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Local Restaurants To Support During The Orange Grove Closure

Local Restaurants To Support During The Orange Grove Closure

by Matt SternerJul 13, 2023Updated Jul 14, 20266 min read
In May 2023, construction crews got to work on the new Orange Grove Road interchange project on I-10. Once it's completed, drivers will be zippin' through that area which is being rebuilt and widened for more traffic. This is a great idea — more drivers equal more traffic to local restaurants — but in the meantime, a lot of businesses are already seeing a decline in visitors.
"Many of our regular customers have stated it’s been a hassle to come to our taproom," said Erika Button of Button Brew House.
The closure will remain in place until late 2024 and ADOT suggests drivers use Ruthrauff Road and Ina Road as alternate routes. Here is a list of Tucson eateries and beverage spots affected by the Orange Grove Exit closure. They could really use your support!
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21 spots

(Photo courtesy of Bisbee Breakfast Club)

Bisbee Breakfast Club on Ina

4131 West Ina RoadMarana

This is your spot for hearty grub served with a side of history. Their Copper Queen Skillet is a must-try, and don't you dare leave without sampling a slice of their house-made cheesecake. Plus, everything's better with a BBC Bloody Mary in your hand.

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

Button Brew House

6800 North Camino MartinMarana

Off the beaten path, this family-run Tucson brewery is where quality meets coziness. Their Volstead Pilsner is a hit, and weekends are a blast with live music and food trucks. It's the perfect chill hangout spot.

Caps & Corks (Photo by Colleen Miller)

Caps & Corks

3830 West River RoadMarana

Boasting a vast 2,000-square-foot indoor space, Caps & Corks offers a plethora of beers and wines on tap, along with a cooler filled with unique beers for the adventurous palate. This vibrant spot, located on the northwest side of town, also features patio seating and is known for hosting lively events, including pop-up beer gardens with local and regional breweries, and food trucks offering a variety of tasty bites throughout the day.

Arcade at Catalina Brewing (Photo by Hannah Hernandez)

Catalina Brewing Company

6918 North Camino MartinMarana

Tucked away in Tucson, Catalina Brewing is all about local vibes. They make some rad beers like Mesquite Agave and a prickly pear delight, La Rosa de Catalina. Plus, they're big on the mountain biking scene. A must-visit if you're into brews and bikes

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Espresso Latte at Crema Coffee (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Crema Coffee

3725 West Ina RoadMarana

Crema Coffee is the new cool caffeine kid on the block. They've got a rotating menu of coffees, a cozy, rustic atmosphere, and a bunch of fun events. And for the early birds, they're open from 5 a.m. Perfect place for your morning joe and some community vibes.

(Photo courtesy of Crying Onion Cafe)

Crying Onion Cafe

3684 West Orange Grove RoadMarana

This is the spot for a solid Tucson breakfast or lunch that won't break the bank. Their omelettes and pancakes are massive and mouth-watering, with the Sonoran scramble and the Alamo omelet getting some serious love. Don't miss out on the Shannon potato pancake and the turkey melt omelette -- delicious!

(Photo Courtesy of Dream Dinners)

Dream Dinners

3682 West Orange Grove RoadMarana

This ain't your typical restaurant! Dream Dinners gives you pre-prepped meals to cook at home. They handle all the messy prep work so you can focus on enjoying a great meal. Their menu changes every month, but things like Herb Crusted Steaks and Italian Chicken Penne Arrabbiata are some of our faves!

El Molinito

3675 West Ina RoadMarana

If you're craving some real-deal Mexican food, El Molinito's your spot. They've got everything from Tostadas De Harina and Quesadillas to kick-start your meal, to big hitters like the Molinito Asada Special. Their combo plates are a must-try, and they've got a killer selection of tacos, tostadas, and enchiladas to boot​!

