Editor's note: This story was originally published in 2022 and updated in 2023.
As a food writer, the question I get asked above any other is: where should we eat?
I can never give a straightforward answer. My response is always: It depends. What do you feel like eating? Iβm not about to send someone craving a fried chicken sandwich to get my favorite Sichuan beef dish at Noodleholics. While I do have my fail-safe options, I like customizing my suggestions to what will make my friends most happy on a given day.
While I love every single place on this list, there are eight restaurants that are absolute must-tries. Six are my favorite go-tos, marked with a yellow heart (π), and the other five are bucket-list icons that no one should leave Tucson without having tried, marked with a cactus (π΅).
Disclaimer: This list is a living document. While Iβm confident that all of these places are good, if Iβm missing your favorite place, please send me an email with your favorite thing to eat there and why: elueders@tucson.com.
Indian | Chinese | Vietnamese | Japanese | KoreanΒ | Thai | BurgersΒ | Pizza | ItalianΒ | Mediterranean | Tacos | Burritos |Β Quesadillas | Enchiladas | Tamales | Antojitos | Sonoran Dogs | Seafood/Mariscos | Baked Goods and Sweets | Date Night | Vegan | Brunch | Munchies | Fried chicken | Mac and cheese |Β Ethiopian | CaribbeanΒ |Β BBQ | Markets | Icons
Indian
![Indian Twist (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/d/04/d04b1c00-2bb7-11ed-87ec-43dba98b5453/62f5a1f8c69b5.image.jpg?resize=200%2C133 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/d/04/d04b1c00-2bb7-11ed-87ec-43dba98b5453/62f5a1f8c69b5.image.jpg?resize=300%2C200 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/d/04/d04b1c00-2bb7-11ed-87ec-43dba98b5453/62f5a1f8c69b5.image.jpg?resize=400%2C267 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/d/04/d04b1c00-2bb7-11ed-87ec-43dba98b5453/62f5a1f8c69b5.image.jpg?resize=540%2C360 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/d/04/d04b1c00-2bb7-11ed-87ec-43dba98b5453/62f5a1f8c69b5.image.jpg?resize=750%2C500 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/d/04/d04b1c00-2bb7-11ed-87ec-43dba98b5453/62f5a1f8c69b5.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C800 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/d/04/d04b1c00-2bb7-11ed-87ec-43dba98b5453/62f5a1f8c69b5.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1133 1700w)
Indian Twist makes fabulous curries: navratan korma (top), chicken tikka (right), and garlic naan fresh off the tandoori (left).
π Indian Twist
Location: 4660 E. Camp Lowell Dr.
Indian Twist is not only my favorite Indian restaurant, but one of my favorite restaurants in Tucson. As someone who orders vegetarian at Indian restaurants, Iβve never been as impressed by veg options as I am at Indian Twist (it might have to do with their vegetarian chefs).
The first time I ate there, their navratan korma left the strongest impression on me of almost any meal Iβve had in Tucson. Each vegetable was cooked in its own time to the ideal texture, held together by a miraculously creamy, nuanced cashew sauce. The spice level, which I ordered medium-plus or 7/10, hit the nail on the head. The garlic naan was fresh and singed with char in all the right places, still crispy on the outside and soft on the inside despite some travel time. Each bite brought its own pleasure.
While picking up, the service was impeccable, just attentive enough and shining with earnestness. The open kitchen allows you to see the back-of-house staff at work, throwing naan against the tandoor oven and pulling sauces from pots with long ladles. The interior is upscale enough to complement birthdays and anniversaries, but casual enough to sit on the patio with a beer and some samosas. Itβs a perfect restaurant.
Honorable mentions: Reader Karen Kahn loves the chicken tikka masala at Sher-e-Punjab. Saffron Indian Bistro and its sister restaurant Kebabeque Indian Grill are also great. Ellice still needs to try: Gandhi Cuisine of India.
Chinese
![Noodleholics spicy beef noodles for roundup](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/63/363ca4de-19bb-11ed-a41b-1b5d52363ee6/5ae7b4b727d99.image.jpg?resize=200%2C133 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/63/363ca4de-19bb-11ed-a41b-1b5d52363ee6/5ae7b4b727d99.image.jpg?resize=300%2C200 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/63/363ca4de-19bb-11ed-a41b-1b5d52363ee6/5ae7b4b727d99.image.jpg?resize=400%2C267 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/63/363ca4de-19bb-11ed-a41b-1b5d52363ee6/5ae7b4b727d99.image.jpg?resize=540%2C360 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/63/363ca4de-19bb-11ed-a41b-1b5d52363ee6/5ae7b4b727d99.image.jpg?resize=750%2C500 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/63/363ca4de-19bb-11ed-a41b-1b5d52363ee6/5ae7b4b727d99.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C800 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/63/363ca4de-19bb-11ed-a41b-1b5d52363ee6/5ae7b4b727d99.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1133 1700w)
Sichuan spicy beef noodles feature housemade wheat noodles in a numbingly sour broth at Noodleholics.Β
Noodleholics
Locations: 3502 E. Grant Road; 7850 N. Oracle Road
When in doubt, go to Noodleholics. Its housemade noodles are a consistent crowd-pleaser. While everything on their menu is good, when you find the thing that you like best, itβs hard to branch out. Their Guilin regional specialties shine, like the rice noodle dishes at the center of their menu. But my favorite, personally, is the Sichuan beef noodle, which offers tender meat in a heady, numbing broth. The Oro Valley location has vegan options!
Chef Wang
Location: 356 E. Grant Road
Chef Wang has a big menu. Itβs a Chinese restaurant in the style of the cold Dongbei region, which favors hearty tapas to be shared by the table. Dongbei specialties include jiaozi (ι₯Ίε), a delicate boiled dumpling. The cabbage and pork jiaozi at Chef Wang are not-to-be-missed β I always regret not ordering them.
A hallmark ingredient of the region is sauerkraut, which is especially worth trying in their rich stews. If you want a more familiar gateway item, the guo bao pork (ι ε θ), fried sweet and sour pork, is another signature dish of the region.
While you can order from the βPopular Dishes in Americaβ or Sichuan portions of the menu, youβre missing the best stuff.
81 Hong Kong Cafe
Location: 625 E. Wetmore Road
I was told to order 81 Hong Kong Cafeβs chicken bites and basil eggplant by Isabella Joffroy (@yelptucson), and that was one of my favorite meals of 2022. The basil eggplant has a beautiful, custardy texture and generous flavor. The fried chicken bites are the best popcorn chicken in Tucson. I reheated the leftovers for lunch for days and didnβt get tired of them once.
Honorable mentions: Sushi Lounge, Go Dim Sum for dim sum. Ellice still needs to try: eHotPot.
Vietnamese
![Pho Can Tho banh mi copied for roundup (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/2/ca/2ca5d018-2bb7-11ed-8cc2-234acc595227/5d093205d04b4.image.jpg?resize=200%2C133 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/2/ca/2ca5d018-2bb7-11ed-8cc2-234acc595227/5d093205d04b4.image.jpg?resize=300%2C200 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/2/ca/2ca5d018-2bb7-11ed-8cc2-234acc595227/5d093205d04b4.image.jpg?resize=400%2C267 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/2/ca/2ca5d018-2bb7-11ed-8cc2-234acc595227/5d093205d04b4.image.jpg?resize=540%2C360 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/2/ca/2ca5d018-2bb7-11ed-8cc2-234acc595227/5d093205d04b4.image.jpg?resize=750%2C500 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/2/ca/2ca5d018-2bb7-11ed-8cc2-234acc595227/5d093205d04b4.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C800 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/2/ca/2ca5d018-2bb7-11ed-8cc2-234acc595227/5d093205d04b4.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1133 1700w)
Try the combination dac biet at Pho Can Tho.
Phα» CαΊ§n ThΖ‘ by 1
Location: 2746 N. Campbell Ave.
Thereβs a loose superstition that all the best Vietnamese restaurants have numbers in their name. For instance, downtownβs Eleven CafΔ has the best Vietnamese coffee in Tucson.
