The Essential Foodie Guide to Marana

Formerly a location for Vero Amore, the restaurant now known as Amore combines three separate concepts: Neapolitan pizza/Italian, chicken wings, and Indian cuisine.
For a combination of genres, order the chicken tikka pizza.

Asian Spice in northwest Tucson brings celebrated Cantonese-style Chinese American cuisine to a casual, modest interior. The dining room sits in a Marana strip mall with only a handful of tables, making the space feel cozy and intimate. Local diners often wait for a seat, and many others prefer takeout or catering for their meals. Furthermore, Asian Spice was named one of the ‘Top 100 Chinese Restaurants’ in the U.S.

Patrons rave about honey walnut shrimp with crisp cabbage and creamy, honey-sweet sauce. The menu also features fried rice with butter nuances, and beef ho fun noodles cooked in Cantonese tradition. Classic options like shrimp chop suey and crab rangoon draw regulars and visitors alike.

Baggin's has been a local fave since '84, and for good reason. They make all their sandwiches with fresh, in-house baked and sliced meats. And if you're too busy to stop by, they deliver. Plus, every sandwich comes with a cute little chocolate chip cookie - how cool is that?

At Bisbee Breakfast Club, you're in for a hearty start to your day. From mouth-watering breakfast scrambles and fluffy 3-egg omelettes to enormous pancakes and a variety of South of the Border favorites, this place has got all your breakfast and brunch cravings covered.

Button Brew House, founded in 2017 by Erika and Todd Button, operates as a northwest Tucson microbrewery with a strong emphasis on community, live events, and locally sourced ingredients. The taproom carries a relaxed, welcoming feel, with an indoor bar area flowing into a spacious outdoor courtyard called the Backyard, where live music and vendor events regularly take place.

Popular house brews include the Button IPA, Tucson Traveler, and Chiltepín Red, all of which have earned medals at the Roadrunner Brew Fest. Snacks include Robbs Family Farm Pistachios, Uncle Bob’s Popcorn, and Von Hanson’s Pretzels.

Caps & Corks features a clean, industrial aesthetic with exposed ductwork, metal accents, and concrete floors. Garage-style doors roll up to connect the interior with a spacious patio.

The drink list includes a rotating lineup of craft beers on tap, along with bottled wines and ciders. Local and regional breweries often headline the tap wall. Check their website for the food truck schedule.

Casa Marana blends a neighborhood-bar vibe with wood-fired pizza and a wide selection of drinks in northwest Marana. The atmosphere feels lively but welcoming, with a bar area, indoor seating, and a game-friendly setup that includes shuffleboard, darts, billiards and outdoor seating on the patio.

For snacks or lighter meals, pretzel bites with spinach dip and salads draw a following alongside the more indulgent pizza–and–pint combos.

Catalina Brewing Company highlights Southwestern flavors through beer inspired by the Sonoran Desert. The taproom sits in Marana and features concrete floors, bike decor and a relaxed industrial look. Large garage doors open to a shaded patio that gives the space a casual, community-focused feel. The taproom also features an adjacent room with pinball machines.

Standout brews include the Mesquite Agave Ale, Buena Vida Blonde, 24 Hour IPA. Guests often pair their pints with rotating food trucks.

Cayton’s Restaurant anchors the clubhouse at The Golf Club at Dove Mountain with a rustic-meets-refined American bistro style. The dining room features wood and stone accents and a warm, relaxed vibe. A patio offers sweeping views of the golf course and Tortolita Mountains, especially striking at sunset.

Favorites include the steak frites and burgers.

Circle S Saloon serves as a western-themed bar and grill in Marana with a lively, country-rooted atmosphere. The interior features barn wood, saddle decor and neon signs that create a classic roadhouse feel. Live music nights and dance events give the space an energetic, community-driven vibe.

Regulars often order the chicken wings and green chile burger.

Located on the first floor of the Marana Main Health Center, MHC Healthcare’s Copper Cafe offers tasty treats, specialty coffee drinks, and healthy breakfast and lunch meals. In addition to providing patrons with delicious food and beverages, the Copper Cafe also serves as a training site for MHC Healthcare’s Work Adjustment Program.

