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Dr. Andrew Weil (Photo courtesy of Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine)

Andrew Weil’s Favorite Restaurants in Tucson

Updated May 8, 2026

I’m often asked where I like to eat in Tucson. The honest answer is: in my home. I’m a good cook, and the food I prepare at home is usually better than what I get in most restaurants. That said, I like to eat out as much as anyone, but I’m very selective about where. What I mostly look for is really good food. While Tucson is known for a rich food heritage, I’ve found it harder to have great restaurant experiences here than in other cities I know.

These are places that I think get it right or have dishes that I particularly enjoy. I return to them frequently and recommend them often.

Daniel Scordato of Vivace (Photo by Taylor Noel Photography)
Daniel Scordato of Vivace (Photo by Taylor Noel Photography)

Vivace Restaurant

Italian-themed fine dining, totally consistent, outstanding service, great views. Best Caesar salad in town, excellent Seafood Soup, Salmon with Linguine, made-in-house gelato.

a picture of sushi
Sushi and nigiri at Yamato Japanese Restaurant (photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Yamato Japanese Restaurant

My favorite Japanese. Feels just like a neighborhood restaurant in Japan.

Lo mein and wontons at Kung Fu Noodle (Credit: Taylor Noel Photography)

Kung Fu Noodle

Authentic Chinese, lovely staff.  I like their Moo Shu Vegetables, Mongolian Tofu, Sichuan Green Beans, and Cucumber Salad.

Bacon, egg, and cheese on a cheddar jalapeño bagel at Bubbe's Fine Bagels (Photo by Jackie Tran)

Bubbe’s Fine Bagels

Really good bagels (try the za’atar ones when available), great schmears and sandwiches, whitefish salad.

(Photo courtesy of Uptown Burger)

Uptown Burger

Good space and service with great burgers. (I go for the Ahi Tuna and Impossible Burgers), Sweet Potato Fries, French Fries, and salads.

Grilled Shrimps topped with Coconut Curry Sauce on Jasmine Rice, Vietnamese Spring Rolls and Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce from Miss Saigon (Credit: Melissa Stihl)
Grilled Shrimps topped with Coconut Curry Sauce on Jasmine Rice, Vietnamese Spring Rolls and Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce from Miss Saigon (Credit: Melissa Stihl)

Miss Saigon (Campbell Avenue)

Fast, fresh Vietnamese. My standbys are the #1 (Shrimp Paste Spring Rolls) and #46 (Bun Tom Nuong – Grilled Shrimp with Vermicelli).

(Photo by Jackie Tran)

Casa Madre

A hidden gem. Owner-chef Doma uses the best local ingredients to make original, delicious meals. I like to eat in the outdoor patio. Don’t miss the homemade ice creams.

Photo Courtesy of AJ's Fine Foods

AJ’s Fine Foods Sushi Bar

A regular lunch spot for me. I often get the Hand Rolls (Spicy Tuna, Snow Crab, Salmon Skin). High quality fish. Go at off times to avoid the crowds.

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