Phα» CαΊ§n ThΖ‘ by 1 is similarly case in point. Their bΓ‘nh mΓ¬s are my predecessor Andi Berlinβs favorite in Tucson, and I reckon mine as well.
Vegans rejoice, you can find plant-based pho here! While other honorable mentions offer stellar meat options, the quality of Phα» CαΊ§n ThΖ‘βs vegetarian and vegan selections separate it from the pack.
Honorable mentions: Pho Ngan, Banhdicted, Miss Saigon. Ellice still needs to try: Com Tam Thuan Kieu and Nhu Lan.
Japanese
![Yamato duped for roundup (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/18/418cc05e-2bb7-11ed-bc28-c7383d0e4e1e/584ad0564d168.image.jpg?resize=200%2C143 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/18/418cc05e-2bb7-11ed-bc28-c7383d0e4e1e/584ad0564d168.image.jpg?resize=300%2C214 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/18/418cc05e-2bb7-11ed-bc28-c7383d0e4e1e/584ad0564d168.image.jpg?resize=400%2C285 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/18/418cc05e-2bb7-11ed-bc28-c7383d0e4e1e/584ad0564d168.image.jpg?resize=540%2C385 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/18/418cc05e-2bb7-11ed-bc28-c7383d0e4e1e/584ad0564d168.image.jpg?resize=750%2C535 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/18/418cc05e-2bb7-11ed-bc28-c7383d0e4e1e/584ad0564d168.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C856 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/18/418cc05e-2bb7-11ed-bc28-c7383d0e4e1e/584ad0564d168.image.jpg?resize=1400%2C999 1700w)
Owner/sushi chef, Noboru Nakajima, gently builds a plate of different sushi at Yamato, 857 E. Grant Road.
π Sushi:Β Yamato Japanese Restaurant
Location: 857 E. Grant Road
YamatoΒ is on the short list of my favorite restaurants in Tucson. The sushi chef Noboru Nakajima is old-school, taught in Japan. The restaurantβs been around since 1988. Once you try sushi here, youβre going to be holding the rest of Tucson to its standard.
That being said, it also has a formidable grill menu. Iβm waiting for their distributor to get hamachi kama back in stock β yellowfin collar is one of the most precious, tender cuts of meat out there and I donβt want to try it anywhere else before I have had it here.
![Raijin Ramen spicy tonkotsu duped](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/36/c36ef05a-19bb-11ed-b1a8-57b7f3a36361/5a6a70fcc7a2d.image.jpg?resize=200%2C133 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/36/c36ef05a-19bb-11ed-b1a8-57b7f3a36361/5a6a70fcc7a2d.image.jpg?resize=300%2C200 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/36/c36ef05a-19bb-11ed-b1a8-57b7f3a36361/5a6a70fcc7a2d.image.jpg?resize=400%2C267 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/36/c36ef05a-19bb-11ed-b1a8-57b7f3a36361/5a6a70fcc7a2d.image.jpg?resize=540%2C360 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/36/c36ef05a-19bb-11ed-b1a8-57b7f3a36361/5a6a70fcc7a2d.image.jpg?resize=750%2C500 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/36/c36ef05a-19bb-11ed-b1a8-57b7f3a36361/5a6a70fcc7a2d.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C800 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/36/c36ef05a-19bb-11ed-b1a8-57b7f3a36361/5a6a70fcc7a2d.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1133 1700w)
Raijin's spicy tonkotsu ramen has thin slices of chashu pork, bamboo shoots, seaweed, pickled ginger and more.Β
Ramen: Raijin Ramen
Location: 2955 E. Speedway
RaijinβsΒ rich broth makes their ramen addictive. In case you opt for to-go, their takeout travels better than most, because they separate the stuff they donβt want to get soggy.
Honorable mentions: Toss Fried Chicken and Ramen, Yoshimatsu. Ellice still needs to try: Ikkyu,Β SamuraiΒ andΒ Sushi on Oracle.
Korean
![HeeMee Coffee + Bakery for roundup](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/f/6e/f6ea94c0-19bb-11ed-a103-5756605c1e21/6247bc44940e0.image.jpg?resize=200%2C124 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/f/6e/f6ea94c0-19bb-11ed-a103-5756605c1e21/6247bc44940e0.image.jpg?resize=300%2C187 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/f/6e/f6ea94c0-19bb-11ed-a103-5756605c1e21/6247bc44940e0.image.jpg?resize=400%2C249 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/f/6e/f6ea94c0-19bb-11ed-a103-5756605c1e21/6247bc44940e0.image.jpg?resize=540%2C336 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/f/6e/f6ea94c0-19bb-11ed-a103-5756605c1e21/6247bc44940e0.image.jpg?resize=750%2C467 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/f/6e/f6ea94c0-19bb-11ed-a103-5756605c1e21/6247bc44940e0.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C747 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/f/6e/f6ea94c0-19bb-11ed-a103-5756605c1e21/6247bc44940e0.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1058 1700w)
Korean corn dogs at HeeMee Coffee + Bakery can be coated with potatoes or crunchy ramen noodles!
General: HeeMee Coffee + Bakery
Location: 20 E. Congress St.
HeeMee is my editor Gloriaβs favorite restaurant in Tucson (she can't help but order their spicy beef bulgogi). Their chicken katsu sandwich is practically a carnal pleasure. They also have specialty coffee drinks you canβt find anywhere else, like the Viennese einspΓ€nner (made with whipped cream) and a sweet dalgona honeycomb latte.
KBBQ: Ellice still needs to try Korea House Restaurant.
Pro tip: You can get fresh tteokbokki at Kimpo Market to cook on your own!
Thai
![Tuk Tuk Thai duped for third location (roundup)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/98/0981aee8-19bc-11ed-b595-974fa232e31f/5f7360d2909d4.image.jpg?resize=200%2C133 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/98/0981aee8-19bc-11ed-b595-974fa232e31f/5f7360d2909d4.image.jpg?resize=300%2C200 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/98/0981aee8-19bc-11ed-b595-974fa232e31f/5f7360d2909d4.image.jpg?resize=400%2C267 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/98/0981aee8-19bc-11ed-b595-974fa232e31f/5f7360d2909d4.image.jpg?resize=540%2C360 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/98/0981aee8-19bc-11ed-b595-974fa232e31f/5f7360d2909d4.image.jpg?resize=750%2C500 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/98/0981aee8-19bc-11ed-b595-974fa232e31f/5f7360d2909d4.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C800 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/98/0981aee8-19bc-11ed-b595-974fa232e31f/5f7360d2909d4.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1133 1700w)
Khao Soi chicken is a popular dish from Northern Thailand, with crispy egg noodles bathed in a rich coconut curry with chicken and pickled vegetables.
Tuk Tuk Thai
Locations: 2990 N. Campbell Ave.; 12125 N. Oracle Road; 6878 E. Sunrise Dr.
Portland, Oregonβs loss is our gain. This stylish restaurant, Tuk Tuk Thai, shines with regional cuisine like the Khao Soi chicken curry.
Burgers
![cowpig cowmelt](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/64/46467c86-19bd-11ed-a64d-bfd84009013f/62f575b7a905d.image.jpg?resize=200%2C200 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/64/46467c86-19bd-11ed-a64d-bfd84009013f/62f575b7a905d.image.jpg?resize=300%2C300 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/64/46467c86-19bd-11ed-a64d-bfd84009013f/62f575b7a905d.image.jpg?resize=400%2C400 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/64/46467c86-19bd-11ed-a64d-bfd84009013f/62f575b7a905d.image.jpg?resize=540%2C540 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/64/46467c86-19bd-11ed-a64d-bfd84009013f/62f575b7a905d.image.jpg?resize=750%2C750 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/64/46467c86-19bd-11ed-a64d-bfd84009013f/62f575b7a905d.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C1200 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/64/46467c86-19bd-11ed-a64d-bfd84009013f/62f575b7a905d.image.jpg?resize=1440%2C1440 1700w)
CowPig's CowMelt sandwich ($13) is topped with juicy grilled onions and green chiles.