(Photo Courtesy of Frankie’s South Philly Cheesesteaks)

Frankie’s South Philly Cheesesteaks

3780 West Ina RoadMarana

This is where you go when you're craving a killer cheesesteak in Tucson. They use top-notch Angus beef and let you pick your cheese - American, provolone, or whiz. They've got a South Philly version with broccoli rabe and even a pizza-inspired one with marinara sauce. Good stuff!

Jimmy's Pita & Poke

3820 West River RoadMarana

This is your go-to spot for some tasty, fresh, and healthy grub. Run by a friendly family, they whip up some killer pitas, salads, and poke bowls. Don't miss their citrus-infused sauces - they're a game-changer, trust me! And they've got options for all diets, making it perfect for everyone.

(Photo courtesy of Donut Wheel)

K Donut Wheel

2775 South Wilmot RoadSouth Side

Braving the highway construction for Donut Wheel is totally worth it. Their donuts are a hit, and they're not called the best in the South West for nothing. Besides the sweets, their breakfast sandwiches and ham and cheese croissants are epic. And their drinks - coffee, bubble tea, milk tea - are on point. They sell out fast, so get there early!

La Mesa Tortillas

3923 East Pima StreetMidtown

La Mesa Tortillas is all about family vibes and fresh, homemade tortillas, no additives or preservatives here! Their daily-made flour tortillas and unique varieties like whole wheat and jalapeño are a big hit. Don't miss out on their tamales, with flavors like red chile beef and green corn. For breakfast, grab a Chorizo, Potato & Egg, and for lunch, the Nachos or Chile Combo are the way to go​!

Lucky Wishbone

3780 West Ina RoadMarana

Picture this: it's a hot day in July of 1953, and Tucson just got its first taste of fast food thanks to a former school teacher named Derald Fulton. Enter Lucky Wishbone, a place that's been frying up some of the best chicken and shrimp in town for over half a century. And don't even get me started on their steak fingers and chicken gizzards - pure fried gold, my friend​.

Mariscos Chihuahua

4185 West Ina RoadMarana

This beloved spot is hailed as one of the best seafood restaurants in Tucson. With walls adorned with fish and quick, efficient service, the atmosphere is inviting for both adults and children. The shrimp culichi and whole fried fish with garlic sauce on top are both highly recommended!

Fuqi Feipian at Panda House (Credit: Jackie Tran)

Panda House Stir-Fry Mongolian Grill

3725 West Ina RoadMarana

Panda House is a stir-fry haven where you can customize your dish with all sorts of fresh goodies. Their Wok-Seared Chicken Dumplings and House Special Chow Mein are the bomb. And don't get me started on their Orange Chicken and Pad Thai. If you want to mix it up, try the Fire Cracker Steak and Shrimp -- it's bomb!

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Foodie Dinner at @sonoranhouse_samhughes! 

Executive Chef Gabriella “Gabby” Alba showcased delicious new dishes while guests enjoyed tastings and shared feedback. Thank you to Chef Gabby, @sonoranhouse_samhughes, and everyone who joined us!🥂

Want in on more foodie experiences? 
Here’s what Tucson Foodie Members get:

• $6,000+ in gift cards & perks
• Free monthly Foodie Hours
• Exclusive R&D dinners
• Festival discounts
• Help keep Tucson Foodie free

#tucsonaz #tucsonfoodieFoodie Dinner at @sonoranhouse_samhughes! Executive Chef Gabriella “Gabby” Alba showcased delicious new dishes while guests enjoyed tastings and shared feedback. Thank you to Chef Gabby, @sonoranhouse_samhughes, and everyone who joined us!🥂 Want in on more foodie experiences? Here’s what Tucson Foodie Members get: • $6,000+ in gift cards & perks • Free monthly Foodie Hours • Exclusive R&D dinners • Festival discounts • Help keep Tucson Foodie free #tucsonaz #tucsonfoodieItalian Week runs now through July 19 as part of 12 Weeks of Foodie Summer!🍝🍕 

Support Tucson’s classic and modern Italian restaurants, then upload your receipt at summer.tucsonfoodie.com for a chance to win weekly prizes and the grand prize at the end of August.

