos and wood-fired cooking to the downtown scene. House-made breads, handcrafted cocktails, and seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms define the menu. The industrial-chic interior with an open kitchen creates an energetic atmosphere. Dinner -40 per person.
The Granary – 67629$
Located at the Advenire Hotel in downtown St. George, The Granary emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and craft cocktails in a stylish setting. The menu rotates seasonally but consistently features creative dishes that push beyond typical southwestern fare. Their bar program, helmed by skilled mixologists, is worth a visit on its own. Dinner -45 per person.
Twisted Noodle Cafe – 67629
An eclectic neighborhood bistro known for creative pasta dishes, fresh salads, and house-baked breads. Twisted Noodle keeps things approachable with generous portions and reasonable prices. The patio seating is lovely in the cooler months. Great for a relaxed weeknight dinner. Entrees -22.
Riggatti’s Wood Fired Pizza – 67629
St. George’s go-to spot for wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza. Riggatti’s uses imported Italian flour and San Marzano tomatoes to create blistered, chewy-crust pies that rival anything you would find in a big city. The margherita is a purist’s dream, and the prosciutto and arugula pizza is the most popular order. Also check our Best Pizza guide for more options. Pizzas -18.
International & Specialty Cuisine
Sakura Japanese Restaurant – 67629
The best sushi in St. George, with a full menu of Japanese classics including teriyaki, tempura, and ramen. The fish is surprisingly fresh for a desert city, and the presentation is meticulous. Lunch specials offer excellent value. Dinner -30 per person.
Benja Thai & Sushi – 67629
Authentic Thai cuisine alongside a solid sushi bar, Benja consistently ranks among locals’ favorites. The pad Thai and green curry are reliable standouts, and the lunch combos provide great value. A good option for groups with diverse tastes. Entrees -24.
Viva Chicken – 67629
Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken that draws dedicated fans from across the region. The birds are marinated for 24 hours and slow-roasted over wood charcoal, creating juicy, deeply flavorful meat. The green aji sauce is addictive. A family meal with sides runs about -40. For more global flavors, explore our Mexican Food guide.
Best Restaurants by Budget
| Price Range | Restaurant | Cuisine | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| $ (Under ) | Viva Chicken | Peruvian | Quick family meal |
| 67629 (-25) | George’s Corner | American | Brunch & casual dinner |
| 67629 (-25) | Riggatti’s | Italian/Pizza | Wood-fired pizza night |
| 67629 (-25) | Twisted Noodle | Bistro | Weeknight dinner |
| 67629$ (-45) | Wood Ash Rye | Farm-to-Table | Date night |
| 67629$ (-45) | Xetava Gardens | Global | Unique atmosphere |
| 67629$ (-45) | The Granary | New American | Craft cocktails |
| 6762967629 (+) | Painted Pony | Southwestern | Special occasions |
| 6762967629 (+) | Cliffside | Steakhouse | Views & fine dining |
Tips for Dining in St. George
- Reservations: Essential at Painted Pony, Cliffside, and Xetava Gardens, especially Thursday through Saturday. Book 3-7 days ahead during peak season (March-May, September-November).
- Happy Hour: Several restaurants offer food specials during early evening hours. Note that Utah liquor laws prohibit happy hour discounts on spirits.
- Tipping: Standard 18-20% for table service. Many restaurants have moved to counter-service models post-pandemic where 15-18% is appropriate.
- Peak Times: Locals dine early. Arriving by 5:30 PM often means skipping the wait. Weekend brunch at popular spots fills up by 9:30 AM.
- Dietary Needs: Most restaurants accommodate gluten-free and vegetarian requests. See our Vegan & Vegetarian guide for dedicated plant-based options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best restaurant in St. George for a special occasion?
Painted Pony is the top choice for celebrations, offering refined Southwestern cuisine, excellent wine pairings, and a rooftop patio with red rock views. Cliffside Restaurant is the runner-up, especially if your group prefers steaks and seafood.
Are there good restaurants open late in St. George?
St. George is not a late-night dining town. Most kitchens close by 9:00-9:30 PM on weeknights and 10:00 PM on weekends. George’s Corner and a few downtown spots stay open latest. For late-night bites, national chains along St. George Boulevard are your best bet.
Do I need reservations at St. George restaurants?
For casual spots, walk-ins are usually fine on weeknights. For Painted Pony, Cliffside, Xetava Gardens, and The Granary, reservations are recommended any night of the week and essential on weekends during peak tourist season.
Where should I eat with kids in St. George?
George’s Corner, Riggatti’s, and Twisted Noodle are all family-friendly with kid-pleasing menus. Check our full Family Restaurants guide for more options with play areas and kids’ menus.
Can I find good food near downtown St. George?
Ancestor Square downtown is the culinary epicenter, with Painted Pony, George’s Corner, and several other options within walking distance. The Granary at the Advenire Hotel is also downtown. This is the best area for a restaurant crawl without needing a car.