Regulars highlight the green chile chicken stew as a go-to comfort dish on colder days. Their turkey club sandwich and cinnamon roll are also popular with locals.

At Copper Creek, they're all about cookies and comfort food. You can grab everything from frosted cookies to cookie bouquets, perfect for any occasion. Also, don't miss out on their signature Sunrise Calzolis - it's a hearty breakfast wrapped up in bread!

Even Freddie Mercury sang about "dining at the Ritz" due to their golden standard of quality. CORE Kitchen & Wine Bar offers a polished desert-luxury dining experience inside The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain. The dining room features natural stone, warm wood and large windows that frame views of the Tortolita Mountains. Soft lighting and spacious seating create an upscale but comfortable atmosphere suited for both resort guests and locals.
The adjoining citrus grove provides outstandingly fresh oranges, grapefruits, and tangelos. Dinner guests love the steaks and scallops, while breakfast guests go for the lemon ricotta pancakes and smoked brisket hash.

Crema Coffee operates as a specialty cafe on West Ina Road, focused on craft espresso drinks and a relaxed environment. The interior features exposed brick, minimalist wood furnishings, and art-wall displays from local creators. A small outdoor patio adds casual seating and light for solo work or meet-ups.

Crying Onion Cafe operates as a classic Tucson breakfast spot with a cozy, old-school diner feel.

Huevos rancheros and chicken fried steak serve as the most popular choices amongst regulars.

Del Rancho Carniceria & Tacos combines a neighborhood carnicería with a casual taqueria counter.

To make the most of a visit, order the arrachera platter and chile relleno, then swing by the grocery side to grab some fresh salsas.

Dominick’s Real Italian brings a traditional, family-style Italian atmosphere to Tucson with a focus on hearty comfort dishes. The dining room features warm lighting, brick accents and classic red-and-white table settings that create a nostalgic trattoria feel.

Regulars go for the lasagna, chicken parm, and garlic knots.

If you're a donut lover, then you've gotta check out Donut Wheel. This family-run joint has been serving up the best donuts in Tucson for 20 years, and they're not slowing down. Whether you're into classic donuts, cake donuts, or other sweet pastries, they've got you covered.

Dove M Chinese Bistro offers home-style Chinese and Asian-fusion cuisine in a modest, family-friendly setting on Thornydale Road in Marana. The dining room remains simple and relaxed with casual seating and modest décor that matches its approachable vibe.

The hot and sour soup and egg drop soup, sesame chicken, and Kung Pao chicken are most popular among regulars.

This is the place to go if you’re looking for locally brewed Arizona beers that really hit the spot — and food to go with them! The menu is packed with fresh, local ingredients. Plus, they’ve got some killer daily specials. They mostly have other brewery’s beers on tap but you’ll find a couple of their own, too, like the Dove Mountain IPA and a pale ale.

Known for their frosty 'eegee' fruit treats and towering sandwiches, Eegee's is a refreshing stop that won't leave you hungry. They've even got chicken meals for non-sandwich folks.

El Molinito on Ina Road offers a lively Sonoran Mexican dining experience with colorful décor and a warm neighborhood feel. The interior features bright tile, carved wood accents and festive artwork that create an energetic yet comfortable space.

The carne seca and cheese crisps are the most popular dishes here.

Frankie’s South Philly Cheesesteaks delivers a classic East Coast sandwich experience in a casual Tucson setting. The interior features simple counter service, bright signs and a no frills layout that keeps the focus on the food. This includes sourcing Amoroso rolls.

Regulars opt for the traditional cheesesteak with thin sliced rib-eye and melted provolone.

A menu stacked with all kinds of bratwursts - classic, spicy paprika, even one made with real Warsteiner Beer! And if you're up for a different kind of sandwich, their Bavarian style meatloaf is a must-try. Wash it all down with a cold drink, and you're all set for a great German meal!

