Here it is: the complete and up-to-date guide to Fourth Avenue restaurants, bars, cafes, and more! All the places to eat, drink, grab a snack, order to-go, down an espresso shot, cram for that final, meet up with friends, go dancing, and maybe even lock eyes with an attractive stranger from across the room. Are they…are they looking at me??
Ah, wait, no, that’s just a mirror. But hey. That is a good-looking reflection, right there.
Tucson’s 4th Avenue is all about good food, great fun, and grand street fairs. This Guide is here to help you get started.
This quaint deli is an indispensable stop along the Historic Fourth, where every bite of their meticulously crafted sandwiches takes you on a nostalgic journey of familiar yet unique flavors. With their passion for local ingredients and uncompromising quality, 4th Ave Delicatessen not only serves food, it serves slices of Tucson’s heritage, one sandwich at a time.
This wing spot is hailed as having the best wings in Tucson, with their wings described as crispy, tender, and juicy. All of their wing flavors tingle the tastebuds, but if you had to start somewhere, we say go for the honey habenero and that homemade ranch!
This spot is all about connecting with others, with a spacious taproom overlooking 4th Avenue and a no-TV policy to encourage conversation. Owned by a passionate homebrewer who loves chickens, the name “Bawker Bawker” is a playful nod to that love. They serve unfiltered ciders, which gives them a unique, slightly hazy appearance, and they’re always trying out new flavors that meet gluten-free and vegan expectations.
Chill out at this local joint that’s been dishing up deli delights on 4th Ave since ’95. They’re serving up big flavors in their gourmet sammies, like their “Wildcat” and “Bison Witch” sandwiches, as well as savory soups, tasty salads, and delicious drinks from the bar!
Only available for delivery, it’s all about hearty, comfort food here. Check out the Carne Asada Fries or one of their satisfying burgers like the BBQ Bacon or the Green Chile. If you’re more of a sandwich person, the Grilled Cheese Sandwich is the way to go. Basically, if you’re looking for a meal delivered right to your door that’ll leave you stuffed and happy, this is your spot!
Blush, which opened on Fourth Avenue on August 18, is a fresh dining concept designed with a nostalgic blend of the 1950s and 1990s ambiance. Catering to college students, the restaurant boasts retro décor, vintage memorabilia, and a menu featuring classic comfort food with a contemporary touch. Additionally, “Blush After Dark” offers a spacious venue for live music and dancing, aiming to become a prime entertainment spot in Tucson.
This funky Tucson taco joint is all about breaking the mold. Forget about yellow cheese and iceberg lettuce, and say hello to unique taco fillings like grilled octopus or squash. Their homemade tortillas, changing salsas, and tasty “Boca ball” will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about tacos. And don’t even get us started on their awesome array of agave!
Experience something different at The Boxyard, a unique eatery made from brightly colored shipping containers. Home to four local food entrepreneurs, two bars, and amazing indoor/outdoor seating, it’s a foodie’s paradise with a view. With each vendor serving up their own unique specialties, there’s always something new to discover. It’s a hip spot that lets you enjoy the outdoors, no matter the time of year!
Voted as the top pizza joint in Tucson, Brooklyn Pizza is located right in the heart of 4th Ave, directly next door to Sky Bar. They’ve haven’t just been voted the best pizza in Tucson, they’ve got a claim to the best garlic knots as well! And best of all, their food is made using solar power. Now that’s hot!
Formerly Epic Cafe, Cafe Maggie is the very first stop as you head south on 4th Ave from University Blvd. Comfy couches, caffeinated beverages, healthy and hearty breakfast and lunch options, and bountiful Wi-Fi — what more could you possibly need?
Check out Caruso’s on 4th Avenue for a taste of Italian in Tucson! Run by the Zagona family since 1938, this place is all about hearty, home-cooked Italian meals. Their lasagna is legendary, and the “Caruso Special” — a combo of spaghetti, meatballs, and ravioli — is a must-try. And don’t worry, they’ve got plenty of vegetarian options too, like a delicious veggie lasagna.
Chef Brian Hill recently moved to Tucson from Florida and opened up Chef Brian’s Comfort Kitchen, which is a takeout, delivery, and catering company. Before moving to Tucson, Hill has had a lot of fun experiences in the kitchen. He was on the very first season of “Top Chef,” he’s appeared on other reality TV shows like “Master Chef” and “Beat Bobby Flay,” and he was once the private chef for celebrities Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige, and Eddie Murphy.
