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Guide to Modern Italian Restaurants in Tucson

Guide

Guide to Modern Italian Restaurants in Tucson

by Rita ConnellyJun 19, 2023Updated Aug 4, 20266 min read
Modern Italian food means lighter sauces, freshly made pastas and creative takes on seafood, steaks, and poultry. The wine lists may be from smaller, craft wineries — Tavolino’s is curated from Massimo’s brother’s winery — but, your server will be well-trained to help you find the perfect pairing. Some, like Vivace, offer the best views in Tucson. Don’t let the white tablecloths fool you, comfort and casual still rule. Take your time, order another bottle of wine, and indulge in the good life.
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9 spots

Bottega Michelangelo

420 West Magee RoadOro Valley

Long an Oro Valley go-to for everything Italian, Bottega Michelangelo underwent an update several years ago. Owned by the Damiano Ali family and formerly known as Michelangelo’s, today the food has a decidedly modern spin. All the old faves (including Mama’s meatballs) are still on the big menu. But look further and you’ll see branzino and braciola; arancini and agnolotti; polpo and porchetta. The wine list has been elevated as well, with many choices for any budget. This is a family-run restaurant ideal for families, big parties, or a romantic evening with you honey.
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Also featured inThe Best Upscale Restaurants in TucsonYour Guide to Sonoran Restaurant Week 2024What to Eat & Drink in Oro Valley, Arizona

CERES

77 West Washington StreetDowntown

Ceres, the goddess of grain, is honored at this tiny, downtown eatery. Fresh ingredients and creativity are what make Ceres so special. Choose a pasta and then a sauce from the small but clever menu, or take home a bundle of pasta to enjoy at home. A weekly special is available until sold out. The bread and sweets are meant to be paired with the house espresso. And please don’t forget the gelato, which changes on a biweekly basis.
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Also featured inWhere I Eat in Tucson (and What I Order)Guide to Caesar Salads in TucsonWhere to Eat & Drink in Downtown Tucson

Locale Neighborhood Italian Restaurant

60 North Alvernon WayMidtown

Decades of experience and a passion for great hospitality ring true at this midtown neighborhood restaurant. While you’ll find many traditional plates like Lasagna and Eggplant Parmesan, other more modern options will make you see Italian in a whole new way. Take the Penne all’ arribbiata, for example, with a spicy cream sauce. The Tortelli de Zucca is stuffed with pumpkin and tossed in a sage butter sauce. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Locale also has a yummy bakery. The starters and a bottle of wine from their carefully curated wine list should be enjoyed on the lovely patio, one of the finest in town.
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Also featured inWhere I Eat in Tucson (and What I Order)Guide to Caesar Salads in TucsonGuide to Breakfast in Tucson

Perche' No (Photo by Rita Connelly)

Perche’ No Italian Bistro

46 West Congress StreetDowntown

Located next door the Fox Theater, it might be easy to miss this Italian bistro. Perche’ No means "why not," and that seems to be the philosophy behind many of the dishes here. Why not start your dinner with their Polenta Gorgonzola or the fried oysters? Why not follow that with the Pasta Puttanesca, with capers, olives, garlic, and anchovies in a “zesty” tomato sauce? Why not try the Pork Marsala? Or the Gnocchi allo Zefferano? Chef Bruno Girardi also offers a host of other weekly specials that are not your every day Italian fare. Open for lunch or dinner Tuesdays through Saturdays.
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Also featured inWhere I Eat in Tucson (and What I Order)Guide to Caesar Salads in TucsonWhere to Eat & Drink in Downtown Tucson

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Tavolino Ristorante Italiano

2890 East Skyline DriveFoothills

CocktailsItalianSpiritsWine
The vibe sexy; the food sublime. An outstanding starter is the Polipo alla Griglia, grilled octopus, chilled fingerling potatoes, kalamatas, celery all tossed with a bright, lemon dressing. The ravioli di zucca (butternut squash stuffed ravioli in a brown butter and sage sauce) sings. Any of the veal will please. Wines are mostly Italian, some from the owner’s brother’s winery in Italy. Save room for the Bonet, a chocolate lover’s dream.
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Also featured inThe Best Upscale Restaurants in TucsonLove is on the Menu: Tucson’s Most Romantic RestaurantsPassport for Tucson Foodie Insiders [Map]

Trattoria Pina

5541 North Swan RoadFoothills

Casually elegant is the best way to describe Tratorria Pina. The views of the Catalinas are thrilling and the vibe is top notch. Chefs Pina and Fidele bring together old family recipes in a most creative style. Start with the Calamari Fra Diavolo, shrimp in a spicy tomato sauce. Then order one of many outstanding dishes such as Pollo de Nonna or the Trota Bellagio. Definitely save room for one of the luscious desserts, which come from Cosmo Ali (aka Pina’s father) of the well-loved DaVinci’s. Daily Happy Hour specials are also a treat!
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Also featured inYour guide to 30+ fancy pants date spots in Tucson

