About
What do you get when you combine an independent film producer with a restaurant offering burgers using locally sourced beef? The answer: Diablo Burger.
The hero of our story is Derrick Widmark, a successful independent filmmaker in New York City. However, in 2006, his desire to focus on environmental issues prompted him to move to the Southwest.
In time, he took on the role of communications director for the Diablo Trust, a group supporting two local ranches: the Flying M and the Bar T Bar. During his tenure, Widmark realized that the top-quality, open-range beef these ranches produced wasn't reaching local restaurant tables. That insight gave him the incentive to launch Diablo Burger in 2009.
The restaurant's mission is its "All About Local", with a menu showcasing 100% grass-fed, open-range beef completely free of antibiotics or growth hormones.
Additionally, local partnerships with farmers, bakers, cheese-makers, and brewers ensure that most ingredients come from within a 250-mile radius.
Here, supporting nearby producers means fresher, more flavorful food. Each burger comes on a preservative-free English muffin baked locally and stamped with the "DB" logo. This detail has become a restaurant signature, setting Diablo Burger apart from the usual burger spots.
Whether visiting after exploring nearby Historic Route 66 or curious about what all the buzz is about, you'll walk away knowing you tasted one of Arizona's best burgers!
Vibe
The restaurant's location in Downtown Flagstaff, in a former J.C. Penney's parking garage, stands out. The colorful mural wrapped around a curved building is captivating, setting the stage for an incredible burger experience.
Best of all, outdoor seating under the once-active garage ramp with the mural as the backdrop makes for an iconic dining spot. It takes al fresco dining to a whole new level.
Inside, the cylinder-shaped space is small, with reinforced concrete walls from the building's past, making the room feel sturdy and cozy.
Copper-topped tables catch the light and add a little warmth, while vintage concert posters on the walls lend a cool, local-music twist to the setting.
Seating is small-scale but smartly arranged. A curved bar offers views of the kitchen, while communal tables dot the floor. Most, however, opt for the outdoor seating by the mural.
Combined, these features provide a laid-back and fun atmosphere, which is exactly what an Arizona vacation is supposed to be!
Diablo Burger: Menu & Drinks
With "burger" in its name, you can expect the menu to be jam-packed with juicy options. But, if burgers aren't your thing, they have some other options like a veggie burger, grilled cheese, and a house salad. But let's be serious, you're really here for the burgers!
Since the meat is 95% lean, Diablo Burger suggests ordering your six-ounce patty medium-rare. If that temperature isn't sufficient, they'll cook to order with a thermometer.
Additionally, each order comes with freshly-cut, double-fried Belgian-style fries seasoned with Herbes de Provence. Dipping sauces range from Hatch Chile Mayo, Curry Mayo, Sriracha Mayo, and Chimichurri, among others.
Like the building's festive mural, the creative burgers available are mind-boggling! The Blake is a true Arizona favorite, stacked with homemade Hatch chile mayo, roasted green chiles, and sharp cheddar. It's the perfect pick after a day hiking at Coconino National Forest.
Another top pick is the Wrigley Field, which layers smoky bacon, Swiss cheese, grilled onions, and Rising Hy Spicy Honey Mustard. The combination of sweet, savory, and tang makes this handheld a homerun!
As if these examples aren't impressive enough, the Ziggy Stardust lets you craft a signature burger. You choose from a variety of options like cheeses, veggies, spreads, egg, and bacon.
Regarding drinks, two beverages pair perfectly with a juicy burger: beer and Coke. Rest assured that both are available, featuring local craft beers and even Mexican Coke.
Dining at Diablo Burger lets you taste a Northern Arizona classic that showcases the area's best produce, beef, and cheeses.
Local Tips
- The DB-4-Kids menu makes Diablo Burger family-friendly.
- Order online and take your burgers back to your rental.
- Gluten-free English muffins are available.
- For a healthier meal, sub the side salad for frites for a nominal fee.
