The latest beer buzz in Tucson’s craft beer community this week was the opening of zpizza in Oro Valley. Zpizza takes the concept of frozen yogurt by-the-ounce and applies it to craft beer on tap. Walk in, place your order at the front counter, and an elastic bracelet with a sensor keeps tabs.
First timers are given a tour and a training session on where to choose a beer glass (do your tastebuds a favor and skip the frosted glasses, opting for one off the shelf), take it to your beer tap of choice, press your round bracelet emblem to a spot on the display, and then begin pouring. The prices of the craft selections vary ($0.38 up to $0.80) and are billed by the ounce. Each bracelet is limited to 32oz per hour during your visit. Zpizza is clearly supporting the local Arizona beer community with a large majority of their 13 taps devoted to local brews.Â
But, here’s the real scoop: zpizza currently offers an incredible special where you can create your own combo from three categories: (1) daily special pizza slice or half sandwich, (2) side salad, and (3) beverage (fountain or 12oz beer), for only $8.25. I opted for a slice, a generously sized Caesar side salad, and 12oz Barrio Brewing NCAAle. I emphasize “currently offers” because I fear they will soon see what a ridiculously good deal this is for the craft beer consumer. One could easily pay $10 for the delicious Barrio NCAAle (10.5% ABV) anywhere else in town, but I only paid $8.25. It also came with a meal.
Personally, I’m delighted to have another craft beer tap room option in Oro Valley in addition to Noble Hops and their gourmet gastropub offerings. Zpizza offers great beer on a budget. And, learning how to pour beer like a pro is a hidden, added bonus. Feel free to say “hello” when you see me there a few days a week, dining on the cheap, and I’ll happily give you my beer recommendations.Â