Vero Amore

2920 North Swan RoadMidtown

ItalianPizza
Fortunately for Tucsonans, there are Vero Amore’s in town. One, on Swan Road in Palomino Plaza, and the original in Dove Mountain. The panini are as simple or fancy. Their Pasta Puttanesca is loaded with roasted red peppers and Kalamata olives. The Shrimp Fra Diavolo draws raves. Vero Amore’s pizzas are also winners whether it’s a simple cheese pie or one of the many creative offerings. Save room for the cannoli.
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Also featured inGuide to Caesar Salads in TucsonLove is on the Menu: Tucson’s Most Romantic RestaurantsThe Best Pizza in Tucson

Vivace Restaurant

6440 North Campbell AvenueFoothills

Ah, lovely Vivace, with its stunning views, polished service and elegant fare is the epitome of fine dining in Tucson. The Scordato family elevated what Italian food in Tucson. Owner Daniel carries on the tradition by using quality ingredients and kitchen magic. One spoonful of the Seafood Soup will transport you to the Amalfi Coast. The Seafood Lasagnette is made with fresh pasta. The wine list is award-winning and offers choices for all tastes and budgets.
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Also featured inWhere I Eat in Tucson (and What I Order)The Best Upscale Restaurants in TucsonLove is on the Menu: Tucson’s Most Romantic Restaurants

