Tinderbox Kitchen - Flagstaff

This was my third time dining here, but unfortunately, it was the most disappointing experience so far. Our party was seated in direct sunlight, and despite bri... read more This was my third time dining here, but unfortunately, it was the most disappointing experience so far. Our party was seated in direct sunlight, and despite bringing it to the staff’s attention, we were told nothing could be done because they couldn’t reach the owner. We spent over an hour and a half with the sun shining directly into several of our eyes, which made it uncomfortable and frustrating. As for the food, it was hit or miss. The filet was tender and cooked perfectly, and the scallops were well-prepared. The Chilean sea bass was a highlight—flavorful and well-executed. However, the tagliatelle was a letdown, lacking balance and feeling overly heavy while leaving me still hungry. Overall, I expected better service and consistency, especially as a returning guest. We finished the dinner with a berry coffee cake, which was dense, chewy and lacked in flavor. We felt unappreciated and it left me leaving my meal sad and unimpressed. Price per person: $30–50 Food: 2 Service: 4 Atmosphere: 2

The duck with the homemade mole sauce was absolutely incredible. And I also had the elk with arugula and fennel delicious. I had a nonalcoholic drink that was c... read more The duck with the homemade mole sauce was absolutely incredible. And I also had the elk with arugula and fennel delicious. I had a nonalcoholic drink that was chamomile berries, splash of lemon and pineapple out of this world. And then I had an old-fashioned with cinnamon smoke strawberry purée and mint. I just had a half of one they were very accommodating. Everything I Head here was incredible. Service: Dine in Price per person: $50–100 Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5

Reservation for 2, seated right away. Very friendly staff introduced the menu and took our cocktail orders. I had the Red Wedding, which was just alright for my... read more Reservation for 2, seated right away. Very friendly staff introduced the menu and took our cocktail orders. I had the Red Wedding, which was just alright for my liking. The amount of ice in the glass made me question how much liquor I was actually paying for—and at $18, I want to make sure I’m getting my money’s worth. The first dish was the Pork Belly Fritter with aioli. The kitchen did a bang-up job with this one: sweet and salty pork belly, with the aioli and fritter offering a nice reprieve from the fattiness. I’d be happy if this were made into a full entrée on its own. Entrées: The Sea Bass was light, sweet, and had just a touch of heat. The Duck Mole was a great dish. The mole paired well with the almost ham-like duck. The Brussels salad (which I’m generally not a fan of was good—the thin-shaved Brussels added a hint of bitterness to balance the intense citrus they dressed it with. The salad was substantial enough that the extra salsa verde wasn’t needed, in my opinion. The sopaipilla was a bit dense, but still delicious and perfect for mopping up the dressing and oils on the plate. Dessert was cheesecake with lemon curd and gastrique. This was also good, though on the smaller side. I’m a real critic when it comes to lemon curd, as I make it every year—this version had a very tart pop and was silky smooth. (Do y’all sous vide it? And how do you plate it in that shape—piping bags? I would absolutely recommend anyone to come and enjoy their time here. It’s a small, cozy restaurant where the staff seem to genuinely enjoy what they’re doing, and the kitchen is putting out delicious dishes. Thanks! Price per person: $100+ Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5

This restaurant is very small, which has its charm, but the kitchen is open to the dining area, reminiscent of an old truck stop, and the noise from the kitchen... read more This restaurant is very small, which has its charm, but the kitchen is open to the dining area, reminiscent of an old truck stop, and the noise from the kitchen can be quite loud. The music was predominantly loud rap, which might not be everyone's taste. Unfortunately, the food didn't live up to expectations given the prices; the meat was overcooked and the potatoes were both burnt and overly salty. On a positive note, the drinks were enjoyable. As for parking, be prepared to search hard for a spot!

The food was amazing, and the bar service was outstanding. The drinks were great, and what really made the experience special was the bartender himself. We real... read more The food was amazing, and the bar service was outstanding. The drinks were great, and what really made the experience special was the bartender himself. We really enjoyed sitting at the bar for a romantic dinner for two and had a delightful conversation with our neighbors, who were visiting from Canada. It was a memorable evening. Thank you very much!