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What to Eat & Drink in Oro Valley, Arizona

Guide

What to Eat & Drink in Oro Valley, Arizona

by Matt SternerAug 1, 2023Updated Aug 4, 202610 min read
Nestled just a stone's throw away from Tucson, Oro Valley is a hidden gem for food enthusiasts craving a delightful dining experience. This little food haven boasts a blend of Southwestern flavors and international influences that will surely make your taste buds do the tango. Also, if you end up dancin' a little farther north of Oro Valley, there are a few spots right along the border in the town called Catalina. We threw them in this guide, too, because including these businesses is a must.
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36 spots

(Photo Courtesy of Baggin's Gourmet Sandwiches)

Baggin’s Gourmet Sandwiches

11015 North Oracle RoadOro Valley

With a passion for crafting unique and mouthwatering sandwiches, Baggin’s has been winning hearts and taste buds since its inception. Their menu is a culinary adventure, boasting an impressive array of sandwiches inspired by various global flavors, all made with the finest and freshest ingredients. From savory meats and cheeses to an abundance of veggies and signature spreads, every bite is a harmonious symphony of flavors.

Porchetta at Bottega Michelangelo (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Bottega Michelangelo

420 West Magee RoadOro Valley

Bottega Michelangelo brings in a hip, contemporary breath of fresh air to date night. The menu options are solid — you can’t go wrong (but if you need some help, get the Burrata Salad and Porchetta). Happy hour offerings include Calamari Calabrese and Lamb Chop Lollipops with prickly pear reduction, lemon, and mint pesto.

Ribs At Bubb's Grub (Photo Credit: Bubb's Grub)

Bubb’s Grub

16010 Arizona 77Catalina

With a passion for all things comfort food, Bubb’s Grub offers a menu that blends classic favorites with a creative twist. From mouthwatering burgers loaded with gourmet toppings to indulgent mac ‘n’ cheese bowls that redefine comfort, every dish is crafted with love and attention to detail.

(Screen capture from "Cabali And The Tiki Mug Obsession")

Cabali

8195 North Oracle RoadOro Valley

Finical and Mencke, who have been friends since their University of Arizona days, opened Fini's Landing in Tucson back in 2012. If you've been to the original location at 5689 N. Swan Rd. chances are you've gobbled up some of their fish tacos, burgers, spicy chicken wings, or bowls — expect the same goodness here.

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(Photo by Jackie Tran)

Caffe Torino

10325 North La Cañada DriveOro Valley

Entering Caffe Torino, tucked away in a corner of a busy shopping plaza at the intersection of La Cañada Drive and Lambert Lane, may evoke a similar sensation for those who have wandered over the cobblestones of Bologna, Genoa, or Milan.

Margherita Pizza from Charred Pie (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Charred Pie

12125 North Oracle RoadOro Valley

Charred Pie, a family-owned Neapolitan-inspired pizzeria in Oro Valley, centers its menu on a wood-fired oven imported from Italy. The interior carries a modern industrial feel with warm wood, red walls, and steel accents, while the spacious patio offers views of Pusch Ridge. The dining room features well-spaced tables and an inviting atmosphere, and the restaurant sits next to the Oro Valley Marketplace theaters.

While the namesake charred pies shine, keep start with the sweet and spicy Korean Gochujang Wings.

(Photo courtesy of China Valley Restaurant)

China Valley Chinese Restaurant

10110 North Oracle Road #180Oro Valley

As a popular takeout spot, this restaurant has mastered the art of bringing the flavors of China straight to your doorstep. With a diverse menu that covers all the classics and some delightful surprises, China Valley To-Go is a one-stop destination for those seeking a quick and flavorful meal.

Carne Seca Burro at El Charro Café (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

El Charro Café

7725 North Oracle RoadOro Valley

El Charro CafĂ© celebrated its 100th Anniversary 2022. As America’s oldest Mexican restaurant continuously run by the same family, El Charro has created a legacy. This long-time success is due to the hard work, passion, and creativity of two very special women: Monica Flin, the founder and Carlotta Flores, her grandniece, who has run El Charro for over 50 of those years.

Epazote Kitchen & Cocktails

10000 North Oracle RoadOro Valley

This upscale restaurant offers a tantalizing fusion of Southwestern and Mexican cuisine, taking guests on a delectable journey through a symphony of tastes and textures. With a menu brimming with fresh and locally sourced ingredients, every dish is a masterpiece that delights the senses.

Famous Sam’s Sports Grill

8058 North Oracle RoadOro Valley

In a neighborhood setting, this sports bar achieved fame by dishing out its overstuffed pastrami and ham sandwiches. With added attractions like a pool table, jukebox, pinball machine, and television, Sam's is perfect for those fond of sports bars.
 

