Celebrating local food, drink, and community.
Guide · 55 spots
Famous for its unique blend of traditional Southwestern fare and innovative foodie experiences, Marana is a paradise for every kind of gastronomy. From laid-back cafes serving artisanal pastries, vibrant bars boasting craft beers and clever cocktails, to upscale restaurants offering exquisite dining experiences, our gu
Jul 14, 2023
News
(Editor’s note: photos in this article include both paid dishes, comped dishes, and dishes from the soft opening. This article was originally written on January 12, 2026, and updated on […]
Jackie TranApr 29, 2026
Dish
at Arizona Wine Collective
Sushi featuring shrimp topped with Sonoran chili crisp and Japanese peanuts, prepared by Chef Christian Padilla.
Spot
East Grant Road · Midtown
Yamato Japanese Restaurant is this super chill spot tucked away in a strip mall in Tucson. It's been around for over 30 years, serving up some seriously good sushi. The main man behind the magic is Chef Nakajima, who grew up in Nagano, Japan, and you can totally tell he knows his stuff. Every piece of sushi is like a m
Spot
North Courtney Page Way · Marana
Sushi Cortaro Japanese Cuisine offers a cozy neighborhood setting with a traditional sushi bar and simple, modern décor. While specialty sushi rolls remain the star, also check out their crisp, light tempura and variety of bento box specials and udon bowls.
Guide · 14 spots
While Tucson doesn’t have the Chinese population of many west coast cities, the Chinese population here has a lengthy history spanning back to the 1860s . The University of Arizona has also contributed significantly to the Chinese population. As a result, we actually have a nice selection of restaurants from a few
Feb 16, 2026
News
Tucson will host a special cultural screening when the Zen and the Art of Matcha Tucson film premiere arrives downtown. The free community event takes place Wednesday, March 11 at […]
Mar 4, 2026
News
Downtown Tucson adds a new burger concept with Kaiju Burger grand opening on Saturday at Brick Box Brewery, 220 E. Broadway Blvd. The project comes from Rafael and Destiney Medina, […]
Jackie TranJan 29, 2026
News
Monday Munchies is supported by Botanica. When your cravings hit and you need something bold and satisfying, dive into the Spicy Scallop Shrimp Miso Ramen at Maru Plus Japanese Restaurant. The […]
Nov 24, 2025
Guide · 33 spots
Nestled just a stone's throw away from Tucson, Oro Valley is a hidden gem for food enthusiasts craving a delightful dining experience. This little food haven boasts a blend of Southwestern flavors and international influences that will surely make your taste buds do the tango. Also, if you end up dancin' a little fa
Matt SternerAug 1, 2023
Guide · 35 spots
Just north of Tucson, in the foothills of the Torolita Mountains, you'll find Marana -- a small, but rapidly growing town rich with history, surrounded by beautiful views, and populated by a community that loves their local food. This guide addresses that last part, in particular -- the best restuarants in South Mar
Jul 14, 2023
Guide · 56 spots
Hi, I'm Jackie, editor of Tucson Foodie. Since March 2015, I've written about 1,500 articles about Tucson food and drink. With eating around Tucson as my full time job for several years, people often ask me for guidance on where to eat. But the truth is, that answer easily changes with context. If you're craving conv
Jackie TranNov 4, 2025
Guide · 12 spots
Primarily influenced by Japanese cuisine, poke is usually seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and scallions. Though poke is traditionally served as an appetizer, it has evolved to rice bowls and vegetable salad toppings. We’re lucky enough to have a list of excellent poke options here in the desert. Learn how
Sam JumpFeb 29, 2024
Guide · 11 spots
Tucson may sit hundreds of miles from the nearest ocean, but that point is moot thanks to modern refrigerated transport. The city’s sushi scene still brings plenty of freshness, skill, and personality to the table. From indulgent omakase experiences to neighborhood spots built for casual weeknight rolls, local restaura
Max WingertJul 10, 2023
News
In the nearly 20 years since they opened Ginza Sushi & Izakaya, Diana and Jun Arai have quietly expanded the scope of the local Japanese culinary scene. Ginza, which debuted […]
Edie JarolimJul 21, 2026
Guide · 113 spots
Hi, I’m Shane — owner and publisher of Tucson Foodie. I’ve been eating and drinking my way through Tucson for over a decade, but things really accelerated in 2022 when I took over Tucson Foodie and made it my full-time mission to explore and celebrate this city’s food scene. Since then, I’ve tasted just about every
Shane ReiserMay 16, 2025
Guide · 13 spots
On a hierarchical tier list of comfort food, mac and cheese ranks among the top. An ideal mac and cheese blends rich creaminess with a kiss of crunch. A velvety cheese sauce coats every noodle without being lumpy or gloppy. Chefs use blend of artisanal cheeses to create depth and sharpness. Roasted poblano, salty cure
Apr 18, 2025
Guide · 15 spots
I’m often asked where I like to eat in Tucson. The honest answer is: in my home. I’m a good cook, and the food I prepare at home is usually better than what I get in most restaurants. That said, I like to eat out as much as anyone, but I’m very selective about where. What I mostly look for is really good food. While T
Andrew WeilMay 8, 2026
Guide · 10 spots
At its simplest, a dumpling is a piece of dough. Think Italian gnocchi or chicken and dumplings from the south. However, many other examples of dumplings consist of dough wrapped around a filling. Think Chinese wontons or Eastern European pierogi. Across Tucson, dumplings reflect global traditions and local flavor.
Feb 18, 2026
Guide · 8 spots
Are you looking for a Tucson wellness retreat, but want to avoid the large resorts? Here's how you can create your own 24-hour rejuvenating getaway. Before You Go… Keep the purpose of your trip in mind as you plan. Allow plenty of breathing room between activities, so you can move from one to the next without
Stephanie LieboldNov 13, 2024
