The Back Roads
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Western Arizona Dining

Mattina’s Ristorante Italiano, Kingman
To the casual observer, Kingman might appear to be little more than a stopping point on the long and winding road to Las Vegas. But this town, known as the “heart of Route 66,” is home to more than 60 buildings that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Although Mattina’s Ristorante Italiano isn’t one of them, its building is old. In fact, the 106-year-old house recently underwent a major renovation. Despite the dust, chef Carlo Peddycoat still managed to whip up his signature fare following the restaurant’s Mafia theme, including prime “Al Capone” cuts of beef, sinful shrimp-and-mascarpone ravioli and fresh, butter-drenched escargots.

Mattina’s is located at 318 E. Oak Street, Kingman. Information: 928-753-7504.


Hubb’s Bistro, Kingman
When Hurricane Katrina struck, Jason and Jennifer Pfaff left their jobs at the Beau Rivage Resort in Biloxi to buy the historic Hotel Brunswick on Historic Route 66. Mississippi’s loss is Arizona’s gain. Thanks to their talent, attention to detail and wine knowledge (both are certified sommeliers), gracious Hubb’s brings fine dining to this former cowboy town. Although the lunch menu has a slight Southern accent (featuring muffalata and blackened catfish), the dinner menu offers eclectic options such as pan-seared diver scallops with wasabi mashed potatoes and ginger-braised beef shortribs with brown sugar and bourbon glaze.

Hubb’s is located at 315 E. Andy Devine Avenue, Kingman. Information: 928-718-1800 or www.hotel-brunswick.com.


Cha-Bones, Lake Havasu City
When it came to naming their steakhouse, Tom and Laurie Moses stayed close to home. A tribute to their college-aged son’s nickname, Cha-Bones is a welcome departure from the typical bar/grill establishments that pepper Lake Havasu City. Here, inspired pastas, pizzas and chicken dishes prove the perfect complement to the restaurant’s signature steaks and, of course, bones — five selections of mesquite-charcoal-broiled ribs, served with fresh vegetables and a savory starch. And, naturally, where there’s steak, there’s wine. Cha-Bones’ list includes plenty of inexpensively priced bottles, as well as a few “special occasion” reds, if you’re so inclined.

Cha-Bones is located at 112 London Bridge Road, Lake Havasu City. Information: 928-854-5554 or www.chabones.com.


Julieanna’s Patio Café, Yuma
Burbling fountains, swaying palms, lush lawns and live macaws make this tropical oasis in the desert Yuma’s favorite spot for romantic dinners, corporate functions and weddings. While the recently updated lunch menu runs to salads and sandwiches, upscale dinner options include a trendy tower of ahi, avocado and mango; signature prime rib; Chateaubriand; and salmon Wellington. Decorated with local art, the colorful main dining room has its charms, but nothing beats a tiled table on the tropical patio.

Juliana’s is located at 1951 W. 25th Street, Yuma. Information: 928-317-1961 or www.julieannaspatiocafe.com.


Lutes Casino, Yuma
Although Lutes Casino is currently one of Yuma’s most beloved restaurants, it wasn’t always like that. In fact, the building that houses the restaurant — which serves up popular diner-esque lunches and dinners — was once a pool hall where the patrons were notorious for illegal gambling and other bad behavior. Today, however, crowds line up outside during the winter months when the weather’s cool and sunny, and many of them order the special, a $4.50 cheeseburger topped with an unusual condiment — a hot dog.

Lutes Casino is located at 221 S. Main Street, Yuma. Information: 928-782-2192.


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