The Tucson Foodie Passport — a mighty benefit of being a Tucson Foodie Insider — spotlights the lively mix of restaurants proudly participating in our Restaurant Partner Program. From celebrated eateries to off-the-beaten-path gems, our partners contribute to the rich tapestry that defines Tucson’s culinary ecosystem. These restaurants offer the promise of mouthwatering meals and unforgettable experiences with each of their contributions acting as an invitation to take your tastebuds on an adventure while supporting local restaurants.
Sign up to become a Tucson Foodie Insider and get instant access to your Passport by visiting insiders.tucsonfoodie.com, and brace yourself for a journey through the city’s diverse food scene with Passport in hand!
Hailing from Sonoma County, the Toraño Family has been making wines from renowned vineyards throughout the county’s AVAs since 2014. Last year the family relocated to Arizona, and are pumped to open their flagship tasting room in central Tucson.
Alongside their lineup of single vineyard wines — Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet, Grenache, Petite Sirah, Syrah — A. Toraño Wines’ tasting room features other small production family-owned wines that aren’t always available in Arizona.
Anchoring the northwest corner of University Boulevard and Park Avenue, just steps away from the University of Arizona’s main gate in Main Gate Square, the new eatery boasts a menu that celebrates the regional and diverse traditions of Mexico, serving up what its principals call “all the flavors and fun of Mexico in one setting.”
Green Heart Bakery has more than 30 years of plant-based baking experience. On Sunday, stop by Heirloom Farmers Market at Rillito Park for vegan and organic desserts!
Antsy Nancy offers “how-to” skills classes focused on home, health, and happiness. These master skills classes are tailored for beginners, with new DIY classes introduced every month. With expert instruction and all necessary tools and materials provided, students can successfully complete projects to share with family and friends.
Ate Kei’s committed to introducing Tucsonans to traditional Filipino flavors with every bite. Founder Kei Ann Mandanas, affectionately known as Ate Kei, draws inspiration from her Philippine roots, infusing classic desserts with vibrant pandan, ube, chili mango, and malunggay flavors. From her grandmother’s kitchen to the streets of Tucson, Ate Kei’s treats offer a fusion of cultures, inviting customers to savor the rich tapestry of Filipino cuisine with a Southwestern twist.
Bacio Italiano, located in Main Gate Square. Bacio offers a diverse menu featuring Italian appetizers, salads, pizzas, calzones, pasta, plates, sandwiches, and desserts. With a blend of Italian-American and traditional Italian influences, Bacio’s specialty lies in its Neapolitan-New York style pizza crust, achieved through the use of high gluten all-purpose flour and a gas oven that provides a steady baking environment.
BATA is all about the details. They take a European approach to cooking, which means they’re all about shining a spotlight on quality ingredients. Plus, they’ve been named one of Bon Appétit’s “”Best New Restaurants of 2022.”” It’s fantastic and always different food, and a worthwhile experience all around
Handcrafted doughnuts every Friday and Saturday, and each week brings a new flavor to try. And they don’t stop at doughnuts – every Friday night, they’re serving up Street Tacos too. Plus, they’ve got artisan popcorn and an enormous selection of over one thousand whiskeys.
A plant lover’s paradise, Beaut is cooking up incredible burgers and mouthwatering sides made entirely from veggies, beans, and spices. Oh, and soft serve, too! Wash down their unbeatable plant-based options with their homemade limeade and enjoy the open-air seating of the MSA Annex!
Near the south side of town, this burger spot is not to be missed. After you finish one of their scrumptious appetizers (try the Twisters), check out The Samurai. It blends Eastern and Western ingredients — cream cheese, diced cabbage, scallions, and a sweet Asian sauce. Unique and satisfying!
Bubbe’s Bagels offers long-fermented, kettle-boiled bagels that are “Bubbe approved.” This establishment specializes in providing a variety of fine bagels, from plain to everything, and also features a range of spreads and sandwiches.
Button Brew House is a bit off the beaten path, but trust us, it’s worth the trip. This small brewery’s got a great selection of beers on tap, a chill vibe, and even a patio for those perfect Tucson evenings. When (not if) you fall in love with the place, you can even sign up for a yearly membership!
Your one-stop-shop for grub all day long. They’ve got everything from your basic eggs to fancy Portobello Omelets and Frittata Florentine for breakfast. And for lunch and dinner, they’ve got a whole load of excellent salads and sandwiches — with a new and rotating list of specials all the time!
