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    Elote Cafe

    4.5 (3.4k reviews)
    PriceyBars, Mexican
    Closed Closed

    Elote Cafe Photos

    ELOTE CAFE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Good for kids
    Happy hour specials

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    Recommended Reviews - Elote Cafe

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    Carne asada
    Jo B.

    I want to write this review in hopes of saving someone else from making the same mistake I did. I was incredibly excited to dine at Elote Café and managed to score a dinner reservation less than a week before my trip to Sedona, which is practically impossible if you've ever tried to get in. The anticipation was high, and unfortunately, the experience did not live up to the hype. For context, I'm from California and am accustomed to fresh, authentic Mexican food. To be fair, Elote Café does not claim to be authentic Mexican cuisine. If that's what you're looking for, this is not it. The menu leans much more toward a Tex-Mex/fusion style. Drinks The margaritas were fine. We requested Tajín rims, which they accommodated, but the presentation felt underwhelming for a restaurant of this reputation and price point. High-end cocktail programs typically include thoughtful touches--dried citrus, smoked cinnamon, herbs, or something that elevates the experience. These arrived as basic margaritas with salt and a lime wedge. Appetizers The complimentary chips and salsa were just okay. The salsa had an unexpected sweetness that didn't work for me. The famous Elote, however, absolutely deserves the praise. It was the best thing I ate all night--savory, balanced, and packed with flavor. Easily a 10/10. The guacamole was also excellent. No complaints there. Entrees The chicken enchiladas had flavorful chicken, but the green sauce was overwhelmingly tart and lacked the seasoning needed to balance that acidity. The shrimp and pork belly dish was disappointing. The pork belly was good, but there were only two very small pieces. The shrimp were underseasoned and lacked flavor. The carne asada was the biggest letdown of the night. It arrived covered in a red sauce that seemed to be attempting an enchilada-style sauce, topped with pickled onions and a slice of bleu cheese. While I appreciated the pickled onions, the bleu cheese felt like a strange addition to a carne asada dish. More importantly, despite being described as a prime cut skirt steak and cooked rare as requested, the meat was surprisingly tough. Rice&Beans The entrees came with rice and beans. The beans were acceptable, though nothing memorable. The rice, however, tasted like boxed or instant rice. At a restaurant where a dinner for four can easily approach $300, I expect better than something that tastes like it came from a pantry packet. It's a small detail, but details matter when a restaurant has built its reputation around being a must-visit dining destination. Dessert By this point we had no intention of ordering dessert, but we were celebrating a birthday and received a complimentary ice cream dessert. It was actually very good. The vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, and caramel sauce all tasted house-made and had a rich dulce de leche flavor. Final Thoughts Our bill was nearly $300 for four people, and the overall experience simply wasn't worth the cost. Aside from the elote and guacamole, most dishes felt underseasoned, unbalanced, or failed to justify the restaurant's reputation. What puzzled me most was seeing several empty tables throughout service. Given how difficult reservations are to obtain, I expected the restaurant to be completely full. This is one of those restaurants where the hype far exceeds the reality. If you're worried about missing out, don't be. In my opinion, you're not.

    Mexican chocolate pie
    Cindy N.

    Wow, what an incredible meal! My hubby made a reservation exactly one month ago because this place gets packed, and now I completely understand why. I feel so lucky to have tried it! The elote appetizer was bursting with a charred corn flavor and coated in a creamy, tangy sauce with just the right amoun of spice. The goat cheese balls were crispy on the outside and warm ant flavorful in the inside, and the freshness of the veggies with each bite was absolutely balancing. For the mains, I had the smoked pork cheek, which was unbelievably tender and savory. My hubby's shrimp and pork belly dish was cooked nicely. It was juicy and well cooked shrimp with tender pork belly that combined nice with the sauce. Both dishes were easily 9/10 or higher. The salsa deserves a shoutout too. It was fresh and chunky, with a nice balance of heat and flavor. We finished with the Mexican chocolate pie, and that was rich and decadent, and not overly sweet. Absolutely to die for. MUST TRY!

    Karen A.

