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Where to Eat Near the Tucson Jazz Festival

Guide

Where to Eat Near the Tucson Jazz Festival

by Tucson FoodieJan 4, 2024Updated Aug 4, 20267 min read
The Tucson Jazz Festival invites you to explore the heart and soul of the annual event from Friday, January 17 – Saturday, January 25. Actually, and similar to previous years, there are multiple stages! Curated by Executive and Artistic Director Khris Dodge, the 11th annual event offers nine days of some of the greatest jazz talents in the world throughout Downtown Tucson. Keep scrolling to see special menus available during the Tucson Jazz Festival! If you're looking for a meal or a drink before or after a show, here's a list of restaurants near the downtown venues. Visit tucsonjazzfestival.org to learn more about the festival and purchase tickets to other shows on the event calendar.

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18 spots

(Photo courtesy of Basqueria)

Basqueria

350 East Congress Street #150Downtown

Located in the heart of downtown Tucson – At Basqueria, you will find an entire counter full of various authentic & homemade pintxos (pinchos), delicious Spanish dishes with a modern twist in a warm atmosphere of the quintessential Spanish taqueria.
FOOD SPECIALS THROUGH THE FESTIVAL: Holiday Board-Mortadella, andouille sausage, sharp cheddar, and gorgonzola, with bread and nuts escargot-snails sautéed in a white wine garlic butter sauce, with parsley (Gluten-free). Jambalaya-Chicken, andouille sausage, rice, scallions, onions, and garlic in gluten-free tomato-based sauce (Gluten-free). Crawfish Etouffee- Crawfish sautéed with onions and garlic in a tomato sauce, served over rice. (Gluten-free). DRINK SPECIAL THROUGH THE FESTIVAL: Winter spiced sangria- Red sangria with cinnamon and clove spiced simple syrup, brandy, and triple sec, garnished with strawberries, apples, and oranges.

Charro Steak (Photo by Jackie Tran)

Charro Steak & Del Rey

188 East Broadway BoulevardDowntown

Get ready to discover one heck of a culinary duo. Owned and operated by the Flores family of El Charro restaurants, the sister and neighboring concepts — Charro Steak & Del Rey — make it easier than ever to experience quality flavors of the sea and local meats with their ranch-to-table, eco-friendly approaches to surf and turf.
DRINK SPECIAL THROUGH THE FESTIVAL: Jazz-a-Ritas made with Mark Wahlberg's Flecha Azul Tequila.

CORBETT'S

340 North 6th AvenueDowntown

CORBETT'S stands as a dynamic fusion of restaurant, pickleball destination, music venue, and beer garden—a Megazord of entertainment nestled in downtown Tucson, offering a hangout for families, college students, travelers, and beyond. DRINK SPECIAL THROUGH THE FESTIVAL: The Grey Gatsby

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Carne Seca Burrito at El Charro Cafe (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

El Charro Café

311 North Court AvenueDowntown

With a history dating back to 1922, El Charro holds the title of the nation's oldest Mexican restaurant in continuous operation by the same family. Steeped in tradition, this beloved establishment offers a menu that pays homage to authentic Sonoran cuisine, featuring timeless classics like carne seca and the iconic chimichanga. DRINK SPECIAL THROUGH THE FESTIVAL: Jazz-a-Ritas made with Mark Wahlberg's Flecha Azul Tequila.

(Photo courtesy of Gallery of Food)

Gallery of Food

2522 East Fort Lowell RoadMidtown

Gallery of Food is a small catering company, market, and eatery, locally owned by Kristine Jensen. Since 1991 we have been serving up great, hand-crafted food.
Gallery of Food Greatest Hits • Jazz & Dinner in the Garden Saturday, January 18, 2025 • Grazing BuffetSTARTERS Eggplant Roulade with Compari Tomatoes & Basil Pesto (vegan & gluten-free) Empanadas de Elote with Cilantro Crema (vegetarian) Bacon Wrapped Jalapenos stuffed Manchego & Urban Grove Dates (gluten-free) Honeynut Squash with Brown Butter & Sage garnished with Pepitas & Barrio Croutons (vegetarian & gluten-free without the croutons) Merchant Garden & Blue Sky Farms Green Salad with Marinated Shaved Fennel Slaw dressed with Walnuts & Feta with a Sherry Vinaigrette (gluten-free & vegan without the fetaMAIN COURSE Frida’s Corn Pudding with Slivered Peppers & Tomatillo Crema (vegetarian & gluten-free Winder Vegetable Platter with Baby Carrots, Acorn Squash, Roasted Shallots, Broccoli Rabe, Spiced Cauliflower with Creamy Dill & Sweet Pepper Sauce (gluten-free & vegan without the creamy dill sauce) Bodega Mesquite Kolaches with Feng’s Desert Pearl Mushroom Chorizo served with Tamarind Sauce (vegan) Grilled and Roasted Beef Picanha with Limequat Chimichurri (gluten-free) Top Knot Shredded Duck Empanadas with Spicy Chile Sauce (dairy & gluten-free) SWEET TABLE An array of our favorite treats with some vegan & some gluten-free All House made and All Delicious

Tucson Urban Burger at HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery (Photo by Stephanie Shirley)

HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery

266 East Congress StreetDowntown

HUB seamlessly fuses modern American cuisine and an upbeat atmosphere, making it a favorite for both residents and out-of-towners alike. The relatable menu includes hearty burgers and shareable dishes and you'll want to be sure to leave room for their ice cream creations.