Nestled on Fourth Avenue, this hip hang-out spot is known for its youthful atmosphere, stiff flavorful drinks, and eclectic jukebox. With free live music every Saturday night, it’s a great place to catch up-and-coming bands, as well as check out the groovy guys and gals of the Dirty T.
The brainchild of the Erman brothers, the vibe inside is chill — leather seats and brick walls set the mood. Get ready for serious eats – the portions are huge and the food is spot-on. Their Calabrian Buffalo Cauliflower and their Lobster Roll are just fantastic, plain and simple. And don’t even get us started on the fries — regular or avocado, either way, get some!
Not your average grocery store! Food Conspiracy Co-op has been doing its thing since ’71, offering a ton of natural food options that you might not find elsewhere. Swing by for weekly deals on organic produce and locally-sourced greens like dino kale and purple baby bok choy!
The Hut is like stepping into a ’70s time warp. This relaxed bar features live music and a giant tiki head out front, setting the tone for a fun night out. They’ve got a range of drinks to choose from, including a hand-pressed, fresh-squeezed lime soda that’s a crowd favorite. Whether you want to dance your heart out or just sit back and enjoy the music, The Hut’s got you covered. It’s a one-of-a-kind spot on 4th Ave that you just have to check out!
This is more than just a a great place to dance — it’s an LGBTQ-friendly safe space in Tucson. Their trivia Tuesdays are a must-try, and don’t sleep on the food! It’s better than you’d expect from a club, with yummy stuff like Carne Asada Fries, Shrimp Po-Boy Sandwiches, and more!
La Yaquesita in Tucson is this cozy spot on 4th Ave where you can dig into some legit Sonoran grub. It’s run by a super friendly family and they’ve got some mouthwatering dishes like a loaded baked potato called “Papa Loka with Asada” and a shredded beef burrito, “Asada Burro”. Plus, it’s pretty affordable. Definitely worth checking out!
Driven by the vision of Dr. Tank Ojha, a world traveler from Nepal, this place serves up some seriously tasty, authentic, and organic food in Tucson. Their homegrown veggies make dishes like the Chicken Curry, Lentil Patties, and Chicken Rice Bowl out-of-this-world good. They’ve also got great options for plant-based eaters, like vegan fried rice and noodles with spinach sauce. 10/10 would recommend!
If you’re looking for the best burgers in Tucson, you gotta hit up Lindy’s. They’ve got everything from a burger with peanut butter to a nine-patty “OMFG” monster. In fact, their juicy and unique burgers and savory sides like onion rings and gravy fries are so awesome, they even made an appearance on the Travel Channel’s Man vs. Food!
Formerly The Drunken Chicken, they still do have a few chicken-focused dishes on the menu like the Chicken & Waffles, Chicken Strips & Fries, and wings. Also, they’ve rolled out some new Rolled Tacos, which include an avocado crema, cotija, sour cream, and the shredded chicken is the same chicken used in the other dishes (they’re hand-rolled every day and never frozen).
The pizza at Magpies is a whole other level of yum! They’ve got everything from the meat-packed “Beast” to the cheesy “Godfather”, and even vegan options like “The Greek”. But the real star? Their signature “Magpie” pizza, decked out with mozzarella, pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms. And get this – you can turn any pizza into a calzone!
This place is all about fresh, handmade food served in a fun, funky setting. The host, Martin, really knows how to work magic in the kitchen. From chilaquiles to a tremendous 3-taco plate featuring carne asada and chicken mole, every dish is a hit. It’s a refreshing change from your usual Mexican restaurant and a must-try when you’re in town.
If you’re in the mood for a chill night out, Mr. Head’s is your place. It’s got a cool and welcoming “dive bar” vibe, but with some great cocktails and spirits available as well. The prices are reasonable and they’ve got a good selection of drafts, including some cheap PBR.
A fun and accommodating spot, O’Malley’s Bar & Grill on 4th Avenue offers a lively atmosphere complete with pool tables and an outdoor sitting area. Their extensive drink options and delicious food, especially the nacho platter and wings, are good as heck.
Ready for a trip to Greece without leaving Tucson? At Opa’s Grill, you’ll dig the decor – think Santorini snapshots and Greek statues. The staff are top-notch and you’ll get a hefty plate of food for your money. Grab the Gyro lunch plate – it’s loaded with tasty beef & lamb and some cool, creamy Tzatziki sauce. The portion sizes here don’t mess around, so you’ll likely have some of that deliciousness left to take home, too.