Zio Peppe

6502 East Tanque Verde RoadEastside

ItalianPizza
This Eastside eatery blends the flavors of the Southwest with the foods of Italy. A great starter is the Elote Arancini, a mix of street corn and risotto. Tradition is spun on its pizza wheel, with the El Rustico that features Chef Juan Almanza’s birria on a pie. The Ravioli Sonorense are top notch. Dessert has be the Taconnoli.
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Also featured inWhere I Eat in Tucson (and What I Order)Guide to Caesar Salads in TucsonFoodie 15: A Vegan’s Guide to Pizza Pies in Tucson
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@Istanbultucson is expanding to MARANA! The family-run Turkish restaurant is opening a second location, Istanbul Mediterranean Express, at 5660 W. Cortaro Farms Rd., Suite 100. The fast-casual concept will feature about 75% of the original menu, plus two exclusive offerings: build-your-own Kumpir, a Turkish stuffed baked potato, and fresh in-house ground doner. The restaurant is currently working through permits and remodeling, with a grand opening date expected to be announced soon. Read @jackie_tran_’s article on Tucsonfoodie.com Photo courtesy of Istanbul Mediterranean Express #tucsonfoodie #tucsonnews@Istanbultucson is expanding to MARANA! The family-run Turkish restaurant is opening a second location, Istanbul Mediterranean Express, at 5660 W. Cortaro Farms Rd., Suite 100. The fast-casual concept will feature about 75% of the original menu, plus two exclusive offerings: build-your-own Kumpir, a Turkish stuffed baked potato, and fresh in-house ground doner. The restaurant is currently working through permits and remodeling, with a grand opening date expected to be announced soon. Read @jackie_tran_’s article on Tucsonfoodie.com Photo courtesy of Istanbul Mediterranean Express #tucsonfoodie #tucsonnews
Downtown Tucson’s culinary landscape is ever-evolving, offering a dynamic mix of traditional eateries and modern culinary hotspots. This guide is designed to provide you with up-to-date recommendations and insights into the best dining experiences Tucson’s Downtown has to offer.🌞 Are your favorites on the list?👀 @5pointstucson @agustinkitchen @bagginsgourmet @barbatatucson @basqueriaaz @batatucson @blockatucson @eatbombole @bosburger__ @brickboxbrewery @cafe54_bistro @cafealacarttucson @barcrisoltucson @cafedesta @caffeluce @casamadretucson @cerestucson @charrosteak.delrey @chef_brian_hill_ @chelaslatincuisine @crudamariscos @hotelcongress @decibelcoffeeworks @elcharro.cafe @elmezquitetucson @elminutocafe @zumitosjuicebar @elliottsoncongress @emerald29tucson @empirepizzatucson @forbes_meat_company @gibsonmarkettucson @heemeebakery …and many more on Tucsonfoodie.com ❤️ #downtowntucson #tucsonfoodieDowntown Tucson’s culinary landscape is ever-evolving, offering a dynamic mix of traditional eateries and modern culinary hotspots. This guide is designed to provide you with up-to-date recommendations and insights into the best dining experiences Tucson’s Downtown has to offer.🌞 Are your favorites on the list?👀 @5pointstucson @agustinkitchen @bagginsgourmet @barbatatucson @basqueriaaz @batatucson @blockatucson @eatbombole @bosburger__ @brickboxbrewery @cafe54_bistro @cafealacarttucson @barcrisoltucson @cafedesta @caffeluce @casamadretucson @cerestucson @charrosteak.delrey @chef_brian_hill_ @chelaslatincuisine @crudamariscos @hotelcongress @decibelcoffeeworks @elcharro.cafe @elmezquitetucson @elminutocafe @zumitosjuicebar @elliottsoncongress @emerald29tucson @empirepizzatucson @forbes_meat_company @gibsonmarkettucson @heemeebakery …and many more on Tucsonfoodie.com ❤️ #downtowntucson #tucsonfoodie
🌵✨ 2 TICKETS FOR $120 — THIS WEEKEND ONLY ✨🌵 Planning to come with a friend? We’re dropping a special 2-Pack Flash Sale now through Sunday at 11:59PM! Grab yours before Tier 3 pricing kicks in Monday. An evening of food, plants, and connection returns under the desert sky. In partnership with @salus.healers, we’re gathering Tucson’s top chefs and wellness practitioners to celebrate the edible and medicinal beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Join us Sat, Aug 29 at @tohonochul for Desert Magic—a one-night experience to stroll the gardens, drink in hand, and explore chef & wellness stations along the way. 🍽️ FOOD (a-z) @el_chef_padilla (@copperashculinary) | @landofmilknhoney (@tohonochulgardenbistro) | @chefdevonsanner (@sandpcreative) | Chef Gracie Soto (@anita_st_market) | @chefjosetucson (@ameliastucson) | @kenneth.foy | Obie Hindman & @tuckerhartford (@tucsoncityofgastronomy & @solpuebloprovisions) | @archimagirus_cultro (@scratchingtheplate) 🌿 WELLNESS PRACTITIONERS @alicen.grey | @awakenedwombs | @readingsbybethw | @curavidabodywork | @dharmawellness.center | @drkorigiudici | Ease Bodywork | @itsme.emmav | @healingspiritsoaks | @marie.heartnectar | @innerblissenergetics | @jessi.kyte.bodywork | Medicine Within | @monsoonmystics | @morosomedicalcenter | @intuitive_readings_by_zev | @sonoranrosieherbal | @sugarmelovetucson | @tantricheart_coaching | @gathering_point_ | @thehealinghubaz | The Somatic Sound | @frank.ramos1 (Offering sound healing, massage, somatic therapy, readings, reiki, plant walks, workshops & more!) 🥣 SOUNDS @tucsonmodernjazzquartet | DJ Sets by Rosa Dragona & LaDev Ticket includes wellness stations, herb walks, workshops, sound healing, & botanical drinks. Tap the link in bio to grab yours! 🎟️✨ Limited time only. Must buy 2 tickets for promo price (Max 1 pack/order; purchase separately for multiple pairs). Additional session add-ons at practitioner discretion.🌵✨ 2 TICKETS FOR $120 — THIS WEEKEND ONLY ✨🌵 Planning to come with a friend? We’re dropping a special 2-Pack Flash Sale now through Sunday at 11:59PM! Grab yours before Tier 3 pricing kicks in Monday. An evening of food, plants, and connection returns under the desert sky. In partnership with @salus.healers, we’re gathering Tucson’s top chefs and wellness practitioners to celebrate the edible and medicinal beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Join us Sat, Aug 29 at @tohonochul for Desert Magic—a one-night experience to stroll the gardens, drink in hand, and explore chef & wellness stations along the way. 🍽️ FOOD (a-z) @el_chef_padilla (@copperashculinary) | @landofmilknhoney (@tohonochulgardenbistro) | @chefdevonsanner (@sandpcreative) | Chef Gracie Soto (@anita_st_market) | @chefjosetucson (@ameliastucson) | @kenneth.foy | Obie Hindman & @tuckerhartford (@tucsoncityofgastronomy & @solpuebloprovisions) | @archimagirus_cultro (@scratchingtheplate) 🌿 WELLNESS PRACTITIONERS @alicen.grey | @awakenedwombs | @readingsbybethw | @curavidabodywork | @dharmawellness.center | @drkorigiudici | Ease Bodywork | @itsme.emmav | @healingspiritsoaks | @marie.heartnectar | @innerblissenergetics | @jessi.kyte.bodywork | Medicine Within | @monsoonmystics | @morosomedicalcenter | @intuitive_readings_by_zev | @sonoranrosieherbal | @sugarmelovetucson | @tantricheart_coaching | @gathering_point_ | @thehealinghubaz | The Somatic Sound | @frank.ramos1 (Offering sound healing, massage, somatic therapy, readings, reiki, plant walks, workshops & more!) 🥣 SOUNDS @tucsonmodernjazzquartet | DJ Sets by Rosa Dragona & LaDev Ticket includes wellness stations, herb walks, workshops, sound healing, & botanical drinks. Tap the link in bio to grab yours! 🎟️✨ Limited time only. Must buy 2 tickets for promo price (Max 1 pack/order; purchase separately for multiple pairs). Additional session add-ons at practitioner discretion.
Sonoran Restaurant Week is back for its 8th year and OVER 100 restaurants are participating!🌵 From September 4 to 13, local restaurants across Southern Arizona will come together for 10 days of incredible fixed-price menus, giving diners the perfect excuse to explore Tucson’s amazing food scene. Link in bio❤️ #sonoranrestaurantweek #srw2026 #tucsonfoodie #tucsonarizonaSonoran Restaurant Week is back for its 8th year and OVER 100 restaurants are participating!🌵 From September 4 to 13, local restaurants across Southern Arizona will come together for 10 days of incredible fixed-price menus, giving diners the perfect excuse to explore Tucson’s amazing food scene. Link in bio❤️ #sonoranrestaurantweek #srw2026 #tucsonfoodie #tucsonarizona