In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with Chef Lisa Dahl, one of the most influential figures in Arizona’s culinary landscape. A self-taught chef and resilient entrepreneur, Lisa shares how an unimaginable personal tragedy led her from San Francisco to Sedona—and eventually into the kitchen, where she built a restaurant empire from the ground up.

She is the creative force behind a collection of beloved Sedona dining destinations:
🌟 Dahl & Di Luca
🔥 Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill
🍝 Cucina Rustica
🍕 Pisa Lisa
🍔 Butterfly Burger

In our conversation, Lisa opens up about the emotional origins of her culinary career, the soul she pours into every dish, and the unique vision behind each of her restaurants. We also explore her philanthropic mission through her foundation and its two pillars—Soup Hope and Justin’s Garden—that nourish both body and spirit.

I’d like to share a potential educational resource, “Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door”, my new book that features dialogues with accomplished culinary leaders from various backgrounds and cultures. It delves into the future of culinary creativity and the hospitality industry, drawing from insights of a restaurant-industry-focused podcast, ‘flavors unknown”. It includes perspectives from renowned chefs and local professionals, making it a valuable resource for those interested in building a career in the culinary industry.

Chef Lisa Dahl

Dahl & DiLuca

Mariposa Sedona

Lisa Dahl website

Mariposa Restaurant

Dahl & DiLuca

Cucina Rustica

Pisa Lisa

Butterfly Burger