Cave Creek restaurant attracts snowbirds
December 2, 2009

Those interested in treating their Fall and Winter visitors to a truly Western experience should, come to Tonto Bar & Grill and Cartwright’s Sonoran Ranch House & Lounge in Cave Creek. These sister restaurants exude the charm of old Arizona without kitsch and kokopellis.

Both have fascinating histories: Tonto was once a famous 1940s dude ranch, and Cartwright’s is named after a prominent family who ranched in the area for three generations. Owners Eric Flatt and John Malcolm seek to preserve Arizona traditions by keeping this rich lore alive while offering top- rate hospitality, the finest quality food and beverages, and unparalleled ambience.

Tonto Bar & Grill, overlooking the beautifully landscaped Rancho Mañana Golf Course, features original buildings from its Rancho Mañana dude ranch days and photographs of patrons and the family who operated it. Guests can see the area as it was before development around the famous boulders in Carefree. And they can savor all-natural meats, Arizona products and an award-winning wine list while taking in the breathtaking views from Tonto’s expansive patio.

Cartwright’s Sonoran Ranch House & Lounge keeps with the feel of old Arizona with a contemporary slant. Relax in the mesquite-accented dining room, grab a seat at the bar, or cozy up in the lounge for live music and the best “bar bites” in town. The menus feature mesquite-grilled beef, buffalo and elk as well as seafood prepared to the guests’ liking. Cocktails are prepared with fresh, house-made juices and mixes and top-shelf liquors. Fine whiskies, bourbons and Scotches are served in a rocks glass over a massive ball of ice called “the Rock.” Like Tonto, Cartwright’s has a Wine Spectator Award-winning wine list.

Both restaurants provide a chance to experience the best of old and new Arizona without compromise. Please consider including Tonto and Cartwright’s on any list of places to take out-of-town winter guests for a unique dining and drinking outing.

Tonto Bar & Grill is open 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. daily at 5736 E. Rancho Mañana Blvd. in Cave Creek. For information call 480-488-0698 or go to www.tontobarandgrill.com
Cartwright’s Sonoran Ranch House and Lounge is open 4:30 – 9:30 p.m. daily at 6710 E. Cave Creek Road in Cave Creek. For information call 480-488-8031 or go to www.CartwrightsSonoranRanchHouse.com.