Looking for a cool AF cocktail lounge to hang with friends or take a date? Look no further than Portal Cocktails. They’ve got a groovy, hip vibe that’s perfect for swapping secrets and making (hazy) memories. Their Oaxacan Old Fashioned, Portal Daiquiri, and Hair Toss are some of our faves!
The urban European-style wine bar offers wine-pairable bites such as cheese, charcuterie, and chocolate. Although the bites are fancy, the vibe is meant to be accessible.
Hailed as Arizona’s oldest continuously licensed bar, The Shanty brings a unique mix of old-world charm and laid-back vibes. The bar features a beautiful patio, an array of pool tables, and a generous offering of beers from around the globe. Its unique interior, adorned with vintage oil paintings and copper-topped tables, creates an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. Plus there’s free popcorn and an extensive list of imported beers. Cheers!
A true Tucson treat: By day, a cool café with a banging breakfast calzone and a ton of drinks like juices, smoothies, and coffee. By night, an astronomy-themed bar that’s all solar-powered. No joke, you can (and should!) stargaze with their powerful on-site telescopes. Plus, they’ve got some cool events like “Sky-raoke” karaoke night, and a 15-minute happy hour at midnight where you can score $1 well drinks. I know, right??
If you’re looking for authentic Tucson nightlife, you’ve gotta check out Surly Wench. Picture a mashup of rock, grunge, cult classic, and tattoo parlor vibes, with arcade games thrown in for good measure. On top of that, this spot’s got an awesome line-up of alternate events like punk gigs, burlesque nights, and costume parties that you won’t wanna miss. Food-wise, don’t sleep on their Chicken Nuggs and Jalapeno Poppers, or their home-made Chili — they’re all delicious.
With the recent announcement regarding the closing of Dillinger Taproom, located within the historic Coronado Hotel at 402 E. 9th St., David and Johnna Meek have stepped into the spotlight to announce their plans to repurpose the location as the home of their new concept, TraXide Taproom. The concept continues to be a haven for craft beer enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of craft beer and ensuring there’s something on tap for every palate.
Think fresh, think local, think Tumerico! This place is all about Latin-inspired vegan and vegetarian dishes that are so good, you’ll forget they’re healthy. The menu changes daily, so there’s always something new to try. And let’s not forget their Cuban Tacos, Pastor Tacos, and Cheese Tamale Plate – they’re all the rage.
Indian Twist chef and owner Jimmy Aujla is no newcomer to Downtown Tucson’s food scene. With a former residency as the original Indian Twist at The Boxyard Tucson, Aujla delighted metropolitan residents and visitors with his culinary creations and vibrant hospitality as a pop-up stand.
This quaint deli is an indispensable stop along the Historic Fourth, where every bite of their meticulously crafted sandwiches takes you on a nostalgic journey of familiar yet unique flavors. With their passion for local ingredients and uncompromising quality, 4th Ave Delicatessen not only serves food, it serves slices of Tucson’s heritage, one sandwich at a time.
This wing spot is hailed as having the best wings in Tucson, with their wings described as crispy, tender, and juicy. All of their wing flavors tingle the tastebuds, but if you had to start somewhere, we say go for the honey habenero and that homemade ranch!
This spot is all about connecting with others, with a spacious taproom overlooking 4th Avenue and a no-TV policy to encourage conversation. Owned by a passionate homebrewer who loves chickens, the name “Bawker Bawker” is a playful nod to that love. They serve unfiltered ciders, which gives them a unique, slightly hazy appearance, and they’re always trying out new flavors that meet gluten-free and vegan expectations.
Chill out at this local joint that’s been dishing up deli delights on 4th Ave since ’95. They’re serving up big flavors in their gourmet sammies, like their “Wildcat” and “Bison Witch” sandwiches, as well as savory soups, tasty salads, and delicious drinks from the bar!
Only available for delivery, it’s all about hearty, comfort food here. Check out the Carne Asada Fries or one of their satisfying burgers like the BBQ Bacon or the Green Chile. If you’re more of a sandwich person, the Grilled Cheese Sandwich is the way to go. Basically, if you’re looking for a meal delivered right to your door that’ll leave you stuffed and happy, this is your spot!
Blush, which opened on Fourth Avenue on August 18, is a fresh dining concept designed with a nostalgic blend of the 1950s and 1990s ambiance. Catering to college students, the restaurant boasts retro décor, vintage memorabilia, and a menu featuring classic comfort food with a contemporary touch. Additionally, “Blush After Dark” offers a spacious venue for live music and dancing, aiming to become a prime entertainment spot in Tucson.
