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(Photo courtesy of the Town of Marana)

The Best Restaurants in Southern Marana

Updated April 19, 2024

Just north of Tucson, in the foothills of the Torolita Mountains, you’ll find Marana — a small, but rapidly growing town rich with history, surrounded by beautiful views, and populated by a community that loves their local food.

This guide addresses that last part, in particular — the best restuarants in South Marana (and bars and cafes, too).

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a picture of asian food
Asian Spice (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Asian Spice

For a variety of Asian dishes from different regions, check out Asian Spice. You can find Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese, and Korean favorites on their menu, as well as some fusion dishes like teriyaki burgers and curry fries. Whether you’re in the mood for noodles, rice, soup, or salad, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings!

(Photo Courtesy of Baggin's Gourmet Sandwiches)

Baggin’s Gourmet Sandwiches

A local chain that has been serving fresh and delicious sandwiches since 1984. They use high-quality ingredients like homemade bread, premium meats and cheeses, and fresh produce to make their sandwiches. You can also choose from their salads, soups, desserts, and catering options.

Shelby Benedict (Photo credit: Isaac Stockton)

Catalina Cafe

Aa cozy and colorful cafe that specializes in breakfast and brunch. They serve classic American dishes with a Southwestern flair, such as omelets, pancakes, waffles, and skillets. You can also try their signature dishes like the Snickerdoodle Pancakes, the Baja Benedict, and the Pork Verde Hash.

(Photo courtesy of Bisbee Breakfast Club)

Bisbee Breakfast Club on Ina

Tucson’s favorite retro-style diner for that hearty, homemade breakfast and lunch. They offer a variety of dishes like eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits and gravy, French toast, burgers, sandwiches, and salads. And don’t forget about their daily specials, pies, cakes, and milkshakes!

"Crusher" Mexican-style lager at Button Brew House (Photo by Hannah Hernandez)

Button Brew House

This craft brewery offers a range of beers from light and crisp to dark and rich. You can sample their brews in their taproom, or take home a growler or a crowler. They also host food trucks, live music, trivia nights, and other events. Button Brew House is a great place to enjoy a cold beer and a warm atmosphere.

Caps & Corks (Photo by Jackie Tran)

Caps & Corks

Your one-stop beverage shop! Browse their shelves for your favorite brands of wine, beer, or spirits, or discover new ones from their rotating taps and wine flights. Plus, hang out in their cozy lounge area — relax, drink, and even play games like pool, darts, and shuffleboard!

Beer & Wine at Casa Marana (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Casa Marana

A craft beer and wine bar that serves local and imported drinks, as well as cocktails and sangria. You can pair your drinks with their tasty snacks like nachos, pretzels, cheese boards, and more. They also have a spacious patio with great views and live music!

Taproom at Catalina Brewing Company (Photo by Jackie Tran)

Catalina Brewing Company

A nano-brewery that makes small batches of handcrafted beers using local ingredients. They have a variety of styles to suit every taste, from hoppy IPAs to malty stouts. You can visit their taproom to try their beers, or join their mug club for discounts and perks. It’s not just beer — stay tuned to learn about their food trucks, bike rides, yoga classes, and more!

(Photo Courtesy of Copper Creek Cookies)

Copper Creek Cookies

One of the most creative bakeries around! Not only fresh and homemade cookies, pastries, and cakes, but catering to boot! Check out their famous cinnamon rolls, biscuits and gravy, cheese danish, and more, as well as their customized logo cookies and cookie bouquets! Yes, you read that right!

steamed milk being poured into espresso
Espresso Latte at Crema Coffee (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Crema Coffee

Crema Coffee is cozy and inviting, great for enjoying a hot or cold drink and a sweet treat. Family-owned, they use organic and fair trade beans to make their espresso drinks, drip coffee, cold brew, and nitro coffee. And don’t fret — they have gluten-free and vegan options for their baked goods, too!

(Photo courtesy of Crying Onion Cafe)

Crying Onion Cafe

For some good grub to start your day right, head over to Crying Onion Cafe. They’re serving up breakfast and lunch every day, with both American and Mexican influences in their dishes. Some of our faves include the Sonoran scramble, the Alamo omelet, the creamed chipped beef.

a close up of food
Davison Meats (Photo by Mark Whittaker)

Davison Meats

Davison Meats is a family-owned butcher shop that has been serving the community since 1976. They offer high-quality meats and cheeses, from beef and pork, to jerky and bacon.

(Photo courtesy of Donut Wheel)

K Donut Wheel

Midnight munchies? No problem! Donut Wheel is open 24/7, serving fresh and delicious donuts, pastries, and coffee. They’ve got the classic glazed and chocolate and jelly (oh my!), as well as specialty flavors like maple bacon, apple fritter, and red velvet.

A full Eegee's spread (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Eegee’s – Thornydale

A local institution slinging sandwiches, fries, salads, and their specialty, Eegee’s (frozen, fruity slushy drinks). Most certainly a popular spot to grab a quick bite. Oh, and don’t sleep on their famous ranch fries!

(Photo courtesy of El Molinito)

El Molinito

A Mexican restaurant that serves authentic and flavorful dishes like tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, chimichangas, and more, and that has a full and delightful salsa bar to accompany it all. Thirsty? Their wide selection of beers, wines, and tasty margs are sure to satisfy!

(Photo Courtesy of Frankie’s South Philly Cheesesteaks)

Frankie’s South Philly Cheesesteaks

If you’re looking for the real-deal Philadelphia Cheesesteaks and Hoagies, look no further. Customize your sandwiches however you like — meats, cheeses, you name it. Pair it with a salad, fries, onion rings, and desserts. Bada boom bada bing, delicious!

(Photo Courtesy of German Food Station)

German Food Station

Can’t find anywhere to get your German sausage fix? We’ve got you covered. This food truck offers traditional German cuisine, including bratwurst, schnitzel, and dang good pretzels. Pair any of those with one or three of their homemade sauce and you got yourself one heck of a hearty meal, right there.

a picture of pub grub at a sports bar in marana
(Photo Courtesy of Growler's Taphouse)

Growler’s Taphouse

This craft beer bar and restaurant features over 30 taps of local and regional brews. Feel free to sample different styles and flavors of beer, or fill up a growler to take home. And, if your tummy starts GROWLING (see what we did there?), they also have a menu of burgers, wings, and tacos to fill you right up.

a picture of Mexican food and a margarita
(Photo courtesy of Guadalajara Grill & Tequila Bar)

Guadalajara’s Grill & Tequila Bar

Looking for that authentic Mexican fix? Guadalajara Grill’s got you covered. Fantastic fajitas, boss burritos, spicy salsas, and a ton of tequilas, too. Grab a buddy or two, then grab yourself a bottle and a bite — you won’t regret it!

(Photo courtesy of Home Plate Marana on Facebook)

Home Plate Marana

Cozy and comfy, this family-friendly gem serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their menu is full of American classics, from pancakes and omelets to steaks and salads, plus a decent kids menu and senior menu as well!

(Photo Courtesy of Jade Garden)

Jade Garden Chinese Restaurant

Explore a variety of different Chinese cuisines in one location. These folks have a huge menu of dishes like dumplings, soups, noodles, rice, seafood, meats, and veggies — all with their own unique flair. On top of that, their lunch and family meal deals are awesome!

Jimmy's Pita & Poke on River & Orange Grove (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Jimmy’s Pita & Poke – River

If you’re after something healthy and filling, this is your place. Customize your pita wrap or poke bowl the way you like it — meats, fish, veggies, toppings, sauces, you name it, they’ve got it here. Round it out with a smoothie and maybe even a little dessert. You’ve earned it!

Sonoran Hot Dogs (Photo courtesy of La Carreta Del Rorro)

La Carreta Del Rorro

Experience the street food of Mexico in Marana! Their tortas, tacos, burritos, and gorditas are made fresh and delicious. Load them up with homemade sauces and salsas, then chow down there or on the go!

Combo Plate La Olla Mexican Cafe (Photo by J. Martin Harris Photography)

La Olla Mexican Cafe

La Olla serves up awesome Sonoran-style Mexican dishes with original, modern twists. Sip on a sangria, margarita, or beer, and dig into their excellent pork carnitas, chille relleno, and fried tacos. And yes, their salsa bar is superb!

(Photo courtesy of La Parrilla Suiza on Facebook)

La Parrilla Suiza

Have a taste of Mexico City right here in Marana! This spot specializes in dishes like flautas, sopas, mole, and more. Plus the atmosphere is festive and the decor is colorful. One way or another, they’ll brighten your day!

Porterhouse Steak (Photo courtesy of Lil Abners Steakhouse)

Li’l Abner’s Steakhouse

Hankering for a rustic, cowboy ambiance, and a prime cut of meat, then boy howdy have we got the place for you. Grab yourself mouthwatering, mesquite-smoked sirloin, T-bone, or filet mignon, then kick back and enjoy the live country music!

(Photo Courtesy of Linh Nam)

Linh Nam

These guys do Vietnamese food right! Grab yourself some pho, spring rolls, vermicelli bowls, whatever — it’s all good. Vegetarian options? Check. Gluten-free? Check. And all of it is fresh and tasty. Dig in!

(Photo courtesy of Lucky Wishbone)

Lucky Wishbone

A Tucson institution that has been serving crispy fried chicken and steak fingers since 1953. The original location on Broadway still has the retro charm of a classic diner, and the others continue to offer the same quality and taste. Don’t miss their homemade pies and coleslaw!

different kinds of boba tea
(Photo courtesy of Lucky's Boba Tea on Facebook)

Lucky’s Boba Tea

A cozy spot to enjoy a variety of bubble tea flavors, smoothies, slushies and snacks. Choose from a wide variety of fruits flavors, then customize your drink with different toppings and sweetness levels. Throw in a side order of mozzarella sticks or popcorn chicken while you’re at it!