(Photo courtesy of Le Macaron French Pastries)

Le Macaron French Pastries

260 East Congress StreetDowntown

Le Macaron isn't just a charming bakery; it's a journey into the artistry of French pastry-making, right in the heart of Tucson. The aroma of freshly baked goods plus the cozy ambiance create the perfect setting for indulgence and enticing your senses with an abundance of flavors, flaky croissants, and other tempting treats. FOOD SPECIALS THROUGH THE FESTIVAL: The Standard: Our top 6 macarons: Salted Caramel, Madagascar Black Vanilla, Belgian Chocolate, Pistachio, Tiramisu and Raspberry. The Gold Standard: Our top 6 macarons: Salted Caramel, Madagascar Black Vanilla, Belgian Chocolate, Pistachio, Tiramisu and Raspberry plus our top 6 chocolates. Django Jam Session: Cassis, Mango, Raspberry and Strawberry Key Lime macarons plus a single scoop of dairy-free sorbet (raspberry almond milk latte). The Black Venus: 2 Champagne macarons, 1 chocolate coconut tart and 2 boozy chocolates (suggested drink: Double espresso). Parisian Zaz: Double Affogato with Caramel and Coffee Gelato topped with a Pistachio Macaron. LIVE MUSIC 1/17 & 1/18 - 9:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. - Adam Gay 1/25 - 9:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. - Matt Mitchell

Photo Courtesy of Mojo Cuban Kitchen and Rum Bar

Mojo Cuban Kitchen and Rum Bar

1929 East Grant RoadUniversity & 4th Ave

Mojo features an authentic line-up of Cuban comforts like ropa vieja, empanadas, fried yuca, mojo chicken, and the quintessential Cubano sandwich.
1/17 - THREE-COURSE MEAL STARTER FRITURAS DE MAIZ Golden-brown corn fritters with sautéed onions and bell peppers, served with a zesty pomegranate dipping sauce with a hint of chili flakes ENTRÉE Choose One RABO ENCENDIDO Succulent oxtail slow-cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce with white wine, peppers, onions, and aromatic spices. Served with rice, black beans and maduros TROPICAL CRAB CAKES Tender crab meat, finely diced bell peppers, cilantro, onion, and a touch of lemon. Pan-seared to golden perfection and crowned with a refreshing pineapple salsa. Served with rice and black beans TASTE OF HAVANA Sample of Ropa Vieja, Mojo Chicken, and Lechón Asado served with rice, black beans and maduros DESSERT Choose One TARTA DE CHOCOLATE Rich dark chocolate, creamy, saffron infused orange custard, on a Marie Cookie crust. Garnished with house made candied orange. or BAKERY ITEM OF CHOICE $45 - PER PERSON Vegan and Gluten Free Options Available LIVE MUSIC 1/24 - 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. - Amilcar Guevara

Owls Club bar (Photo by Jackie Tran)

Owls Club

236 South Scott AvenueDowntown

Nestled inside a 1920s structure decorated with beautiful stained glass and chandeliers, the Owls Club provides warmth and elegance to the neighborhood bar experience.
DRINK SPECIAL THROUGH THE FESTIVAL: "Midnight Cruiser" Gin, Fernet and Zucco

Playground Bar & Lounge (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Playground Bar & Lounge

278 East Congress StreetDowntown

More than just a rooftop bar, Playground feels like an adult playground for the senses, boasting an array of craft cocktails, shareable bites, and an atmosphere that keeps people coming back. DRINK SPECIAL THROUGH THE FESTIVAL: Smoky Sazerac

(Photo courtesy of The Leo Kent Hotel)

St. Cruz at the Leo Kent

1 South Church AvenueDowntown

Discover elevated Southwestern cuisine at St. Cruz — the chef-driven restaurant and bar open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. St. Cruz Restaurant features a delectable menu inspired by local flavors, offering dishes that highlight the rich culinary heritage of the Southwest.

(Photo courtesy of Talega Coffee Co.)

Talega Coffee Co.

236 South Scott AvenueDowntown

Come for a handcrafted coffee beverage or to purchase small-batch sustainable coffee beans. Roasts for sale include beans from Costa Rica, Brazil, Mexico, and a Latin Blend. Indoor and patio seating is available.
DRINK SPECIAL THROUGH THE FESTIVAL: Cafe Brulot

The Century Room (Photo courtesy of Hotel Congress)

The Century Room

311 East Congress StreetDowntown

Borderlands Jazz Club located in the historic Hotel Congress offers live music, craft cocktails, and regional beer and wine.
DRINK SPECIAL THROUGH THE FESTIVAL: High Society - Scotch, Brandy, Borghetti, and Fernet Branca.Music Daily.

The Lookout Bar & Grille

245 East Ina RoadOro Valley

Delight in the mouth-watering cuisine offered at our on-site restaurant, The Palm Restaurant. Enjoy delicious poolside treats and cool, refreshing drinks at Oasis Pool Bar & Grill. You can also remain in the peaceful retreat of your guest room and order room service.
LIVE MUSIC 1/18 - 5 - 8 p.m. Redhouse Family Jazz Band

The Monica

40 East Congress StreetDowntown

Rooted in scratch cooking and cherished family recipes, The Monica aims to bring a diverse range of flavors to your table. With a passionate team of chefs and food enthusiasts backing this Si Charro, a unique dining experience that reflects the rich culinary tapestry of Tucson is what you can expect visit after visit. DRINK SPECIAL THROUGH THE FESTIVAL: Jazz-a-Ritas made with Mark Wahlberg's Flecha Azul Tequila.
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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