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Best Things the Tucson Foodie Team Tasted in March 2025

Best Things the Tucson Foodie Team Tasted in March 2025

Apr 2, 20255 min read

Here’s a look back at what the Tucson Foodie team enjoyed during March!

Not only are these reminders of the dishes we ate, but they can also be a guide for your own decisions on what to eat here in Tucson.

Addie Ibarra

Gatz Deli

330 S. Toole Ave. (Food Truck at Voltron Brewing)

The Bourdain from Gatz Deli is one of the best sandwiches I’m probably going to have this year. The tater tots are crispy perfection, and the Kaiser roll was crusty on the outside and fluffy on the inside so that when you bit into it, the fried mortadella, mustard, and provolone still shone through.

Cultivaro Amaro

The Suncliffe Amaro, now served at Locale’s outdoor Bocce Bar on Sundays, is what Sunday Funday is all about. It’s bittersweet, with hints of Fernet. It’s made with local dates and nopales. It’s so good you can drink it straight or mix it in as a spritzer.

Cultivaro Amaro (Photo courtesy of Suncliffe)
Cultivaro Amaro (Photo courtesy of Suncliffe)

Casa del Rio

1060 S. Pantano Rd.

I’ll never be able to express how happy I am that Tucson’s best-kept bar secret is a hop, skip, and jump away from my house at Casa del Rio. I had the BEST espresso martini there recently, it was made with rum and Cynar 70.

Martini at Casa Del Rio (Photo by Addie Ibarra)
Martini at Casa Del Rio (Photo by Addie Ibarra)

Maynards

400 N. Toole Ave.

The new blue crab spaghetti at Maynards is my second favorite spaghetti in town (aside from my dog, Spaghetti).

The blue crab spaghetti at Maynards (Photo by Addie Ibarra)
The blue crab spaghetti at Maynards (Photo by Addie Ibarra)

Forbes Meat Co.

747 S. Sixth Ave.

The picanha, bavette, and porterhouse from Forbes, masterfully cooked and paired with Queen of Cups Wine. It was the best meal to end my birthday month with.

Forbes Meat Co. (Photo by Addie Ibarra)
Forbes Meat Co. (Photo by Addie Ibarra)

Chris Koch

TABU

128 E. Congress St.

This swanky place in downtown Tucson has some of the most photogenic wings. TABU is a classy cocktail lounge, but they also offer a full scratch kitchen. Their fried Buffalo wings are now some of my favorites in town — they pair well with any of their fantastic cocktails. They’re a great addition to their already delicious menu, and I can’t wait to visit again to try something new.

Fried Buffalo wings (Photo courtesy of TABU)
Fried Buffalo wings (Photo courtesy of TABU)

Check out the Tucson Wing Expert’s other top wings in February here.

Elian Macias Parada

El Sushi de Papá La Carreta

4762 S. 12th Ave.

During a recent visit, I sampled the Sonora Roll and the Spicy Roll. The Sonora Roll featured a blend of beef, bacon, and chicken with cream cheese. This combination created a balance of sweetness and slight saltiness. Meanwhile, the cucumber and avocado added refreshing, creamy textures. The jalapeño provided an extra kick.

Sonora Roll and Spicy Roll at El Sushi de Papá La Carreta (Photo by Elian Macias Parada)
Sonora Roll and Spicy Roll at El Sushi de Papá La Carreta (Photo by Elian Macias Parada)

Hannah Hernandez

Sa-Ing Thai Cuisine

9136 E. Valencia Rd.

Green Curry at Sa-Ing Thai.

Green Curry at Sa-Ing Thai Cuisine (Photo by Hannah Hernandez)
Green Curry at Sa-Ing Thai Cuisine (Photo by Hannah Hernandez)

Jackie Tran

Juice N Fruit Raspados

3502 S. Sixth Ave. #100

As we approach triple-digit weather, few things slap as hard as a mangoñada (also known as a mangonada or mangoyada) with chunks of fresh mango, tangy chamoy, salty tamarind candies and Japanese peanuts, and crushed ice to nibble on. While my dearest Oasis Fruit Cones closed, Juice N Fruit Raspados is still kicking it with delectably ripe sweet mango.

Mangoñada at Juice N Fruit Raspados (Photo by Jackie Tran)
Mangoñada at Juice N Fruit Raspados (Photo by Jackie Tran)

Gatz Deli

330 S. Toole Ave. (Food Truck at Voltron Brewing)

I didn’t have the highest expectations for a sandwich from a TikToker, but Sean Gatz seemed passionate about Gatz Deli. I’m glad I gave it a try. The humble menu features an Anthony Bourdain-inspired mortadella sandwich, which was toasted and sauced just right to give me guttural satisfaction.