    The corn bisque was next-level--rich, creamy, and layered with flavor. The natural sweetness of the corn paired beautifully with the earthy depth of huîtlacoche, while the white truffle crema added a subtle, luxurious finish. It struck that perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory that made it hard to stop eating. The elote appetizer was just as memorable. The fire-roasted corn brought a nice char, while the spicy mayo gave it a gentle kick. The squeeze of lime added brightness, and the cotija cheese tied everything together with a salty finish. Every bite was creamy, tangy, and full of bold flavor. For entrées, we tried both the brisket and chicken enchiladas. The brisket enchiladas were standout--made with 14-hour smoked prime Niman Ranch brisket, they were rich, tender, and deeply flavorful. The roasted tomato chipotle sauce and cream added a smoky depth that complemented the meat perfectly. The chicken enchiladas were also delicious, featuring house-smoked organic free-range chicken with salsa verde and a chipotle crema. They had a lighter, slightly tangier profile but were still packed with flavor and very satisfying. Both dishes came with black refried beans, and rice. Unfortunately, those sides didn't quite match the quality of the main dishes and were the only part of the meal that fell a bit short. One thing to definitely plan for--this place stays packed. Reservations are a must, and honestly, you should try to book a month or two in advance. Even the bar seating requires a reservation. We arrived right before they opened at 5:00, and by 5:20 the restaurant was already completely full. Overall, the main dishes were incredibly well-executed and full of flavor--absolutely worth the effort to get a reservation.

    Buffalo mole poblano
    Mike L.

    The stories and reviews are true. If you're in the Sedona area, you need to eat here. We got lucky when someone canceled and we were able to grab their 5:00 reservation. If you're planning to visit, make a reservation so you don't miss out. The service, atmosphere, and food are all top-notch. When you walk in, you're greeted by the hostess and shown to your table. The décor feels like a blend of Southwest and Mexican styles. Shortly after being seated, they bring out chips and salsa. Our server, Eric, was very knowledgeable about both the food and the tequila (I got the El Tesoro flight, which he and I had a nice conversation about). For food, we had the elote, pork belly tacos, corn-crusted scallops, and the buffalo mole poblano. The elote had a slight sweetness from the corn, the pork belly in the tacos literally melted in your mouth, and while the scallops were slightly overcooked, they were still very good. The buffalo mole poblano was also excellent, and that's coming from someone who isn't a huge fan of mole.

    Elote
    Niki R.

    The biggest tip I can give you is if you want to eat here and can't get a reservation - ask to be put on their cancellation list. We showed up without a reservation- couldn't get in - but then the next day they called and gave us 3 different time options. This place is absolutely worth the hype! Their cocktail program is on point! If you like tequila or mezcal- give their sotol based cocktail a go. It's a different more earthy flavor. I believe that the mark of a good Mexican restaurant is its salsa -- and this one had a smoky flavor that kept us going back for more. I had to force myself to stop eating it so as not to ruin my appetite for dinner. No matter what you order -- their namesake dish is an absolute must! The elote is incredibly well made. Great kick to it. We licked the bowl clean. Even my picky teenager devoured it. The lamb adobo was epic! A gorgeous lamb shank perfectly cooked in a sauce that I ate with a spoon! Kids ordered pork belly tacos and seafood tacos and ate every last bite. The flan was delicious. I don't like it's very goopy. This was firm and custardy all at once. The Goldilocks texture!

    Hibiscus Margarita and Elote
    John C.

    This place was definitely all the hype and it delivered. We were able to get a reservation although they do allow walk-ins if available. We got there right as they were opening and were welcomed right inside. We were greeted with chips and we immediately ordered some margaritas. We ordered a mezcal margarita and hibiscus margarita to start the night and these were delicious. We also ordered an Elote because can't come to Elote and not order an Elote. Our waiter was on point and gave us great recommendations. We went with the Lamb Adobo and shared it as it was a massive portion. The waiter served us quick and the food came out rather quickly. We had some dessert cocktails to end the night and then made our way to explore the rest of what Sedona's night had in-store for us. Will definitely be back!