CowPigβs CowMelt
Chase us down! Itβs the merited catchphrase of food truck CowPig, especially for their CowMelt, juicy and packed with both roasted green chiles and grilled onion.
Graze Burgers + Truland Burgers & Greens
Locations: GrazeΒ and TrulandΒ are local sibling chains with locations across town.
Not only are their burgers great, their house-made condiments keep me coming back. Their curry ketchup is a dead ringer for what gets dressed on Berlinβs iconic currywurst. Their fry sauce is guzzle-able. I always take more than I should.
Ellice still needs to try: Divine Bovine.
Pizza
![Tomatillo-Carnitas pizza from Family Joint](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/8b/88b4e6ac-19bd-11ed-bbf8-fbbc32c5e201/60df9cab3ea10.image.jpg?crop=1591%2C1090%2C22%2C84&resize=200%2C137&order=crop%2Cresize 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/8b/88b4e6ac-19bd-11ed-bbf8-fbbc32c5e201/60df9cab3ea10.image.jpg?crop=1591%2C1090%2C22%2C84&resize=300%2C206&order=crop%2Cresize 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/8b/88b4e6ac-19bd-11ed-bbf8-fbbc32c5e201/60df9cab3ea10.image.jpg?crop=1591%2C1090%2C22%2C84&resize=400%2C274&order=crop%2Cresize 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/8b/88b4e6ac-19bd-11ed-bbf8-fbbc32c5e201/60df9cab3ea10.image.jpg?crop=1591%2C1090%2C22%2C84&resize=540%2C370&order=crop%2Cresize 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/8b/88b4e6ac-19bd-11ed-bbf8-fbbc32c5e201/60df9cab3ea10.image.jpg?crop=1591%2C1090%2C22%2C84&resize=750%2C514&order=crop%2Cresize 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/8b/88b4e6ac-19bd-11ed-bbf8-fbbc32c5e201/60df9cab3ea10.image.jpg?crop=1591%2C1090%2C22%2C84&resize=1200%2C822&order=crop%2Cresize 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/8b/88b4e6ac-19bd-11ed-bbf8-fbbc32c5e201/60df9cab3ea10.image.jpg?crop=1591%2C1090%2C22%2C84&resize=1591%2C1090&order=crop%2Cresize 1700w)
One of Family Jointβs most popular pizzas is made with tomatillo sauce and Celina Bencomoβs signature carnitas ($14). Get it with lime-cilantro crema on the side.Β
Neapolitan-style: Family Joint Pizzeria
This mesquite-fired Neapolitan pizza oven on wheels is a showstopper. While Family Joint's margherita pizza is still great, youβre doing it right if you order their tomatillo carnitas or elote pies (ask for more cilantro-lime crema, itβs worth paying extra).
NY-style: Empire Pizza & Pub
Location: 137 E. Congress St.
EmpireΒ is my favorite late-night eatery. Their slice of cheese ($3.25) is true to New York style: equal parts utilitarian and delicious, with a generous portion of cheese. Their downtown patio transforms with Congress Street: from a spot to grab a quick work lunch to a safe harbor to end the night.
Sicilian-style: Squared Up Pizza
Location: Park Place Mall, 5870 E. Broadway
As a red sauce devotee, I do not declare this lightly: Squared Upβs ricotta and honey white pie is exquisite. Itβs rich and gently sweet, like a European dessert. While itβs located in the Park Place Mall, it functions like a traditional pizzeria β feel free to call in orders!
Tucson-style: Los Olivos
Location: 937 W. Congress St.
Los Olivos does not imitate any other style of pie. Itβs unique to here. Each of the medley of roasted vegetables on its vegetarian pie is cooked and roasted to its own perfection. The sauce pulls the diverse flavors together seamlessly.
Honorable mentions: Anello. Iβve lived in New York City, and Iβve had a LOT of good pizza in Tucson. Chances are, if itβs a local place, itβs good.
Italian
![Roma Imports to-go section (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/5/66/566b0ce2-2bb7-11ed-a357-e70a8f7a3a50/60075e9f08fa2.image.jpg?resize=200%2C135 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/5/66/566b0ce2-2bb7-11ed-a357-e70a8f7a3a50/60075e9f08fa2.image.jpg?resize=300%2C203 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/5/66/566b0ce2-2bb7-11ed-a357-e70a8f7a3a50/60075e9f08fa2.image.jpg?resize=400%2C271 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/5/66/566b0ce2-2bb7-11ed-a357-e70a8f7a3a50/60075e9f08fa2.image.jpg?resize=540%2C365 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/5/66/566b0ce2-2bb7-11ed-a357-e70a8f7a3a50/60075e9f08fa2.image.jpg?resize=750%2C507 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/5/66/566b0ce2-2bb7-11ed-a357-e70a8f7a3a50/60075e9f08fa2.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C812 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/5/66/566b0ce2-2bb7-11ed-a357-e70a8f7a3a50/60075e9f08fa2.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1150 1700w)
Roma Importsβ frozen homemade to-go section boasts eight different lasagnas.
Roma Imports
Location: 627 S. Vine Ave.
Donβt go to RomaΒ without a list you plan to stick to: itβs easy to blow your food budget for the week here. This place is a cult classic for a reason. Their Italian sandwiches are made with the freshest ingredients and special imports hard to find elsewhere. I swear by their premade meals (their gorgonzola sauce is dangerous). Budget shoppers: buy your olive oil in bulk here for a fraction of the cost at grocery stores.
Honorable mentions: Locale Neighborhood Italian Restaurant, CeresΒ andΒ NoodiesΒ all make fresh pasta in-house.
Mediterranean
![Homemade Freshly Mediterranean](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/bd/3bd5453c-4265-11ec-abcf-bbd3c120e873/618c2c9f96582.image.jpg?resize=200%2C110 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/bd/3bd5453c-4265-11ec-abcf-bbd3c120e873/618c2c9f96582.image.jpg?resize=300%2C165 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/bd/3bd5453c-4265-11ec-abcf-bbd3c120e873/618c2c9f96582.image.jpg?resize=400%2C221 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/bd/3bd5453c-4265-11ec-abcf-bbd3c120e873/618c2c9f96582.image.jpg?resize=540%2C298 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/bd/3bd5453c-4265-11ec-abcf-bbd3c120e873/618c2c9f96582.image.jpg?resize=750%2C413 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/bd/3bd5453c-4265-11ec-abcf-bbd3c120e873/618c2c9f96582.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C662 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/bd/3bd5453c-4265-11ec-abcf-bbd3c120e873/618c2c9f96582.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C937 1700w)
Hiba Saab, left, and her mother, Laila, work in close quarters filling orders as the owners of Homemade Freshly Mediterranean.
Homemade Freshly Mediterranean
Mediterranean is my favorite kind of food, and I hadnβt found a place in Tucson that blew me away until I came across the Homemade Freshly Mediterranean food truck.
Homemade Freshly Mediterraneanβs Lebanese sandwiches are some of the most densely flavored you can find in Tucson. Garlic girls will love their garlic chicken sandwich β each must be made with at least a few cloves.
Honorable mentions: ZaynaβsΒ andΒ Nur Import Market.
Tacos
![Ribeye tacos at El Cuate de Obregon (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/55/955f2e9c-19bf-11ed-83dd-0bf7ba62863d/61ca0f10ed4fa.image.jpg?resize=200%2C133 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/55/955f2e9c-19bf-11ed-83dd-0bf7ba62863d/61ca0f10ed4fa.image.jpg?resize=300%2C200 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/55/955f2e9c-19bf-11ed-83dd-0bf7ba62863d/61ca0f10ed4fa.image.jpg?resize=400%2C267 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/55/955f2e9c-19bf-11ed-83dd-0bf7ba62863d/61ca0f10ed4fa.image.jpg?resize=540%2C360 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/55/955f2e9c-19bf-11ed-83dd-0bf7ba62863d/61ca0f10ed4fa.image.jpg?resize=750%2C500 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/55/955f2e9c-19bf-11ed-83dd-0bf7ba62863d/61ca0f10ed4fa.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C800 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/55/955f2e9c-19bf-11ed-83dd-0bf7ba62863d/61ca0f10ed4fa.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1133 1700w)
Popular ribeye tacos at Tacos El Cuate de Obregon located on the northeast corner of 12th and Irvington on Dec. 12, 2021.
