Crema Craft Kitchen and Bar - Cottonwood, AZ

Attraction: Crema Craft Kitchen and Bar
Location: 917 N Main St, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
Industry: Cafe
Website: https://cremacottonwood.com/

Hidden in the heart of Historic Old Town Cottonwood, where bootleggers once smuggled their wares through secret underground tunnels, Crema Craft Kitchen and Bar transforms a colorful past into culinary artistry that would make even Prohibition-era spirits raise a toast.

This isn’t just another brunch spot – it’s where Chef Michelle Jurisin shares her beloved Sunday morning family recipes, all within historic buildings that still whisper tales of their rebellious past.

From the moment you step into the charming courtyard to your first taste of house-made everything, you’ll understand why this has become Cottonwood’s most beloved gathering place for locals and Verde Valley visitors alike.

House-Made Culinary Excellence

Pumpkin Pancakes Perfection: You’ll experience fluffy pancakes topped with mascarpone and pralines that demonstrate Chef Michelle’s ability to elevate comfort food classics into memorable culinary experiences.

These signature pancakes represent the restaurant’s philosophy of taking familiar dishes and adding sophisticated touches.

Breakfast Burrito Supreme: You’ll enjoy scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, potatoes, chives, cheddar, pico de gallo, and sriracha aioli wrapped in a flour tortilla that showcases how Crema transforms simple ingredients into complex, satisfying flavors.

Craft Beverage Program

Artisan Coffee Excellence: You’ll sip locally-based, organic, certified fair trade coffee roasted by Prescott Coffee Roasters, served with certified organic milk and alternative options including soy, almond, oat, and coconut milk for the ultimate eye-opening experience.

Signature Craft Cocktails: You’ll discover creative libations like the cucumber basil cocktail featuring Hornitos tequila, Thatcher’s organic cucumber liqueur, fresh lime juice, agave, and muddled basil and cucumber that showcase the bar’s commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Famous Bloody Mary: You’ll taste their renowned version made with Prairie vodka and house-made bloody mary mix, garnished elaborately and topped with a hard-boiled egg, following their famous Haunted Hamburger recipe that connects to the restaurant’s spirited history.

Bourbon Maple Cocktail: You’ll enjoy Old Forester bourbon with orange bitters and maple syrup, garnished with red chili-glazed bacon and house-made vanilla bourbon cherry, exemplifying the kitchen’s attention to handcrafted details in every element.

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Historic Atmosphere & Ambiance

Secret Bootlegging History: You’ll dine above tunnels once used for bootlegging during Prohibition, when Acuna, a known bootlegger, operated from this very building until the law finally caught up with him. The historic underground connections link multiple buildings throughout Old Town Cottonwood.

Charming Courtyard Setting: You’ll relax in the beautiful outdoor courtyard that connects two historic buildings, providing a perfect setting for morning coffee, leisurely brunch, or afternoon cocktails surrounded by the ambiance of Old Town Cottonwood’s historic character.

Ghost Stories Included: You’ll learn about Lillian, the resident ghost from the building’s previous incarnation as Lillian’s Sweet Shop, who reportedly has a mean sweet tooth and harbors a few secrets. Her presence adds mystique to the already rich historical atmosphere.

Sixth-Generation Hospitality: As Eric and Michelle Jurisin’s sixth restaurant in Cottonwood and Jerome, you’ll experience the refined hospitality that comes from years of perfecting their craft in the Verde Valley’s restaurant scene.

Seasonal & Local Focus

GMO-Free Commitment: You’ll appreciate that many menu items are free of genetically modified organisms, with produce sourced locally whenever possible, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and sustainable practices.

Seasonal Flavor Carousel: You’ll discover that flavors change with the seasons for both food and treats, encouraging repeat visits to experience new combinations and ensuring ingredients are at peak freshness and flavor.

Practical Visiting Information

Moderate Pricing: Most breakfast and brunch entrées range from $12–$18, while specialty cocktails and craft drinks average $10–$14, offering generous portions and artisanal quality at fair value.

All-Day Brunch Service: Open 7 AM to 2 PM daily, you’ll find consistent hours that accommodate early coffee seekers, leisurely brunchers, and late lunch visitors, with the full menu available throughout operating hours.

Historic Old Town Location: Located directly on scenic Highway 89A in Historic Old Town Cottonwood, you’ll find easy access to antique shops, galleries, and other Verde Valley attractions, making Crema a perfect stop during Old Town exploration.

Reservation Policy: While they don’t typically take reservations, you’ll rarely experience long waits, and the staff efficiently manages seating to minimize delays during busy periods.