In May 2024, we caught a whiff of something new going on behind the scenes at 266 E. Congress St. In other words, some pretty big changes were in the works at HUB Restaurant & Creamery and Playground.
The time has come — both restaurant concepts have become one. HUB’s dining room has merged into the former Playground space, providing more seating for hungry eaters of downtown Tucson.
Perhaps one of the most exciting changes is the free parking. That’s right — FREE parking in downtown Tucson.
“Parking in downtown Tucson can be a hassle, so we wanted to make that part easy and free for our guests,” said Regan Jasper, Partner of HUB. “Now, with two hours of free valet parking through the AC Hotel, you can park close by and step right into a memorable dining experience.”
BRAND-New Bites
Back in November, we hosted a special R&D dinner with Executive Chef Omar Huerta. He had the opportunity to debut a few new dishes, as well as receive feedback from those attending the dining experience.
Now, he’s ready to share them all with the masses.
“We wanted to create a menu that feels both familiar and exciting,” Omar added. “Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking to try something new, we’ve got you covered.”
Menu Highlights
- Ricotta Gnocchi – wit fennel sausage, burrata, and pomodoro
- Seared Salmon – served with mushroom risotto and berry agrodolce
- Fish & Chips – crispy, golden perfection with caper remoulade and coleslaw
- Braised Short Ribs – slow-cooked until tender
- Grilled New York Strip – a steakhouse classic done right
- Vegetarian Delights – including Burrata and Tempura Calamari, with nine vegetarian options available
- Harvest Salad – with arugula, squash, manchego, almonds, pomegranate, and a sherry vinaigrette
For the Sweet Tooth
Plus, Pastry Chef Kayla Draper is always creating new Sonoran Desert-inspired ice cream flavors and pastries.
Whether you’re craving something sweet, salty, or distinctly Tucson, Draper’s ever-evolving dessert menu makes every visit to the downtown restaurant a new culinary experience.
WEEKEND Brunch & Expanded Patio
HUB’s new, much larger bar area is a great spot for sipping handcrafted cocktails, trying a new local brew, and catching up with your buds. If you prefer outdoor dining, though, the restaurant’s larger patio gives you more room to relax and take in downtown Tucson’s sights and sounds.
Also, to celebrate HUB’s return, there’s a new mural by local artist Camila on Canvas — a vibrant depiction of a Hispanic girl holding an espresso martini, her arm adorned with a tattoo of an ice cream cone.
“This lively piece is a warm, fun way to welcome everyone back to HUB, adding even more personality to our refreshed space.”
HUB Restaurant is open from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Sunday – Thursday, and 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. on Friday – Saturday.
Also, don’t fret, fans of Playground — it’s sticking around. Up on the rooftop, Playground is still going to be the property’s nightclub. The upstairs, outdoor area also serves as a private event space.
Hub Restaurant & Ice Creamery is located at 266 E. Congress St. For more information, visit hubdowntown.com and keep up with the latest by following HUB Restaurant on Instagram.
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Article written by:
Matt Sterner
More about MattAt a very young age, Matt Sterner was gifted with the artistic ability to masterfully roll a burrito to the highest of standards, but the wrapped medley of delicious innards wasn’t his first love. Matt’s first true love was a combination of reading, writing, and creating. He grew up reading comics, the ingredients list of his shampoo and conditioner bottles, choose-your-own-adventure books, and the Scrabble dictionary — something he found useful when challenging his grandmother to a game.
He attended college at New Mexico State University and graduated with a degree in Digital Filmmaking. One of his favorite classes was screenwriting because he became responsible for the story’s birth before it came to life on-screen. After school, Matt took on numerous positions at a local television station in Tucson. From dealing out stories about heartbreak to producing “fluffier” content for a lifestyle broadcast, he learned what it takes to adapt to the many emotions the world of media can stir. Since 2017, Matt has dabbled in the culinary world of Tucson as well as San Diego, California from time to time.
If you’re in the mood for strange stories, head over to his pride and joy, wonkytimes.com. And in case you’re curious — yes, after all of this time, he still manages to roll a killer burrito.