(Photo courtesy of Fork & Fire Smokehouse + Taproom)

Fork & Fire Smokehouse + Taproom

11835 North Oracle Road #101Oro Valley

Fork 'N Fire is a sizzling hotspot that ignites the senses with its delectable wood-fired creations. This joint offers a diverse menu featuring pulled pork, sliced brisket, artisanal pizzas, flame-kissed burgers, and flavorful dishes that showcase the essence of wood-fired cooking.

(Photo courtesy of Goyita’s on Facebook)

Goyita’s

10420 North La Cañada DriveOro Valley

Goyita’s New Mexican Cuisine is a taste of the Southwest, serving up a delightful array of New Mexican dishes with a dash of authenticity and love. With a menu that embraces traditional flavors and modern twists, Goyita’s offers a flavorful journey that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of New Mexico.

Brandy Burger at Harvest Restaurant (Photo by Jackie Tran)

Harvest Restaurant

10355 North La Cañada DriveOro Valley

Harvest Restaurant features a stylish, comfortable space with rustic wood tables, upholstered booths, and soft pendant lighting. A chalkboard above the bar highlights weekly specials, while decorative touches like greenery and artwork enhance the relaxed vibe. The outdoor patio, outfitted with orange chairs and shaded by overhead fans, offers a breezy setting for casual dining.

Menu favorites include the Brandy Burger, topped with aged cheddar, caramelized onions, and house-made sauce, and the 8-Hour Braised Short Rib with whipped Yukon Gold potatoes.

(Photo courtesy of It's Greek to Me)

It's Greek To Me

15920 North Oracle RoadCatalina

What'll it be? Tiri Saganaki, Tzatziki, Octopus Salad, Chicken Souvlaki? Whatever you choose, you'll be saying "It's Greek to me" in no time. They also have a "Fish of the Day" so keep an eye on that next time you stop by, and plenty of dessert options like Honey-Yogurt Cake and Sokolatopita — a rich chocolate cake made with quality cocoa soaked in a buttery Brandy sauce.

(Photo courtesy of La Hacienda Family Mexican Restaurant)

La Hacienda Family Mexican Restaurant

11931 North 1st Avenue #104Oro Valley

With a menu filled with vibrant flavors and authentic recipes, La Hacienda promises an unforgettable dining experience that transports guests to the heart of Mexico.

(Photo courtesy of Licks Ice Cream & Coffee)

Lick's Ice Cream & Coffee

16130 North Oracle RoadCatalina

Offering ice cream made in AZ & Scooping small town love in every scoop. Fresh bubble waffles, Gluten Free Bubble waffles, dairy ice cream, vegan ice cream, cereal-infused ice cream, specialty milkshakes. Locally roasted coffee and cold brew.

(Photo courtesy of Mali Thai)

Mali Thai

12142 North Rancho Vistoso Boulevard #120Oro Valley

The owner of Mali Thai grew up in Thailand, helping their mother cook authentic Thai food. Now, folks in Oro Valley and eaters from all around Tucson can enjoy the classic recipes. From Tom Yum Soup to Crab Fried Rice and Fried Banana with Ice Cream, there’s plenty on the menu to suit anyone’s cravings.

Mama’s Famous Pizza & Heroes

7965 North Oracle RoadOro Valley

The restaurant first opened on Long Island in New York in 1979 before making its way to Tucson. The family had strong ties to Tucson and move to the Old Pueblo to be closer to their parents, which then led to opening their very first Mama's Famous Pizza & Heroes near the University of Arizona in 1981.

(Photo courtesy of Mi Tierra Restaurant)

Mi Tierra Restaurant

16238 North Oracle RoadCatalina

This restaurant has been serving “a taste of Mexico” since 1986 in Catalina. Sure, it’s a little farther than Oro Valley but it’s well worth the trip.

Noble Hops (Photo by Jackie Tran)

Noble Hops

1335 West Lambert LaneOro Valley

Noble Hops offers a contemporary gastropub experience. The interior features a 30-foot-long indoor/outdoor mesquite bar, slate accents, and comfortable lounge seating, creating a cozy environment. The expansive patio, equipped with water misters, a large gas fire pit, and built-in heaters, provides year-round comfort and stunning views of the Santa Catalina Mountains. The menu showcases a variety of popular dishes, including the Bacon Jam Burger, featuring Angus beef, smoked cheddar, bacon jam, and chili aioli, and the Crispy Cauliflower. Noble Hops also offers an extensive selection of rotating taps and bottled bottled beers.

