In 2022, local businesses got a lot of attention across the country, and even outside of the U.S. 2023 is off to a great start, too. First, Tucson was recently recognized as a top beer city (we already knew that), and now a couple of the city’s local French restaurants are getting some love.

The publication Best Things Arizona hunted down its favorite French restaurants across the state and out of seven, Tucson has two on the list: Le Rendez-vous and Ghini’s French Caffé.

Le Rendez-vous

Tucson’s French restaurant and bakery scene, which continues to grow with the addition of Le Macaron coming to downtown, has had the honor of having Le Rendez-vous around since 1980.

Here’s what Best Things Arizona had to say about the restaurant located at 3844 E. Fort Lowell Rd.:

“Le Rendez-vous is a tale of two restaurants. On one side of the restaurant is a casual bistro with small plates and a relaxed atmosphere. On the other is a more sophisticated, romantic dining area with upscale French cuisine. Le Rendez-vous offers a great dining experience no matter your preference. Entrees include crab stuffed shrimp, escargot, and beef Wellington while their small plates and hors d’Oeuvres pair well with their $5 featured wines.”

For more information on Le Rendez-vous, visit rendezvoustucson.com.

Ghini’s French Caffé

Over on the corner of Prince Road and Campbell Avenue, Ghini’s French Caffé has exuded resilience since its opening in 1992, which is owned and operated by chef Coralie Satta — AKA Chef Ghini. Ghini’s made-from-scratch menu in the dining room spills over into La Baguette Bakery, both located at 1803 E Prince Rd.

Here’s what Best Things Arizona had to say about the restaurant that recently celebrated its 30th anniversary:

“Looking for a new kind of brunch experience? Ghini’s French Caffe has you covered. This café serves French-inspired breakfast foods all day. They are known for dishing up delicious items like crepes, croquet madame, and Eggs Provençal. Ghini’s is also attached to La Baguette, a full-service French bakery where you can order fresh pastries to go with your meal. They also have a pet-friendly patio that’s the perfect place to sip your morning mimosa.”

For more information on Ghini’s French Caffé, visit ghiniscafe.com.