Last Updated on March 25, 2024 by Jerome Local
Jerome, Arizona clings to the side of Cleopatra Hill, its historic buildings and winding roads evoking the copper mining boomtown it once was. This quirky artist community continues to embrace its spirited past while nurturing an eclectic culinary scene drawing praise across the Southwest.
Intrepid travelers have long ventured to Jerome for its ghostly tales, thriving art colonies, and striking views of red rock vistas. But make no mistake – this charming mountain hamlet equally impresses hungry diners.
Stay in a cozy inn or B&B like the Connor Hotel and wake up to the owners’ freshly baked muffins and coffee from Jerome’s own Spirit Room cafe. Wander past galleries and shops hawking work from local artisans and unique vintage finds. Work up an appetite before deciding between upscale seasonal cuisine or a casual burger and brew.
By day, stop by a local vineyard like Caduceus Cellars to sample award-winning bottles from the unique high-desert terroir. Grab a flaky croissant sandwich from Grapes Restaurant while gazing over the Verde Valley. As soon as the sun dips behind the jagged cliffs, make your way to Cellar 433’s subterranean tasting room to discover new favorite local wine varietals.
Jerome’s dining scene captures its dual character – simultaneously old-world rustic and newly revitalized. Residents young and old coexist alongside the town’s infamous ghosts. This distinctive blend infuses Chef Beau MacMillan’s elevated dishes at The Asylum and the hearty Haunted Hamburger with cozy, unpretentious charm.
So come with an appetite when visiting this hilltop hamlet. Jerome stands ready to feed your hunger for local history, stunning landscapes, and culinary ingenuity unlike anywhere else in Arizona.
Here are the best restaurants in Jerome, AZ for 2024:
The Asylum Restaurant:
The Jerome Grand Hotel is home to one of the most unique and acclaimed restaurants in Arizona – The Asylum. Housed within a former hospital that catered to the mental health needs of local miners in the 1920s, the Asylum oozes with intriguing history.
As you enter through the stately front doors into the lobby, the original architecture and decor transport you back in time. Distressed brick walls, analog clocks stuck at 8:30, and antique medical instruments on display create an immersive experience before you even sit down to dine.
The hosts seat you at a table with sweeping views that capture Jerome’s stunning perch within Arizona’s Verde Valley. From your vantage point, the panorama encompasses the red rock cliffs and green valleys that surround this charming historic town. Gazing out, you may catch a glimpse of the hotel’s resident ghosts – former patients who purportedly never checked out.
When perusing the Asylum’s menu, you’ll discover contemporary American cuisine artfully crafted by Executive Chef Beau MacMillan. Dishes feature locally-sourced ingredients from farms in the Verde Valley, Sedona, and Prescott. Starters like the grilled Caesar salad and crispy Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Ravioli whet your appetite. Mains such as the Verde Valley Farms Flat Iron Steak and Snake River Farms Pork Chop satisfy hearty appetites with their tender cuts and skillful preparations.
Complete your culinary experience by pairing your meal with one of the 50+ global wine selections. Sourced from vineyards near and far, the wine list encapsulates Jerome’s history as a thriving wine destination. Named one of Wine Spectator Magazine’s Award of Excellence winners for the past 17 years, the cellar has something to impress every palate.
In atmosphere, history and dining, the Asylum Restaurant stands apart as a singular destination in Northern Arizona. It exemplifies Jerome’s old-world allure and emerging culinary fame through an unforgettable, ghost-filled evening. If you only have time for one memorable meal during your stay, make a reservation at this Jerome jewel.
🔗 Learn More About The Asylum Restaurant In Jerome, AZ
The Haunted Hamburger:
No trip to Jerome is complete without stopping by the town’s legendary burger joint – The Haunted Hamburger. Nestled on a hillside right off the main drag, this charming eatery has been serving hungry visitors and locals for over 20 years.
As soon as you walk up to the cozy stone and wood-beamed building, you already start soaking in those postcard panoramic views. The deck looks out over the Verde Valley, with red rock formations, patches of green forest, and rumpled mining land as far as the eye can see.
The interior transports you decades back when Jerome was a burgeoning mining boomtown. Distressed wood panels, historic black and white photos, and antique mining relics lining the walls create a fittingly ghostly ambiance.
While the haunted history and decor certainly provide some intrigue, most patrons come for the mouthwatering bites. Burgers remain the star of the menu, consisting of 100% pure beef patties seasoned just right and loaded with your choice of classic or creative toppings. Sink your teeth into the popular Pickleburger with garlic dill pickles or the Southwest Burger with Hatch green chiles for a taste of Arizona.
All burgers and sandwiches feature bakery-fresh brioche buns and fillings made in-house or sourced locally whenever possible. Pair your meal with sides like the Verde Valley slaw or chili, along with some Ghost Fries loaded with cheese, bacon, and green onion.
Of course, no burger bar would be complete without local brews. The Haunted Hamburger offers a solid selection of Arizona craft beers, along with Jerome-based wines and spirits. Sip on an IPA from nearby Prescott Brewing Company or a glass of Caduceus Cellars wine from Maynard James Keenan’s vineyard just south of town.
The laidback, welcoming atmosphere makes this Jerome staple popular with visitors and longtime locals alike. Find a cozy table inside or soak up the sunshine on the pet-friendly patio. Just beware – legends tell of previous patrons who loved the food and views so much, they never left! The ghosts of the Haunted Hamburger keep this Jerome jewel lively both day and night.
🔗 Learn More About The Haunted Hamburger In Jerome, AZ
Grapes Restaurant & Bar:
Grapes, once a Pony Express Station, now serves as a quaint, cozy eatery in the heart of Jerome. Their menu offers a variety of Italian and American cuisine, with each dish prepared to perfection. The intimate setting and friendly service make it a great spot for a romantic evening or a relaxed dinner with friends. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of fine Jerome Arizona wine from their extensive selection.
Mile High Grill & Inn:
Located in the heart of Jerome, the Mile High Grill & Inn is a delightful spot offering a blend of comfort food and innovative dishes. This establishment is not just one of the best restaurants in Jerome but also a charming Jerome Arizona bed and breakfast. The menu, which ranges from hearty breakfasts to sophisticated dinner entrees, caters to all palates.
Vaqueros Grill and Cantina:
For those craving Mexican cuisine, Vaqueros Grill and Cantina is the place to be. Their dishes, brimming with authentic flavors, bring the taste of Mexico to Jerome. The restaurant’s vibrant decor and lively atmosphere complement the dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun evening in town.
Jerome, Arizona, might be famous for its copper mines and ghostly tales, but its culinary scene is equally rich and diverse. From the fine dining experience at The Asylum to the casual charm of The Haunted Hamburger, there’s something for everyone in this quaint mountain town. Whether you’re staying at a cozy bed and breakfast or exploring the local bars and wineries, Jerome’s gastronomic delights are sure to make your visit unforgettable. So, when you’re in town, be sure to indulge in some of the best restaurants in Jerome and savor every bite of this unique culinary journey.