(Photo by Jackie Tran)

Noodleholics

3502 East Grant RoadMidtown

Noodleholics offers authentic Chinese noodle dishes in a casual, contemporary space on East Grant Road. The dining room features simple modern design with counter ordering and comfortable seating for small groups. Natural light from street-facing windows brightens the clean interior and highlights house-made noodle bowls. The menu centers on house-made wheat noodles and regional Guilin rice noodles. Signature bowls include the Sizzling Garlic Noodles and the Guilin Spicy & Sour with choice of meats and tangy broth. Garlic cucumbers and salt and pepper fried wings complete popular orders. If you enjoy pork, order the Chaoshou Dumplings in a vinegary chili oil with garlic and scallions. View footage of our visit here.

(Photo courtesy of Saffron Indian Bistro)

Saffron Indian Bistro

7607 North Oracle RoadOro Valley

One of the fancier-feeling Indian restaurants of the bunch, Saffron offers a full menu, full bar, and lunch buffet. While the Chicken Tikka Masala is the most popular, don't hesitate to try the Dhansak — a spiced dish cooked with lentils — and Rogan Josh — a tomato-based dish flavored by North Indian spices.

(Photo courtesy of Savaya Coffee Market)

Savaya Coffee Market

2959 North Swan RoadMidtown

Everyone deserves exceptional coffee and that’s exactly what Savaya delivers. The art of coffee has been in Turkish owner Burc Maruflu’s family for generations, and Savaya strives for the best quality product, sourcing single-origin, fair-trade coffee. In the store, you’ll find their selection of coffee varieties, as well as delicious drinks.

Tacos Al Pastor (Photo courtesy of Seis Kitchen in Oro Valley)

Seis Kitchen

9740 North Oracle Road #110Oro Valley

Seis Kitchen is a renowned destination in Tucson, Arizona, celebrated for its regionally-inspired Mexican cuisine. The restaurant is well-known for its authentic and delicious birria tacos and its commitment to quality, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner being served all day. Seis Kitchen also stands out with its innovative menu items like “The Bomb”, a soft tortilla wrap filled with beef, chicken, bacon, beans, rice, cheddar, tomato, lettuce, and mayo.

Plant-based Energy Drink (Photo courtesy of Stacks Book Club)

Stacks Book Club

1880 East Tangerine Road #140Oro Valley

Stacks Book Club is an independent bookstore and coffee bar with more than 2,000 new books on-hand. When it comes to the cafe, they’ll have coffee provided by Yellow Brick Coffee, espresso, tea, plant-based energy drinks, pastries from Cal’s Bakeshop, and other grab-and-go food items like bagels from Bubbe’s Bagels.

(Photo courtesy of Sushi Valley)

Sushi Valley

10509 North Oracle Road #131Oro Valley

With a decade-long journey, Sushi Valley has proudly crafted its unique style of sushi and Japanese cuisine, blending tradition with a modern twist. The story began in 2013 when the visionary founder, equipped with a wealth of experience in Japanese culinary arts, arrived in Oro Valley, Arizona, and embarked on an exciting journey of experimenting and innovating the art of sushi and Japanese delicacies at Sushi Valley.

(Photo courtesy of The Hoppy Vine)

The Hoppy Vine

12125 North Oracle RoadOro Valley

The Hoppy Vine in the Oro Valley Marketplace (near Charred Pie and Tuk Tuk Thai) combines industrial flair with a cozy, community feel through exposed ductwork, warm copper lighting, and polished wood accents. A playful mural and rotating seasonal decorations give the space a lively, local vibe. Seating includes a rounded central bar, communal tables, and patio access through wide glass doors. The taproom offers a selection of 20 craft beers, 10 wines, and at least one hard cider and seltzer on tap. Additionally, they house a row of coolers consisting of craft beer, wine, and champagne as well as wine-based cocktails, sake, seltzers, and ciders. They also offer non-alcoholic beer, seltzers, canned mocktails, and a "mocktail of the day."

(Photo courtesy of The Overlook)

The Overlook Restaurant

10555 North La Cañada DriveNorthwest

Enjoy signature dishes and personalized service at the Overlook Restaurant, at El Conquistador, featuring New American Cuisine. Soak in the sunset over the mountains while sampling the local tastes of Oro Valley by Chef de Cuisine, Tory Fitch. Best of all, we are open to the public!

(Photo courtesy of The Views Restaurant)

The Views Restaurant

1555 East Rancho Vistoso BoulevardOro Valley

The Views is here for all of your breakfast, lunch, and dinner needs. They’re currently serving a variety of appetizers and entrees with gluten-free and veggie options. Plus, they have indoor, patio, bar, and terrace seating — plenty of options —  all with panoramic views of the Catalina Mountains.

