On Thursday, October 3, The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa announced the opening of two new dining concepts on the property: La Luz Restaurant and Casa 71 Tequila Lounge.
Building on the newly renovated guest rooms, the opening of these two concepts marks a milestone for the resort as it undergoes a multi-phased transformation.
“The introduction of these new culinary experiences reflects our commitment to excellence and our passion for showcasing the rich flavors and vibrant culture of Tucson,” said Fabrizio Poli, General Manager of The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa.
Both La Luz Restaurant and Casa 71 Tequila Lounge are under the direction of Executive Chef Devin Pinto, who has over 15 years of culinary experience — including roles at The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort, and most recently at The Gallery Country Club.
“With Chef Pinto’s expert guidance,” said Poli “We welcome both new and returning guests to indulge in a dining experience that celebrates the natural beauty of our surroundings while elevating the art of hospitality.”
La Luz Restaurant
La Luz, which translates to “The Light” in Spanish, acts as the resort’s new signature restaurant and pays homage to the natural light that floods through its grand arched windows.
New dishes include:
- Baja Sea Bass Crudo – with aquachile and pickled fresno
- Rigatoni Bolognese – with elk, heritage pol, beef, and La Paloma herbs
- Chicken Enchiladas – with chicken tinga, smoked jalapeño, bechamel tomatillo/sweet ancho crema, and salsa rojo
Designed by Jill Cole, Managing Principal, and Antonia De Fonte, Senior Designer of Cole Martinez Curtis and Associates Interior Design, the renovations to La Luz included the transformation of the two seating areas into a new buffet and semi-private dining room — custom laser-cut patterned walls and ceilings offer folks more privacy, too.
“On the lower level, diners will be greeted by an outdoor-facing space with a custom bar table featuring a striking focal tree merging from its center to seamlessly blend the indoor and outdoor ambiance. Additionally, the 26 expertly designed pendants are not only decorative, but they also represent the commitment to delivering an exceptional experience at every touchpoint.”
Casa 71 Tequila Lounge
Set to cater to tequila enthusiasts and travelers alike, Casa 71 Tequila Lounge is the spot for those seeking a refined, yet relaxing atmosphere. The name “Casa” reflects the lounge’s inviting, ambiance, while the number “71” signifies its selection of 71 premium tequilas and mezcals, as well as a historical nod to the rise of the margarita cocktail in 1971.
On the menu, there’s a variety of margarita options, ranging from classic to innovative.
Some new cocktails include:
- Flying Chai – Casamigos Reposado Tequila, Caffé Borghetti chai, Umbria cold brew coffee and cinnamon
- Devil’s Mule – Patron Silver Tequila, lime juice, simple syrup, blackberry, Angostura bitters, and Q ginger beer
- Mai Time To Shine – Ritual zero proof tequila alternative, orgeat, orange juice, and lime juice
Plus, there’s a new small bites menu that complements the cocktail selection.
New bites include:
- Boursin Artichoke Dip – with blue corn chips
- Lamb Lollipops – with prickly pear reduction and lemon mint pesto
- Sticky Wings – with jumbo sweet and spicy wings, crudité and ranch
Get a room
The Westin Paloma Resort & Spa also completed guest room renovations led by Cole Martinez Curtis and Associates Interior Design. The team got its inspiration from the surrounding Arizona desert landscape and the local Native American culture.
For example, the San Xavier Suite now has a private wellness studio with a Peloton bike and Tonal Mirror alongside a transformed outdoor balcony with a new bar and firepit table.
Additionally, the property completed some enhancements to public spaces, including its La Paloma Country Club Banquet Room to better accommodate larger events, the lobby and registration areas, and the relocation of the Grab & Go Café to a more spacious setting, seamlessly integrated with retail for improved guest convenience.
The Westin Paloma Resort & Spa is located at 3800 E. Sunrise Dr. For more information, visit thewestinlapaloma.com or call (520) 742-6000.
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.
