When I eat out, I love going to cozy restaurants, especially ones with a bit of history. One of my favorite places is LON’s at the Hermosa Inn, which serves artful American cuisine. Lon Megargee was a cowboy artist who was well known for his artwork featured inside the Stetson cowboy hat. The inn was originally his home. After adding a studio, he called it “Casa Hermosa”, and later opened it as a guest ranch. The Hermosa Inn is in the middle of Paradise Valley, a beautiful and secluded residential area.
The restaurant is a newer addition, dedicated to Lon and his artwork. The spectacular patio has a glowing fireplace, romantic lighting, and beautiful flowers. The cuisine is enhanced by the one-acre organic garden on property. Fresh arugula, basil, coriander, spinach, and heirloom tomatoes are grown and used in the delicious salads and entrees that they serve. A couple of my favorite entrees are the Mediterrean Sea Bass and Braised Short Ribs. I love going for Sunday brunch and eating the fresh-baked brioche “Monkey Bread” with caramel, pecan and cinnamon. LON’s also has an intimate, private wine cellar where you can dine with up to 12 guests.
If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, stop in at the Last Drop Bar. It’s named after Lon’s famous “The Last Drop” painting, which symbolizes every cowboy’s appreciation for his horse and is still printed on every Stetson hat sold. They serve food all day with the same fresh ingredients as the restaurant. Enjoy a wonderful meal and savor the views of the mountains and open sky!