Tacos El Cuate de Obregon
Location:Β 4817 S. 12th Ave.
Tacos El Cuate de Obregon is an experience as much as itβs a delicious meal. Their informal patio, packed with families in a weekend-good mood after church on a Sunday, is practically hallowed ground. Their ribeye taco is just another blessing.
Taqueria Pico de Gallo
Location: 2618 S. Sixth Ave.
While Sonora is known for its flour tortillas, Taqueria Pico de Galloβs menu is Baja Californian. Theyβre best known for their fluffy, fresh-made corn tortillas and mouthwatering fried fish and shrimp. And their pico de gallo, of course β not the salsa, but fruit cups cut fresh every day.
While there are countless honorable mentions, one rises above the rest: El Taco Rustico. Ellice still needs to try: Karamelo King.Β Side note: Tacos Apson is in our "icons" section.
Burritos
![Anita Street Market breakfast burrito (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/cf/acf9f1ae-19bf-11ed-b260-8fd7031c568c/57c8c1d6a7b35.image.jpg?resize=200%2C133 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/cf/acf9f1ae-19bf-11ed-b260-8fd7031c568c/57c8c1d6a7b35.image.jpg?resize=300%2C200 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/cf/acf9f1ae-19bf-11ed-b260-8fd7031c568c/57c8c1d6a7b35.image.jpg?resize=400%2C266 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/cf/acf9f1ae-19bf-11ed-b260-8fd7031c568c/57c8c1d6a7b35.image.jpg?resize=540%2C359 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/cf/acf9f1ae-19bf-11ed-b260-8fd7031c568c/57c8c1d6a7b35.image.jpg?resize=750%2C499 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/cf/acf9f1ae-19bf-11ed-b260-8fd7031c568c/57c8c1d6a7b35.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C798 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/cf/acf9f1ae-19bf-11ed-b260-8fd7031c568c/57c8c1d6a7b35.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1131 1700w)
These breakfast burritos are so good, they make some people cry. Out of joy of course ...
π΅ Anita Street Market
Location: 849 N. Anita Ave.
Anita Street Marketβs flour tortillas are translucently thin, flavorful and stretchy β the platonic ideal of the iconic Sonoran food. In a burrito, their huge tortillas do not outshine their homemade fillings, but instead amplify their deliciousness. Itβs a great place to try the traditional Sonoran red chile beef, but their breakfast burritos are just as compelling.
π΅Β Barista del Barrio
Location: 1002 N. Grande Ave.
Barista del Barrio is a meeting place for all of Tucson (and many in-the-know visitors). While waiting in the infamously long line outside their Grande Avenue storefront, you'll see UA students shoulder-to-shoulder with abuelas and preteens from Barrio Hollywood, hipsters sitting next to snowbirds who just hiked Tumamoc and, more often than not, a food writer waiting patiently for her weekly little treat.
Their chorizo breakfast burritos are a top 3 favorite food of mine, especially when I have the presence of mind to ask for green chile and extra salsa.Β
Honorable mentions: I also really love the hand burritos at Tortilleria Don Juan.
Quesadillas
![The Quesadillas](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/b9/eb9ccb75-7cc2-5dc8-a18f-5663c4b78ac9/569eb29ff08e0.image.jpg?resize=200%2C137 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/b9/eb9ccb75-7cc2-5dc8-a18f-5663c4b78ac9/569eb29ff08e0.image.jpg?resize=300%2C206 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/b9/eb9ccb75-7cc2-5dc8-a18f-5663c4b78ac9/569eb29ff08e0.image.jpg?resize=400%2C275 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/b9/eb9ccb75-7cc2-5dc8-a18f-5663c4b78ac9/569eb29ff08e0.image.jpg?resize=540%2C371 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/b9/eb9ccb75-7cc2-5dc8-a18f-5663c4b78ac9/569eb29ff08e0.image.jpg?resize=750%2C515 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/b9/eb9ccb75-7cc2-5dc8-a18f-5663c4b78ac9/569eb29ff08e0.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C824 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/b9/eb9ccb75-7cc2-5dc8-a18f-5663c4b78ac9/569eb29ff08e0.image.jpg?resize=1261%2C866 1700w)
With handmade tortillas and fresh ingredients, chef Marcos Barragan wants to perfect this savory staple of Mexican food, all while bringing a sensibility of not being afraid to try new things.
The Quesadillas
Location: 2418 N. Craycroft Road
While people donβt typically think of the area near Tucson Medical Center as a hotspot for Mexican food (try La Doce for that), The Quesadillas makes a compelling argument with their succulent carne asada.
Enchiladas
![Interior of St. Mary's Mexican Food (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/30/930a6142-19c0-11ed-9702-2b9e138b83e8/548790ce73739.image.jpg?resize=200%2C142 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/30/930a6142-19c0-11ed-9702-2b9e138b83e8/548790ce73739.image.jpg?resize=300%2C212 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/30/930a6142-19c0-11ed-9702-2b9e138b83e8/548790ce73739.image.jpg?resize=400%2C283 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/30/930a6142-19c0-11ed-9702-2b9e138b83e8/548790ce73739.image.jpg?resize=540%2C382 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/30/930a6142-19c0-11ed-9702-2b9e138b83e8/548790ce73739.image.jpg?resize=620%2C439 750w)
In this photo from 2014, posters of Diego Riveraβs art line the walls of St. Maryβs Mexican Food, which has the best flour tortillas in the known universe. Oops! We mean Tucson.
π St. Maryβs Mexican Food
Location: 1030 W. St. Maryβs Road
St. Maryβs is the first place I take friends visiting from out of town to introduce them to Tucson. Standing in line in their lobby, waiting patiently to order anything that uses their standout tortillas and, always, a horchata, is a rite of passage.
πΒ Rollies Mexican Patio
Location: 4573 S. 12th Ave.
Everything at Rollies is delicious (including its eponymous rolled tacos, dipped in queso⦠yum), but their flat enchiladas, doused in their award-winning birria, are life-changing. Their quesabirria tacos, called birria rojo cheesies, are also not to be missed.
Tamales
![Stuffed Poblano Buendia (copy) (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/65/06502d12-19c1-11ed-b2b0-df31cc20bc00/61e72e752e7a6.image.jpg?resize=200%2C133 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/65/06502d12-19c1-11ed-b2b0-df31cc20bc00/61e72e752e7a6.image.jpg?resize=300%2C200 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/65/06502d12-19c1-11ed-b2b0-df31cc20bc00/61e72e752e7a6.image.jpg?resize=400%2C267 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/65/06502d12-19c1-11ed-b2b0-df31cc20bc00/61e72e752e7a6.image.jpg?resize=540%2C360 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/65/06502d12-19c1-11ed-b2b0-df31cc20bc00/61e72e752e7a6.image.jpg?resize=750%2C500 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/65/06502d12-19c1-11ed-b2b0-df31cc20bc00/61e72e752e7a6.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C800 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/65/06502d12-19c1-11ed-b2b0-df31cc20bc00/61e72e752e7a6.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1133 1700w)
Under all that delicious sauce, Buendiaβs poblano pepper ($10.99 at breakfast from 8-11 a.m., $15.99 for lunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.) is stuffed with a fresh green corn tamale.
Buendia Breakfast and Lunch
Location: 2530 N. First Ave.
The best tamales Iβve had in a restaurant in Tucson are stuffed in a poblano at Buendia. The owners source the tamales from a local artisan and are the closest to Matilde Santa Cruzβs you can get over the counter.
Honorable mentions: The iconic Leruaβs tamales are still made at El Torero.