Whether from their east side brick-and-mortar location, at farmers markets, or at other special events, Cafe Francais delivers with a variety of traditional, modern, and unique French breads and pastries.
Calle Tepa was created by a mother and son duo utilizing their family recipes from Jalisco. Offering fast-casual Mexican with some sweet street style, this spot has some of the best tacos and best margaritas in Tucson, along with a homemade salsa bar.
“It’s like a traditional taqueria out of Hermosillo,” said Daniel Thomas of Blueprint Restaurant Concepts. “We’re not going to be doing lengua or anything like that — we’re keeping it very simplistic. We’re using prime beef for our carne asada tacos and the al pastor is straight off the trompo.”
The restaurant is one of the newest local spots to open on Campbell Avenue — 2502 N. Campbell Ave. — and every Tuesday they’re serving any two tacos of your choice paired with any caguama for $18.
Serving up Sonoran-style Mexican fare since 1979, Casa Del Rio is a no-frills gem committed to delivering simple Mexican cuisine, great service, and great value. The result is an authentic Sonoran dining experience, featuring signature dishes like chimichangas and Machaca Enchiladas.
Just as Dragoon Brewing is not located in the Dragoons, Catalina Brewing is not located in Catalina. It’s close, though, kind of. Situated near Ina and I-10, Catalina Brewing features a unique lineup of beer plus a menu full of items that they also make in-house.
Charly’s upping Tucson’s barbecue scene with their competition Texas-style barbecue with a Sonoran twist, all served out of their beloved food truck. From tender brisket to fall-off-the-bone ribs, every dish at Charly’s is slow-cooked, delivering a fusion of smoky goodness and Southwestern flair. Whether you’re craving hearty platters or indulgent sandwiches, Charly’s BBQ & Grill is a solid option for satisfying your barbecue cravings on the go.
Charro Chico is designed to be a “fun, fast, fresh, and timely classic” at 3699 N. Campbell Ave. and is still determining its official grand opening. Company president Ray Flores tells us that the idea for the Charro Chico concept has been bouncing around for a while. After a successful first year of their latest concept The Monica, the Si Charro! team wanted to share a little more of the home cooking recipes inspired by Tia Monica and created by chef Carlotta Flores (Monica’s grandniece and Si Charro! Executive Chef).
Charro Vida is all about creating food that’s good for you and good for the planet. They take inspiration from Mediterranean and Sonoran Desert traditions, using only the best ingredients like healthy fats, whole grains, and sustainable proteins, and making a positive impact overall.
The only spot in Tucson serving up 100% grass-fed, mesquite-grilled steaks and sustainable seafood. The owners are part of a family that’s been making Mexican food since 1922, inspired by simple but oh-so-tasty dishes from Sonora. Their food’s not just tasty, it’s responsible too—they source the best grass-fed beef, sustainable seafood, and cage-free poultry, and always try to buy local.
Chilttepica Products was founded by the dynamic duo Gloria and Huémac, who bring over 30 years of culinary passion to every Chilttepica creation they make. With Huémac’s innovative recipes and Gloria’s meticulous execution, each product is a testament to their shared love of cooking and dedication to quality. From tangy salsas to savory marinades, Chilttepica promise a taste of traditional Mexican flavor and a dash of adventurous spirit in every bite.
Paul Reyes and his pizza are now part of the Metal Arts Village familia and are set up just a few short steps from the Hop Shop’s front door. Reyes knew he had to install a proper oven in his new “culinary studio” to properly bake his more than a proper pizza, and gis search led him to one that uses propane and is custom-built in Italy.
Known for its view of the breathtaking Catalina Mountains, Commoner & Co is a fine dining concept that specializes in adding exciting twists to classic dishes. With a fantastic happy hour and truly inviting dinner experience, this romantic restaurant is sure to delight.
CORBETT’S restaurant menu includes elevated sandwiches, burgers, tacos, salads, and more. Open for lunch and dinner all week, CORBETT’S will also host brunch on the weekend. Highlighting Arizona’s incredible food and beverage producers was one of the kitchen’s goals when crafting the diverse menu. Beef for burgers, prime rib, and more was sourced from Arizona Grass Raised Beef Co. which produces high-quality, grass-fed, and grass-finished beef, while English muffin burger buns were created especially for CORBETT’S by Tucson’s August Rhodes Bakery.
