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Tucson Foodie’s Week in Review: What You Missed (Feb 22-28)

Tucson Foodie’s Week In Review

Tucson Foodie’s Week in Review: What You Missed (Feb 22-28)

Feb 28, 20254 min read

Welcome to this week’s roundup!

We’ve gathered the top stories, a standout social post, and other foodie highlights you shouldn’t miss. From the latest buzz around Tucson’s dining scene to can’t-miss events and exclusive perks for our Insiders, this is your go-to guide to staying in the loop.

Let’s dig in!

Top Stories & Articles

Chef Jose Contreras Honors Tradition at Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen
Chef Jose Contreras at Amelia's Mexican Kitchen on Oracle Road (Photo by Jackie Tran)
Chef Jose Contreras at Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen on Oracle Road (Photo by Jackie Tran)

In a city celebrated for its rich culinary heritage, Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen has carved out a name for itself in just a few short years. Opened in November 2021 by chef Jose Contreras, the restaurant quickly became a Tucson favorite, drawing in locals and travelers alike with its Mexican flavors, signature birria, and award-winning cocktails.

Read the full article: Chef Jose Contreras Honors Tradition at Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen.

Peek into the New Space & Menu at UnCork’d Kitchen & Cocktails
Steak Frites at UnCork'd Kitchen & Cocktails (Photo by Jackie Tran)
Steak Frites at UnCork’d Kitchen & Cocktails (Photo by Jackie Tran)

UnCork’d Kitchen & Cocktails invited us over to check out their new space and try a few items from their menu.

Read the full article: Peek into the New Space & Menu at UnCork’d Kitchen & Cocktails

Transplant Pizza to Open a Second Location & Debut New Dishes
Chef Travis Peters (Photo courtesy of Transplant Pizza)
Chef Travis Peters (Photo courtesy of Transplant Pizza)

Last month, the masterminds behind Serial Grillers welcomed Chef Travis Peters (formerly of The Parish) as an equity partner. Now, they’re closing the Serial Grillers location at 1970 W. River Rd., and Transplant, Detroit-Style Pizza is moving in.

Read the full article: Transplant Pizza to Open a Second Location & Debut New Dishes.

HiFi Kitchen & Cocktails Has Permanently Closed

“After 11 unforgettable years, it’s time to say farewell, Tucson. From the wild nights to the unforgettable memories, we’ve loved every second of this ride with you. To all our friends, staff, and party people — thank you for making HiFi Tucson what it was. You will all be deeply missed.”

Read the full article: HiFi Kitchen & Cocktails Has Permanently Closed.

New Foodie Guides

Best Steaks in Tucson
NY Strip estillo Charro at Charro Steak & Del Rey (Photo by Jackie Tran)
NY Strip estillo Charro at Charro Steak & Del Rey (Photo by Jackie Tran)

An exceptional steak features a beautifully caramelized crust and a tender, juicy interior. Cooking methods vary — grilling over open flames creates a distinctive smokiness, while pan-searing lets chefs meticulously baste with butter and aromatics such as garlic and thyme.

Read the guide: Best Steaks in Tucson.

Best Fish & Chips in Tucson
Fish & Chips at HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery (Credit: Jackie Tran)

Whenever February and March roll around, it’s that time of year when regardless of the reasoning, people start to ask, “Where can I get good fish and chips in Tucson?” Check out some of the places we’ve gathered.

Read the guide: Best Fish & Chips in Tucson.

Get Your Tickets to the Vegan Tucson Night Market’s VIP Lounge
Saturday, March 1
Vegan Tucson Night Market (September 2024)(Photo by Martin Madero)

Back in December, we introduced an exclusive VIP Lounge at the Vegan Tucson Night Market and it’s back! Tickets are just $25 each, limited, and can be purchased online. In other words, buy your tickets sooner than later!

Read the full article: Get Your Tickets to the Vegan Tucson Night Market’s VIP Lounge (March 1).

Food Truck Roll Up
Sunday, March 2
Food Truck Roll Up at Casino Del Sol

We’re making it easier by bringing them all together for a day. Food trucks have always played a huge role in Tucson’s culinary evolution—some even go on to open brick-and-mortar spots. The event takes place on Sunday, March 2, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Casino Del Sol’s AVA Amphitheater (5655 W. Valencia Rd.). Admission is free.

Read the full article: A Massive Street Food Party at Casino Del Sol.

Perks of Being an Insider

For $20 a month, Tucson Foodie Insiders get a stack of cash vouchers to local restaurants worth over $6,000, 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.