Antojitos
![Oasis Fruit Cones, mural (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/a8/3a865d4e-19c2-11ed-a72b-db94f66d18f2/5efa273761654.image.jpg?resize=200%2C149 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/a8/3a865d4e-19c2-11ed-a72b-db94f66d18f2/5efa273761654.image.jpg?resize=300%2C224 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/a8/3a865d4e-19c2-11ed-a72b-db94f66d18f2/5efa273761654.image.jpg?resize=400%2C298 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/a8/3a865d4e-19c2-11ed-a72b-db94f66d18f2/5efa273761654.image.jpg?resize=540%2C403 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/a8/3a865d4e-19c2-11ed-a72b-db94f66d18f2/5efa273761654.image.jpg?resize=750%2C559 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/a8/3a865d4e-19c2-11ed-a72b-db94f66d18f2/5efa273761654.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C895 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/a8/3a865d4e-19c2-11ed-a72b-db94f66d18f2/5efa273761654.image.jpg?resize=1667%2C1243 1700w)
Although other snow cone spots were around at the time, Julie Carrizosa says Oasis Fruit Cones was among the first to bring the raspado to Tucson.
Oasis Fruit Raspados
Location:Β 4126 S. 12th Ave.
OasisΒ is the oldest raspaderia in Tucson and a true icon.
Mangos Refresqueria y Cafe
Location: 4990 S. Campbell Ave.
MangosΒ is heaven for munchies. Blow your diet with their nachos, then keep digging with their raspados.
Sonoran Dogs
![Hot Dog Taqueria Aqui con Nene (LE) (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/5/11/51108c88-19c2-11ed-a1d0-578cdb6a2704/612552961dd79.image.jpg?resize=200%2C150 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/5/11/51108c88-19c2-11ed-a1d0-578cdb6a2704/612552961dd79.image.jpg?resize=300%2C225 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/5/11/51108c88-19c2-11ed-a1d0-578cdb6a2704/612552961dd79.image.jpg?resize=400%2C300 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/5/11/51108c88-19c2-11ed-a1d0-578cdb6a2704/612552961dd79.image.jpg?resize=540%2C405 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/5/11/51108c88-19c2-11ed-a1d0-578cdb6a2704/612552961dd79.image.jpg?resize=750%2C563 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/5/11/51108c88-19c2-11ed-a1d0-578cdb6a2704/612552961dd79.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C900 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/5/11/51108c88-19c2-11ed-a1d0-578cdb6a2704/612552961dd79.image.jpg?resize=1662%2C1247 1700w)
Hot dog sonorense chipilΓ³n ($4.99) at TaquerΓa AquΓ Con El Nene, 4415 N. Flowing Wells Road.
π΅ Aqui con El Nene
Locations: 4415 N. Flowing Wells Road, 65 W. Valencia Road
Everyone who steps foot in Tucson has to try a Sonoran dog. While BKΒ and El Guero Canelo brought the dogo to America, Aqui con El Nene is my favorite, bar none. Their hot dog chipilon, which adds melted cheese to the toasted bun, stands out amid a crowded field.
Honorable mentions: Other Tucsonans swear by El Sinaloense and Ruiz.
Seafood/Mariscos
![Kingfisher Bar & Grill oysters (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/de/8deb7e2c-19c4-11ed-9149-f71b753b1a15/6055300066e29.image.jpg?resize=200%2C131 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/de/8deb7e2c-19c4-11ed-9149-f71b753b1a15/6055300066e29.image.jpg?resize=300%2C197 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/de/8deb7e2c-19c4-11ed-9149-f71b753b1a15/6055300066e29.image.jpg?resize=400%2C263 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/de/8deb7e2c-19c4-11ed-9149-f71b753b1a15/6055300066e29.image.jpg?resize=540%2C355 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/de/8deb7e2c-19c4-11ed-9149-f71b753b1a15/6055300066e29.image.jpg?resize=750%2C493 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/de/8deb7e2c-19c4-11ed-9149-f71b753b1a15/6055300066e29.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C789 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/de/8deb7e2c-19c4-11ed-9149-f71b753b1a15/6055300066e29.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1117 1700w)
Oysters on the half shell are served at Kingfisher Bar & Grill, along with fresh shucked Fanny Bay and Kusshi oysters from the Pacific Northwest and garnishes.
Kingfisher
Location: 2564 E. Grant Road
This could also be found in top billing under the βdate nightβ tab. But KingfisherΒ is more than its stellar atmosphere: their clams are a cult classic for a reason; their cocktail menu is equal parts devilish and satisfying.
Cocteleria La Palma
Location: 1137 S. Sixth Ave.
This is my friend Jackie Tran's favorite restaurant in Tucson, and for good reason: their aguachileΒ will immediately transport you to the beach, regardless how hot it is in Tucson. More info here!
Ellice still needs to try: Mariscos Chihuahua (on Grande).
Baked Goods and Sweets
![La Estrella Bakery donuts (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/5f/a5f17b16-19c4-11ed-b452-0fde0f3c740a/61097be4b8ac8.image.jpg?resize=200%2C137 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/5f/a5f17b16-19c4-11ed-b452-0fde0f3c740a/61097be4b8ac8.image.jpg?resize=300%2C206 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/5f/a5f17b16-19c4-11ed-b452-0fde0f3c740a/61097be4b8ac8.image.jpg?resize=400%2C275 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/5f/a5f17b16-19c4-11ed-b452-0fde0f3c740a/61097be4b8ac8.image.jpg?resize=540%2C371 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/5f/a5f17b16-19c4-11ed-b452-0fde0f3c740a/61097be4b8ac8.image.jpg?resize=750%2C515 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/5f/a5f17b16-19c4-11ed-b452-0fde0f3c740a/61097be4b8ac8.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C825 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/5f/a5f17b16-19c4-11ed-b452-0fde0f3c740a/61097be4b8ac8.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1168 1700w)
While La Estrella's donuts are outstanding, they also offer many more pastries at each of their three locations.
π΅ Donuts:Β La Estrella Bakery
Locations: 5266 S. 12th Ave., 901 N. Grande Ave., 120 S. Avenida del Convento
La Estrellaβs donuts are one-of-a-kind, the perfect balance between cake and yeast donuts. I swear by their glazed, combined with a Cochata from Seis Kitchen at the Mercado San Agustin to cure any bad mood.
Cookies: Decibel Coffee Works
Location: MSA Annex, 267 S. Avenida del Convento
Not only is Decibel one of the only places in town where you can regularly find Blondie's Ice Cream, they also have the most succulent, buttery chocolate chip cookies. It's my current favorite little treat to get me through a tough day.
Patisserie: Le Buzz
Locations: 9121 E. Tanque Verde Road, 2930 N. Swan Road
I have a running list of my favorite pastries in Tucson. While I love Ren Coffeehouseβs almond croissants, AJ'sΒ lemon danishes, and Exo Roast Co.βs thumbprint membrillo shortbread cookies, I love everything at Le Buzz, even and especially the things that I donβt expect to, like Nutella tarts.
Cakes: Village Bake House
Location: 7882 N. Oracle Road
Village Bake House got its cake recipes from the legendary Ilsa Bechert, whose konditorei graced Tucson for decades. Theyβre carrying the torch of her legacy with their popular Oro Valley cafe and bakery, well-loved for its brunch and patio.
TortillerΓas:Β Everyone has their favorite.
When youβre flying out of Tucson airport, youβll see people with flour tortillas in their carry-ons. TSA officers will ask you where you got them from, and a lively debate might spring up between neighbors in line.
For the longest time, St. MaryβsΒ tortillas were the ones Iβd bring when visiting family who have moved away from Tucson. Recently, though, my mind changed. Tortillas Bryan brought a lot of the flavor and stretchiness I loved from St. Maryβs, but accomplished it in a much thinner form.
Sitoβs Fresh Market imports their outstanding tortilla selection from Douglas and across the border. Hereβs a list so you can find your own.
