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(Photo by Lucas Allmann)

Where to Eat Near the Tucson Jazz Festival

Updated January 8, 2025

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.

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.

a picture of sauce being poured onto pizza dough
The birth of a pizza at Anello (Photo by Anna Smirnova)

ANELLO

ANELLO is a charming 28-seat pizzeria nestled in the Warehouse Arts District. ANELLO offers an intimate dining experience in a contemporary space filled with warm lighting, beautiful paintings, and a wood-fired pizza oven as its centerpiece. Its menu emphasizes quality and local sourcing, featuring house-stretched mozzarella, artisanal toppings, and an array of other offerings such as pickled seasonal vegetables and homemade sourdough pizzas.

a picture of food
Green Cabbage & Potatoes at Bata (Photo credit: Natalie Moe)

BATA

Bata is a restaurant that celebrates the region by sourcing 90% of its ingredients from within 400 miles, with a focus on local farms and seafood from San Diego. Their menu is ever-changing, driven by what is best on any given day, and features a vegetable-forward approach with rotating proteins like fish and pork. They cook over an oak-fueled fire, infusing each dish with its smoky essence, and invite guests to embrace the mystery and adventure of their dynamic menu.

(Photo courtesy of Cartel Roasting Co. on Broadway)

Cartel Roasting Co.

Cartel redefines the art of coffee, offering an inviting minimalist ambiance where enthusiasts can revel in a true coffee experience. With an unwavering dedication to sourcing premium beans and a commitment to precision in every roast, their team ensures that each cup of coffee goes beyond the ordinary.

A photo of a steak and lobster combo plate
Surf and Turf (Photo courtesy of Charro Steak & del Ray on Facebook)

Charro Steak & Del Rey

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.

a building with a store on the side of a road
(Photo courtesy of Che's Lounge on Facebook)

Che’s Lounge

For over 16 years, Che’s Lounge has solidified its status as the ultimate dive bar and neighborhood hangout on Fourth Avenue, keeping its doors open until 2 a.m. daily and regularly hosting live music and events. Features such as outdoor patio seating, indoor arcade games, live art exhibits, and a classic jukebox, enhance the already vibing atmosphere.

a group of people sitting on a bench in front of a store
CORBETT'S (Photo by SWOON Media)

CORBETT’S

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.

(Photo courtesy of The Coronet)

The Coronet

At The Coronet, the driving force remains a deep love for food. 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, where everyone is cared for as they savor intentional food and drinks.

a picture of two beers being poured
Crooked Tooth Brewing Company (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Crooked Tooth Brewing Company

Crooked Tooth’s philosophy centers around the belief that the people you share a glass with are paramount to the brewing experience. Their beer serves as a vessel for shared memories and connections, transforming the taproom into more than just a place to enjoy craft beer—it’s a hub dedicated to allowing people to experience the joy of community over a pint.

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

El Charro Café Downtown

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.

a picture of cheesy, gooey jalapenos
Jalapeno Peppers at Elliott's on Congress (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Elliott’s on Congress

With its central location in downtown Tucson, Elliott’s on Congress stands as a welcoming destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a taste of Tucson’s evolving culinary scene with their contemporary American fare, all from the comfort of their stylish and inviting space.

A photo of the interior of the Tucson mezcal bar known as El Crisol
El Crisol (Photo by Anna Smirnova)

Crisol Bar

Embark on a mezcal-infused adventure at Crisol Bar, where craft cocktails become a celebration of tradition and innovation. This Tucson gem beckons with a curated selection of libations and menu of small plates, all crafted to deliver a memorable experience rooted in the vibrant spirit of the region’s flavors and ingredients.

Photo Courtesy of Hub Restaurant & Ice Creamery

HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery

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.

a display in a store filled with lots of different types of food
(Photo courtesy of Le Macaron French Pastries)

Le Macaron French Pastries

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.

a store inside of a building
(Photo courtesy of The Monica)

The Monica

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.

a picture of pub grub and drinks on a bartop
Playground Bar & Lounge (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Playground Bar & Lounge

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.

a close up of a plate of food and glasses of wine
(Photo courtesy of The Leo Kent Hotel)

St Cruz (at The Leo Kent Hotel)

St Cruz, nestled in The Leo Kent Hotel, unites modern elegance with a refined dining experience, smack dab in the middle of downtown Tucson.

Interior of Revel Wine & Beer (Photo by Jackie Tran)

REVEL

REVEL creates a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere for wine enthusiasts and casual patrons alike, making European style accessible. Indulge in wine-pairable treats like cheese, charcuterie, and chocolate for a chic night out.

a picture of the interior of the royal room in tucson
The Royal Room (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

The Royal Room

At The Royal Room, the atmosphere feels like a gathering of friends or…cousins. Explore a rotating selection of beers on tap, wine, seasonal craft cocktails, and a diverse array of options in the fridge to satisfy your thirst. Indulge in crowd-pleasing tater tots and DJ nights, and make the most of the daily Happy Hour from 4 – 7 p.m.

a group of people standing in front of a building
Tap & Bottle's 9th Anniversary in 2022 (Photo by Isaac Stockton)

Tap & Bottle – Downtown

Tap & Bottle’s downtown destination is more than just a bar; it’s a haven for those who appreciate a finely crafted brew and the community they share it with. An extensive selection of beers on tap and in the fridge ensures there’s something for everyone, and the fun-loving ambiance invites patrons to relax and savor their favorite pint or explore new and exciting options.

a sandwich filled with meat and vegetables
Urban Fresh (Photo credit: Hannah Hernandez)

Urban Fresh

With a wide range of options in a fast-casual environment, Urban Fresh, service is fast enough for a carryout lunch stop but inviting enough for an intentional meal on the patio. The menu at this plant-based restaurant includes options such as smoothies, hearty salads, and daily specials.

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