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When I go out to dine, I am interested in three things: the food, the ambiance and the service. If even one is lacking, the entire experience suffers.
I found pleasure in all three during my recent visit to Xetava Gardens Cafe in Ivins. The food was truly outstanding. Everything is homemade, and owner Greg Federman told me the restaurant does everything possible to buy local products. The eggs, produce, herbs and meats are purchased from nearby growers. All coffees are locally roasted, and Xetava uses only the finest and freshest of ingredients.
You could not ask for finer ambiance. The restaurant is located in Kayenta's Coyote Gulch Art Village. Surrounded by beautiful red cliffs and desert gardens, Xetava is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoor grill and the glorious Southern Utah weather. Inside dining is enhanced by beautiful artwork and wood carvings created by local artists.
The wait staff is attentive, knowledgeable and helpful in describing the preparation of the Southwestern cuisine. The evening menu features a variety of delicious tapas, or small plates. Chili garlic rack of lamb, shrimp and brie and lemon ginger chicken are some of the favorite tapas. I relished the traditional hummus plate served with cucumber, tomato and warm grilled pita bread. Diners can also choose from a variety of burgers and pizzas. When I commented to Greg about the delicious pizza crust, he explained that it is rolled by hand from 200-year-old sourdough yeast from Naples, Italy.
Breakfast and lunch are served seven days a week, and dinner is available on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. And the restaurant offers live music each Saturday. I am pleased with my discovery of Xetava Gardens Cafe. I now have a new favorite restaurant in Southern Utah.