![Bubbe's Bagels](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/4a/a4a99d32-2baa-11ec-9ea8-27e2639795d1/61660a3cd55a0.image.png?resize=200%2C133 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/4a/a4a99d32-2baa-11ec-9ea8-27e2639795d1/61660a3cd55a0.image.png?resize=300%2C199 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/4a/a4a99d32-2baa-11ec-9ea8-27e2639795d1/61660a3cd55a0.image.png?resize=400%2C266 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/4a/a4a99d32-2baa-11ec-9ea8-27e2639795d1/61660a3cd55a0.image.png?resize=540%2C359 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/4a/a4a99d32-2baa-11ec-9ea8-27e2639795d1/61660a3cd55a0.image.png?resize=750%2C499 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/4a/a4a99d32-2baa-11ec-9ea8-27e2639795d1/61660a3cd55a0.image.png?resize=1200%2C798 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/4a/a4a99d32-2baa-11ec-9ea8-27e2639795d1/61660a3cd55a0.image.png?resize=1283%2C853 1700w)
Bubbeβs Fine Bagels brings east-coast style bagels to the east side of Tucson.
Bagels: Bubbeβs Fine Bagels
Locations: 1101 N. Wilmot Road, 1865 E. River Road
BubbeβsΒ answered Tucsonβs prayers for east-coast-caliber bagels. They might be the only game in town, but theyβre a great game.
Chocolate: Monsoon Chocolate
Locations: their factory is atΒ 234 E. 22nd St.Β and their cafe is at 3630 E. Fort Lowell Road
Monsoon Chocolate is more than just the gorgeous bonbons you can get for your loved ones, nestled like jewels in a box. Their factory occasionallyΒ offers tours showing their process of making often single-origin chocolate. Their cafe has branched out to offer baked goods, ice cream (including flavors like blue corn atole), frozen chocolate and more. It's a paradise for chocolate lovers of all ages.
Gelato: Frost
Locations: 7301 E. Tanque Verde Road, 2905 E. Skyline Dr., 7131 N. Oracle Road
While Tucsonans will endlessly debate whether Hub Ice Cream or The Screamery makes superior ice cream, Iβve elected to sidestep the fray and go with FrostΒ as my favorite creamy frozen treat. Their coconut flavor is one of my all-time favorite desserts, and I always wish I ordered it when I deviate from the program. While they have franchises from here to the United Arab Emirates, they got their start here and remain a locally-owned Tucson company.
Honorable mentions: Blondie'sΒ and Licks Catalina.
Date Night
![Saguaro Corners (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/7d/07d54010-19c5-11ed-8241-ab52a69b3435/62227c1e04471.image.jpg?resize=200%2C121 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/7d/07d54010-19c5-11ed-8241-ab52a69b3435/62227c1e04471.image.jpg?resize=300%2C182 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/7d/07d54010-19c5-11ed-8241-ab52a69b3435/62227c1e04471.image.jpg?resize=400%2C242 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/7d/07d54010-19c5-11ed-8241-ab52a69b3435/62227c1e04471.image.jpg?resize=540%2C327 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/7d/07d54010-19c5-11ed-8241-ab52a69b3435/62227c1e04471.image.jpg?resize=750%2C454 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/7d/07d54010-19c5-11ed-8241-ab52a69b3435/62227c1e04471.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C726 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/7d/07d54010-19c5-11ed-8241-ab52a69b3435/62227c1e04471.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1029 1700w)
Saguaro Corners on East Old Spanish Trail sits down the street from Saguaro National Park East.
π Saguaro Corners
Location: 3750 S. Old Spanish Trail
Iβm not saying that a great location means food will be bad. But when views are as scenic as they are at Saguaro Corners, you donβt need the food to be good to survive. Its lush desert setting, on the far-east side, and a porch with 270 degrees of floor-to-ceiling windows are such a draw that I was originally hesitant. Why invest in a great menu when the space alone makes the place special? But for reasons unknown, they did.
The menu might read as a hodgepodge of comfort food β deep-fried cheese curds and tacos? Cowboy potstickers next to pan-seared salmon fit for a fine dining restaurant? The through line is a commitment to freshness, and doing what you have well. The vegetable sides rotate with whatever is in season β in winter, when I last visited, it was asparagus. I donβt think you can order incorrectly here.
Tito & Pep
Location: 4122 E. Speedway
Tito & Pep, a James-Beard-Award-nominated spot, is a love letter to midtown Tucson and the Sonoran flavors that make this place home.
The Parish
Location: 6453 N. Oracle Road
Youβll love The Parish for the same reasons you love New Orleans, the city that inspires the restaurant: atmosphere, food and drink. Laissez les bon temps rouler!
The Owls Club
Location: 236 S. Scott Ave.
While I mostly kept bars and coffee shops off this list, I guarantee you, on any given night, there is a Bumble date happening at TheΒ Owls Club. Likely multiple. Their seasonal cocktail list and spacious patio (with fire pits) makes it a showy, yet low-stakes, place to see if the chemistry is there.
Honorable mentions: Reneeβs, The Coronet. Ellice still needs to try: Wild Garlic GrillΒ and Tavolino.
Vegan
![Rise Above pastries duped for newsletter (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/2/49/24908cb4-19c5-11ed-b3f0-5f667bb40121/604663cd7e148.image.jpg?resize=200%2C138 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/2/49/24908cb4-19c5-11ed-b3f0-5f667bb40121/604663cd7e148.image.jpg?resize=300%2C207 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/2/49/24908cb4-19c5-11ed-b3f0-5f667bb40121/604663cd7e148.image.jpg?resize=400%2C276 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/2/49/24908cb4-19c5-11ed-b3f0-5f667bb40121/604663cd7e148.image.jpg?resize=540%2C373 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/2/49/24908cb4-19c5-11ed-b3f0-5f667bb40121/604663cd7e148.image.jpg?resize=750%2C518 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/2/49/24908cb4-19c5-11ed-b3f0-5f667bb40121/604663cd7e148.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C828 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/2/49/24908cb4-19c5-11ed-b3f0-5f667bb40121/604663cd7e148.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1173 1700w)
Almond Bear Claws are one of the vegan pastries made by Hannah Houlden of Houldenβs Rise Above.
Houldenβs Rise Above
Locations: Cafes across Tucson and a brick and mortar to come at 5031 E. Fifth St.
Hannah Houldenβs βlittle vegan spite bakeryβ started as a cottage operation out of her home. She now delivers her vegan baked goods β flaky chocolate croissants, pop-tarts with flair, turnovers with flavors from olive, dill and lemon to red pepper zaβatar β to 10 local cafes, and has a brick and mortar in the works.
Taco Stop
Location: 10290 E. Speedway
Their jackfruit birria is so good, vegans and carnivores alike will make the trek to food truck Taco Stop to satisfy their craving.
Honorable mentions: Nopalinda,Β Midtown Vegan Deli, El Toreroβs vegan menu, and the vegan box at Reneeβs. Calβs Bake ShopΒ has teamed up with Nopalinda and made many of his confections vegan as well.Β
For more inspo, follow local vegan foodies @deathfreefoodie and @tucson_vegan on Instagram!
Brunch
![Chocolate bomb at CafΓ© a La C'Art (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/e9/3e9b86fe-19c5-11ed-9c66-f3eb2de1be64/51520bbdf3eb9.image.jpg?resize=200%2C135 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/e9/3e9b86fe-19c5-11ed-9c66-f3eb2de1be64/51520bbdf3eb9.image.jpg?resize=300%2C203 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/e9/3e9b86fe-19c5-11ed-9c66-f3eb2de1be64/51520bbdf3eb9.image.jpg?resize=400%2C271 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/e9/3e9b86fe-19c5-11ed-9c66-f3eb2de1be64/51520bbdf3eb9.image.jpg?resize=540%2C366 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/3/e9/3e9b86fe-19c5-11ed-9c66-f3eb2de1be64/51520bbdf3eb9.image.jpg?resize=620%2C420 750w)
The chocolate bomb is chocolate cake with a scoop of chocolate mousse, robed in ganache, rolled in shaved chocolate and topped with drizzled chocolate.
Cafe a la Cβart
Location: 150 N. Main Ave.
Patio, patio, patio. Itβs a confection of mosaic, attached to a building whose historical atmosphere and proximity to the Tucson Museum of Art make even a cappuccino feel like a special occasion. More info here!
