We understand that you may have some questions about our restaurant, menu, and services we offer, so we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common inquiries we receive from our customers.
How long have you been open?
We started as a tackle shop and saloon in the 50s that sold sandwiches, booze, and fishing licenses. We opened our restaurant doors in March 1981, and have been celebrating for 42 years and counting.
What makes you special?
We make all our food from scratch with healthy ingredients. We have a southwest bend with a Mexican twist. The owners/managers have been the same for over 30 years, you will still see us working as we enjoy this restaurant and staff immensely. We’re proud of our reputation as an accepting and loved pillar of the Zion community. We strive to provide excellent service and a comfortable, fun atmosphere.
What’s in the back?
We opened our Taco Shack and Cantina in the backyard. It is a lovely place to come and hang with friends and order smaller bites and tacos and have a drink. The menu is different from our usual dining so come check it out and enjoy a more casual atmosphere in the back. Please feel free to visit the Taco Shack without needing to talk to the host. We open the Backyard Taco Shack at 2 pm. We have live music on Mondays and Fridays from mid-April until mid-October and a Farmers Market on those Mondays also.
Do you have gluten free / vegetarian / dairy free and vegan options?
Yes, we have a great selection, and we label them on the menu. Please speak with your server about any allergies or special diets. We are hugely aware of the importance of any allergy and take great care to keep our fryers and surfaces separate for different foods.
Do you serve alcohol?
Yes, even though we have some interesting liquor laws in Utah we make great margaritas and specialty cocktails with real liquor. We also have an enticing wine list and beers available.
Can we bring in our own wine?
Yes, as long as the bottle is unopened. We do have a $12/bottle corkage fee.
Do you take reservations?
Yes, we have a limited amount of reservations on Open Table. We take a limited amount so we have plenty of room for walk-ins. We seat both outdoors and indoors during the warmer months.
Is there usually a wait for tables?
We usually can get everyone sat, but we may have a small wait on busy nights. We do have a nice fire pit, bar area and a taco truck that can serve tacos and drinks while you wait.
Can you take large parties?
Yes, we will split you up into smaller tables next to each other for parties up to 20 guests. If the party is larger we do have rental spaces available. Please call or email us with requests for parties larger than 8 guests. Our email is [email protected]
Where do I park?
We have a parking lot in front of the restaurant. Behind the restaurant is for employees only. We recommend taking the free shuttle in town. We are exactly next to stop #6. There is also a large lot across and a bit to the east of us that is pay parking but free after 4 pm. We do allow people to use the parking lot during the day for a $15 fee but ask that you either eat with us or leave by 5 to allow our guests to be able to park and eat.
Do you do weddings?
Yes, we think our outdoor space is beautiful for weddings. We cater on-site. We do not have a wedding planner though, please feel free to hire one if you would like. If you want a beautiful, stress-free celebration with great food and service we are the place for you.
Do you have live music?
Yes, we have outdoor bands in the warmer months and indoors in the winter. We have a weekly farmers market with a live band from 6-9 pm on Mondays and music Fridays as well in the Taco Shack. Please come and enjoy libations, food and dancing.
Are you seasonal?
Yes, we are open 7 days a week from early March through just before Thanksgiving. We then have weekends (Thursday-Sunday) open during December, January, and February. We do close for Thanksgiving and Christmas so our staff can enjoy their families and friends.
Do you do anything special for birthdays and celebrations?
Yay, congratulations on your special day! Please let your server know so if you order dessert we will happily put a candle in and even a song if you like.
Who is the chef?
While we have had amazing chefs along the way, (thank you, Michael Perry, Joe Jennings, Randall Richards) our current chef is Jeff Brian who has been with us since 2020. Jeff has worked with celebrated chefs including Emeril Lagasse and Todd English. Every prep and line cook is highly trained and skilled to create your amazing dish.
Who is the artist?
The sculptures and paintings are done by our good friend and local artist Richard Hardin. We are very proud of our collection and honored to have his incredible work here.
Are kids welcome?
Yes, bring your kids, we do have a kid menu. On that note we also allow dogs to dine on a leash in the outdoor sections only.
What do people usually wear?
We get hikers coming off the trail and people coming in for fancy celebrations. All are welcome with all attire seen. No shirt, no shoes…
What’s are the cool buildings next to the restaurant?
We are building 5 beautiful nightly rentals that should be available in early summer. The Zion Canyon Bungalows have fire places, steam showers, and amazing views.
