Taste a piece of Tucson history by going to one of the 35+ locations across Tucson and Phoenix that are participating in the second annual Tucson Chinese Chorizo Festival! The month-long festival celebrates a historic lost food called the Chinese chorizo that was born out of some 100+ Chinese grocery stores that once existed in downtown Tucson from the early 1900’s to 1970’s. Made possible by the symbiotic relationship between Mexican and Chinese immigrants, these grocery stores naturally became centers for community, offering food and daily necessities on credit.
At a time when both groups were targeted against their very existence, Chinese chorizo mirrors the story of immigrant resilience. It was often made from whatever meat was on hand: end cuts and scraps of meat that were destined for the trash. However, once it was revived with a mixture of Mexican spices, chilis, and red wine, this meat became transformed into a highly sought after product.
The festival is not a traditional one in the sense. The 35+ locations of restaurants, food vendors, and special events will be featuring unique dishes utilizing the modernized Chinese chorizo recipe that comes in 2 versions: mushroom plant-based and pork that is donated by the Chinese Chorizo Project.
The robust schedule of eating, community building, historic preservation, and culinary innovation around the Chinese chorizo is all here in this guide and will be updated as we add more locations!
Gastronomic Union of Tucson (GUT) — Global Flavors Fall Festival
Food from GUT chefs, international bites from Iskashitaa, drinks, games, dunk-a-chef, silent auction, and more fun for fall! Chinese Chorizo Project will be serving up some savory Shanghai style Chinese Chorizo Mooncakes!
October 1st, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
MOCA Chorizo Dancehall Fall Fundraiser
MOCA’s annual fall fundraiser takes over the entire first floor and outdoor patio at the museum, bringing video art, installation, a huge dance party, photo ops, local food & drink together to raise funds for MOCA’s artistic program. Chinese Chorizo Project and Barrio Bread are pairing up to serve some Chinese Chorizo Foccacia Bread, alongside craft beer from Motosonora.
18+ only.
October 6th, 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Second SundAZe / Segundo Domingo at TMA
On October’s Second Sunday, celebrate community and the recently opened Southwest Art: Contemporary Conversations with a Chinese Chorizo Festival kick-off showcasing food from Ate Kei Treats, Phatboii’s BBQ, and more! The Chinese Chorizo Project has also interpreted the text for the exhibition including Larry Yanez’s “Cocina Jaiteca” and created a qr code that features a rotating recipe video that is translated in English, Spanish, and Mandarin.
Plus, connect with makers influenced by the land and materials of the Southwest; vendors include: Apapáchame Tierra, Blue Corn Custom Designs, Drutopia, Love in a Cup, Lower Arizona Jewelry, Nogaleria, Señorita Art & Culture, and more.
October 8th, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Activism in Motion (AIM) Discussion & Tasting Workshop at the Center for Creative Photography
Featuring Chef Feng-Feng Yeh of the Chinese Chorizo Project
AIM organizer Matthew Denny and Feng-Feng Yeh discuss the importance of savoring everyday experiences as a means of resistance.
October 28, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
The 114 pizza is named after the 114 Chinese grocery stores that once existed in downtown Tucson.
It features:
Ginger & Black Garlic Oil Base
Mozz
Chinese Chorizo Meat or Vegan
Blistered Shisiito Peppers
Roasted Chive Flowers
Pineapple Pickled Chili Drizz
House Furikake (that is also served in a ranch dressing that is pure American nostalgia!)
October 13th, 14th, & 15th until sold out
And also at Patagonia Lumber Co October 14th
Asian Chamber Night Market at the Desert Diamond Casino West Valley (Glendale)
Tradition meets modernity in a captivating celebration of culture and commerce. Step into a world where tantalizing aromas, vibrant performances, and an electric atmosphere come together to create an unforgettable experience. ACCNM is your gateway to discovering the rich tapestry of Asian Pacific American heritage, connecting with a dynamic community of enthusiasts, and supporting local businesses that showcase their finest offerings.
October 20th & 21st, 5:00 pm – 11:00 PM
American Queer AF Horror Story at Owl’s Club
Queer AF presents a one-of-a-kind Halloween event this October 2023. Come out in your American Horror Story costume and experience creepy fun vibes at the Owl’s Club.
We will be dancing in the Owl’s Club parlor with DJ Mijito and eating delicious food curated by the Chinese Chorizo Project! This includes Nopalinda, Ador, Ray Ray’s Sonoran Spirit Tea, and more!
October 28th, 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM
