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Rita Connelly

Contributor at Tucson Foodie.

Work by Rita

Article

Where to get your fill of Tucson’s iconic chimichanga (& a word on the origin)

If you’re a local, you’ve likely had your fair share of chimichangas. If not, let’s change that! The chimichanga, or chimi, is a deep-fried burrito that begins life as a […]

Jun 29, 20268 min read

Article

The magic of Malta Joe’s Baked Goods

Chef Malta Joe Gauci, owner of Malta Joe’s Baked Goods, is a food writer’s dream interview. He’s passionate about his product, has lots of stories to tell, is knowledgeable about […]

Mar 25, 202611 min read

Article

My First Time: Dishes That Impacted Our Lives (Part Two)

We asked local chefs, food writers, restaurant owners, food photographers, and friends to share that experience.

Dec 27, 20245 min read

Article

My First Time: Dishes That Impacted Our Lives (Part One)

We asked local chefs, food writers, restaurant owners, food photographers, and friends to share that experience.

Nov 20, 202414 min read

Article

Liam McCarthy: The Culinary Magician Behind the Scenes at Renee’s

Explore Liam McCarthy’s culinary innovation at Renee’s Tucson, from his unique dough-making process to exquisite, savory masterpieces.

Nov 2, 20235 min read

Article

Monsoon Chocolate Café + Market is a Chocolate Lover’s Paradise

Monsoon Chocolate may have just relocated in June, but from the looks of things, the new kid on the block is fitting right in.

Sep 27, 20235 min read

Guide

Guide to Old School Italian Restaurants in Tucson

Red Sauce Lasagna, ravioli, manicotti; it’s the kind of food that satisfies both body and soul. Tucson has no shortage of Old School Red Sauce Joints and thankfully, they’re located all over town. You’ll find enormous po

Jun 19, 20231 min read

Guide

Guide to Modern Italian Restaurants in Tucson

Modern Italian food means lighter sauces, freshly made pastas and creative takes on seafood, steaks, and poultry. The wine lists may be from smaller, craft wineries — Tavolino’s is curated from Massimo’s brother’s winery

Jun 19, 20231 min read

Article

Desert Pearl Mushrooms: Local Fungi in Tucson’s Urban Farm Scene

When Kris Savage and John De Lorenzo first began their agroponics business in their backyard, growing mushrooms wasn’t part of the plan.

Jun 14, 20236 min read

Article

India Dukaan: One-Stop Shop for Fresh Produce, Spices & More

No glitzy, brightly-lit, or fake rain shower displays here. Instead, everything is simply displayed in the boxes they come in and set on the floor in the second room.

Jun 1, 20236 min read

Article

Café 54: Supporting mental health & comfort food for nearly 20 years

As part of the Coyote Task Force, the restaurant is a training ground for people with barriers to employment, specifically mental health and substance abuse.

Apr 26, 20236 min read