Flagstaff’s Sunnyside neighborhood might surprise visitors and locals alike with its rich, diverse, and vibrant food scene. Tucked between Fourth Street and Highway 89—just a bit northeast of downtown—Sunnyside serves as a gateway for taste explorers, dishing up everything from homestyle Mexican plates to new-school bakeries and irresistible food trucks. Whether you’re after a quick breakfast burrito or an authentic tamale feast, Sunnyside is where casual comfort meets seriously good eats. Here’s my personal take on the best spots, hidden gems, and signature Sunnyside flavors.
The Heart of Sunnyside Cuisine: Mexican and Latin Favorites
The Sunnyside area owes much of its culinary identity to its longstanding Mexican-American community. Here, flavorful, authentic cuisine is more than just an option—it’s a tradition.
- MartAnne’s East Side
- Where: 1121 E Route 66 (corner of Route 66 and Fourth Street)
- Why Go: The Sunnyside outpost of Flagstaff’s famous MartAnne’s Café brings the same Mexi-fusion flair as its downtown sibling but in a more laid-back, local setting. Breakfast enchiladas, loaded huevos rancheros, and the delightfully spicy chilaquiles are legends in their own right. Prices hover between $10-$15, and the vibrant décor matches the fiery salsas.
- La Fonda Mexican Restaurant
- Where: 1900 N Second St (near Fourth Street and Second Street)
- Signature Appeal: An old-school classic, La Fonda is beloved for its addictively crunchy chimichangas, loaded combination platters, and tamales oozing with red or green chile. Their house-made margaritas bring locals back, and the lively atmosphere feels like a community gathering spot every night.
- Price Range: Most dishes $10–$16.
- Tacos Los Altos
- Where: 3650 E Route 66 (near Fourth Street)
- Why It’s Worth a Stop: Walk in for the house-made salsas, tender carne asada tacos ($2–$3), and super-fresh aguas frescas. The menu is straightforward, reflecting the heart of street-style Mexican food. Perfect for a casual lunch or late-night snack.
Food Trucks and Quick Eats
Ask any Sunnyside local, and they’ll point you toward at least one food truck on a sunny afternoon or after a long shift.
- Tres Amigos Food Truck
- Where: Often parked by Fourth Street and Lockett Road
- Crowd Favorites: Their green chile burritos and elote-coated corn-on-the-cob are perfect grab-and-go treats, packed full of flavor and usually under $7. The family-run vibe and ever-changing daily specials make it a must-visit.
- El Jefe Tacos y Mariscos
- Where: 3500 E Route 66 (rotating), keep an eye out near Sprouts
- What to Try: Bold, Baja-style fish tacos ($3.50 each) and shrimp ceviche tostadas that pack a citrusy punch. Their homemade salsas range from smoky to volcanic.
Bakeries and Cafés: Sunnyside’s Sweet Side
For those who like to start their day with a pastry or wind down with dessert and coffee, Sunnyside delivers.
- Coppa Café & Bakery
- Where: 1300 S Milton Rd #107 (just south of Sunnyside, but worth the few minutes’ drive)
- Why Locals Love It: Coppa’s treats—like flaky almond croissants, scratch-made quiches, and glossy fruit tarts—elevate the neighborhood bakery game. Their commitment to real butter and local ingredients keeps regulars coming back (brunch: $8–$14).
- Dutch Bros Coffee
- Where: 3500 E Route 66
- If You Crave: Fast, cheerful drive-through drinks and pastries. This West-coast favorite pours everything from classic Americanos to wildly adventurous blended "rebels," making it a hit for students and early-bird workers alike.
International Flavors Beyond the Usual Suspects
While Mexican fare is king here, Sunnyside still surprises with some under-the-radar global eats.
- Hiro’s Sushi Bar & Japanese Kitchen
- Where: 5200 E Cortland Blvd #1 (a short jaunt up Highway 89)
- Hidden Gem Status: Locals flock here for fresh nigiri, imaginative rolls, and udon bowls. The lunchtime bento specials ($12–$16) are a budget-friendly way to fill up on quality Japanese food outside of downtown.
- India Palace
- Where: 2700 S Woodlands Village Blvd (not far from Sunnyside, just off Route 66)
- What Makes It Special: Beautifully fragrant curries, pillowy naan, and a lunch buffet that’s both affordable ($15) and deeply satisfying for vegetarians and omnivores alike. It’s an easy way to spice up your Sunnyside food crawl.
Cheap Eats and Family Classics
Dining out in Sunnyside doesn’t mean draining your wallet. Here are some go-to spots when you want great food at friendly prices:
- Fat Olives
- Where: 2308 E Route 66
- The Draw: Authentic, wood-fired Neapolitan pizza for $12–$18 per pie, plus a lively neighborhood atmosphere. Don’t skip the roasted garlic knots.
- Sam’s Club Café
- Where: 1851 E Butler Ave (on the neighborhood’s fringe, but a local hack)
- What Locals Know: The legendary $1.50 hot dog-and-soda combo, plus gigantic churros and pizza slices. Sometimes, classic simplicity (and Costco-sized portions) wins.
Sweet Surprises: Local Treats to Love
You can’t talk Sunnyside without mentioning dessert institutions.
- Miz Zip’s
- Where: 2924 E Route 66
- Why Go: This retro diner is just east of central Sunnyside. Known for homemade pies (the chocolate cream is a must), thick shakes, and old-fashioned malts, it’s the place to satisfy a sweet tooth in classic Americana style.
The Sunnyside Scene: Community & Traditions
Beyond what’s on the plate, the Sunnyside dining scene is about community. Parking lots fill up at dusk, neighbors chat over meals, and the steady hum of food trucks signals the weekend shift change. Local spots sponsor school events, and it’s not unusual for restaurant owners to greet regulars by name.
- Annual tamale fundraisers and local fairs often line Fourth Street, offering a taste of homemade specialties (watch local bulletin boards for announcements).
- Don’t be shy to ask for “the usual” at your favorite Mexican spot—many waitstaff will remember your go-to order after a couple of visits!
Final Bites: Why Sunnyside’s Food Scene Stands Out
Sunnyside might not be the flashiest neighborhood in Flagstaff, but it feeds the city’s soul. Here, flavor comes first, and the best bite is often just around the corner of Fourth Street and Route 66. Whether you’re a taco fanatic, a pastry lover, or just searching for affordable family classics, Sunnyside makes it easy (and delicious) to eat like a local.
So next time you find yourself craving something good in Flagstaff, head north to Sunnyside—where every meal feels a little more neighborly.