Flagstaff: What Food dost Thou Giveth?

Flagstaff is an open-minded kind of place, and the culture here is one that has respect for different modes of life. Downtown Flagstaff is made up of restaurants that represent a wide array of cultures, and at places like Mountain Oasis, the world’s different cuisines are celebrated under one roof. In a way, Flagstaff’s culture can really be defined by its appreciation of all cultures.

Still, two cuisines have risen above the rest to make an imprint on Flagstaff’s culture of food: Mexican and Native American. I challenge anyone to drive 5 minutes in any direction within Flagstaff’s borders and not find a Mexican restaurant. Mexican food is such a staple in Flagstaff that even non-Mexican restaurants include at least a couple of these menu items. If I were to consider one type of food that I make which represents Arizona and Flagstaff, it would be Mexican. Native American food is nowhere near as prevalent, but prior to living here I didn’t know what fry bread was, so it has clearly made an impression on at least one person.  

In my mind there is no signature dish that defines what food is to Flagstaff, but rather the variety and diversity of food represent the receptiveness to different experiences and the desire to learn about others that characterize this little mountain town.