(Photo courtesy of Tuk Tuk Thai on Facebook)

Tuk Tuk Thai

12125 North Oracle Road #169Oro Valley

For the last 27 years, Bud Sayso has owned and operated two Khao San locations in Portland, Oregon, and now he’s bringing the same concept to Tucson. “In Tucson, you guys are going to go crazy over the Spicy Crispy Chicken Basil,” said Sayso. “That is our signature dish.”

Assorted Cookies (Photo courtesy of Village Bakehouse on Facebook)

Village Bakehouse

7882 North Oracle RoadOro Valley

Village Bakehouse is no new kid on the block. The restaurant-meets-bakery that straddles Oro Valley and Tucson has served homemade goodies baked fresh daily for more than two decades. Serving sandwiches on artisan bread, espresso drinks, and a wide selection of desserts and cakes, with more than 30 pastries and cookies to choose from, it’s a confectionery oasis

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Located at 5526 E. Grant Rd., @Casapitatucson serves Mediterranean and Middle Eastern favorites alongside American breakfast and burritos.

Owner Amna Al-Qaisi, known as Mama Amna, has spent more than two decades feeding Tucson. Originally from Iraq, she lived across eight countries throughout the Middle East, bringing those culinary traditions with her to Tucson.

Her family has operated several beloved Tucson restaurants over the years, including Sinbad’s, Geronimo’s, Gyro King, Arabic Express, and Golden Falafel.

In this video: Hummus, bulgur dip, fattoush salad, vegan falafel samoon, chicken shawarma, mixed grill + Dubai drink.❀

Read @jackie_tran_’s article on Tucsonfoodie.comLocated at 5526 E. Grant Rd., @Casapitatucson serves Mediterranean and Middle Eastern favorites alongside American breakfast and burritos. Owner Amna Al-Qaisi, known as Mama Amna, has spent more than two decades feeding Tucson. Originally from Iraq, she lived across eight countries throughout the Middle East, bringing those culinary traditions with her to Tucson. Her family has operated several beloved Tucson restaurants over the years, including Sinbad’s, Geronimo’s, Gyro King, Arabic Express, and Golden Falafel. In this video: Hummus, bulgur dip, fattoush salad, vegan falafel samoon, chicken shawarma, mixed grill + Dubai drink.❀ Read @jackie_tran_’s article on Tucsonfoodie.com
Join the Tucson Foodie team for a very special dinner at @sawmillrun. A culinary journey from the Sonoran Desert to the summit of Mount Lemmon. TOMORROW! Aug 15, 6-8pm.❀ 

Tickets in bio.
MENU👇đŸŒČ

AMUSE:
Forest Floor
Hazelnut Soil ‱ Whipped Goat Cheese ‱ Black Garlic ‱ Pickled Mushroom ‱ Crispy Mushroom ‱ Mountain Herbs

FIRST COURSE: 
Desert Oasis
Compressed Melon ‱ Whipped Feta ‱ Chiltepin Vinaigrette ‱ Pickled Cucumber ‱ Toasted Pepitas ‱ Mint

SECOND COURSE: 
Campfire Embers
Roasted Bone Marrow ‱ House Chorizo ‱ Pickled Shallot ‱ Cilantro ‱ House-Made Blue Corn Tortilla

THIRD COURSE: 
Juniper Ridge
Juniper-Smoked Pork Belly ‱ Charred Corn Succotash ‱ Prickly Pear Gastrique ‱ Dehydrated Jalapeños

PALATE CLEANSER:
Aspen Breeze
House-Made Lemon Sorbet ‱ Candied Lemon ‱ Fresh Mint

FOURTH COURSE: 
Granite Peak
Mesquite-Grilled Vera Earl Beef ‱ Smoked Tomato Chimichurri ‱ Charred Heirloom Tomato ‱ Crispy Shallot

DESSERT: 
Summer on Mount Lemmon
Arizona Honeycomb Ice Cream ‱ Roasted Willcox Peaches ‱ Huckleberry Compote ‱ Almond Streusel ‱ Honey Tuile