Growler’s Taphouse brings a lively craft beer atmosphere to Marana with a spacious, pub style setting with TVs. Patio seating adds a relaxed outdoor option that stays busy during cooler evenings.

Wings remain their most popular option, but also grab their burgers and pretzels.

Home Plate Marana offers a family friendly sports bar atmosphere with bright colors and plenty of baseball themed décor. The dining room features large TVs, shuffleboard, pool tables, video games, a patio, and batting cages.

Burgers and wings are the go-to items here.

This quaint, brand-new, Mexican restaurant is serving some delicious food and the wings did not disappoint. Their mole wings are served on custom-branded wooden cutting boards.

“The wings had that great mole flavor of a semi-sweet rich and slightly spicy chocolate sauce,” according to the Tucson Wing Expert.

Ignite at The Ritz Carlton, Dove Mountain offers a refined lounge setting with desert inspired design and sweeping mountain views. The interior features warm wood, stone accents and soft lighting that create an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. Guests enjoy both indoor seating and a scenic patio that overlooks the Tortolita Mountains. The fire-themed Bar & Lounge is a bustling hub where guests can enjoy afternoon iced teas with lunch, along with classic cocktails and new concoctions served by a charming team of mixologists.

The fare is combines flavors from the Southwest to dishes inspired by age-old Asian culinary traditions. Ignite also features an extensive array of smoky single-malt scotches and whiskeys from around the world.

Jade Garden Chinese Restaurant offers a classic Chinese American dining experience in a warm, neighborhood setting

Sesame chicken, fried rice, and lo mein serve as the most popular dishes.

Family-owned since 2017 and billed as Tucson's only pita and poke shop, Jimmy's turns out pitas, salads, and poke bowls made fresh daily without preservatives. The homemade citrus-infused sauces are the calling card, and customizable bowls make it easy to fit almost any diet.

La Carreta del Rorro features a bright green canopy adorned with vintage license plates. Picnic tables and folding chairs fill the space with a salsa bar and drink refrigerators along the wall.

They spread the mayo over the tomatoes rather drizzling it over, leading to more even distribution. To further break outside the norm, pay a little extra to add some crumbly, salty chorizo on top.

Their Empanadas are so good. Listen to this description: “…stuffed with cilantro-basil pesto, shrimp, sweet corn, green chili, and manchego cheese, atop chipotle cream sauce, garnished with cabbage slaw, corn salsa, and Anaheim crema.”

La Parrilla Suiza on Ina Road offers a casual sit down setting inspired by Mexico City style cuisine. The interior features warm tile, wood accents and soft lighting that create a comfortable and familiar atmosphere.

Signature items include the queso fundido and chicken enchiladas.

Li’l Abner’s Steakhouse has graced the northwest side of Tucson with a southwestern-style picnic table experience since 1947. They offer a small menu specializing in steaks, ribs, chicken, and salmon mesquite-grilled over their open fire grill outside.

Linh Nam offers Vietnamese and Chinese dishes, take-out only.

Favorites include the General Tso's chicken and egg roll.

Lucky Wishbone on delivers a casual old school comfort food experience built around fried foods including fried chicken, wings, gizzards, chicken liver, steak fingers, and shrimp.

Meals come with fries and toast. Their house sauce is a zippy cocktail sauce. They also offer a handful of burgers and sandwiches.

If you're after some epic boba teas and smoothies to beat the desert heat, you're in LUCK... Get it? Lucky's all about getting creative here, with loads of tea options, milks, sweeteners, and all the boba and jellies you could wish for.

The menu includes breakfast staples like huevos rancheros, chilaquiles, a Classic Egg Sandwich, and then the Classic Breakfast plate that includes two eggs, your choice of two strips of bacon or sausage links, and then served with potatoes and your choice of toast (move over, Denny’s, there’s a new Grand Slam in town — minus the pancakes).

Mantis Gourmet Chinese Food offers a straightforward neighborhood dining experience with a focus on classic Chinese American comfort dishes. As such, favorite dishes included the orange chicken and Mongolian beef.

Mariscos Chihuahua offers a Mexican seafood-focused menu.