The Bourdain sandwich at Gatz Deli (Photo by Jackie Tran)
The Bourdain sandwich at Gatz Deli (Photo by Jackie Tran)

5 Points

756 S. Stone Ave.

The 5 Points and Tucson Foodie R&D dinner showcased the caraflex entree that will appear in their updated menu in a few weeks. Braised and charred, one component had me scraping my plate for more: anchovy butter.

Caraflex at 5 Points during a Tucson Foodie R&D Dinner (Photo by Jackie Tran)
Caraflex at 5 Points during a Tucson Foodie R&D Dinner (Photo by Jackie Tran)

Cultivaro Amaro

The folks at Suncliffe hosted a launch party for their new Cultivaro Amaro. The complex bitterness sipped well neat and also with prosecco for a spritz.

Cultivaro Amaro beverages at Locale (Photo by Jackie Tran)
Cultivaro Amaro beverages at Locale (Photo by Jackie Tran)

Senae Thai

228 E. Sixth St. (Food Truck at Crooked Tooth Brewing)

So glad to have Senae Thai back open and at Crooked Tooth. The spicy khao soi curry towered with crunchy noodles, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs.

The spicy khao soi curry at Senae Thai (Photo by Jackie Tran)
The spicy khao soi curry at Senae Thai (Photo by Jackie Tran)

Agave Pantry

2418 N. Craycroft Rd.

I attended a party with Agave Pantry’s Persian love cake on display. How fragrant, but not too floral or sweet, with a delicate texture. I regret not being selfish and taking only one piece.

Matt Sterner

Rosebud Bakery

844 S. Sixth Ave.

The quiche at Rosebud is so smooth and filling — a breakfast of champs.

Quiche at Rosebud Bakery (Photo by matt Sterner)
Quiche at Rosebud Bakery (Photo by Matt Sterner)

Rita Connelly

Shooter’s Steakhouse and Saloon

3115 E. Prince Rd.

I haven’t been to Shooter’s Steakhouse and Saloon in ages. It was great to see very little has changed, including the classic burger — served with tasty sweet potato fries (their tots are pretty good, too). Plenty of other items on the menu, and they have karaoke on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 8 p.m. Don’t worry; I won’t be singing.

Classic burger and sweet potato fries at Shooter’s Steakhouse and Saloon (Photo by Rita Connelly)
Classic burger and sweet potato fries at Shooter’s Steakhouse and Saloon (Photo by Rita Connelly)

Buendia Breakfast & Lunch Cafe

2530 N. First Ave.

Buendias was packed when we got there. The chilaquiles were worth the short wait.

Chilaquiles at Buendia Breakfast & Lunch Cafe (Photo by Rita Connelly)
Chilaquiles at Buendia Breakfast & Lunch Cafe (Photo by Rita Connelly)

Shane Reiser

Locale Neighborhood Italian

60 N. Alvernon Way

The Polenta appetizer at Locale is delicious, but fair warning, the serving size is enormous.

The Polenta appetizer at Locale (Photo by Shane Reiser)
The Polenta appetizer at Locale (Photo by Shane Reiser)

Taquería Juanitos

708 W. Grant Rd.

The chicken torta from Taquería Juanitos.

The chicken torta from Taquería Juanitos (Photo by Shane Reiser)
The chicken torta from Taquería Juanitos (Photo by Shane Reiser)

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José Contreras, chef and owner of @Ameliastucson, is headed to New York City to cook alongside chef Alam Méndez of Washington, D.C.‘s Apapacho Taqueria for a collaborative dinner at the James Beard Foundation’s Platform at Pier 57.

The Aug. 11 dinner will celebrate the culinary traditions of Sonora and Oaxaca through a multi course menu centered on heirloom corn, traditional masa, and coastal flavors. Guests will also enjoy a cocktail reception, Mijenta Tequila pairings, and a Q&A with both chefs. The event begins at 6:30 pm at @Pier57.nyc. Tickets are $210 for dining table seats and $250 for the chef’s counter, and are available now at Jamesbeard.org.

