Nestled away in the rolling foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains is the newly-refreshed Omni Tucson National Resort. At the completion of the multi-million dollar renovation, the interior, full-service spa, guest rooms, suites, and most importantly, the onsite culinary options on the property were updated.
“The reimagination of Omni Tucson National Resort has put food at the forefront so that more memories around the table will be made,” said Executive Chef Jonathan Stutzman in the resort’s press release.
As someone who’s been a long-time fan of their signature restaurant, Bob’s Steak & Chop House, I was over the moon to discover that the renovations extended to revamping Omni Tucson’s food and beverage program.
With the addition of three more concepts, this now allows the resort to offer a spread of six eateries: Desert Farmer, The Peak, Terra Cotta Café, Bob’s Steak & Chop House, Legends Bar & Grill, and Sweet Water Terrace.
Chef Stutzman said these additions give the resort the opportunity to offer a quintessential experience of the Sonoran Southwest from a true culinary perspective all across the property.
Here is what you can expect from each concept:
Bob’s Steak & Chop House
If you haven’t visited Bob’s Steak & Chop House, then you’re missing out! In addition to the handcrafted cocktails and an extensive wine list, the upscale steakhouse offers high-quality seafood, chops, generously-portioned appetizers, and prime steaks that are hand-selected from the top two percent of USDA prime beef.
And make sure to save room for dessert! My go-to is Bob’s Classic Bread Pudding, which is served with an indulgent Grand Marnier Caramel sauce and luscious French Silk Vanilla Ice Cream. For this style of ice cream, egg yolks are used to create a rich texture.
When possible, I recommend sitting outside on the terrace for the sunset views of the award-winning golf course and picturesque Santa Catalina Mountains. But, if the weather doesn’t permit, then you can also enjoy your dinner in the elegant, rich-toned dining room of tanned leather dining chairs, iron decor, and rust-colored drapes.
As far as service goes, it’s never been anything short of extraordinary — which I believe stems from the leadership. Vila Jarrell, the general manager and a certified sommelier, brought with her 15 years of experience in the food and beverage industry prior to joining Bob’s.
For more information, visit omnihotels.com.
The Peak
What was previously a banquet space in the lobby is now a bar and cocktail lounge, The Peak. The open concept features a racetrack-style bar in the center of the room with plenty of seating.
Inside, my two favorite seating locations are near the expansive window overlooking the Sweet Water Pool and mountains, and the tables near the gallery wall of curated Tucson-inspired artwork. If you prefer outdoor seating, then you can enjoy the outdoor terrace.
From the menu, you will find shareable plates, wines, beers, spirits, and handcrafted cocktails. However, the cocktails are where I find that The Peak especially excels.
Their version of the famed Espresso Martini, Double Shot, is my favorite in Tucson. Following a traditional Espresso Martini recipe, the drink consists of vodka, espresso, and coffee liqueur. But their coffee liqueur, SanTan Spirits Black Stills Coffee Liqueur, is what makes the cocktail.
SanTan Spirits Black Stills Coffee Liqueur is a collaboration between two Arizona businesses, which combines CULT Artisan Beverage Company’s Mezzanotte cold brew and SanTan Spirits sugar cane rum. The result of the liqueur is a smooth and velvety profile that is naturally sweetened, with hints of molasses, dark chocolate, and hazelnut.
For more information, visit omnihotels.com.
Desert Farmer
Desert Farmer is a new breakfast and brunch concept at Omni Tucson National Resort that is located by taking the lobby’s staircase or elevator. The eatery is filled with natural lighting that bounces off the wall’s glazed blue tiles and the light brown wooden slats.
Much like the decor, the menu takes on a Southwest contemporary approach with small plates, brunch classics, and inventive options. While my husband loves to order Huevos Rancheros whenever it’s on a menu (which was quite good at Omni Tucson), I go back and forth between something healthy or indulgent.
So, I tried both the Smoked Salmon on Rye and the Smothered Waffle. The waffle I especially loved because it was lightly caramelized and served with candied bacon, which included sliced jalapeño and a taste of cumin.
For more information, visit omnihotels.com.
Terra Cotta Café
It’s convenient to have the newly-added Terra Cotta Café at the resort when you’re craving a quick bite or made-to-order coffee. The available prepackaged food makes it easy to grab and go, whether you’re hitting the trails surrounding the resort or going on the green.
At the cafe, you may also find small souvenirs reminiscent of the Sonoran Desert or even essentials for your stay.
For more information, visit omnihotels.com.
Sweet Water Terrace
While lounging by the Sweet Water Pool, you can experience the Sweet Water Terrace for a bright cocktail or poolside snack! With the rainy weather during my visit, I didn’t get the chance to visit this outdoor bar and grill but I do plan to return.
What caught my eye were the refreshing cocktails that remind me of pool season: Lemon Lavender (vodka cocktail), Salted Watermelon (tequila cocktail), Vanilla Coffee (rum cocktail), French Frozen Berry Frosé, and then of course, your Piña Colada and Frozen Margarita classics. There’s also a selection of beer, wine, and seltzers.
While the menu offered salads like the Grilled Black Pepper Shrimp, I recognized that it also offered The Legendary Burger. Served on a split brioche bun with housemade pickles, The Legendary Burger consists of a proprietary blend of ground chuck, short rib, and brisket.
For more information, visit omnihotels.com.
Legends Bar & Grill
Newly refreshed, Legends Bar & Grill pays homage to the resort’s rich golf history: the Catalina Course by Robert Von Hagge and Bruce Devlin, and the Sonoran Course by Tom Lehman. Any golfer would appreciate the art and memorabilia that the restaurant features.
To unwind, golfers and guests can relax by playing a casual game of pool or shuffleboard, listening to live music on the patio, or even by simply watching a sporting event on the surrounding TVs.
In addition to an all-new menu, guests will equally enjoy the wide selection of beer, wine, and spirits.
Omni Tucson National Resort is located at 2727 W. Club Dr. For more information on all restaurants and the hours of operation, visit omnihotels.com.
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