🎉 Week 5 Winners
• Libby: $50 North Italia gift card
• Keely: America’s Best Mexican Food Festival tickets
• arts_primacy_2c: 4 Cool Summer Nights passes
• Donita3000: $20 Ghini’s French Caffe gift card
• Nancy & Gabriella: $100 Visa gift cards

Italian Week Deal: @reneestucson is offering buy one, get one 50% off (equal or lesser value) for dine-in or takeout. Just mention you’re a Tucson Foodie fan. Exclusions apply.

🏆 This Week’s Prizes
• $50 @fentonellispizzeria gift card
• $100 Visa gift card
• $75 @carusositalian gift card
• $20 @ghinisfrenchcaffe gift card
• $50 @miramontetucson gift card
• $50 @localetucson gift card
• @desertmuseum passes 

More details in bioItalian Week runs now through July 19 as part of 12 Weeks of Foodie Summer!🍝🍕 Support Tucson’s classic and modern Italian restaurants, then upload your receipt at summer.tucsonfoodie.com for a chance to win weekly prizes and the grand prize at the end of August. 🎉 Week 5 Winners • Libby: $50 North Italia gift card • Keely: America’s Best Mexican Food Festival tickets • arts_primacy_2c: 4 Cool Summer Nights passes • Donita3000: $20 Ghini’s French Caffe gift card • Nancy & Gabriella: $100 Visa gift cards Italian Week Deal: @reneestucson is offering buy one, get one 50% off (equal or lesser value) for dine-in or takeout. Just mention you’re a Tucson Foodie fan. Exclusions apply. 🏆 This Week’s Prizes • $50 @fentonellispizzeria gift card • $100 Visa gift card • $75 @carusositalian gift card • $20 @ghinisfrenchcaffe gift card • $50 @miramontetucson gift card • $50 @localetucson gift card • @desertmuseum passes More details in bio@Theironcheftucson returns to Desert Diamond Casino Sahuarita this Saturday, July 18!

Two-time reigning champion @chef_antbanks of @obonsushi is back to defend his title against AJ Mortazavi of @barnyard_az, winner of the 2026 Meet the Chefs competition. Once the secret ingredient is revealed, both chefs will race against the clock to create dishes judged on taste, creativity, and presentation. 

The event begins with the Culinary Experience from 1 to 4 p.m., featuring three hours of food and drink sampling, cooking demos, and classes, followed by the live Iron Chef Competition from 5 to 8 p.m. This is a 21+ event. 

More details and tickets at Tucsonfoodie.com🏆🎉@Theironcheftucson returns to Desert Diamond Casino Sahuarita this Saturday, July 18! Two-time reigning champion @chef_antbanks of @obonsushi is back to defend his title against AJ Mortazavi of @barnyard_az, winner of the 2026 Meet the Chefs competition. Once the secret ingredient is revealed, both chefs will race against the clock to create dishes judged on taste, creativity, and presentation. The event begins with the Culinary Experience from 1 to 4 p.m., featuring three hours of food and drink sampling, cooking demos, and classes, followed by the live Iron Chef Competition from 5 to 8 p.m. This is a 21+ event. More details and tickets at Tucsonfoodie.com🏆🎉José Contreras, chef and owner of @Ameliastucson, is headed to New York City to cook alongside chef Alam Méndez of Washington, D.C.‘s Apapacho Taqueria for a collaborative dinner at the James Beard Foundation’s Platform at Pier 57.

The Aug. 11 dinner will celebrate the culinary traditions of Sonora and Oaxaca through a multi course menu centered on heirloom corn, traditional masa, and coastal flavors. Guests will also enjoy a cocktail reception, Mijenta Tequila pairings, and a Q&A with both chefs. The event begins at 6:30 pm at @Pier57.nyc. Tickets are $210 for dining table seats and $250 for the chef’s counter, and are available now at Jamesbeard.org.

