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Dining at Westin La Paloma Brings Wellness and Flavor Together

Seared Scallops at La Luz Restaurant at the Westin La Paloma Resort (Photo by Jackie Tran)

Dining at Westin La Paloma Brings Wellness and Flavor Together

Nov 13, 20253 min read

The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa offers more than luxury; it delivers a wellness-centered experience built around rest, nutrition, movement, and overall well-being. The Westin brand has long been a trusted partner for my travel needs. 

While I was traveling on international assignments, Westin helped revolutionize the customer experience, starting with an emphasis on optimizing sleep. Westin launched the Heavenly Bed, which immediately increased hotel bookings and jolted the hospitality sector. The Wall Street Journal called it the “full-scale hotel bed war.”

Westin also designed the Heavenly Bath, and menus focused on SuperFoods. The fitness centers have high-end equipment, yoga mats, and additional gear lending kits.  All this was pure bliss for my travel-weary body and health.

“At The Westin La Paloma, wellness is thoughtfully woven into various aspects of the guest experience,” general manager Fabrizio Poli said. “From our airy and light-filled spaces and desert landscape complemented by mountain views to our Sleep Well offerings, including our Heavenly Beds and Lavender Balm, nourishing dining options with the upcoming launch of the Eat Well Kids menu later this month, daily meditations, and a full-service spa. Each element is designed to help guests restore, rejuvenate, and reconnect with themselves and their surroundings.”

Given my very positive experience as a traveler across many Westin locations in various countries, I decided it was time to try the Westin La Paloma dining experience — this time as a local. The Westin La Paloma features two newly designed venues, La Luz Restaurant and the Casa 71 Tequila Lounge.

Casa 71: A Lively Lounge with Spirit

Casa 71 Tequila Lounge, the vibrant centerpiece of the resort, now features a lineup of weekly specials. From Tucson twists on pub classics to handcrafted cocktails and live music, each evening offers a new reason to gather and unwind. Whether ending the workday or planning a night out, Casa 71 always has something special waiting.

The circular bar showcases 71 premium tequilas and mezcals. Our server guided us through the menus, recommending the Devil’s Mule and Passion Fruit margarita. The lounge also serves nonalcoholic drinks and shareable plates. Guests can relax on couches, gather at high-tops, or mingle at the lively bar. Live music on Friday nights adds to the energy and flows into La Luz.

La Luz: Southwest Flavor with Style

Downstairs, the hostess at La Luz greeted us warmly. Westin La Paloma executive chef Devin Pinto and La Luz Restaurant chef Jesse Carpenter bring creative Southwest-inspired cuisine to the table. Natural light, soothing decor, and panoramic Catalina Mountain views create a serene setting — likely one of my favorites from any location.

We started with Seared Scallops, beautifully plated by Chef Carpenter with an exciting blend of chili crunch and lemon. For the entrée, the gnocchi with shaved vegetables, heirloom tomatoes, squash, and corn impressed with its texture and balance.

Gnocchi at La Luz Restaurant at the Westin La Paloma Resort (Photo by Jackie Tran)

The breakfast menu at La Luz continues Westin’s Eat Well tradition, featuring nutritious, energizing dishes.

Tucson locals drop by the Tequila Lounge and La Luz Restaurant at Westin La Paloma for a memorable evening. I’ll see you there!

The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa is at 3800 E. Sunrise Drive. For details, visit thewestinlapaloma.com or call 520-742-6000.

Article written by:

Mary Gendron

Mary Gendron

More about Mary
Dr. Gendron, a retired psychologist and heart attack survivor, was selected to attend the Illustrious Science and Leadership Symposium at the Mayo Clinic in MN. In February 2025, and again in February 2026, Mary and 50 WomenHeart Champions travel to Washington DC to meet with Congress members for an Advocacy Day on women and heart health.

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