Lon's at the Hermosa

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

A Paradise Valley Classic Rooted in Arizona History

Built in the 1930s as the home and studio of cowboy artist Lon Megargee, The Hermosa Inn carries its history lightly. The original adobe architecture still stands, and the restaurant that bears Megargee's name has grown into one of the most celebrated American dining destinations in the Phoenix area. Wine Spectator recognized the program with its Best of Award of Excellence — a fitting distinction for a kitchen and cellar that take their craft seriously.

The Food and the Setting

LON's approach to contemporary American cuisine is grounded in technique: roasting, smoking, and wood-grilling form the backbone of a kitchen that pairs traditional methods with regional ingredients. The menu shifts with the seasons, and the setting shifts with the light. The expansive patio — anchored by five outdoor fireplaces, a trickling fountain, and colorful flowerbeds — makes dining here feel unhurried whether you arrive for brunch at seven in the morning or settle in for dinner as the desert cools.

Brunch runs daily until 2 pm and has its own personality: slow roasted prime New York, smoked salmon sliders, and strawberry French toast are among the dishes that have made it a weekend ritual for locals and guests alike. Dinner service begins at five and carries the same commitment to refined Southwestern flavors.

The Wine Cellar Experience

Tucked beneath the main dining room, LON's historic wine cellar offers one of the more intimate American dining experiences in the Valley. Thursday through Sunday from mid-May through late August, the space hosts a five-course menu — amuse-bouche through dessert — built around the finest seasonal ingredients, with optional wine pairings. At $165 per person, it is a deliberate, focused evening in a room that earns its atmosphere honestly.

Worth the Drive to Paradise Valley

LON's is part of the Arizona Hideaway Collection, but it holds its own identity clearly. The combination of a storied building, a kitchen with genuine range, and a wine program recognized by Wine Spectator makes it a consistent reason to make the trip to 5532 N. Palo Cristi Road. Valet parking is available, and the restaurant is open daily for both brunch and dinner.