Figs Oven + Enoteca opens Aug. 25 with scratch-made Mediterranean [PHOTOS]

East Tucson diners are getting a new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant later this week. Figs Oven + Enoteca opens Monday, Aug. 25, at 7301 E. Tanque Verde Rd., Suite 121.

Meanwhile, the new eatery takes over the space formerly home to longtime Italian staple Zona 78. The previous restaurant served its final meal in June.

Additionally, Figs Oven + Enoteca focuses on broad flavor profiles from countries around the Mediterranean Sea. The owners emphasize a “from scratch” philosophy in every dish.

“Our philosophy embraces the importance of slowing down and enjoying the moment,” said David Lazarus, CEO & Operations of Sage Culinary Concepts. “The term from scratch represents our daily rituals.”

The interior features timeless vintage decor and antiques, complemented by moody lighting, dark walls, and a subtle nautical twist.

Mediterranean-Inspired Menu Highlights

Moreover, the menu offers a variety of dishes blending Mediterranean flavors with creative twists. Highlights include:

• Whipped Ricotta – topped with bee pollen, blistered tomatoes, pistachio crumble, and fig balsamic.
• Halloumi Fries – floured and fried halloumi with Meyer lemon tahini and harissa sauce.
• Za’atar Crusted Lamb Lollipops – oven-roasted lamb chops with mint chimichurri and whipped potatoes.
• Branzino – whole Mediterranean sea bass filet with citrus tahini sauce and saffron rice.
• Fig Burger – grass fed beef, Calabrian fig jam, caramelized balsamic onion, brie cheese, and arugula.

(I haven’t tasted anything there yet, but swung by their staff tasting today to get some quick photos:)

Sage Culinary Concepts Team

Former co-owners Reza and Lisa Shapouri handed the reins down to David Lazarus, Daniel Shapouri, and Chelsea Hughes, who now lead the project under their new group, Sage Culinary Concepts. Lazarus serves as CEO, overseeing daily operations. Daniel serves as corporate executive chef, managing the kitchen staff. Hughes is chief financial officer, handling finances and human resources. This trio launched Sage Culinary Concepts to oversee Figs and its sister restaurants. The group now spans three concepts (including Harvest Restaurant and Charred Pie) and continues a scratch-made cooking legacy.

Figs Oven + Enoteca is located at 7301 E. Tanque Verde Rd., Suite 121.