    Elote Dip
    Kim M.

    Long overdue review... I have been wanting to come here forever! I have their Cookbook, so yeah! And truly did not disappoint! We were in Sedona end of March (Spring Break!). Definitely make reservations. We had the Elote Appetizer, my Husband had the Duck Carnitas and I had the Calabacitas Chile Relleno. So so amazing! If you're in Sedona, this Restaurant is a can't miss!

    Carne asada
    Andi S.

    A friend recommended this café in Sedona, and I'm so glad we tried it, it was amazing! It's centrally located right in downtown, which is super convenient, though parking can be a bit tricky. Totally worth it, though. We started with the elote and the nopales salad, wow. The elote was packed with flavor, and the nopales salad was incredible. I'm not even usually a big nopales fan, but this completely changed my mind. It had so much flavor and was so well balanced, such a unique and robust flavor profile, definitely try it! For our entrée, we had the carne asada, and it was phenomenal. You can really tell the owner cares deeply about the quality of the food and the flavors being served. Everything tastes intentional and thoughtfully prepared. The space itself is super cute, and the staff was amazing, friendly, welcoming, and attentive. I'm so glad I got to try this spot and would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Sedona!

    Short rib enchiladas
    Larry D.

    Sat at the bar. Service was great. Very nice selection of spirits. Elote was delicious. Short rib enchiladas were very flavorful. Halibut dish was the star of the evening. Highly recommend this place

    Red & White Sangria
    Tina A.

    During our recent stay in Sedona we were fortune enough to secure two reservations at Elote fefe & it truly exceeded our expectations. Their new location is classy, warm & Inviting with a rustic Southwestern vibe. Parking was surprisingly easy to find, thanks to the numerous public lots in the uptown area. The staff at Elote are incredibly attentive and helpful, ready to make suggestions if you have any questions about the menu. The drinks at Elote are simply incredible. On our first night we indulged in the unique and creative Blackberry & Prickly Pear Margarita & the stronger, more traditional Fresco. On our second visit we tried their refreshing Red & White Sangrias. Every dish we ordered was beautifully plated & an explosion of flavor. The Elote appetizer is their signature dish and I highly recommend it to everyone! The Smoked Pork Cheek melts in your mouth and pair so well with the cascabel chile sauce & "grandma's corn cake". The Chicken Enchiladas were also amazing but it was the Beef Brisket Enchiladas that stole the show at our table. On our second visit, we opted for a combination of appetizer and larger plates. Our server recommended the goat cheese balls and they are deep fried balls of deliciousness. The Calabacitas Chile Relleno was a very tasty & creative vegetarian dish. The Seafood Tacos are a great option if you want a lighter meal. Perfect contrasting flavors with the honey marinated sea bass & shrimp, the spicy cabbage and creamy avocado. The Pork Belly Tacos were also very tasty, but it was heavier than the seafood tacos. We made sure to save room for something sweet as we remember Chef Jeff's unique spin on desserts. The Mexican Chocolate Pie is decadent - a frozen chocolate pie with a candied almond crust and strawberry drizzle. The Pastel de Elote is a unique sweet corn cake studded with sweet corn kernels & served warm in a cast iron skillet along with dulce de leche and vanilla agave ice cream. It's a flawless way to end two perfect dining experiences! Elote once again exceeded all our expectations and we can't wait to dine here when we next visit Sedona!

    Rebecca A.

    I feel Elote is overhyped. First, there is no view. Second, the food is solid but also a tad on the bland side. The dishes were not especially inspired nor unique either. The service was also middling. Perhaps they are very busy but we received few check ins during our meal at the bar. While it is a good meal, there seems to be better choices available in the area.

    Our left over food that might be better off in a compost pile!
    Simon S.

