Tucson Foodie’s Week in Review: What You Missed (Feb 22-28)

Tucson Foodie’s Week In Review

Tucson Foodie’s Week in Review: What You Missed (Feb 22-28)

Feb 28, 20254 min read

Welcome to this week’s roundup!

We’ve gathered the top stories, a standout social post, and other foodie highlights you shouldn’t miss. From the latest buzz around Tucson’s dining scene to can’t-miss events and exclusive perks for our Foodie Club members, this is your go-to guide to staying in the loop.

Let’s dig in!

Top Stories & Articles

Chef Jose Contreras Honors Tradition at Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen
Chef Jose Contreras at Amelia's Mexican Kitchen on Oracle Road (Photo by Jackie Tran)
Chef Jose Contreras at Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen on Oracle Road (Photo by Jackie Tran)

In a city celebrated for its rich culinary heritage, Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen has carved out a name for itself in just a few short years. Opened in November 2021 by chef Jose Contreras, the restaurant quickly became a Tucson favorite, drawing in locals and travelers alike with its Mexican flavors, signature birria, and award-winning cocktails.

Read the full article: Chef Jose Contreras Honors Tradition at Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen.

Peek into the New Space & Menu at UnCork’d Kitchen & Cocktails
Steak Frites at UnCork'd Kitchen & Cocktails (Photo by Jackie Tran)
Steak Frites at UnCork’d Kitchen & Cocktails (Photo by Jackie Tran)

UnCork’d Kitchen & Cocktails invited us over to check out their new space and try a few items from their menu.

Read the full article: Peek into the New Space & Menu at UnCork’d Kitchen & Cocktails

Transplant Pizza to Open a Second Location & Debut New Dishes
Chef Travis Peters (Photo courtesy of Transplant Pizza)
Chef Travis Peters (Photo courtesy of Transplant Pizza)

Last month, the masterminds behind Serial Grillers welcomed Chef Travis Peters (formerly of The Parish) as an equity partner. Now, they’re closing the Serial Grillers location at 1970 W. River Rd., and Transplant, Detroit-Style Pizza is moving in.

Read the full article: Transplant Pizza to Open a Second Location & Debut New Dishes.

HiFi Kitchen & Cocktails Has Permanently Closed

“After 11 unforgettable years, it’s time to say farewell, Tucson. From the wild nights to the unforgettable memories, we’ve loved every second of this ride with you. To all our friends, staff, and party people — thank you for making HiFi Tucson what it was. You will all be deeply missed.”

Read the full article: HiFi Kitchen & Cocktails Has Permanently Closed.

New Foodie Guides

Best Steaks in Tucson
NY Strip estillo Charro at Charro Steak & Del Rey (Photo by Jackie Tran)
NY Strip estillo Charro at Charro Steak & Del Rey (Photo by Jackie Tran)

An exceptional steak features a beautifully caramelized crust and a tender, juicy interior. Cooking methods vary — grilling over open flames creates a distinctive smokiness, while pan-searing lets chefs meticulously baste with butter and aromatics such as garlic and thyme.

Read the guide: Best Steaks in Tucson.

Best Fish & Chips in Tucson
Fish & Chips at HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery (Credit: Jackie Tran)

Whenever February and March roll around, it’s that time of year when regardless of the reasoning, people start to ask, “Where can I get good fish and chips in Tucson?” Check out some of the places we’ve gathered.

Read the guide: Best Fish & Chips in Tucson.

Get Your Tickets to the Vegan Tucson Night Market’s VIP Lounge
Saturday, March 1
Vegan Tucson Night Market (September 2024)(Photo by Martin Madero)

Back in December, we introduced an exclusive VIP Lounge at the Vegan Tucson Night Market and it’s back! Tickets are just $25 each, limited, and can be purchased online. In other words, buy your tickets sooner than later!

Read the full article: Get Your Tickets to the Vegan Tucson Night Market’s VIP Lounge (March 1).

Food Truck Roll Up
Sunday, March 2
Food Truck Roll Up at Casino Del Sol

We’re making it easier by bringing them all together for a day. Food trucks have always played a huge role in Tucson’s culinary evolution—some even go on to open brick-and-mortar spots. The event takes place on Sunday, March 2, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Casino Del Sol’s AVA Amphitheater (5655 W. Valencia Rd.). Admission is free.

Read the full article: A Massive Street Food Party at Casino Del Sol.

Perks of Being a Foodie Club member

For $20 a month, Foodie Club members get a stack of cash vouchers to local restaurants worth over $6,000, free tasting events at local restaurants every month, access to members-only monthly dinner series with local chefs, discounts on events, and monthly mixers with other members.

New Foodie Club member Perks:
  • Bumsted’s – $10 off your bill every 90 days
  • Mariscos Chihuahua – $10 off your bill every 30 days
  • Tabu – $20 off your bill every six months
  • Tesoro Latin Kitchen & Cantina – Two free tacos every month

Learn more and join!

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@Vegantucsonnightmarket returns December 5, from 6-9pm at Rillito Park!🌙 

Vendors apply in bio! App deadline is October 26. 

Photos by @astra1wanderer@Vegantucsonnightmarket returns December 5, from 6-9pm at Rillito Park!🌙 Vendors apply in bio! App deadline is October 26. Photos by @astra1wanderer
@Jundynasty has served Sichuan dishes on Grant Road for 13 years.🌶️ 

General manager Jacob Yeung credits one idea above all: “We’ve grown since then, but the key has always been consistency.”

Stop in for Flaming Chili Oil, Walnut Shrimp, chow fun, or sautéed green beans finished with Sichuan peppercorns. Vegetarian and vegan options are available. 

2933 E. Grant Road

Read the full story at tucsonfoodie.com@Jundynasty has served Sichuan dishes on Grant Road for 13 years.🌶️ General manager Jacob Yeung credits one idea above all: “We’ve grown since then, but the key has always been consistency.” Stop in for Flaming Chili Oil, Walnut Shrimp, chow fun, or sautéed green beans finished with Sichuan peppercorns. Vegetarian and vegan options are available. 2933 E. Grant Road Read the full story at tucsonfoodie.com
@Lovinspoonfulstucson is closing after more than 20 years in Tucson. Its final day of service runs on Saturday, Oct. 24.

Customers can stop in between now and Saturday for one last meal. The team plans to sell down its inventory, though it hopes to have favorite dishes available. Regular hours remain 9am-3pm through the final day.

“Running this kitchen has been a labor of love, but the numbers just aren’t adding up anymore, and as parents, we have to make the hard choice to step back and take care of what matters most at home.” 

Read the article on Tucsonfoodie.com@Lovinspoonfulstucson is closing after more than 20 years in Tucson. Its final day of service runs on Saturday, Oct. 24. Customers can stop in between now and Saturday for one last meal. The team plans to sell down its inventory, though it hopes to have favorite dishes available. Regular hours remain 9am-3pm through the final day. “Running this kitchen has been a labor of love, but the numbers just aren’t adding up anymore, and as parents, we have to make the hard choice to step back and take care of what matters most at home.” Read the article on Tucsonfoodie.com
A little love for the chefs who make Tucson’s food scene so special. These are just some of the many talented chefs who make our city what it is.

Happy International Chefs Day to the talented people behind the plates, the creativity, and the meals we keep coming back for. We’re grateful for all you do!💐A little love for the chefs who make Tucson’s food scene so special. These are just some of the many talented chefs who make our city what it is. Happy International Chefs Day to the talented people behind the plates, the creativity, and the meals we keep coming back for. We’re grateful for all you do!💐