With the rise of pickleball’s popularity, CORBETT’S is excited to house a total of five pickleball courts, three of which are located outside near the beer garden and two located inside the renovated and climate-controlled Corbett Building.
The Coronet brings a touch of the European countryside to the table. They’re all about fresh, seasonal food, and they’ve got a soft spot for organic stuff. No matter if you’re a meat-lover, vegan, or gluten-free, they’ve got something for you. And don’t forget to check out those craft cocktails!
At Coronet Cafe, the driving force remains a deep love for food and creating memorable experiences. Serving up meticulously sourced ingredients and a commitment to sustainability showcase the dedication of their staff, the collaborative genius of this team is evident on the plate and in the environment they create. There are always a few vegan options on the menu, but be sure to ask for specials, and don’t think twice about trying their Shakshuka.
If you’re all about coffee, you’ll be all about Cuppa GoGo. Stop by to try a delicious cup of coffee or one of their other specialty drinks, including Tres Leches flavored French press coffee and a cinnamon toast crunch-inspired coffee and chai tea. All their drinks are flavored with their housemade syrups, created entirely from scratch.
A go-to spot for Mexican food lovers. They’re known for great dishes like the Beans & Cheese Burrito and the Asado Mama Mena. Plus, they’re super conveniently located and offer carryout and delivery!
This place is all about that true Italian flavor in a wide variety of forms. Sandwiches and pizzas, pastas and seafood, garlic knots and classic salads — no matter what you’re craving, Dominick’s has you covered.
Established as the nation’s oldest Mexican restaurant, El Charro Café is truly a part of history. They offers a wide range of Northern Mexican and Tucson-style Mexican dishes that are so good they’ve been recognized by publications like Bon Appetit, Nation’s Restaurant News, and the New York Times.
“I personally craft our sauces and syrups daily at the Sawmill with as many local ingredients as possible,” said Nick Avram, owner of Elevated Espresso and Sawmill Run Restaurant. “Using chocolate from Monsoon Chocolate, I create different mochas, and our Honey Lavender Latte features lavender from vendors at the Heirloom Farmers Market. Specials are inspired by the freshest finds at the market, while classic syrup flavors like Vanilla, Caramel, Brown Sugar Cinnamon, and Honey are always available.”
Ermanos Craft Beer & Wine Bar, situated on Fourth Avenue in downtown Tucson, is a gastropub known for its meticulously curated selection of craft beer and wine. Complementing its beverage offerings, Ermanos also serves delectable and elevated pub fare that emphasizes local and seasonal ingredients.
Espressoul isn’t your typical coffee shop—it’s a cool coffee truck with an awesome twist. Their menu’s all plant-based and customizable. You gotta try their Baklava/Pistachio Latte or the Persian Persuasion — both are outstanding!
Known for its innovative use of toppings, Falor has some truly unique pizzas, including the Figaro Pizza (brie, mission figs, brussels sprouts, walnuts, & balsamic), and the Arrosto Pizza (feta, eggplant, yukon gold potatoes, dates, & white truffle oil). Scrumptious!
Fentonelli’s offers scratch-made Italian-American cuisine in a casual urban setting. Their menu features a range of dishes from appetizers and salads to pizzas, fresh house-made pastas, and entrée plates. They also have an extensive drink menu with craft cocktails, beer, and wine. Gluten-free options are also available.
A new venture from the team behind Prep & Pastry, Commoner & Co., and August Rhodes Market, offering both counter-service and table-service. The menu boasts a range of diverse items like Margherita and Mercado pizzas, Huevos Rancheros, and Market Cioppino. And their bread comes local from August Rhodes, so you know it’s good.
Fresco is all about fresh and handmade goodness. They’re big on making everything from scratch – you can definitely taste the difference. With a truckload of pizza toppings, yummy pasta dishes, fresh salads, cheesy subs, and calzones, they’ve got all your Italian cravings covered.
At Fuku Sushi, Asian culinary artistry takes center stage. From innovated Japanese dishes to a vibrant nightlife scene complete with live DJs and spirited cocktails, their team is set on creating unforgettable experiences. Their Miso Glazed Blackened Cod is a good start!
Gentle Ben’s is a laid-back eatery featuring a covered patio, offering a delightful array of food options, exceptional craft cocktails, and an extensive selection of locally brewed beers on tap. Conveniently situated just steps away from the University of Arizona, it provides a perfect spot for a casual and enjoyable dining experience.