Congratulations to @Chefjosetucson on another incredible milestone!🎉

Read @Jackie_tran_’s article on Tucsonfoodie.com

#tucsonaz #tucsonnewsJosé Contreras, chef and owner of @Ameliastucson, is headed to New York City to cook alongside chef Alam Méndez of Washington, D.C.‘s Apapacho Taqueria for a collaborative dinner at the James Beard Foundation’s Platform at Pier 57. The Aug. 11 dinner will celebrate the culinary traditions of Sonora and Oaxaca through a multi course menu centered on heirloom corn, traditional masa, and coastal flavors. Guests will also enjoy a cocktail reception, Mijenta Tequila pairings, and a Q&A with both chefs. The event begins at 6:30 pm at @Pier57.nyc. Tickets are $210 for dining table seats and $250 for the chef’s counter, and are available now at Jamesbeard.org. Congratulations to @Chefjosetucson on another incredible milestone!🎉 Read @Jackie_tran_’s article on Tucsonfoodie.com #tucsonaz #tucsonnewsItalian Week starts today, and we’re sharing this sweet video of @Spaghettioftucson doing what she did best: bringing smiles to everyone around her.

Our hearts are with her family today. We’ll love you and miss you forever, Spaghetti.❤️‍🩹🐶Italian Week starts today, and we’re sharing this sweet video of @Spaghettioftucson doing what she did best: bringing smiles to everyone around her. Our hearts are with her family today. We’ll love you and miss you forever, Spaghetti.❤️‍🩹🐶Italian Week starts today and runs through July 19 as part of 12 Weeks of Foodie Summer!🍝

Support Tucson’s classic and modern Italian restaurants, then upload your receipt at summer.tucsonfoodie.com for a chance to win weekly prizes and the grand prize at the end of August.

🎉 Week 5 Winners
• Libby: $50 North Italia gift card
• Keely: America’s Best Mexican Food Festival tickets
• arts_primacy_2c: 4 Cool Summer Nights passes
• Donita3000: $20 Ghini’s French Caffe gift card
• Nancy & Gabriella: $100 Visa gift cards

Italian Week Deal: @reneestucson is offering buy one, get one 50% off (equal or lesser value) for dine-in or takeout. Just mention you’re a Tucson Foodie fan. Exclusions apply.

🏆 This Week’s Prizes
• $50 @fentonellispizzeria gift card
• $100 Visa gift card
• $75 @carusositalian gift card
• $20 @ghinisfrenchcaffe gift card
• $50 @miramontetucson gift card
• $50 @localetucson gift card
• @desertmuseum passes 

More details in bio!Italian Week starts today and runs through July 19 as part of 12 Weeks of Foodie Summer!🍝 Support Tucson’s classic and modern Italian restaurants, then upload your receipt at summer.tucsonfoodie.com for a chance to win weekly prizes and the grand prize at the end of August. 🎉 Week 5 Winners • Libby: $50 North Italia gift card • Keely: America’s Best Mexican Food Festival tickets • arts_primacy_2c: 4 Cool Summer Nights passes • Donita3000: $20 Ghini’s French Caffe gift card • Nancy & Gabriella: $100 Visa gift cards Italian Week Deal: @reneestucson is offering buy one, get one 50% off (equal or lesser value) for dine-in or takeout. Just mention you’re a Tucson Foodie fan. Exclusions apply. 🏆 This Week’s Prizes • $50 @fentonellispizzeria gift card • $100 Visa gift card • $75 @carusositalian gift card • $20 @ghinisfrenchcaffe gift card • $50 @miramontetucson gift card • $50 @localetucson gift card • @desertmuseum passes More details in bio!The Mercado District is one of Tucson’s best places to eat, drink, shop, and stroll, all in one stop.🐶❤️

Home to Mercado San Agustín, the MSA Annex, The Monier, and the upcoming Bautista development, there’s always something new to explore. Grab a bite, browse local shops, enjoy the open-air courtyards (they’re dog-friendly!), or hop on the free Sun Link streetcar, which stops right at the Mercado. 

MERCADO SAN AGUSTÍN:
@agustinkitchen 
@seiskitchen 
@prestacoffee 
@laestrella_tucson 
@dolcepastellocakes 
@zumitosjuicebar 
@santacruzriverfm 

MSA ANNEX:
@decibelcoffeeworks 
@kukai___ 
@bosburger__ 
@hidden_hearth 
@rolliestucson 
@westbound_tapandbottle 

