The Fox Tucson Theatre — hailed as the “Crown Jewel” of downtown — is a nationally acclaimed historic theater now evolving into a vibrant performing arts hub in the Southwest, spearheading the downtown’s revitalization and driving economic growth for the city.
If you have tickets to a show, you might as well make a night out of it! Here’s a list of some of our favorite spots within the vicinity of the Fox. Also, these are local spots open late enough for you visit later in the day since most of the shows at the Fox are in the evening.
Cruda is your go-to spot for top-notch seafood in downtown Tucson. From fresh oysters to heart-warming seafood pasta, everything’s prepared with care. Don’t leave without trying their excellent Arroz Marinero or Lobster Toritos!
Elliott’s is an American restaurant that provides a relaxing ambiance and great food to match. The eatery features a fully stocked bar with house-infused specialty vodkas, sporting flavors from basil to key lime. There is even Chocolate Covered Bacon. It is safe to say Elliot’s is nothing short of an experience.
Craving a slice of New York pizza in Tucson? Empire’s got you covered with their hand-tossed, fresh-out-the-oven pizzas. And hey, while you’re there, give their Elote Pizza a whirl — it’s got foodies all over town raving. They’re open late, so don’t stress!
JA Ramen features eight varieties of ramen, focusing on the classics. They also offer radically spicy versions of each dish; you have been warned. Additionally, the menu features a handful of Japanese appetizers, mochi ice cream, taiyaki, soju, beer, and wine.
Tucked away in Downtown Tucson’s Historic Presidio District, JoJo’s Restaurant is a real gem for anyone on a foodie adventure. With its cozy courtyard perfect for some open-air dining and a laid-back Cantina setting, it’s the place to be. The live tunes under the stars crank up the vibe, making every meal a mini event. And oh, the Southwest cuisine on the menu is a tasty voyage all its own.
You need to check out La Chingada Cocina, a popular spot right in the heart of downtown. They’re dishing up some of the best Mexican food in Tucson, made with locally sourced ingredients and real authentic flavors. Plus, they’ve got live mariachi music on Sunday nights and some pretty amazing margaritas. Definitely worth a visit!
When it comes to Vietnamese food, Miss Saigon is the place to be. They’ve been dishing out fresh and flavorful meals since 2000, and their service is top-notch. The pho and chicken broth pho with catfish are crowd-pleasers, and the Shrimp Paste Spring Rolls and Orange Chicken are also worth a try.
Run by the same folks who brought us El Charro Café, The Monica is a cool restaurant in downtown Tucson. Their menu is a mashup of family recipes whipped up by a team of ace chefs. It ain’t just Mexican food—think artisanal pizzas, baguettes, and dishes like Albondigas Béchamel and Short Rib Rustico. Plus the open-air bar and indoor/outdoor seating makes it great for just about any time of day!
Much like the incredibly stylish mullet hairstyle being business in the front and a party in the back, The Neighborhood’s downtown spot is more than one concept. Think of it as a restaurant and bar during the earlier hours of the day and a total party by night.
Penca is a downtown Tucson treasure that serves up authentic Mexico City cuisine with a contemporary twist. With a cozy ambiance and a delightful menu, Penca’s “Tacos al Pastor” and “Chile en Nogada” are standout dishes that showcase the vibrant flavors of central Mexican cuisine. Don’t forget to pair them with one of their handcrafted cocktails, such as the “Oaxacan Old Fashioned,” for a complete dining experience.
At Perche No (Italian for “why not”), expect to be welcomed into a family atmosphere and served up some amazing Italian dishes. Owners Bruno and Krissy whip up a mix of classic and contemporary Italian dishes, alongside Bruno’s mouth-watering homemade desserts. Some must-try dishes include Penne al’Alce and the Asiago Crusted Ling Cod
Reilly’s has it all: hot pies, cold drinks, good wines, and great vibes. There is a patio and seating is communal, so it’s a great spot for large groups. Oh, and you won’t believe the dish everyone’s raving about – it’s not pizza, but Brussels sprouts! These babies are served with house hot sauce, sherry vinegar, and pecan brittle crumbs.
The St. Cruz restaurant inside The Leo Kent Hotel is not just a place to grab a meal; it’s a tribute to Tucson’s history. The menu is a love letter to local ingredients, and the bar doesn’t shy away from local beers, wines, and spirits either. The whole vibe here is inspired by the Santa Cruz River – the lifeblood of Tucson for generations.
If you’ve been to any of the other three locations, you can expect the same quick-service menu stacked with build-your-own tacos, burritos, and bowls as well as housemade beverages like horchata and aguas frescas. Taco Tuesday, anyone?
Are you in the mood for a burger that’s a cut above the rest? Thunder Bacon Burger Co. has got you covered. They’re serving up diner-style burgers that are both innovative and satisfying without leaving you overstuffed1. Their Thunder Classic and 520 Burger with a chorizo patty are not-to-miss items on their menu, and they even brand their buns with a cool lightning bolt for extra sizzle.