Ghini’s French Cafe serves up a slice of Southern France right here in Tucson. With a daily menu featuring everything from hearty salads to sandwiches and pasta, it’s an ideal spot for a delightful lunch. And, if you fancy French classics like Croque Madame, this place will not disappoint.
The original entirely gluten-free bakery in Tucson, Gourmet Girls serves up everything from toast and sandwiches to pasta and pizza in an environment free from cross contamination. On top of that, they’ve got hard cider, wine, and signature cocktails to go with it all.
Owner Emma Vera opened the very first location on Prince Road and the Oracle location followed in its footsteps in 2016. She brought her passion for food, vibrant colors, and Mexican culture with her when she moved to the U.S. from Guadalajara.
Heirloom Farmers Markets offer an authentic taste of Arizona’s rich agricultural heritage by showcasing the region’s local growers, artisans, freshest produce, and handcrafted goods among five markets around town. The vibrant community atmosphere is contagious, along with the Markets’ commitment to sustainability and supporting local businesses, making them a vital part of Tucson’s ecosystem.
While not a restaurant, HF Coors is an integral part of the Tucson food scene as a manufacturer of dinnerware. Their products, which are hand-made and hand-painted, can be found in restaurants and homes throughout the country, adding a touch of Tucson craftsmanship to meals everywhere.
A bar, restaurant, and hangout spot all rolled into one. They’ve got molecular mixology, local brews on tap, and their own legendary Pearl Shots. Great for any and every occasion!
Humble Board is whipping up some stunning charcuterie boards that are perfect for any event. Whether it’s a corporate gig or a cozy get-together with friends, they’ve got a board for that. Each one is loaded with an amazing mix of cheeses, meats, and other goodies that are perfect for sharing.
For an upgrade from the Spicy Tuna Don, order it Volcano Style. A bowl of sushi rice is topped with spicy tuna, seaweed, sesame seeds, scallions, cucumber, unagi sauce, spicy mayo, and crunchy tempura flakes. A side of miso soup is included.
Iron John’s tasty taproom menu features delicious specialty burgers and pizzas, and of course, there’s nothing like washing down a good meal with a super fresh craft beer. Iron John’s Brewing Company specializes in small-batch ales, each brewed to honor classic styles while injecting a touch of individuality and flair.
Offering more than your regular slice, Jaime’s Pizza Kitchen specializes in a variety of gourmet pizzas, calzones, wings, and more. Their menu includes favorites like Jaime’s Favorite, Margherita Timoteo, Paco’s Blanco Chicken, and The Sweet Swine, each with their unique twist on conventional pizzas.
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.
The team behind Iron John’s Brewing Company has transformed its old downtown taproom into a gin-focused bar named Juniper. The cocktail lounge isn’t making its own gin but instead serving a full bar featuring gin-based cocktails, and the menu as well as the service is something to write home about.
Kingfisher Bar & Grill is renowned for its award-winning American cuisine, with a special emphasis on seafood and grilled meats. As a locally owned and operated establishment, Kingfisher has been a beloved institution in Tucson for over 30 years. The restaurant takes pride in its curated selection of beverages, from classic cocktails to refreshing mocktails, and offers a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of tastes.
The Marana staple has been creating memories with its made-from-scratch dishes, welcoming hospitality, and admirable resilience. The intention behind the restaurant — from the beginning — was to bring that formal dining experience that both of the Gallardos have captured over the years, but then to add their own “Sonoran-style twist” to it.
Lindy’s on 4th is basically heaven for burger lovers — they do the classic American burger a little differently ’round here. They’ve got tons of wild and unique options on the menu that are so good they even got a shout-out on the Travel Channel’s “”Man vs. Food.””
Little Cafe Poca Cosa (The Little One) is considered “the tiny restaurant with a big heart.” Sister to Café Poca Cosa, this casual setting offers an experience you’ll never forget. Pro tip: Check out the chalkboard for daily specials and fresh juices; make sure to bring cash, as cards are not accepted.
The Loft Cinema has been a mission-driven, membership-supported nonprofit arts organization since 2002, serving the greater Tucson area and all of Southern Arizona via their commitment to build community by celebrating the art and diversity of film. Heck, they even support community and wellbeing through the quality and locally-sourced concessions that greet you as you walk in. They are truly seasoned pros at creating joyful experiences.