Signature dishes include the Shrimp Culichi, featuring shrimp sautéed in a creamy green chile sauce, and the Camarones Rellenos, bacon-wrapped shrimp stuffed with cheese. The restaurant's ceviche, particularly the shrimp ceviche tostadas, is also a customer favorite. Other popular items are the Caldo de 7 Mares, a hearty seafood soup, and the Tostada Especial, a combination of cooked shrimp, octopus, and calamari served on a crispy tostada.

These folks are dishing out some seriously good Native American cuisine. The star of the show is their fry bread - fluffy, golden, and perfect with both sweet and savory toppings. It's a rad spot if you're looking for something a bit different but totally delicious!

Nana’s Kitchen features high ceilings, warm adobe-colored walls, and large murals of Spanish ships and Aztec warriors. The dining room buzzes under hanging lights and ceiling fans, while sombreros and serapes decorate the space. A full bar lines one side, showcasing glassware and a wide selection of tequila.

This family-run restaurant focuses on homestyle Mexican cuisine served with warm, attentive hospitality. Regulars love the beef chimichanga, sopa de tortilla, and ground beef tacos.

R&R Pizza Express is all about fast, friendly service and wickedly tasty pizza. From classic pepperoni to loaded veggie pies, they've got your pizza cravings covered. It's a casual spot that delivers big on flavor, making it a must for anyone seeking some serious pizza action.

Sky Rider Cafe sits inside the Ryan Airfield terminal and offers a laid back aviation themed setting. The dining room features large windows that look out over the runway, along with simple tables and vintage flight decor.

Come for the diner comfort classics like chicken fried steak and patty melts.

Spice Garden Indian Cuisine offers a warm, relaxed dining room with deep colors and traditional artwork.

While chicken tikka masala and garlic naan remain their most popular dishes, make sure to check out the South Indian menu for a variety of dosas and sambar.

Sushi Cortaro Japanese Cuisine offers a cozy neighborhood setting with a traditional sushi bar and simple, modern décor.

While specialty sushi rolls remain the star, also check out their crisp, light tempura and variety of bento box specials and udon bowls.

Food truck Taqueria Plaza’s features tacos with your choice of meats, burros, tortas, chimichangas, Sonoran hot dogs, and some house birria specialties.

The Blacktop Grill delivers a playful, street food inspired atmosphere built around hot dogs, tacos and creative comfort dishes. The interior uses bright colors, casual seating and bold graphics that give the space a fun, laid back vibe.

Try their bacon popper quesadilla, loaded elote fries, or chile relleno hot dog.

The Highlands Bar and Grille offers an inviting golf course setting with wide views of Dove Mountain and a relaxed clubhouse atmosphere.

Regulars come for the fish and chips along with other bar bites.

The Screamery at Arizona Pavilions offers a bright, family friendly ice cream shop atmosphere with a clean, modern layout. Favorite flavors include the Ooey Gooey Butter Cake and the Sweet Cream Honeycomb.

The Station Pub and Grill offers a lively neighborhood hangout with a classic pub style atmosphere. The interior features brick accents, dark wood and plenty of TVs that create a relaxed spot for sports and casual meals.

Favorites include the wings, burgers, and fish & chips.

Next door to Crying Onion Cafe, Tio Ben’s Mexican Grill offers a relaxed neighborhood setting with colorful décor and a friendly, counter service layout. The dining room features bright walls, simple tables and an inviting atmosphere that suits quick lunches or casual dinners.

The homestyle menu gathers praise for its carne asada tacos, overflowing hot molcajetes, and enchiladas.

Tumbleweed Lounge offers a classic roadside bar atmosphere with a laid back, old school desert vibe. The interior features low lighting, vintage beer signs and simple seating that creates a casual, lived-in feel.

Grabbing a cold one is the focus here, but they also offer burgers and wings.

PRIX FIXE MEAL FOR TWO $35

– Large 1 topping Detroit style pizza

– Entrée size garden salad

– 2 Large cannoli

– 1 Gallon Milos sweet tea