Tohono Chul Bistro
Location: 7366 N. Paseo Del Norte
I donβt know what I love more, the bistroβs setting in a verdant botanical garden or their prickly pear margaritas.
πΒ Baja Cafe
Locations: 7002 E. Broadway;Β 2970 N. Campbell Ave.;Β 3930 W. Ina Road
When we asked readers for their brunch recommendations, nearly everyone who suggested Baja Cafe mentioned something different on their menu. Everything is good, but they'll give you a free, signature Snickerdoodle pancake if it's your first time.
Ellice still needs to try: Cup Cafe.
Munchies
![Jackrabbit Lounge (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/b9/8b99cace-19c5-11ed-bdd3-2fc6e4d50c97/61b3a0f7a32b1.image.jpg?resize=200%2C126 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/b9/8b99cace-19c5-11ed-bdd3-2fc6e4d50c97/61b3a0f7a32b1.image.jpg?resize=300%2C189 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/b9/8b99cace-19c5-11ed-bdd3-2fc6e4d50c97/61b3a0f7a32b1.image.jpg?resize=400%2C252 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/b9/8b99cace-19c5-11ed-bdd3-2fc6e4d50c97/61b3a0f7a32b1.image.jpg?resize=540%2C340 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/b9/8b99cace-19c5-11ed-bdd3-2fc6e4d50c97/61b3a0f7a32b1.image.jpg?resize=750%2C473 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/b9/8b99cace-19c5-11ed-bdd3-2fc6e4d50c97/61b3a0f7a32b1.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C756 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/b9/8b99cace-19c5-11ed-bdd3-2fc6e4d50c97/61b3a0f7a32b1.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1071 1700w)
The Jackrabbit Lounge's take on a Blue Hawaiian.Β The Jackrabbit's food and drink menus recall tiki bars like Trader Vicβs.
The Jackrabbit Lounge
Location: 2000 N. Oracle Road
While you might come to The Jackrabbit Lounge for their βgrammable neon, youβll be happily surprised by their outstanding bar food menu.
Arizona Beer House
Location: 150 S. Kolb Road
While Arizona Beer House itself doesnβt offer food, their lineup of food trucks is consistently great.
Fried chicken
![Oh My Chicken duped for bucket list eats](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/84/88489fae-ef75-11ed-aee8-cfb46ae933c2/639a1278e8130.image.jpg?resize=200%2C133 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/84/88489fae-ef75-11ed-aee8-cfb46ae933c2/639a1278e8130.image.jpg?resize=300%2C200 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/84/88489fae-ef75-11ed-aee8-cfb46ae933c2/639a1278e8130.image.jpg?resize=400%2C267 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/84/88489fae-ef75-11ed-aee8-cfb46ae933c2/639a1278e8130.image.jpg?resize=540%2C360 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/84/88489fae-ef75-11ed-aee8-cfb46ae933c2/639a1278e8130.image.jpg?resize=750%2C500 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/84/88489fae-ef75-11ed-aee8-cfb46ae933c2/639a1278e8130.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C800 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/8/84/88489fae-ef75-11ed-aee8-cfb46ae933c2/639a1278e8130.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1133 1700w)
Pictured are sweet chili chicken tenders from Oh My Chicken at Park Place Mall.
Oh My Chicken
Location: Park Place Mall, 5870 E. Broadway
This Korean-style fried chicken spot might be in the mall, but it's more than a mall vendor: the #ThisIsTucson team drive to Park Place just to eat this perfectly crunchy chicken. The dips elevate the great crunch to a full experience (I like their sweet chili, made with gochujang, but they're all good).
Coop
Location: American Eat Co., 1439 S. Fourth Ave.
From the owners behind the popular CowPig food truck, Coop serves chicken tendies (both spicy and not), crispy fries, sandwiches and mac and cheese β all of which can be dressed up with or dipped into their glorious CowPig sauce.
Mac and Cheese
![Restaurants at Tucson International Airport (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/8d/48d0311a-ef85-11ed-870a-87c7835b51a5/5a0f3d340f4cf.image.jpg?resize=200%2C122 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/8d/48d0311a-ef85-11ed-870a-87c7835b51a5/5a0f3d340f4cf.image.jpg?resize=300%2C183 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/8d/48d0311a-ef85-11ed-870a-87c7835b51a5/5a0f3d340f4cf.image.jpg?resize=400%2C244 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/8d/48d0311a-ef85-11ed-870a-87c7835b51a5/5a0f3d340f4cf.image.jpg?resize=540%2C330 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/8d/48d0311a-ef85-11ed-870a-87c7835b51a5/5a0f3d340f4cf.image.jpg?resize=750%2C458 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/8d/48d0311a-ef85-11ed-870a-87c7835b51a5/5a0f3d340f4cf.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C732 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/8d/48d0311a-ef85-11ed-870a-87c7835b51a5/5a0f3d340f4cf.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1037 1700w)
Beyond Bread opened a location on Concourse A at Tucson International Airport in 2017.
Beyond Bread
Locations: 3026 N. Campbell Ave.;Β 6260 E. Speedway;Β 421 W. Ina Road; Tucson International Airport, 7250 S. Tucson Blvd.
Beyond Bread is like the cafeteria of Tucson. It's casual and reliable. There's plenty of seating, and it's always busy. Its branding is so professional that it doesn't seem local, but they feature lots of local brews on their beer tap and have coffee by Decibel Coffee Works. I didn't fully appreciate Beyond Bread, though, until I tried their mac and cheese. Creamy with toasted cheese crunchy edges, their mac is so rich that I usually am satisfied with the kid's size.
Ethiopian
![zemams.JPG (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/a0/ca01aa52-19c5-11ed-a3ee-9375fff07b87/627eab549d764.image.jpg?resize=200%2C133 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/a0/ca01aa52-19c5-11ed-a3ee-9375fff07b87/627eab549d764.image.jpg?resize=300%2C200 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/a0/ca01aa52-19c5-11ed-a3ee-9375fff07b87/627eab549d764.image.jpg?resize=400%2C267 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/a0/ca01aa52-19c5-11ed-a3ee-9375fff07b87/627eab549d764.image.jpg?resize=540%2C360 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/a0/ca01aa52-19c5-11ed-a3ee-9375fff07b87/627eab549d764.image.jpg?resize=750%2C500 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/a0/ca01aa52-19c5-11ed-a3ee-9375fff07b87/627eab549d764.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C800 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/a0/ca01aa52-19c5-11ed-a3ee-9375fff07b87/627eab549d764.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1133 1700w)
The doro wat chicken dish is served with freshly-made injera at Zemam's, Too.
Zemamβs
Location: 119 E. Speedway
Guy Fieri came to Zemamβs for "Diners, Drive Ins and Dives" because their doro wat chicken is an all-star dish for the city of Tucson. I agree! The richly-spiced curry is singular in town (though Cafe Desta has truly charming atmosphere).
Honorable mention: Cafe Desta.
Caribbean
![tostones.JPG](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/f/7c/f7cc809a-3b9a-11ee-af86-fbb6db334990/64dbc63654dcf.image.jpg?resize=200%2C133 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/f/7c/f7cc809a-3b9a-11ee-af86-fbb6db334990/64dbc63654dcf.image.jpg?resize=300%2C200 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/f/7c/f7cc809a-3b9a-11ee-af86-fbb6db334990/64dbc63654dcf.image.jpg?resize=400%2C267 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/f/7c/f7cc809a-3b9a-11ee-af86-fbb6db334990/64dbc63654dcf.image.jpg?resize=540%2C360 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/f/7c/f7cc809a-3b9a-11ee-af86-fbb6db334990/64dbc63654dcf.image.jpg?resize=750%2C500 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/f/7c/f7cc809a-3b9a-11ee-af86-fbb6db334990/64dbc63654dcf.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C800 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/f/7c/f7cc809a-3b9a-11ee-af86-fbb6db334990/64dbc63654dcf.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1133 1700w)
Find the plantain treat tostones at DC Jumbie, a food truck that you can find on base and across Tucson.