    Our first visit to Sedona was magical except for two less than impressive things: the roundabouts that was worst than going to the dentist and our take out food from Elote Cafe that was only good to vortex it down the drain. (Please look at my photo of the sad leftovers). We had written down all of the suggestions of things to do in Sedona and Elote Cafe was at the top of our list of things to do. Apparently getting a reservation at this place is super difficult to get, so we decided to order takeout. Elote dip, pork cheeks, green tamale, carne asada, pork belly tacos and corn cake for dessert. The elote dip was enjoyable especially when eaten with chips, the green tamale was better off used as a trampoline at a kids party (it was spongy, flavorless and possibly good to scrub your dishes), the carne asada was dead like the cow it came from and flavorless, the pork belly tacos were barely edible because of the overwhelming sour taste of lemon, and last but least was the corn cake, it was dry and about as exciting as a retirement home party. We wasted our money thinking that a place with a waiting list to get on would be an experience just like everything else we experienced in Sedona but instead Elote Cafe is a bad tourist trap that has as much charm and taste as Del Taco. Save your money and look elsewhere for some great Mexican inspired food even if it means you need to travel to Tucson.

    Carne Asada
    Melly T.

    We sat at the bar because we didn't plan ahead and snagged a reservation a couple of hours before. But it did not disappoint! Service and food was on point. It was so good that we ended up coming back here the next night. Our fave was their sweet corn bisque and the elote ....omg they are definitely a must have! My hubby had the Carne Asada which was flavorful and tender. I had the Seafood Tacos which I thought was just so so. For desert, we tried the Mexican Chocolate Pie which was rich and decadent. As for the ambience, it's definitely more casual and loud. Lots of birthday dinners.

    Beautiful ambience and view!

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    One of my absolute favorites! I recall many past meals there with fondness! Can't wait for next time! Highly recommended!

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    Elote Cafe Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Elote Cafe

    Is this place fancy or casual?

    Plenty of folks wear jeans, while some opt to dress up. The ambiance is on point but casual.

    If you don't have a reservation, do they take walk ups?

    Nope they are not taking when I tried in Jan 2025

    Is this place Kids friendly?

    Yes. My daughters are pre-teens, but I saw families dining with younger children.

    Solo traveler. Can you walk in for bar seating?

    I don' think so. We ate at the bar with a reservation.

    Should we try a last minute walk up?

    You mean like an uninvited guest? I wouldn't. You pay a premium for the great quality and service.

    Is your lamb halal?

    I don't think any of their meats are halal

    Do they have gluten free options?

    Yes they do my wife has a gluten allergy and enjoyed her meal at Elote.

    How can i get a reservation i've been calling for days and website is not available?

    I have found that the website is not always accurate regarding open slots for reservations. I have always called and have been successful in talking with a real person and getting a reservation. Keep trying.

    Is the patio worth sitting out at on a cold night? I know they have heat lamps but didn't know the vibe and views of the patio area.

    Not too much of a view, specially at night. We went on a cold night and the patio was completely empty. I think sitting outside might be fun during the summer but unsure of cold nights.

    I don't see any time slots on open table. Do you guys take walk-in?

    Yes. You can walk in but there may be a wait

    Is there a dress code?

    The dress code is casual.

    I'm trying to reserve a table for 3 people (05/29/2021) and the app don't let me do it. So I tried to call but not body answer the phone. Can you please give me an option to reserve a table for this date ? Thanks 😊

    Hello-- Good question! We currently accept reservations up to 31 days in advance at 12:01AZ time via our website. www.elotecafe.com At this time, your reservation date is not yet available to book. As always, if you need any further assistance feel… 

    Do you take phone reservations? I have open table app but it doesn't locate the restaurant. It is frustrating. I will be visiting from 4/29-5/2. Thank you so much!

    Access OpenTable reservations for Elote by linking from Elote's website. As discovered, you won't find it via OpenTable search.

    Since reservations are only for indoor dining, how does one get an outdoor table?

    In you reservation, note you want an outside table. They accommodated our request.

    Do they cater?

    Hello, at this time we do not offer any catering. Thank you for your inquiry.

    Do they have the correct number listed? I'm trying to call to make reservations and it's constantly "busy" tone. I've called (no joke) 50 times 😂 thanks in advance!

    Yes, it is possible that you have called over 50 times and there has not been an answer, they are that popular and better yet, that much tastier! Took me 45 minutes of continuous trying and finally got through. Made reservations for the three… 

    Is the vegetable mole VEGAN or vegetarian?

