Long before it became a dining destination, the land where Tonto Bar & Grill now stands was home to Native American tribes. They hunted and gathered near a natural spring on the property, which was a crucial resource in the desert environment.
By the late 19th century, the land had become a working cattle ranch and a key stopover between Camp McDowell and Fort Whipple. In the 1940s, Rancho Mañana transformed into a dude ranch, offering horseback rides, western dances, and a taste of the Old West for its guests.
After the dude ranch closed, Rancho Mañana changed hands several times before being redeveloped as a golf resort. By the 1990s, the Rancho Mañana Golf Club became known for its stunning desert landscape and challenging course.
In 1994, John Malcolm and Eric Flatt converted a snack shack at the golf course into Tonto Bar & Grill. They focused on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and built a community favorite that honors the land’s rich history.
At the same time, the Allred family, known for preserving historic properties in Arizona, partnered in the Rancho Mañana project. Their involvement ensured the property’s legacy would continue, blending history with thoughtful development.
Tonto Bar & Grill is now part of the Arizona Hideaway Collection, a group of historic properties owned by the Allred family. The collection includes The Hermosa Inn, Rancho Mañana Golf Club, Sedona Golf Resort and Tubac Golf Resort & Spa, each offering a unique connection to Arizona’s history and landscapes. Today, Tonto Bar & Grill continues to serve award-winning Southwestern cuisine, while celebrating the land’s deep heritage.