DC Jumbie
This food truck offers the best Cubano in town, along with other Caribbean classics that are hard to find in Tucson. Tostones? They got 'em (and serve them with an addictive lime crema). Imported soft drinks like Tropi-Cola champagne cola, Jupina pineapple soda and Coco Rico coconut soda? Find 'em here.Β
BBQ
![Smokey Mo (copy) (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/b4/9b49e3ec-2bb7-11ed-a578-c73119ca8bd2/5b638cf4f089d.image.jpg?resize=200%2C133 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/b4/9b49e3ec-2bb7-11ed-a578-c73119ca8bd2/5b638cf4f089d.image.jpg?resize=300%2C200 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/b4/9b49e3ec-2bb7-11ed-a578-c73119ca8bd2/5b638cf4f089d.image.jpg?resize=400%2C267 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/b4/9b49e3ec-2bb7-11ed-a578-c73119ca8bd2/5b638cf4f089d.image.jpg?resize=540%2C360 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/b4/9b49e3ec-2bb7-11ed-a578-c73119ca8bd2/5b638cf4f089d.image.jpg?resize=750%2C500 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/b4/9b49e3ec-2bb7-11ed-a578-c73119ca8bd2/5b638cf4f089d.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C800 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/b4/9b49e3ec-2bb7-11ed-a578-c73119ca8bd2/5b638cf4f089d.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1133 1700w)
Combo plate No. 3 at Smokey Mo barbecue comes with mesquite-smoked ribs, two barbecued meats and a side. You can upgrade with beans, coleslaw and potato salad.Β
Smokey Mo
Location: 2650 N. First Ave.
Francisco Sanchez (@tucson.munchies) predicted that Smokey Mo is going to have their spotlight moment soon. βIt deserves some shine,β he said. I agree!
Ellice still needs to try: Kenβs Hardwood Barbecue.
Markets
![Chicken sandwich from Time Market (copy) (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/b/5d/b5da2b9a-2bb7-11ed-91e7-3b5f18fcc243/5ccb82e674ab3.image.jpg?resize=200%2C133 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/b/5d/b5da2b9a-2bb7-11ed-91e7-3b5f18fcc243/5ccb82e674ab3.image.jpg?resize=300%2C200 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/b/5d/b5da2b9a-2bb7-11ed-91e7-3b5f18fcc243/5ccb82e674ab3.image.jpg?resize=400%2C267 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/b/5d/b5da2b9a-2bb7-11ed-91e7-3b5f18fcc243/5ccb82e674ab3.image.jpg?resize=540%2C360 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/b/5d/b5da2b9a-2bb7-11ed-91e7-3b5f18fcc243/5ccb82e674ab3.image.jpg?resize=750%2C500 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/b/5d/b5da2b9a-2bb7-11ed-91e7-3b5f18fcc243/5ccb82e674ab3.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C800 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/b/5d/b5da2b9a-2bb7-11ed-91e7-3b5f18fcc243/5ccb82e674ab3.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1133 1700w)
Time Market's fried chicken sandwich comes with a housemade brioche roll, coleslaw, tomatoes and pickles.Β
General: Time Market
Location: 444 E. University Blvd.
Time Market feels both homegrown and aspirational. As a teen, I thought: I want to be a regular here when I grow up. They offer a bunch of upscale stuff that is so fun to ogle, a prodigious selection of red wine, an espresso bar, and some of the best bread and pizza in town. Youβll see teens hanging out after Tucson High lets out, big city expats on dates and parents with kids. Itβs a little luxury, for everyone.
Liquor store: The RumRunner
Location: 3131 E. First St.
The RumRunner has everything you want and will order you cases of what they donβt have. The owners and staff will answer any questions with grace, making this place super comfortable for everyone from beginners to experts.
![pescado frito.PNG (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/6d/96dca8ba-19c6-11ed-ae8a-bba535892d1a/616f55574862d.image.png?resize=200%2C133 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/6d/96dca8ba-19c6-11ed-ae8a-bba535892d1a/616f55574862d.image.png?resize=300%2C200 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/6d/96dca8ba-19c6-11ed-ae8a-bba535892d1a/616f55574862d.image.png?resize=400%2C266 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/6d/96dca8ba-19c6-11ed-ae8a-bba535892d1a/616f55574862d.image.png?resize=540%2C360 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/6d/96dca8ba-19c6-11ed-ae8a-bba535892d1a/616f55574862d.image.png?resize=750%2C500 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/6d/96dca8ba-19c6-11ed-ae8a-bba535892d1a/616f55574862d.image.png?resize=1200%2C799 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/6d/96dca8ba-19c6-11ed-ae8a-bba535892d1a/616f55574862d.image.png?resize=1279%2C852 1700w)
Super Pescaderia y Carniceria El Ranchito, on South Sixth Avenue, fries whole tilapia in addition to their raw meat and fish, chicharrones and ice cream.
CarnicerΓa: Super CarnicerΓa y PescaderΓa El Ranchito
Location: 6070 S. Sixth Ave.
If you want tamales, go to El Aguajito (early, before they sell out). If you want hand burritos, pick them up at Tortilleria Don Juan. If you want marinated meats, cooked fresh for you on a grill, you can find them at fabulous carnicerΓas across town, most often on weekends.
But if you want an unforgettable experience, go to El Ranchito down on the far south side and order their pescado frito, a whole tilapia fried to order. You canβt get fresher, more tender meat than this anywhere.
Honorable mentions: Five PointsΒ Market & Restaurant.
Icons
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Don Guerra, of Barrio Bread, won the James Beard award for best baker in 2022.
Barrio Bread
Location: 18 S. Eastbourne Ave.
Tucson has a few James Beard Award winners: Janos Wilder, El GΓΌero Canelo, and, last year, Don Guerra. His outstanding artisan bread and commitment to Sonoran heritage grains make Barrio Bread a true bucket list item for longtime residents and visitors alike.
![Carne asada tacos at Tacos Apson (copy) (copy)](https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/72/e72ce66a-2bb7-11ed-bdc1-2b8943fa87b0/5a4432ad16c3d.image.jpg?resize=200%2C133 200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/72/e72ce66a-2bb7-11ed-bdc1-2b8943fa87b0/5a4432ad16c3d.image.jpg?resize=300%2C200 300w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/72/e72ce66a-2bb7-11ed-bdc1-2b8943fa87b0/5a4432ad16c3d.image.jpg?resize=400%2C267 400w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/72/e72ce66a-2bb7-11ed-bdc1-2b8943fa87b0/5a4432ad16c3d.image.jpg?resize=540%2C360 540w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/72/e72ce66a-2bb7-11ed-bdc1-2b8943fa87b0/5a4432ad16c3d.image.jpg?resize=750%2C500 750w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/72/e72ce66a-2bb7-11ed-bdc1-2b8943fa87b0/5a4432ad16c3d.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C800 1200w, https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/72/e72ce66a-2bb7-11ed-bdc1-2b8943fa87b0/5a4432ad16c3d.image.jpg?resize=1700%2C1133 1700w)
A meaty smorgasbord at Tacos Apson in Tucson consists of cheesy caramelos (top left) and various tacos de carne asada, or grilled beef.Β Β
π΅ Tacos Apson
Location: 3501 S. 12th Ave.
Tacos ApsonΒ is Tucsonβs taco. Their mesquite-grilled carne asada, on flour tortillas, is a love letter to Sonora. But you donβt have to stop there: I love the taco Lorenza, which glues the carne together with cheese. Their Taco Chino β just beans β is proof that the best food can be incredibly simple.
El Charro
Locations: 311 N. Court Ave.;7725 N. Oracle Road;Β 6910 E. Sunrise Dr.
Monica Flin founded El Charro in 1922, and it rose to fame in the part of downtown razed for redevelopment in the 1960s. Her legacy lives on to this day, and in a variety of restaurants from the Si Charro family.
Hotel Congress
Location: 311 E. Congress St.
Hotel Congress is the anchor of our downtown. Itβs living wild west history, where John Dillinger was caught and Dillinger Days are celebrated to this day. Hotel Congress is a venue, a brunch destination and a nightclub. Oh, and a hotel.