This funky Tucson taco joint is all about breaking the mold. Forget about yellow cheese and iceberg lettuce, and say hello to unique taco fillings like grilled octopus or squash. Their homemade tortillas, changing salsas, and tasty “Boca ball” will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about tacos. And don’t even get us started on their awesome array of agave!
Experience something different at The Boxyard, a unique eatery made from brightly colored shipping containers. Home to four local food entrepreneurs, two bars, and amazing indoor/outdoor seating, it’s a foodie’s paradise with a view. With each vendor serving up their own unique specialties, there’s always something new to discover. It’s a hip spot that lets you enjoy the outdoors, no matter the time of year!
Voted as the top pizza joint in Tucson, Brooklyn Pizza is located right in the heart of 4th Ave, directly next door to Sky Bar. They’ve haven’t just been voted the best pizza in Tucson, they’ve got a claim to the best garlic knots as well! And best of all, their food is made using solar power. Now that’s hot!
Formerly Epic Cafe, Cafe Maggie is the very first stop as you head south on 4th Ave from University Blvd. Comfy couches, caffeinated beverages, healthy and hearty breakfast and lunch options, and bountiful Wi-Fi — what more could you possibly need?
Check out Caruso’s on 4th Avenue for a taste of Italian in Tucson! Run by the Zagona family since 1938, this place is all about hearty, home-cooked Italian meals. Their lasagna is legendary, and the “Caruso Special” — a combo of spaghetti, meatballs, and ravioli — is a must-try. And don’t worry, they’ve got plenty of vegetarian options too, like a delicious veggie lasagna.
Chef Brian Hill recently moved to Tucson from Florida and opened up Chef Brian’s Comfort Kitchen, which is a takeout, delivery, and catering company. Before moving to Tucson, Hill has had a lot of fun experiences in the kitchen. He was on the very first season of “Top Chef,” he’s appeared on other reality TV shows like “Master Chef” and “Beat Bobby Flay,” and he was once the private chef for celebrities Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige, and Eddie Murphy.
Nestled on Fourth Avenue, this hip hang-out spot is known for its youthful atmosphere, stiff flavorful drinks, and eclectic jukebox. With free live music every Saturday night, it’s a great place to catch up-and-coming bands, as well as check out the groovy guys and gals of the Dirty T.
The brainchild of the Erman brothers, the vibe inside is chill — leather seats and brick walls set the mood. Get ready for serious eats – the portions are huge and the food is spot-on. Their Calabrian Buffalo Cauliflower and their Lobster Roll are just fantastic, plain and simple. And don’t even get us started on the fries — regular or avocado, either way, get some!
Not your average grocery store! Food Conspiracy Co-op has been doing its thing since ’71, offering a ton of natural food options that you might not find elsewhere. Swing by for weekly deals on organic produce and locally-sourced greens like dino kale and purple baby bok choy!
The Hut is like stepping into a ’70s time warp. This relaxed bar features live music and a giant tiki head out front, setting the tone for a fun night out. They’ve got a range of drinks to choose from, including a hand-pressed, fresh-squeezed lime soda that’s a crowd favorite. Whether you want to dance your heart out or just sit back and enjoy the music, The Hut’s got you covered. It’s a one-of-a-kind spot on 4th Ave that you just have to check out!
This is more than just a a great place to dance — it’s an LGBTQ-friendly safe space in Tucson. Their trivia Tuesdays are a must-try, and don’t sleep on the food! It’s better than you’d expect from a club, with yummy stuff like Carne Asada Fries, Shrimp Po-Boy Sandwiches, and more!
La Yaquesita in Tucson is this cozy spot on 4th Ave where you can dig into some legit Sonoran grub. It’s run by a super friendly family and they’ve got some mouthwatering dishes like a loaded baked potato called “Papa Loka with Asada” and a shredded beef burrito, “Asada Burro”. Plus, it’s pretty affordable. Definitely worth checking out!
Driven by the vision of Dr. Tank Ojha, a world traveler from Nepal, this place serves up some seriously tasty, authentic, and organic food in Tucson. Their homegrown veggies make dishes like the Chicken Curry, Lentil Patties, and Chicken Rice Bowl out-of-this-world good. They’ve also got great options for plant-based eaters, like vegan fried rice and noodles with spinach sauce. 10/10 would recommend!
If you’re looking for the best burgers in Tucson, you gotta hit up Lindy’s. They’ve got everything from a burger with peanut butter to a nine-patty “OMFG” monster. In fact, their juicy and unique burgers and savory sides like onion rings and gravy fries are so awesome, they even made an appearance on the Travel Channel’s Man vs. Food!
