Tucson summers tend to deter eaters from dining outdoors because it’s just downright hotter than the food on your plate. However, many restaurants in town have more than enough shade, misters, or enclosed patios — plenty of reasons to still down outside when the sun is starting to go down behind the Rincon Mountains.
OpenTable, the website that helps you make reservations at local restaurants, put together its new Most Popular Restaurants for Outdoor Dining in America: 2023 Edition.
“Our list of the Most Popular Restaurants for Outdoor Dining highlights spots offering delicious food, beautiful views, and above all, incredible outdoor dining experiences. The list spans restaurants coast-to-coast and is determined by verified diner reviews.”
This year’s list isn’t ranked (they’ve kept it in alphabetical order) and two Tucson restaurants have made the cut: Vivace Restaurant and Wildflower.
Vivace Restaurant
6440 N. Campbell Ave.
In the words of Edie Jarolim, the restaurant located in the Foothills, Vivace, has “all the trappings of a special occasion spot. A spacious Italian villa-style building. Floor-to-ceiling windows affording spectacular city and mountain vistas. Beautifully presented and expertly prepared cuisine. A lengthy, carefully curated wine list and a nice selection of craft cocktails. Personalized service.”
Read our August 2022 article, “Vivace’s Long-Game Formula For Success.”
Wildflower
7037 N. Oracle Rd.
Inspired by flavors from around the world, Wildflower grows seasonally while staying tuned to their Tucson roots. With favorites like Spinach Pappardelle and Braised Beef Short Rib, they’re serving dishes with comfort and intention woven into every dish.
Those intentions don’t stop with the food, though, as they keep visitors comfy with a patio full of shades and misters that will keep them cool all summer long.
View their menu or make reservations by visiting wildflowertucson.com.
To read more about OpenTable’s Most Popular Restaurants for Outdoor Dining in America: 2023 Edition, visit opentable.com.
