Each week, we want to highlight one of our favorite restaurants in Tucson!
Two decades ago, Massimo Tenino introduced Tavolino Ristorante Italiano to Tucsonans, delivering the charm of an intimate neighborhood trattoria reminiscent of family gatherings.
Fresh pasta is made daily, the wood-fired oven cranks out belly-warming pizzas, handcrafted cocktails are made with fresh ingredients, and the wine list is curated from Massimo’s brother’s winery — Azienda Agricola Pietro Rinaldi in Italy.
If you’re not too familiar with wine but curious, Tavolino’s servers are well-trained and will help you find the perfect combo.
Their menu is diverse, offering a mix of inventive and traditional Italian dishes, and the portions and the prices also make Tavolino a solid option for an upscale lunch outing.
Tavolino’s lunch menu (11 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Thursday – Sunday) includes a spectrum of choices, spanning from antipasti to pasta, pizzas, entrees, and desserts. The servings are generous and each dish is presented with artistic flair, and you even get complimentary bread and oil to begin your meal.
Interested in learning Italian?
If you’re in the mood to learn Italian, the restaurant hosts Tucson Italian classes and is taught by Dr. Theresa Levy, Ph.D.
Plus, the classes include lunch!
There are two Tucson Italian class levels available: “No Experience Necessary” and “Non-Beginners.” The beginner sessions utilize handouts crafted by Levy over her extensive teaching career, covering everything from basic vocabulary to grammar and usage. Levy employs a whiteboard to enhance the learning experience, creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
Foodie Club members
Tavolino Ristorante Italiano is also a Restaurant Partner, meaning that Foodie Club members can score $20 off their meal every six months.
For $20 a month, Foodie Club members get a stack of cash vouchers to local restaurants worth over $5,000, free tasting events at local restaurants every month, access to members-only monthly dinner series with local chefs, discounts on events, and monthly mixers with other members. Learn more and join!
Tavolino Ristorante Italiano is located at 2890 E. Skyline Dr. For more information, visit tavolinoristorante.com.
