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
Tucson Chef is a 2025 James Beard Award Semifinalist
Jose Contreras, the owner and chef of Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen, is the only Tucson semifinalist in 2025 — nominated for Best Chef: Southwest (AZ, NM, NV, OK). Named after his beloved grandmother, Amelia, owner and chef, Contreras, infuses every dish at the restaurant with the spirit and flavors of his family’s culinary traditions.
Read the full article: Tucson Chef is a 2025 James Beard Award Semifinalist.
Chef Travis Peters, Formerly of The Parish, Joins Transplant Pizza
“We’ve decided to bring Travis in as an equity partner of the Transplant concept with plans to fold him into Serial Grillers and possibly the brewery in the future,” said Travis Miller, co-owner of Transplant Pizza. “We are really excited about what we’ve put together so far! It has the Transplant feel but we’re going to elevate the dishes and make this a date night spot.”
Read the full article: Chef Travis Peters, Formerly of The Parish, Joins Transplant Pizza.
Tucson Named One of the ‘Best Places to Travel in 2025’
“We are thrilled and honored to be recognized as one of the top travel destinations for 2025,” said J. Felipe Garcia, President and CEO of Visit Tucson. “This acknowledgment reflects the incredible work of our community and partners to create unforgettable experiences for visitors while preserving the rich history and vibrant culture that makes Tucson truly special.”
Read the full article: Tucson Named One of the Best Places to Travel in 2025.
Phoenix Magazine’s Top 12 Dishes in Tucson (2025)
Phoenix magazine released its “Top 100 Dishes of Arizona” and more than 10 local dishes made the list. In this guide, we’ve only listed dishes available in Tucson and each of the restaurants’ locations.
Read the full guide: Phoenix Magazine’s Top 12 Dishes in Tucson (2025).
Best Pies in Tucson (Whole or by the Slice)
With National Pie Day landing on January 23, it was the perfect time to chomp down on the cozy, celebratory comfort food that’ll put a smile on anyone’s face. However, you don’t need a holiday to try all of the delicious baked options around Tucson.
Read the full guide: Best Pies in Tucson (Whole or by the Slice).
Trending on Instagram
NYPD Pizza’s New Location on Park Avenue
We wrapped up National Pizza Week with slices at @Newyorkpizza.dept! 🍕 Have you been?
Featured Foodie Events
2025 Tucson Craft Beer Crawl
Saturday, February 22
This year, the Tucson Craft Beer Crawl is hosting at least 30 local, regional, national, and international beverage makers. You’ll see some newcomers popping up in February like Slow Body Beer, Brick Box Brewery (formerly Thunder Canyon Brewer), and Black Bridge Brewing, which is bringing its beers down from Kingman, Arizona.
Read the full article: Everything You Need to Know About the 2025 Tucson Craft Beer Crawl.
Get Your Tickets to the Vegan Tucson Night Market’s VIP Lounge
Saturday, March 1
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).
13-Course Tour of Mariscos Chihuahua’s Signature Dishes
Tuesday, January 28
Join the Tucson Foodie team for a special 13-course dinner at Mariscos Chihuahua! At 6 p.m. on Tuesday, January 28, we’re heading to their iconic spot at 1009 N. Grande Ave. to savor the best of their legendary menu alongside fellow food lovers.
Read the full article: 13-Course Tour of Mariscos Chihuahua’s Signature Dishes (January 28).
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