Congratulations to @Chefjosetucson on another incredible milestone!🎉

Read @Jackie_tran_’s article on Tucsonfoodie.com

#tucsonaz #tucsonnewsJosé Contreras, chef and owner of @Ameliastucson, is headed to New York City to cook alongside chef Alam Méndez of Washington, D.C.‘s Apapacho Taqueria for a collaborative dinner at the James Beard Foundation’s Platform at Pier 57. The Aug. 11 dinner will celebrate the culinary traditions of Sonora and Oaxaca through a multi course menu centered on heirloom corn, traditional masa, and coastal flavors. Guests will also enjoy a cocktail reception, Mijenta Tequila pairings, and a Q&A with both chefs. The event begins at 6:30 pm at @Pier57.nyc. Tickets are $210 for dining table seats and $250 for the chef’s counter, and are available now at Jamesbeard.org. Congratulations to @Chefjosetucson on another incredible milestone!🎉 Read @Jackie_tran_’s article on Tucsonfoodie.com #tucsonaz #tucsonnewsItalian Week starts today, and we’re sharing this sweet video of @Spaghettioftucson doing what she did best: bringing smiles to everyone around her.

Our hearts are with her family today. We’ll love you and miss you forever, Spaghetti.❤️‍🩹🐶Italian Week starts today, and we’re sharing this sweet video of @Spaghettioftucson doing what she did best: bringing smiles to everyone around her. Our hearts are with her family today. We’ll love you and miss you forever, Spaghetti.❤️‍🩹🐶Italian Week starts today and runs through July 19 as part of 12 Weeks of Foodie Summer!🍝

Support Tucson’s classic and modern Italian restaurants, then upload your receipt at summer.tucsonfoodie.com for a chance to win weekly prizes and the grand prize at the end of August.

🎉 Week 5 Winners
• Libby: $50 North Italia gift card
• Keely: America’s Best Mexican Food Festival tickets
• arts_primacy_2c: 4 Cool Summer Nights passes
• Donita3000: $20 Ghini’s French Caffe gift card
• Nancy & Gabriella: $100 Visa gift cards

Italian Week Deal: @reneestucson is offering buy one, get one 50% off (equal or lesser value) for dine-in or takeout. Just mention you’re a Tucson Foodie fan. Exclusions apply.

🏆 This Week’s Prizes
• $50 @fentonellispizzeria gift card
• $100 Visa gift card
• $75 @carusositalian gift card
• $20 @ghinisfrenchcaffe gift card
• $50 @miramontetucson gift card
• $50 @localetucson gift card
• @desertmuseum passes 

More details in bio!Italian Week starts today and runs through July 19 as part of 12 Weeks of Foodie Summer!🍝 Support Tucson’s classic and modern Italian restaurants, then upload your receipt at summer.tucsonfoodie.com for a chance to win weekly prizes and the grand prize at the end of August. 🎉 Week 5 Winners • Libby: $50 North Italia gift card • Keely: America’s Best Mexican Food Festival tickets • arts_primacy_2c: 4 Cool Summer Nights passes • Donita3000: $20 Ghini’s French Caffe gift card • Nancy & Gabriella: $100 Visa gift cards Italian Week Deal: @reneestucson is offering buy one, get one 50% off (equal or lesser value) for dine-in or takeout. Just mention you’re a Tucson Foodie fan. Exclusions apply. 🏆 This Week’s Prizes • $50 @fentonellispizzeria gift card • $100 Visa gift card • $75 @carusositalian gift card • $20 @ghinisfrenchcaffe gift card • $50 @miramontetucson gift card • $50 @localetucson gift card • @desertmuseum passes More details in bio!

Tag us @TUCSONFOODIE in your food adventures!