    Our vegetable mole verde dish is vegetarian however with a few modifications it can be a vegan entree as well.

    Is Elote finally open yet😭? Been waiting to return to this place ever since my last visit in spring before they closed. I want to bring my family this time so if anyone could let me know that would be awesome!

    Call the Arabell hotel because it's part of the hotel.

    Are they open Thanksgiving 2019?

    No, they beautifully allow their staff to celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas with their families.

    Are there VEGAN (not vegetarian) options beyond salad?

    Why don't you just call the restaurant and ask?

    View All 24 Questions

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    Tamaliza

    Tamaliza

    4.5
    (1.4k reviews)
    1.3 mi
    $$

    Wow. Incredible find. Supremo Tamale was off the charts delicious…read more Personable, fast service. Authentic A+. Don't hesitate to stop in.

    Ok so I was so excited to go here. There is something really comforting about a tamale done right!…read moreThe glowing reviews and pictures seemed promising. The restaurant itself has a lot of character, it full of textures and colors, had a cute little fountain outside. It just feels homey and welcoming. The menu...is hella pricey for a tamale. I mean even with inflation these days I could get a tamale at most spots where I live for like half the price. I just told myself it's Sedona just except it lol so I went wild and got their extra special tamale with lots of topping to make it a more complete meal. I chose the chicken mole for my filling. I also got their dairy free horchata. First thing the horchata was delicious! Creamy, great texture, not to sweet, seasoned just right. Extra points for being dairy free as milk is not my bodies friend. The tamale however was a major let down. I was so close to just sending it back, but was on a time crunch and starving. The masa was so salty. The mole sauce was barely existent and had no complexity or flavor really. I didn't taste the chocolate or the Chile . Just blah. The toppings and horchata helped make it possible to consume despite the saltiness. So overpriced salty tamale gets 2 stars, ambiance 5, and horchata 5, which is why this place gets a three stars overall. I wanted to love this spot so bad, and maybe it was a bad day, or the wrong thing to get...but their name is literally tamaliza. Their tamale should have rocked my world.

    Photos
    Tamaliza
    Chicken mole tamale
    Chicken mole tamale
    One of the best bites in Sedona!

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    One of the best bites in Sedona!
    Mesa Grill - Sedona

    Mesa Grill - Sedona

    4.1
    (1.9k reviews)
    2.2 mi
    $$
    Locally owned & operated
    Outdoor seating

    The BEST breakfast and lunch food in Sedona!…read more If you like hatch chile (my New Mexico peeps know!) the quilaquiles are to die for!!! The best I have had outside of New Mexico. Their green chile sauce is next level - never change it!?! Burger was also phenomenal! Inside is great - views of the airport are so fun. There's also a patio space.

    This is hands down the worst meal that I have ever had, ever. I actually feel obligated to warn…read morepeople away from this restaurant. Even the cocktails were bad. But the food? Awful. We left both of our meals 3/4 uneaten. We had the calamari as an appetizer- it was soggy, but that wasn't the problem tbh- it was the other two dishes we ordered: the southwest pasta tasted bad. How do you screw up pasta? The description of the dish sounds delish, pasta, mushrooms, chicken, spinach in a tomato cream sauce, it was horrible. Something must have been spoiled in the above listed ingredients to have it taste that way. I had ordered the chicken lettuce wraps as my main and it tasted reheated. The Paloma and Smoky peach margarita had way too much alcohol and also had zero flavor, we asked for them to be removed from our bill because we could not drink them. You can enjoy sunset without eating here as there is a lookout. Save yourself the waste of money and don't eat here. We literally left the Mesa Grill and had to go grab food elsewhere. This place is a tourist trap.

    Photos
    Mesa Grill - Sedona
    Mesa Grill in Sedona, perfect venue for your special day! Call (928)282-2400
    Mesa Grill in Sedona, perfect venue for your special day! Call (928)282-2400
    Mesa Grill - Sedona

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    Elote Cafe - bars - Updated July 2026

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