Lovin’ Spoonfuls is dedicated to offering a diverse range of plant-based meals. Their menu encompasses breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desserts, ensuring that vegan enthusiasts and those curious about plant-based cuisine have a plethora of delicious options to choose from. Established in 2005, this restaurant has become a staple for vegan dining in the Tucson community.
Mafia Kitchen is a Tucson Food Cart that serves up some of the best cannoli in town. From traditional Sicilian to peanut butter chocolate, their desserts are so good they should almost be illegal.
The place to go when you’re craving Cuban food in Tucson. They’ve got everything from classic Cuban dishes like Ropa Vieja to a variety of tasty sandwiches, and even some sweet treats for dessert. Plus, they’ve got Cuban coffee and rum cocktails that’ll make you feel like you’re chilling on the beach.
Over at Monsoon Chocolate, they’re not just making chocolate, they’re creating edible masterpieces! Seriously, they have won awards for their amazing chocolates and sweet treats. They use local ingredients and source their cacao from all around the globe. Your sweet tooth will thank you!
Indulge in the authentic taste of Montreal at MTL Bagels, where owner Ryan’s passion for these handcrafted delights brings a touch of Quebecois charm to the heart of Tucson. Inspired by his globetrotting adventures and a relentless quest for the perfect bagel, Ryan’s dedication culminated in the creation of MTL Bagels, satisfying Tucson’s craving for genuine Montreal flavors. With each bite, savor the crispy exterior and chewy interior that make Montreal bagels a culinary sensation, rivaling even their famous New York counterparts.
Set sail on a flavor-packed adventure at Nautical Bowls, where Tucson’s desert meets a refreshing ocean breeze! This spot is serving up healthy, energizing bowls that are as colorful as they are delicious. Each bowl is a blend of superfoods, fresh fruits, and crunchy toppings, making every bite a tropical escape right in Tucson.
Located in the enchanting confines of the property shared with The Coronet and Coronet Cafe, Nightjar emerges as a distinguished craft cocktail bar in Tucson. Offering a unique blend of flavors within a charming ambiance, this concept aspires to deliver an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, where patrons can savor delightful drinks, relish the company of friends, and experience a brief but meaningful escape into the present moment.
A classic Tucson gastropub, Noble Hops is It’s run by two brothers, Aric and Josh Mussman, who are big into handcrafted food and beer. They’ve got everything from pub pretzels to tacos on their menu, and their microbrew lineup is ever-changing.
Nook’s menu reflects an eclectic blend of international cuisine and comfort food, with a focus on fresh and flavorful ingredients. They’ve got everything from pineapple crab rangoons to Korean burgers, and honey chipotle carnitas benedict — certainly a brunch you won’t soon forget.
If you’re in the mood for sushi or ramen, Obon is the place to be. They’re all about mixing the old with the new to create dishes that will blow your mind, they’ve got a ton of small plates that are perfect for sharing, and their beer, sake, and cocktail lists are impressive.
A cool Western-style bar in the heart of Downtown Tucson, this place is tucked inside this old-school 1920s building decked out with stained glass and chandeliers – totally unique vibe. If you’re into craft cocktails, whiskey, wine, and good vibes, this is your spot.
As Tucson’s only Southern Fusion Gastropub, The Parish draws its inspiration from Southern comfort, hospitality, and community. The restaurant’s fare is inspired by the culinary influences of its three owners that span from Louisiana to Texas to Arizona, offering a unique blend of southern cuisine.
Back in August 2023, Pearly Bottle Shop, formerly known as Pearly Baker Fermentables, reopened in its original location at 64 E. Broadway Blvd., which is right next to Penca. If you want to walk into the bottle shop for a tasting without becoming one of their monthly members, everyone’s welcome as long as you’re at least 21 years old.
Penca is known for its elevated Mexican cuisine taking classic, even simple staples, to the next level with their very own Penca twist. The combination of flavors and textures is something that puts Penca at the top of dining choices in Southern Arizona and brings a sense of sophistication through a changing seasonal menu.
From traditional options like Margherita to more adventurous choices like the Bubba Pizza featuring a garlic oil base, mozzarella, lemon ricotta, artichoke hearts, and arugula, Penelope’s menu caters to a variety of tastes. They also offer a sweet selection of house-made sodas and lemonade.
At Playground, culinary creativity meets vibrant nightlife smack in the middle of downtown Tucson. More than just a bar, this destination really feels like an adult playground for the senses, offering an array of craft cocktails, shareable bites, and a lively atmosphere.
