A Taste of Apache Tradition in Globe, Arizona Tucked away in the Pinal Mountains of Arizona lies the charming town of Globe, a treasure trove of Apache heritage, mining legacy, and breathtaking canyon landscapes.

A Taste of Apache Tradition in Globe, Arizona

Tucked away in the Pinal Mountains of Arizona lies the charming town of Globe, a treasure trove of Apache heritage, mining legacy, and breathtaking canyon landscapes. As you wander through its historic streets, the scent of roasting meats and traditional cooking wafts from local eateries, beckoning you to experience the authentic flavors of Apache cuisine.

Globe's culinary scene is deeply rooted in the region's rich Native American history. The town was once a thriving mining hub, attracting settlers from all over the country. However, it was the Apache people who first called this land home, and their legacy lives on through the local food. Apache cuisine is a fusion of traditional hunting and gathering techniques with modern cooking methods, resulting in dishes that are both familiar and uniquely Arizona.

Traditional Ingredients

Apache cooking often features game meats like deer, antelope, and rabbit, which were staples in the region's pre-agricultural diet. However, you'll also find more common ingredients like corn, squash, beans, and sun-dried fruits – all of which have been cultivated for centuries by local farmers. These traditional ingredients are often combined with fresh herbs and spices to create bold, savory flavors.

Try These Local Favorites

• Apache Stew: A hearty, slow-cooked stew made with tender chunks of beef or lamb, potatoes, carrots, and sometimes venison.
• Blue Corn Mush: A comforting side dish made from dried blue corn kernels, similar to polenta but with a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.
• Wild Onion Soup: A flavorful soup featuring onions harvested from the surrounding mountains, often served with a swirl of sour cream or crumbled tortilla chips.

Cooking Techniques

Apache cooks have developed innovative ways to prepare and preserve food for long periods. Some traditional techniques include:

• Smoking: Meats are slow-cooked over low heat using wood fires, giving them a rich, savory flavor.
• Drying: Fruits and meats are dried in the sun or with machines to create snacks and ingredients that can be stored for months.
• Grinding: Cornmeal is ground from dried blue corn kernels using traditional stone mortars.


Where to Experience Apache Cuisine

Globe's culinary scene is relatively small but packed with flavor. Some local eateries worth visiting include:

• The Old Dominion Inn: This historic hotel has been serving up classic American fare with an Apache twist for over 100 years.
• La Bocina Mexican Restaurant: While not exclusively Apache, this family-owned restaurant serves authentic Southwestern cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.

Getting to Globe

Globe is accessible via Highway 60 and Interstate 10. The town has a small airport but no commercial flights. Visitors often arrive by car or shuttle from nearby Phoenix or Tucson.

Best Times to Visit

Summer months can be hot, with temperatures reaching over 100°F (38°C). For a more comfortable experience, plan your visit during spring (March-May) or fall (September-November), when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Practical Information

• Hours of Operation: Vary by establishment; call ahead to confirm.
• Fees: Some restaurants may have set menu prices or cover charges for special events.
• Location Hints: Globe's downtown area is easily walkable, with most eateries within a short stroll.