As the largest leisure travel agency in North America, AAA has been inspecting hotels and restaurants for more than 80 years.
Whether it be one Diamond or five, receiving any AAA rating means a hotel or restaurant has met the rigorous standards for cleanliness, comfort and hospitality. The vast majority of the 59,000 AAA Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants —90 percent of hotels and 97 percent of restaurants—are rated One, Two or Three Diamonds.
Now, there’s a new way for travelers to sort through the many available options. A “Best Of” designation highlights the top selections within each Diamond Rating level.
Eight Arizona eateries outside of the Valley are among the One and Two Diamond Rated restaurants designated with the “Best Of” title. These restaurants offer notable experiences, surroundings and are worthy of a mini road trip themselves:
Café Cornucopia – Bisbee
AAA Inspector Notes: The small space of this sidewalk delicatessen does not limit the big taste from homemade soups, sandwiches, quiche and fresh-baked desserts.
The Manzanita Restaurant – Cornville
AAA Inspector Notes: Chef Albert Kramer III prides himself on old-fashioned healthy cooking. Set in Verde Valley wine country, this restaurant uses fresh, local produce to accompany fresh meats, seafood, and wild game. The dining room has an old-world ambiance.
Josephine's Modern American Bistro – Flagstaff
AAA Inspector Notes: This renovated historic home provides a casually comfortable setting. The eclectic menu is a showcase for steak, seafood, chicken, lamb and pork dishes prepared with European, Asian, Pan American and Southwestern influences.
Pizzeria Mimosa – Hereford
AAA Inspector Notes: This casual and fun bistro is quite a surprise out in the desert, but fresh imported ingredients and a friendly staff make the drive worth it. The wood-fired pizzas are delicious, as are the many pasta dishes and panini.
Fargo's Steakhouse – Payson
AAA Inspector Notes: The setting here is much like a comfortable lakefront lodge, and the warm welcome from staff starts a pleasant dining experience. Combine steaks and seafood for a hearty meal.
Shannon’s Gourmet Cheesecakes – Prescott
AAA Inspector Notes: An amazingly fresh assortment of cheesecakes and wraps are offered at this fun, family-run restaurant. Many wraps are named after a family member or employee.
Cowboy Club – Sedona
AAA Inspector Notes: One of the more popular restaurants in Sedona, the menu at this eatery revolves around buffalo meat. There are buffalo burgers, flank steak, tenderloin and soup. The casual country decor is fun with lively servers. A long wooden bar serves locally brewed beer.
Zemam’s – Tucson
AAA Inspector Notes: Spicy Ethiopian dishes are served in a casual atmosphere with leisurely service. Forks are offered, but the traditional style of eating with fingers always is acceptable. The restaurant allows diners to bring their own bottle of wine for a corking fee.
Find more “Best Of” selections at AAA.com/123Diamonds.