New Insider Perks:
  • Bumsted’s – $10 off your bill every 90 days
  • Mariscos Chihuahua – $10 off your bill every 30 days
  • Tabu – $20 off your bill every six months
  • Tesoro Latin Kitchen & Cantina – Two free tacos every month

Learn more and join!

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What makes a great taco? For many, it comes down to personal preference, from the salsa to the fillings. But the tortilla is the foundation of every taco.

This guide highlights Tucson restaurants serving tacos made with homemade tortillas, along with their stories and what makes each one special.❤️🌮

@anita_st_market 
@bocatucson 
@calletepa 
@carnitaslayoca 
El Chivo de Oro
@ensenadastreetfood 
@guadalajaraoriginalgrills 
@lainditazapatista 
@lamesatortillas 
@salsaverdetucson 
St. Mary’s Mexican Food
@taniasongrande 
@taqueria_pico_de_gallo 
@teresasmosaic 
@the_quesadillas 

See the complete guide on Tucsonfoodie.com

#tucsonfoodie #tucsonWhat makes a great taco? For many, it comes down to personal preference, from the salsa to the fillings. But the tortilla is the foundation of every taco. This guide highlights Tucson restaurants serving tacos made with homemade tortillas, along with their stories and what makes each one special.❤️🌮 @anita_st_market @bocatucson @calletepa @carnitaslayoca El Chivo de Oro @ensenadastreetfood @guadalajaraoriginalgrills @lainditazapatista @lamesatortillas @salsaverdetucson St. Mary’s Mexican Food @taniasongrande @taqueria_pico_de_gallo @teresasmosaic @the_quesadillas See the complete guide on Tucsonfoodie.com #tucsonfoodie #tucson
@Tucsoncityofgastronomy opens the fifth annual @Pueblosdelmaiz Festival with Sabores del Pueblo on Thursday, Sept. 24, from 6–9 p.m. at Tucson GastroPark.

Five local chefs will serve creative Tucson-inspired dishes alongside craft beer, wine, and bacanora tastings:❤️

• @chefjosetucson
• @vindiola.claudia
• @nick_avram 
• @dcsanner 
• @travisgarypeters 

🎶 Hey Bucko! will provide live music

Tickets are available in @tucsoncityofgastronomy’s bio. Tucson Foodie Insiders save 15% with code INSIDERS.

Proceeds support free programming throughout the Pueblos del Maíz Festival.@Tucsoncityofgastronomy opens the fifth annual @Pueblosdelmaiz Festival with Sabores del Pueblo on Thursday, Sept. 24, from 6–9 p.m. at Tucson GastroPark. Five local chefs will serve creative Tucson-inspired dishes alongside craft beer, wine, and bacanora tastings:❤️ • @chefjosetucson • @vindiola.claudia • @nick_avram • @dcsanner • @travisgarypeters 🎶 Hey Bucko! will provide live music Tickets are available in @tucsoncityofgastronomy’s bio. Tucson Foodie Insiders save 15% with code INSIDERS. Proceeds support free programming throughout the Pueblos del Maíz Festival.
Tucson’s barbecue options range from food trucks to full-service dining rooms. Some focus on classic Texas-style plates with butcher paper and simple sides. Others experiment with fusion dishes that blend barbecue with Mexican and Southwestern flavors. This variety gives diners plenty of options, whether they want a quick lunch or a sit-down meal.

This guide highlights barbecue restaurants across Tucson. More on Tucsonfoodie.com🔥Tucson’s barbecue options range from food trucks to full-service dining rooms. Some focus on classic Texas-style plates with butcher paper and simple sides. Others experiment with fusion dishes that blend barbecue with Mexican and Southwestern flavors. This variety gives diners plenty of options, whether they want a quick lunch or a sit-down meal. This guide highlights barbecue restaurants across Tucson. More on Tucsonfoodie.com🔥
LAST CALL!

It’s the final day of @Sonoranrestaurantweek (September 13, 2026)! There’s still time to enjoy the great eats and deals across Tucson. Take a look at the menus on Tucsonfoodie.com/srw. 

Tag the restaurants that you loved the most! Thank you to everyone for being part of this incredible week.

Produced by Tucson Foodie 
Presented by @Visittucson 

#sonoranrestaurantweek #tucsonLAST CALL! It’s the final day of @Sonoranrestaurantweek (September 13, 2026)! There’s still time to enjoy the great eats and deals across Tucson. Take a look at the menus on Tucsonfoodie.com/srw. Tag the restaurants that you loved the most! Thank you to everyone for being part of this incredible week. Produced by Tucson Foodie Presented by @Visittucson #sonoranrestaurantweek #tucson