Historic Tubac Restaurant, Elvira’s, to Open a Location in Scottsdale

Elvira’s, a family-owned restaurant based out of Tubac, was a once popular spot in downtown Tucson, too, before the COVID pandemic forced many businesses to temporarily close. The closure in Tucson then became permanent in October 2020 while the Tubac location continued to flourish.

Now, the restaurant — one that’s been around since the 1920s — is ready to expand up north in Scottsdale.

The new restaurant, located at 20825 N. Pima Rd., is named Elvira’s DC Ranch, which is a partnership between Chef Rubén Monroy (the owner of the restaurant in Tubac) and sommelier and restaurant developer, Tom Kaufman.

They’re planning to open the new spot this November.

Elvira’s is known for combining traditional Mexican dishes like moles, squash blossoms, quesadillas, and chile rellenos with modern presentations. Plus, the dining room is eye candy in itself. The former space in Tucson was decorated with intricate glass art and had a cozy, atmospheric vibe.

“The vision for Elvira’s DC Ranch is for you to step into the heart of a fine-dining Mexican Cocina, where tradition meets tomorrow.”

The Scottsdale location is a two-story, 3,600-square-foot space. They’re planning to have a “dreamy candlelit room full of allure and intrigue,” with velvet seats, limewashed walls, vintage mirrors, and a walk-in temperature-controlled wine cellar and tasting room.

Sure, it’s a bummer that Elvira’s didn’t make its return to Tucson after closing in 2020, but it’s always great to see a family-owned business thrive.

Elvira’s Tucson used to be located at 256 E. Congress St. Chela’s Latin Cuisine moved in earlier this year, carrying on the tradition of Mexican cuisine.

Elvira’s DC Ranch is located at 20825 N. Pima Rd. For more information, visit elvirasdcranch.com. The Tubac location is found at 2221 I-19 Frontage Rd. For more information, visit elvirasrestaurant.com.