Local Food Writer Publishes “Lost Restaurants of Tucson” Highlighting Historic Eateries

Like any city, Tucson has had its fair share of restaurants pass through, both good and bad.

A few unique venues are missed more than others, such as the upscale Tack Room, Gordo’s with their famous chimichangas, and the southwest-inspired Café Terra Cotta.

Local author Rita Connelly set out to uncover the history and forgotten stories of these eateries in her new book, Lost Restaurants of Tucson, set to release on December 7, 2015.

The book offers something for everyone, from history buffs to food-lovers, to Tucson locals. It includes little-known information about the many restaurants that once existed in town, from dive bars to up-scale dining establishments, while painting a picture of the city’s history and culinary roots.

Connelly spent ten years as a restaurant reviewer for the Tucson Weekly, and has written about the Tucson food scene for other local and national publications. She has also co-written a guidebook on Tucson and fits in time to judge at wine, hot dog, taco, salsa, margarita, and chocolate competitions.

Lost Restaurants of Tucson is the newest addition to The History Press’ American Palate series, which includes a total of 188 titles, such as Nashville Food Trucks, A History of Virginia Wines, and Vegan Survival Guide to Austin.

If you’re interested in a signed copy, join Connelly at Mostly Books on December 12 at 2pm.

The book is currently available for pre-purchase on arcadiapublishing.com and Amazon, and will be available at local retailers on Dec. 7.

In the meantime, check out a recent post Rita wrote for Tucson Foodie, 9 Iconic Restaurants From Tucson’s Past. And, if you still want more vintage Tucson eats (for reading, not eating) check out our recent features on Gordo’s Mexicateria and the original Good Earth menu.