#tucsonevents #tucsonfoodie #mtlemmonJoin the Tucson Foodie team for a very special dinner at @sawmillrun. A culinary journey from the Sonoran Desert to the summit of Mount Lemmon. TOMORROW! Aug 15, 6-8pm.❀ Tickets in bio. MENU👇đŸŒČ AMUSE: Forest Floor Hazelnut Soil ‱ Whipped Goat Cheese ‱ Black Garlic ‱ Pickled Mushroom ‱ Crispy Mushroom ‱ Mountain Herbs FIRST COURSE: Desert Oasis Compressed Melon ‱ Whipped Feta ‱ Chiltepin Vinaigrette ‱ Pickled Cucumber ‱ Toasted Pepitas ‱ Mint SECOND COURSE: Campfire Embers Roasted Bone Marrow ‱ House Chorizo ‱ Pickled Shallot ‱ Cilantro ‱ House-Made Blue Corn Tortilla THIRD COURSE: Juniper Ridge Juniper-Smoked Pork Belly ‱ Charred Corn Succotash ‱ Prickly Pear Gastrique ‱ Dehydrated Jalapeños PALATE CLEANSER: Aspen Breeze House-Made Lemon Sorbet ‱ Candied Lemon ‱ Fresh Mint FOURTH COURSE: Granite Peak Mesquite-Grilled Vera Earl Beef ‱ Smoked Tomato Chimichurri ‱ Charred Heirloom Tomato ‱ Crispy Shallot DESSERT: Summer on Mount Lemmon Arizona Honeycomb Ice Cream ‱ Roasted Willcox Peaches ‱ Huckleberry Compote ‱ Almond Streusel ‱ Honey Tuile #tucsonevents #tucsonfoodie #mtlemmon
LE BUZZ IS CELEBRATING 30 YEARS!đŸŽ‰â˜•ïž

Tucson staple @lebuzzcaffeplaza celebrates 30 years of business on August 22, and we stopped by their Plaza Palomino location to try some of the August specials created just for this location.

🍒Tiki Cold Brew
Cherry-infused cold brew topped with cream of coconut cold foam

đŸ„ŁOatmeal Creme Pie Latte
Espresso, milk of choice, house-made oatmeal syrup and oatmeal creme pie cold foam

🎂Birthday Cake Latte
Espresso, milk of choice, house-made birthday cake syrup and birthday cake cold foam

And the food specials are just as tempting:

‱ Flan French Toast with flan caramel, house-made flan cream, whipped cream and fresh berries

‱ Croissant Croque Madame with Black Forest ham, Gruyùre, mornay, chives and a sunny-side-up egg

Plus, we got to try some favorites from the main menu, including the quiche and soup, Summer Cobb Salad, LeVeggie Burger and Blueberry Brisket Burger.

2930 N. Swan Rd., Suite 130

Don’t wait too long to try the August specials!❀

Read @jackie_tran_’s article on Tucsonfoodie.com 
#tucsonfoodie #tucsonfoodLE BUZZ IS CELEBRATING 30 YEARS!đŸŽ‰â˜•ïž Tucson staple @lebuzzcaffeplaza celebrates 30 years of business on August 22, and we stopped by their Plaza Palomino location to try some of the August specials created just for this location. 🍒Tiki Cold Brew Cherry-infused cold brew topped with cream of coconut cold foam đŸ„ŁOatmeal Creme Pie Latte Espresso, milk of choice, house-made oatmeal syrup and oatmeal creme pie cold foam 🎂Birthday Cake Latte Espresso, milk of choice, house-made birthday cake syrup and birthday cake cold foam And the food specials are just as tempting: ‱ Flan French Toast with flan caramel, house-made flan cream, whipped cream and fresh berries ‱ Croissant Croque Madame with Black Forest ham, GruyĂšre, mornay, chives and a sunny-side-up egg Plus, we got to try some favorites from the main menu, including the quiche and soup, Summer Cobb Salad, LeVeggie Burger and Blueberry Brisket Burger. 2930 N. Swan Rd., Suite 130 Don’t wait too long to try the August specials!❀ Read @jackie_tran_’s article on Tucsonfoodie.com #tucsonfoodie #tucsonfood
Sonoran Restaurant Week is back for its 8th year!🎉

❀Restaurant owners: Applications close August 14. There is no cost to participate, and you’ll be included in Tucson Foodie’s biggest marketing campaign of the year, featuring print, online, social, radio, TV, menu previews, chef interviews, and more.

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. 

#sonoranrestaurantweek #srw2026 
#tucsonfoodie #tucsonarizonaSonoran Restaurant Week is back for its 8th year!🎉 ❀Restaurant owners: Applications close August 14. There is no cost to participate, and you’ll be included in Tucson Foodie’s biggest marketing campaign of the year, featuring print, online, social, radio, TV, menu previews, chef interviews, and more. 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. #sonoranrestaurantweek #srw2026 #tucsonfoodie #tucsonarizona