(Photo by Sebastian Coman Photography)

Introducing Tucson Foodie’s Exclusive R&D Dinner Series


October 25, 2023
By Addie Ibarra, Shane Reiser
By Addie Ibarra

The restaurant scene in Tucson continues to shine and grow. With it comes not just new restaurants to explore, but new unique foodie experiences to enjoy.

One new experience of note is Tucson Foodie’s new chef-led dinner series, inspired by Tasting Collective’s highly popular model running in 20+ cities around the country.

These monthly dinners are designed to be a two-way conversation between guests and Chef. Restaurants serve multi-course meals featuring experimental dishes planned for future menus and guests provide feedback via comment cards and conversations with the restaurant’s Executive Chef. The evening concludes with a fireside chat with the chef, who is also on the floor explaining each dish and interacting directly with guests throughout the night.

For the inaugural dinner with Chef Mat Cable of Fresco Pizzeria & Pastaria on Tuesday, November 7, we’re extending a special invitation to the general public at a rate of $85 per person. It’s a unique opportunity to get a taste of what Tucson Foodie’s new Insiders community is all about.

However, starting with subsequent dinners, exclusive access to these monthly culinary adventures will be reserved for our cherished Insiders at a stunning rate of only $65 per person with 100% of ticket sales going straight to the hosting restaurant.

If you haven’t already signed up, you can become an Insider for just $20/month, which not only grants you access to these exciting dinners but also includes lots of other member experiences and goodies. Another option is to attend as the +1 of an Insider, ensuring that everyone can join in the vibrant Tucson Foodie culinary community.

Tickets are now on sale for the first R&D Dinner with Chef Mat Cable of Fresco Pizzeria & Pastaria. See below for a sneak peak at the menu. Insiders, check the Members App for details on getting your exclusive Insiders rate for this dinner as well as those upcoming.

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Upcoming R&D Dinners

  • Chef Mat Cable of Fresco Pizzeria & Pastaria on Tuesday, November 7
  • Chef Devon Sanner of Zio Peppe in March
  • Chef Gary Hickey of Charro Steak on Saturday, April 20
  • Chef Paul Reyes of Ciao Down Pizza Studio, TBD
  • Chef Obie Hindman of Mountain Oyster Club, TBD

Tucson Foodie has always led the charge in celebrating and promoting the local culinary scene, and now, with the R&D Dinner Series at the heart of Tucson Foodie Insiders, they’re taking it to the next level.

But that’s not all.

The Tucson Foodie Insiders membership offers more than just these experiential R&D dinners. As an Insider, you also gain exclusive access to mixer events, early invitations and discounts to Tucson’s top food and beverage extravaganzas, a 30% discount at Tucson Foodie’s new merchandise store, and other special perks. All of this is managed through the Tucson Foodie members’ app, ensuring a seamless, convenient experience.

Visit tucsonfoodie.com/insiders to join and start receiving invitations to these exclusive dinners.

Tucson Foodie is a locally owned and operated community. Thanks to our partners and members, we are able to offer paywall-free guides and articles. We value your support and invite you to become a Tucson Foodie Insider today.

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Article By

Addie Ibarra, native Tucsonan, is a fierce lover of adventure, travels, and food. Addie has her Masters in Legal Studies and hopes to one day apply that towards helping people (and animals) around the globe, while traveling and tasting along...

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