Portal Cocktails, nestled on Historic Fourth Avenue in Tucson, Arizona, is a unique establishment inspired by the concept of creating a transformational experience for its patrons. The ambiance is designed to be comfortable and inviting, perfect for intimate conversations and sharing secrets.
Postino blends a relaxed atmosphere with a passion for style, which is noticeable in the design, music, and menus. Known for its commitment to creating a fun experience, whether you’re in the mood for a cozy spot to sip on a glass of wine or a vibrant setting for a special occasion, Postino invites you to savor their charm and the offerings that have made it a local favorite.
This high-ceiling, wood-beamed eatery is known for its house-made pastries and quality breakfast dishes and sandwiches. They offer a new American brunch with modern cocktails and flavorful dishes. Plus, the warm, flaky pastries that they serve are designed to remind you of home.
Picture this: juicy, high-quality fish chopped daily, dunked in house-made marinades, topped with anything you want, then finished off with another drizzle of sauce. Their menu is chock-full of Hawaiian goodies, including island-style poke bowls, fish, and prawns, plus a solid selection of craft beers to wash it all down.
Pure Poke specializes in authentic Hawaiian poke that features fresh-cut, high-quality fish, housemade marinades and sauces, and all of the toppings your tummy can — and the bowl — can handle.
Easily one of the best steakhouses in Tucson, PY Steakhouse takes pride in their locally sourced Arizona prime beef. Their menu boasts not only mouthwatering steaks, but a superb seafood bar, amazing appetizers, and divine desserts to boot. It doesn’t get much more Arizonan than a Prickly Pear Creme Brulee.
Redbird Scratch Kitchen + Bar serves “approachable classics with a focus on executing them with high-quality ingredients,” including Green Chile Bacon Waffle Fries, Quesabirria, salads, burgers and their specialty Crispy Nashville-Arizona Chicken sandwich. Pair all your food with draft beer, wine, or signature cocktails like the Redbird Old Fashioned, and Espresso Martini. what more could you ask for?
Reilly’s serve up artisan-style pizza that’s hand-crafted and totally delicious. They’ve got fresh sandwiches for lunch, handmade pasta for dinner, and don’t even get us started on their drink menu — 20 different craft beers, a selection of draft wines, and a whole bunch of cocktails, plus indoor/outdoor seating to enjoy it all.
This pizzeria is committed to serving locally-sourced and organic food. With a menu rooted in sustainability, Renee’s offers a casual dining environment for health-conscious foodies who don’t want to compromise on taste.
Rocco’s has been a Tucson favorite since ’98, and once you taste their pizza, you’ll know why. They’ve got three types of Chicago-style pizza that are all award-winning, not to mention some seriously good chicken wings. Plus, they’ve got pasta, salads, and other Italian goodies.
This family-owned business, which is located inside the Park Place Mall, offers healthy meals that cater to different tastes and preferences, with menu offerings like chicken sandwiches, paninis, fresh salads with housemade dressings, and much more.
At Sand-Reckoner Wines, they’re not just serving wine — they’re giving a full wine experience. Their wines, made from organically farmed vineyards in Wilcox and the Chiricahua mountains, are a true taste of the region. You’ll even get to learn a thing or two about how the wine is made, and you can snag a bottle or two for the road
Sawmill Run is a true family restaurant offering a lunchtime rotating menu that reflects the seasons on Mt. Lemmon. You can call in to keep up-to-date with the options, some of which have included past creations such as the Louisiana Alligator Burger and Stuffed Monkfish Tail.
The place to be if you’re into dang good drinks and quality spirits. With a generous selection of whiskeys, gins, rums, tequilas, mezcals, and more, and a compelling cocktail list, this speakeasy-style cocktail lounge is a great spot for friends, dates, and fun.
The diverse menu features custom-made burgers, sandwiches, salads, a lobster roll, and a wild mushroom burger. To complement the food, Tandem American Eatery has 18 beers on tap, a selection of wine, and craft cocktails, along with shareable plates such as loaded fries with braised short rib and baked brie.
Tavolino invites guests to encounter an authentic Italian dining experience in the heart of the Sonoran desert. With an elegant ambiance that excludes no one, the lunch and dinner menus each offer an array of house-made dishes, ranging from classic pastas to paninis, catering to a quick bite, a midday feast, or an hours-long dinner with your family.
