Xetava

Xetava sits in the red rock country of Ivins, where stone accents and desert-chic design create a cozy spot that works for coffee at sunrise or cocktails at sunset. The covered patio is the star here, offering mountain views that make every meal feel like a mini-vacation. Roadrunners sometimes wander by your table (a local perk that never gets old).

The kitchen handles everything from breakfast waffles to dinner entrees, with fresh ingredients and solid American comfort food. Recent additions like street corn appetizers and mahi-mahi with pineapple salsa show they're not afraid to mix things up. The coffee program runs strong all day, and the bar pours wine, beer, and cocktails when you're ready to shift gears.

Service gets high marks for being attentive without hovering. The dining room stays calm and well-appointed, but that patio is where you want to land. Make a reservation, especially on weekends. The restaurant sits in the Kayenta development, about 15 minutes from downtown St. George and 45 minutes from Zion's main entrance.

Groups fit comfortably here, and the varied menu (including vegan options) means everyone finds something. It's the kind of place that works whether you're fueling up for a day of hiking or winding down after exploring Snow Canyon State Park just up the road.