Formerly The Drunken Chicken, they still do have a few chicken-focused dishes on the menu like the Chicken & Waffles, Chicken Strips & Fries, and wings. Also, they’ve rolled out some new Rolled Tacos, which include an avocado crema, cotija, sour cream, and the shredded chicken is the same chicken used in the other dishes (they’re hand-rolled every day and never frozen).
The pizza at Magpies is a whole other level of yum! They’ve got everything from the meat-packed “Beast” to the cheesy “Godfather”, and even vegan options like “The Greek”. But the real star? Their signature “Magpie” pizza, decked out with mozzarella, pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms. And get this – you can turn any pizza into a calzone!
This place is all about fresh, handmade food served in a fun, funky setting. The host, Martin, really knows how to work magic in the kitchen. From chilaquiles to a tremendous 3-taco plate featuring carne asada and chicken mole, every dish is a hit. It’s a refreshing change from your usual Mexican restaurant and a must-try when you’re in town.
If you’re in the mood for a chill night out, Mr. Head’s is your place. It’s got a cool and welcoming “dive bar” vibe, but with some great cocktails and spirits available as well. The prices are reasonable and they’ve got a good selection of drafts, including some cheap PBR.
A fun and accommodating spot, O’Malley’s Bar & Grill on 4th Avenue offers a lively atmosphere complete with pool tables and an outdoor sitting area. Their extensive drink options and delicious food, especially the nacho platter and wings, are good as heck.
Ready for a trip to Greece without leaving Tucson? At Opa’s Grill, you’ll dig the decor – think Santorini snapshots and Greek statues. The staff are top-notch and you’ll get a hefty plate of food for your money. Grab the Gyro lunch plate – it’s loaded with tasty beef & lamb and some cool, creamy Tzatziki sauce. The portion sizes here don’t mess around, so you’ll likely have some of that deliciousness left to take home, too.
Looking for a cool AF cocktail lounge to hang with friends or take a date? Look no further than Portal Cocktails. They’ve got a groovy, hip vibe that’s perfect for swapping secrets and making (hazy) memories. Their Oaxacan Old Fashioned, Portal Daiquiri, and Hair Toss are some of our faves!
The urban European-style wine bar offers wine-pairable bites such as cheese, charcuterie, and chocolate. Although the bites are fancy, the vibe is meant to be accessible.
Hailed as Arizona’s oldest continuously licensed bar, The Shanty brings a unique mix of old-world charm and laid-back vibes. The bar features a beautiful patio, an array of pool tables, and a generous offering of beers from around the globe. Its unique interior, adorned with vintage oil paintings and copper-topped tables, creates an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. Plus there’s free popcorn and an extensive list of imported beers. Cheers!
A true Tucson treat: By day, a cool café with a banging breakfast calzone and a ton of drinks like juices, smoothies, and coffee. By night, an astronomy-themed bar that’s all solar-powered. No joke, you can (and should!) stargaze with their powerful on-site telescopes. Plus, they’ve got some cool events like “Sky-raoke” karaoke night, and a 15-minute happy hour at midnight where you can score $1 well drinks. I know, right??
If you’re looking for authentic Tucson nightlife, you’ve gotta check out Surly Wench. Picture a mashup of rock, grunge, cult classic, and tattoo parlor vibes, with arcade games thrown in for good measure. On top of that, this spot’s got an awesome line-up of alternate events like punk gigs, burlesque nights, and costume parties that you won’t wanna miss. Food-wise, don’t sleep on their Chicken Nuggs and Jalapeno Poppers, or their home-made Chili — they’re all delicious.
With the recent announcement regarding the closing of Dillinger Taproom, located within the historic Coronado Hotel at 402 E. 9th St., David and Johnna Meek have stepped into the spotlight to announce their plans to repurpose the location as the home of their new concept, TraXide Taproom. The concept continues to be a haven for craft beer enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of craft beer and ensuring there’s something on tap for every palate.
Think fresh, think local, think Tumerico! This place is all about Latin-inspired vegan and vegetarian dishes that are so good, you’ll forget they’re healthy. The menu changes daily, so there’s always something new to try. And let’s not forget their Cuban Tacos, Pastor Tacos, and Cheese Tamale Plate – they’re all the rage.
Indian Twist chef and owner Jimmy Aujla is no newcomer to Downtown Tucson’s food scene. With a former residency as the original Indian Twist at The Boxyard Tucson, Aujla delighted metropolitan residents and visitors with his culinary creations and vibrant hospitality as a pop-up stand.