Lucky’s Chicago Sandwiches (Photo by John K. on Yelp)

Lucky’s Chicago Sandwiches

The authentic taste of the Windy City right here in Tucson. Savor their famous Italian beef, hot dogs, pizza puffs and more, all made with fresh ingredients and served on Chicago’s Turano French bread. Try their beef and sausage combination sandwich with their homemade giardiniera hot peppers for a spicy kick.

a picture of mexican food
Shrimp Culichi at Mariscos Chihuahua (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Mariscos Chihuahua – Ina

Magnificent Mexican seafood with a variety of fresh options! Grab yourself a cocktail from their bar, and then dig into their fish dishes and specialties like Camarones Culichi and Pescado Frito Entero.

a close up of a plate of food
Nana's Special Tacos (Photo courtesy of Nanas Kitchen)

Nana’s Kitchen

A family-owned restaurant that serves authentic Mexican food with fresh ingredients and homemade tortillas. They’ve got awesome breakfast, lunch, and dinner specials, and they cater, too! Try their carne asada tacos, and don’t forget to save room for their flan or churros!

close-up photo of a bacon cheeseburger
Jack Of All Trades Burger from Serial Grillers in Marana (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Serial Grillers – Marana

A restaurant that serves pizza, cheesesteaks, and more, all inspired by horror movies and serial killers. You can find dishes named after Hannibal Lecter, Freddy Krueger, Leatherface and others, all made with fresh ingredients and served on Chicago’s Turano French bread. They also have 18 Arizona craft beers on tap and a full bar.

(Photo Courtesy of Sky Rider Cafe)

Sky Rider Cafe

Located at the Marana Regional Airport, this cafe offers breakfast and lunch to those waiting for or watching the planes take off and land. Amazing burgers, sandwiches, salads, and soups, plus great daily specials!

a close up of food on a table
Spice Garden Indian Cuisine (Photo courtesy of Discover Marana)

Spice Garden Indian Cuisine

Want to try all kinds of Indian dishes from both North and South India? Stop by Spice Garden and savor their curries, tandoori dishes, biryanis, dosas, and more, all made with fresh spices and herbs. They have plenty of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options, but if you do eat meat, definitely try their korma or malai kebabs!

(Photo Courtesy Sushi Cortaro Japanese Cuisine)

Sushi Cortaro Japanese Cuisine

A sushi restaurant that offers a creative variety of rolls, sashimi, nigiri and other Japanese dishes. Dig into their all-you-can-eat option, or pick your favorites from the menu. We’re big fans of their dragon roll, spicy tuna roll, and tempura!

Tacos Apson (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Tacos Apson

This local favorite serves authentic Mexican street food. You can find them on Thornydale, where they offer tacos, burritos, quesadillas and more. Try their carne asada, al pastor, lengua, or cabeza tacos for a flavorful bite!

a plate of food on a table
Vegan Options at The Blacktop Grill (photo credit: Hannah Hernandez)

The Blacktop Grill

These folks have been, as they say, “Breaking Diets Since 2014.” For almost 10 years now, they’ve specialized in gourmet comfort food — Sonoran dishes, specifically, but with a decadent twist! Try their Loaded Steak Nachos, Elotero Hot Dog, or Mango Quesadilla…for starters!

(Photo Courtesy of The Pasta Shop)

The Pasta Shop

A counter-service restaurant that serves creative and classic Italian favorites. You can build your own pasta bowl with house-made sauces, or choose from their sandwiches and salads. Try their pesto chicken pasta, meatball sandwich, or Caesar salad…but whatever you try, leave room for their tremendous tiramisu!

a photo of pints of ice cream
(Photo Courtesy of The Screamery)

The Screamery

Have you ever eaten at an ice cream shop that pasteurizes their own ice cream? Neither had we, until we found The Screamery. Try any and all of our personal faves — namely, Sweet Cream Honey Comb, Drunken Cowboy, or Fudgesicle! It’s all made fresh, one batch at a time.

a club sandwich and fries
Club Sandwich (Photo Courtesy of The Station Pub & Grill)

The Station Pub & Grill

A locally owned, full-service restaurant that serves elevated American pub grub. Plenty of beers on tap to choose from, plus awesome menu items like their Twin Peaks Supreme Burger, Coachline Meat Lovers Pizza, or their Spicy Chicken Caesar Sandwich — hearty and tasty!

a plate of food with broccoli
(Photo courtesy of Trident Grill)

Trident Grill IV

A super cool spot that’s got a lively sports bar vibe and a menu that’s gonna make your mouth water. You’ve gotta try the Kalua Pork Tacos with this awesome mango citrus salsa and chopped cilantro, and the Crispy Shrimp Tacos with a kickin’ chipotle sauce, coleslaw, and salsa. Plus, they’ve got 24 beers on tap and a full bar, so it’s the perfect place to chill, grab a bite, and catch the game.

(Photo courtesy of Twin Peaks Pizzeria)

Twin Peaks Pizzeria

A family owned and operated pizza restaurant that offers hand-tossed thin-crust pizza, calzones, salads, and sandwiches for dine in or carry out. Choose from their specialty pizzas or build your own with their fresh ingredients. Our faves? The Southwest Chicken Pizza, CBR Pizza, and Italian Hoagie!

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