Craving a good old-fashioned burger with a twist? Try something wild like a burger with fire-roasted green chili, smoked bleu cheese, bacon, and raspberry preserves. And don’t worry, veggie lovers – they’ve got you covered. Grab yourself a classic Rootbeer Float or draft beer while you’re at it.
Their beef is all Angus and goes through a two-day process of cooking and resting, marinates with its au-jus to finish the process, and then gets added to a freshly baked baguette. Ta-da! A Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich at your fingertips here in the Old Pueblo. The Chicago Dog is a munchies-melter, too.
Located in the Lost Barrio, Tooley’s Cafe isn’t just a place to grab a bite — it’s a vibrant community hub where food, art, and culture converge. Known for its inviting atmosphere and mouthwatering comfort fare, from their legendary shredded turkey tacos and burritos to their fluffy chocolate chip cookies and corn cakes, each dish is crafted with care and celebrates the flavors of the southwest.
And with a drink menu featuring coffee concoctions, local beers, natural wines, ciders, and cocktails infused with fresh garden flavors, there’s something to please every palate at Tooley’s Cafe. Whether you’re stopping by for a meal, a drink, or a dose of local culture, Tooley’s welcomes you with open arms.
Transit Tea brews fresh teas every day from loose leaves they’ve sourced from, well, everywhere! They serve their tea hot, iced, sparkling, and even in a special form they call “”Snow””. Each drink is crafted to spark a trip down memory lane, a phenomenon they like to call “”new-stalgia””.
Even though food is central to these tours, the guides include historical, geographic, and geological information along the way — all proving way more fun than it may sound due to the personalities that make these experiences memorable and leave you longing for more.
Tucson Hop Shop stands out as north Tucson’s premier destination for craft beer and wine enthusiasts. This establishment functions as a bar, bottle shop, growler-fill station, and an Urban Beer Garden. Recognized for its excellence, Tucson Hop Shop was named CraftBeer.com’s Great American Beer Bar of Arizona in 2017 and Big 7 Travel’s Best Craft Beer Bar in Arizona for 2019.
The go-to spot for fantastic tamales in Tucson. Whether you’re dining in or taking out, you’ll find a variety of tasty options to choose from. And, an added bonus – you can snag some frozen tamales for a quick and delicious meal at home later.
These folks have nailed the art of making delicious chicken wings. You can pick your own sauce or rub to go with your wings or boneless wings. They’ve got everything from buffalo and sweet chili to mango habañero sauces, and rubs like lemon pepper and Jamaican jerk. And don’t forget to order a side of fries or fried pickles!
V’s Barbershop cultivates an environment where traditional barbering meets modern luxury with a commitment to providing top-notch grooming services. V’s offers a range of treatments including precision haircuts, hot towel shaves, and beard trims in a welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of the golden age of barbershops — served with a side of local craft beer or coffee, on the house. Experience the artistry and attention to detail that have made V’s Barbershop a favorite destination for those seeking a refined barbershop experience in Tucson.
Vera Earl is all about beef that comes from happy, grass-fed cattle that are later treated to a corn diet, which gives the meat that amazing marbling. Plus, they’ve got all the good stuff—no hormones, no antibiotics, and no animal byproducts, all while staying true to sustainable farming.
A genuine Italian restaurant, offering traditional wood-fired pizzas, a variety of pasta dishes, and delectable house specialties such as Blackened Salmon Sorrento and Bistro Steak. Its menu is a testament to the heartiness and richness of Italian cuisine, with offerings for both lunch and dinner
Whiskey del Bac is renowned for its American Single Malt whiskies. These whiskies are uniquely distilled in the Sonoran desert, employing traditional Scottish methods but with a distinctive twist: they use mesquite instead of peat. Every whiskey expression crafted by Whiskey Del Bac is grain-to-glass and is produced within their distillery in the heart of Tucson, capturing the essence of the Southwestern heritage.
The shop is set up like one of the walk-up spots seen in New York City, serving deck-oven slices and large pies. The menu is split into two sections: ClassiC (CC) and Vegan Version (VV). There are six options to choose from but in reality, it’s 12 because each of them can be made “ClassiC” or vegan. It’s a double whammy pizza-lovin’ experience goin’ down at Whole Slvce Pizza!
Zio Peppe is where you go when you want Italian food with a twist. They’ve taken classic Italian-American dishes like pizza and pasta, and jazzed them up with a little bit of Tucson and Sonora flavor. It’s an amazing blend of cultures in every bite.