THE MONIER:
@wholeslvcepizza 
@81barbersofficial 

Share your favorite stops with us!
More details on Tucsonfoodie.com 

#tucson #tucsonfoodieThe Mercado District is one of Tucson’s best places to eat, drink, shop, and stroll, all in one stop.🐶❤️ Home to Mercado San Agustín, the MSA Annex, The Monier, and the upcoming Bautista development, there’s always something new to explore. Grab a bite, browse local shops, enjoy the open-air courtyards (they’re dog-friendly!), or hop on the free Sun Link streetcar, which stops right at the Mercado. MERCADO SAN AGUSTÍN: @agustinkitchen @seiskitchen @prestacoffee @laestrella_tucson @dolcepastellocakes @zumitosjuicebar @santacruzriverfm MSA ANNEX: @decibelcoffeeworks @kukai___ @bosburger__ @hidden_hearth @rolliestucson @westbound_tapandbottle THE MONIER: @wholeslvcepizza @81barbersofficial Share your favorite stops with us! More details on Tucsonfoodie.com #tucson #tucsonfoodieTwo days at @Hiltonelcon felt like the ultimate staycation. Between the pools, hot spring and cold plunge, water slide, yoga, live music, complimentary bike rentals, and their nostalgic “Summer Rewind” experience, there was always something to do. We never left the resort. 

The highlight at their on-site restaurant, Epazote Kitchen & Cocktails, was the Pollo Con Rajas - perfectly cooked chicken over a rich creamed poblano, onion, and corn mestizaje. And if you’re at their Sundance Café for breakfast, get the pozole. It’s made from a family recipe that became such a guest favorite it earned a permanent spot on the menu. 

Although El Conquistador licenses the Hilton brand, it’s owned and operated by a local company. The culinary team sources much of its meat and produce from Arizona. 

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just looking for an incredible dinner with Catalina Mountain views, this spot is worth adding to your list. 🌵🌞 

#tucsonaz #tucsonfoodieTwo days at @Hiltonelcon felt like the ultimate staycation. Between the pools, hot spring and cold plunge, water slide, yoga, live music, complimentary bike rentals, and their nostalgic “Summer Rewind” experience, there was always something to do. We never left the resort. The highlight at their on-site restaurant, Epazote Kitchen & Cocktails, was the Pollo Con Rajas - perfectly cooked chicken over a rich creamed poblano, onion, and corn mestizaje. And if you’re at their Sundance Café for breakfast, get the pozole. It’s made from a family recipe that became such a guest favorite it earned a permanent spot on the menu. Although El Conquistador licenses the Hilton brand, it’s owned and operated by a local company. The culinary team sources much of its meat and produce from Arizona. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just looking for an incredible dinner with Catalina Mountain views, this spot is worth adding to your list. 🌵🌞 #tucsonaz #tucsonfoodieHow many receipts have you sent in for NEW-TO-ME week?💛

From July 6 through July 12, upload your receipt from ANY local business at summer.tucsonfoodie.com for a chance to win weekly prizes and earn entries toward the 12 Weeks of Foodie Summer grand prize drawing at the end of August. 🔗 in bio. 

ANY LOCAL SPOT COUNTS. 

WEEK 6 WINNERS
Here are the winners from Happy Hour Week:
* Libby wins a $50 gift card to North Italia
* Keely wins a ticket to America’s Best Mexican Food Festival
* arts_primacy_2c wins a four-pack of passes to Cool Summer Nights at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
* donita3000 wins a $20 gift card to Ghini’s French Caffe
* Nancy wins a $100 Visa gift card
* Gabriella wins a $100 Visa gift card 

PRIZES
This week’s prize pool includes:
* Salsa, Taco, and Tequila Challenge tickets
* $100 Visa gift card
* @eljefecatcafe pass
* $20 @ghinisfrenchcaffe 
* @desertmuseum passes

Presenting sponsor: @visittucson
Presented by: @bbb_so_az • @510southtucson • @azwinecollectiveHow many receipts have you sent in for NEW-TO-ME week?💛 From July 6 through July 12, upload your receipt from ANY local business at summer.tucsonfoodie.com for a chance to win weekly prizes and earn entries toward the 12 Weeks of Foodie Summer grand prize drawing at the end of August. 🔗 in bio. ANY LOCAL SPOT COUNTS. WEEK 6 WINNERS Here are the winners from Happy Hour Week: * Libby wins a $50 gift card to North Italia * Keely wins a ticket to America’s Best Mexican Food Festival * arts_primacy_2c wins a four-pack of passes to Cool Summer Nights at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum * donita3000 wins a $20 gift card to Ghini’s French Caffe * Nancy wins a $100 Visa gift card * Gabriella wins a $100 Visa gift card PRIZES This week’s prize pool includes: * Salsa, Taco, and Tequila Challenge tickets * $100 Visa gift card * @eljefecatcafe pass * $20 @ghinisfrenchcaffe * @desertmuseum passes Presenting sponsor: @visittucson Presented by: @bbb_so_az • @510southtucson • @azwinecollective

Tag us @TUCSONFOODIE in your food adventures!