The 3 Best Lunch Experiences in Scottsdale
Scottsdale isn’t just about desert panoramas and upscale resorts; it’s a lively hub for memorable lunch experiences that combine scenic beauty, good food, and unique local activities. Whether you’re craving a private wine tasting, a full-day adventure exploring Arizona’s natural wonders, or a VIP winery tour, this city offers options that go beyond the ordinary. With access to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and renowned wineries, Scottsdale’s lunch outings are a perfect way to enjoy the region’s rich offerings while satisfying your appetite for adventure and flavor.
In this guide, we’ll compare the best lunch experiences available, highlighting what makes each one special, who they’re perfect for, and how to choose the right one for your trip. From personalized private tours to full-day explorations, you’ll find options that suit different interests and budgets. Read on for the inside scoop on these standout experiences.
Quick Overview
Our top picks include a private day trip to Sedona, blending hiking, lunch, and wine tasting (The Sedona Experience), an extended guided tour exploring the Grand Canyon and Sedona with a scenic lunch (Scottsdale: Grand Canyon National Park and Sedona with Lunch), and a VIP winery tour in Verde Valley that combines four vineyards with gourmet picnic fare (Wine Tasting from Scottsdale). Each offers a different way to enjoy Arizona’s natural beauty and its top food and drink spots.
1. The Sedona Experience – Hiking, Lunch and Wine Tasting (Private Tour)
At number one, this private full-day tour offers an immersive taste of Sedona’s red rock scenery combined with wine tasting and local dining. It’s ideal if you want a personalized experience that balances outdoor activity with relaxation. The tour kicks off with a moderate hike through iconic red rock formations, giving you a chance to appreciate the area’s natural beauty firsthand. After working up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch in town, with time set aside for some shopping.
The highlight is visiting two of Page Springs’ premium wineries, where you’ll sample a full flight of Arizona wines. The private nature of this tour means your schedule can be flexible, and your guide can tailor the experience based on your interests. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5.0 rating from 77 travelers, praising the personalized attention and scenic stops.
This experience is perfect for travelers who want a full-day, all-inclusive excursion that combines hiking, wine tasting, and local dining. It’s a bit pricey at $375 per person but offers a richly tailored day with excellent value for those seeking a private, memorable outing.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a comprehensive, personalized day that showcases the best of Sedona’s outdoors and wine scene, this tour is an excellent choice.
2. Scottsdale: Grand Canyon National Park and Sedona with Lunch
Number two on our list is a full-day guided trip covering Arizona’s iconic sights — the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Red Rock State Park (scottsdale-grand-canyon-national-park-and-sedona-with-lunch). For $270, you get a well-rounded experience that’s perfect if you want to see multiple highlights in one day.
The tour includes breathtaking views from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and free time to explore the Grand Canyon Village. Afterward, you’ll travel to Sedona’s Red Rock State Park, where stunning geological formations await. A delicious included lunch fuels your exploration, and the guide shares insightful commentary along the way. This trip is highly praised, with a near-perfect 4.8 rating and comments emphasizing Cody, the guide’s, extensive knowledge and attentive service.
This tour suits travelers interested in geology, natural wonders, and multiple sightseeing stops, making it an efficient way to see three major Arizona attractions in one day. The 13-hour duration means a long day, but the trip’s organization keeps it comfortable and enjoyable.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a comprehensive, guided day of scenic vistas, cultural sights, and a tasty lunch, this trip hits all the marks.
3. Wine Tasting from Scottsdale – 4 Vineyards & Includes Lunch
Number three offers a VIP-style winery tour through four award-winning vineyards in the Verde Valley, with a focus on luxurious tasting and gourmet picnic fare. For $300, you’ll be transported in comfort to some of Arizona’s top wineries, starting at Alcantara Vineyards, which boasts over 20,000 vines and 17 varietals. As you sip, you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, including a grass picnic area and views of the Verde River.
Next, you visit Javelina Leap Vineyard, a family-operated boutique winery known for award-winning wines, and DA Ranch, which produces around 1,500 cases of wine each year. The tour includes exclusive discounts on tastings and bottles, making it a good value for wine lovers. An artisan picnic with cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, chocolates, and French bread adds to the VIP feeling.
While the reviews are fewer (7 total), those who have taken the tour praise Kelly, the guide, for her knowledge and charm. This experience is best suited for wine enthusiasts who want a luxurious, all-inclusive tasting day with a gourmet picnic.
Bottom Line: If you prefer wine-focused outings with a touch of luxury and a gourmet lunch, this tour offers excellent value, especially for wine connoisseurs.
How to Choose Your Scottsdale Lunch Experience
When selecting between these options, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend. The private Sedona Experience is ideal if you desire a personalized, scenic, and relaxed day. The Grand Canyon and Sedona tour is perfect for those eager to see multiple sights with minimal planning, especially if you enjoy a balance of adventure and comfort. Lastly, the wine tasting tour suits travelers focused on wine, gourmet dining, or a more luxurious, leisurely day.
Keep in mind the duration of each tour—full-day options for the Sedona and Grand Canyon trips versus the shorter, more focused winery experience. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Final Thoughts
Scottsdale offers a variety of lunch experiences that go beyond just eating — they include exploring Arizona’s stunning landscapes, tasting local wines, and enjoying luxury outings. For a personalized adventure, the Sedona Experience stands out. If you want a comprehensive sightseeing day, the Grand Canyon and Sedona tour offers an unbeatable itinerary. For those who want to indulge in wine and gourmet picnic, the VIP winery tour provides a decadent escape.
No matter which you choose, these experiences are a great way to enjoy Scottsdale’s natural beauty and delicious flavors. Be sure to plan ahead, especially during busy seasons, and book early to secure your spot on these popular excursions.