Pine Top County Club isn't just a haven for golfers and outdoor lovers—it's also an underrated culinary destination that satisfies both adventurous palates and classic comfort cravings. Nestled in the tall pines along Country Club Drive and its offshoots, this leafy neighborhood serves up more than mountain views—expect cozy cafés, off-the-beaten-path bakeries, and restaurants where both locals and savvy visitors gather for memorable meals. Whether you’re hunting for a hearty breakfast, gourmet dinner, or a quick yet tasty food truck bite, here’s your enthusiast’s guide to eating exceptionally well in Pine Top County Club.
Breakfast & Coffee Hotspots
Start your day surrounded by tall pines and fresh aromas at these beloved morning spots.
Darbi’s Café (Knotty Pine Café on White Mountain Blvd & Buck Springs Road)
Just outside the Pine Top County Club’s southern edge, Darbi’s Café is a Show Low institution known for hearty breakfasts and cozy log cabin vibes. Their giant homemade cinnamon rolls are legendary and often big enough to share. Choose from brunch favorites like huevos rancheros, buttermilk pancakes, and green chili omelets. Prices are wallet-friendly ($8-$15), making it a family staple for locals and a must for visitors.
Baked in Pines (White Mountain Blvd, near Pineview Dr.)
This small, cheerful bakery-café is your go-to for fresh scones, espresso drinks, and rustic breads. Locals swear by the cheddar-jalapeño bagel sandwiches and the assortment of pastries—they’re fuel for a day of hiking or golfing. The setting is light-filled and casual, with friendly staff who remember your order if you’re a regular. Most pastries and drinks are under $7.
Lunchtime Classics & Cozy Cafés
Tucked among woodland streets, these venues excel at midday comfort food, creative sandwiches, and inviting atmospheres.
Red Devil Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria (S. White Mountain Blvd & Buck Springs Road)
While the original Red Devil location first opened decades ago, this Pine Top outpost is a bright, family-friendly extension—ideal for wood-fired pizzas, cheesy baked pastas, and carb-lover dreams. The margherita pizza gets rave reviews, but locals love the Red Devil Special (piled with sausage, veggies, and pepperoni). Expect mid-range prices ($12-$22) and ample portions.
Lion’s Den Bar & Grill (Across from Pine Top Lake, Country Club Dr.)
With its old-school cabin vibe and expansive patio, Lion’s Den is a true local hangout for relaxed lunches or craft beers. Burgers are juicy and cooked to order, with plenty of creative options (try the Green Chile Burger or Elk Burger). Don’t miss their wings or Friday Fish Fry tradition—a hit throughout Show Low. Lunches land in the $12-$18 range, and the casual scene is as inviting as the mountain air.
Butterfly Garden Bistro (near intersection of Country Club Dr. & Forest Dr.)
A genuine hidden gem, this intimate spot is perfect for salads, quiche, and homemade soups. The menu changes seasonally, featuring local ingredients and homemade desserts. Their lavender lemonade is refreshing, and the shaded patio is dotted with wildflowers. Prices are mid-range, typically $10-$18 per lunch plate.
Dinner Destinations: From Upscale to Down-Home
Evenings in Pine Top County Club bring out a sophisticated-yet-relaxed culinary style, with spots for both special occasions and weeknight treats.
Oakleaf Grill (On-site at Pinetop Country Club, Country Club Dr.)
For an upscale dining experience right inside the neighborhood, Oakleaf Grill is a favorite of club members and their guests. Enjoy prime steaks, pistachio-crusted trout, and inventive salads, all paired with a curated wine list and mountain sunset views. It’s a little pricier ($25-$40 entrées), and reservations are smart, especially in summer. Upscale yet unpretentious, Oakleaf Grill is Pine Top’s special occasion classic.
Charlie Clark's Steakhouse (White Mountain Blvd & Woodland Rd.)
A legendary spot tucked into a converted ranch, Charlie Clark’s is all about Southwestern steaks, mesquite grilled meats, and hearty potato sides. The outdoor “Orchard” area is a summertime favorite, with live music and string lights. Locals line up for the ribeye, slow-roasted prime rib, and green chile cornbread. Dinner here runs $18-$45, but portions are generous and the setting is pure mountain nostalgia.
Matty’s Beef & Beer Food Truck (usually along Woodland Rd. near Buck Springs Rd.)
No guide would be complete without a nod to the county club’s cult favorite food truck. Matty’s specializes in slow-cooked brisket, barbecue sandwiches, and creative sides (the loaded mac and cheese is unbeatable). Affordable and filling, most items are $8-$14, and lines can form around lunchtime during busy weekends. The truck’s location varies, so follow local foodies on social media for real-time updates.
Sweet Treats & Bakeries
End your visit on a sugary high note with these irresistible local favorites.
Mountain Sweets & Treats (Just west of Country Club Dr.)
Part old-fashioned candy shop, part modern bakery, this spot brings out your inner kid. With homemade fudge, raspberry-filled shortbread, and artisanal chocolates, Mountain Sweets is a must for dessert lovers. It’s a fun stop for grabbing something sweet to enjoy back at your cabin or before a lakeside stroll.
The Gathering Room at Pine Top CC
Members and guests can also indulge in homemade pies and cakes crafted by the club’s in-house pastry chef. It’s a refined touch after a round of golf, and local seasonal flavors (think huckleberry or peach) are always front and center in their rotation.
Local Food Traditions & Events
Dining in Pine Top County Club wouldn't be the same without the flavors and rituals that bring neighbors together every season.
- Friday Fish Fry at Lion’s Den: A beloved weekly event (arrive early for the best seats!).
- Summer Farmers’ Markets (White Mountain Blvd, Saturdays): Fresh bread, local jams, and produce often find their way onto restaurant menus and picnic tables alike.
- Steakhouse Sundays at Charlie Clark’s: A nod to Show Low’s ranching heritage, drawing regulars from across Navajo County.
The Magic of Pine Top’s Food Scene
The Pine Top County Club neighborhood distills the best of Show Low’s food scene into a tight cluster of memorable experiences. Whether you crave an elegant steak dinner, fresh-out-of-the-oven pastries, or down-home barbecue eaten steps away from the forest, you’ll find it here, along with that unmistakable mountain hospitality. This isn’t just dining—it’s a taste of the White Mountains’ soul.