Our apologies: your internet browser is not yet fully supported by our Schmap online guides. If you continue, pages in this guide may display or function incorrectly.

Would you like to continue anyway?continue anyway

Schmap.com supports the following browsers:

PC

MAC Tucson - Dining & Drinking
Download the Schmap Tucson Guide
With Schmap 2.0 you can:
Tucson Home
Schmap Tucson guide and map

With restaurants operating today that have existed since the 1920s, Tucson's cuisine can't help but be inextricably intertwined with its history and culture.

El Charro

El Charro, opened in 1922, is the oldest continually family-run Mexican restaurant in the United States, and a must-dine when visiting the Tucson area. This local landmark, in the historic El Presidio District, is now run by Carlotta Flores, grand-niece of founder and trailblazer Monica Flin. Once the family residence, built by Monica's father in 1896, the colorful, classically Southwestern cafe serves the most authentically Tucsonan cuisine available. Every plate is a piece of Old Pueblo history!

El Parador

Likewise, John Jacob's El Parador, established in 1946, boasts a history and a family legacy even spicier than their salsa. Tales of Lebanese ancestors who, following the collapse of Ottoman empire, came to Tucson by way of Mexico are peppered with life-is-stranger-than-fiction accounts of a grandmother who was shot by Pancho Villa and a produce company that, while in the desert, used river barges to transport its wares to Mexico. One of the most visually captivating dining spaces in Tucson, El Parador is about as close as you'll come to a repast in a rainforest without traveling to Brazil.

The Tack Room

In 1965, The Tack Room opened to the public as Arizona's first fine dining restaurant. Built in 1940 by Robinson Carr Locke, overlooking his Moltacqua Racetrack, The Tack Room became Arizona's first Mobil Travel Guide Four Star Award-winning restaurant in 1973, earned its fifth star in 1977 and has become the "West's Most Highly Awarded Restaurant."

Italian Dining

The Scordato family emigrated from New Jersey in 1972 and opened their eponymous Evangelos Scordato's, followed by Daniel's, and Vivace. Over the past quarter-of-a-century the family name has become synonymous with fine Italian dining in Tucson.

Janos

On Halloween of 1983, Janos Wilder and his wife, Rebecca, opened Janos in a National Historic Landmark-registered home on the grounds of the Tucson Museum of Art. Blending classic French techniques with indigenous Southern Arizona ingredients, Chef Wilder quickly gained local and national attention and has been cited by Travel & Leisure magazine as "one of the finest cooks in America." Several years ago, the restaurant relocated to a spectacular space at the Westin La Paloma Resort.

Cafe Terra Cotta

When Donna Nordin made a three-day stopover in Tucson while on a cross-country teaching tour in 1983, the foundation was laid for one of the city's most popular nationally-recognized restaurants, Cafe Terra Cotta, which recently relocated from St. Philip's Plaza into the Foothills without losing any of its upscale Southwestern ambience. She opened the highly acclaimed cafe in 1986 and has since come to be considered one of the pioneers of modern Southwestern cuisine. In 1993, Chef Nordin was named the James Beard Foundation's "Best Chef Southwest."

Cafe Poca Cosa

For more than a decade another female chef, Suzana Davila, has tantalized Tucson tastebuds with her energized interpretations of classic Southern Mexican dishes at Cafe Poca Cosa in the historic Hotel Santa Rita (now the Clarion Santa Rita). Chef Davila's vibrant flavors and bold presentations expand diner's culinary horizons beyond the boundaries of Sonoran cuisine.

The Cork

A restaurant known affectionately as "The Cork" (formerly the Cork & Cleaver) has been a local tradition for more than 30 years. In 1994, Chef Jonathan Landeen took the reins of what is officially called Jonathan's Tucson Cork, bringing his gold-medal-winning culinary style to the area. Having trained with world-renowned Chef Paul Prudhomme at Commander's Palace in New Orleans, Chef Landeen continues to dazzle diners with his Southwestern specialties.

Other Dining Destinations:

Other notable Tucson dining destinations, scattered throughout the metro area, include:

Anthony's in the Catalinas, a Triple-A Four Diamond and DiRoNa award-winning bastion of Continental cuisine, delights diners with breathtaking views of the Santa Catalina Mountains.

Kingfisher, a highly acclaimed fresh seafood grill, has been dubbed Tucson's Best Restaurant by the Arizona Republic and has received Wine Spectator magazine's Award of Excellence.

Wildflower features the culinary stylings of Chef Christopher Cristiano (formerly of Wolfgang Puck's Spago) in an ultra-attractive atmosphere.

Le Bistro, with its impressionist Paris street scene facade, brings the flavors of France to desert diners, and has been voted one of Tucson's Top Ten Restaurants by the Tucson Citizen for seven consecutive years. Recently, more award-winning French cuisine has become available at Stone Ashley, an upscale restaurant set in a rugged old stone mansion with a definitely 21st-century interior.

Metro Restaurant Group

The Metro Restaurant Group has created, in a sense, its own global culinary tour with its eight established restaurants (and more in the works)-- Firecracker Asian-American Bistro offers an explosion of tantalizing Pacific Rim tastes and aromas--look for the flames shooting from the roof (no, not from the food, from the torches!). City Grill has been feted as the Best Grill and Best Business Lunch by Tucson Lifestyle magazine. City Grill's counterparts in Tucson's other neighborhoods are Metropolitan Grill and Keaton's Arizona Grill, both also multiple award-winners. Backstage is just plain fun--and plenty of it--with dancing, games, sports and casual, contemporary cuisine. And then there's McMahon's Prime Steakhouse, voted Tucson Lifestyle's Best Steak Restaurant and Best New Restaurant of 1999. In Green Valley, south of Tucson, Metro Restaurants operates San Ignacio Country Club and Coyote Grill, offering contemporary regional cuisine. Their newest addition, Old Pueblo Grill, is also sure to be a popular spot in the neighborhood just south of the University of Arizona.

Essence of The Southwest

The city has come a long way from the days when steaks and tacos were all the culinary delights that come to mind when thinking about the Southwest. During the past five to ten years, many great chefs have contributed to elevating Tucson's cuisine to a more cosmopolitan level than ever before. Dining in Tucson can now be as exciting an adventure as your palate permits. So go out, explore...eat your way through the area, from the Tortolitas to the Santa Catalinas; the Rincons to the Santa Ritas and Tucsons. Drink in the history and the culture as expressed in our regional culinary style, When you've tasted Tucson, you've savored the essence of the Southwest.

Happy Dining!







Copyright 1999-2005 Wcities, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Contact Wcities

Anthony's in the Catalinas


Every meal is a special occasion
6440 North Campbell Road
(Sunrise at Campbell)
Tucson, AZ 85718
United States
+1 520 299 1771
This is the place that Tucsonians flock to for special occasions; with the spectacular views and award-winning cuisine and wines any visit is a memorable experience. Called an "architectural jewel" by many, this fine dining room is sophisticated without being snooty. True to its name, the views of the surrounding mountains and the cityscape to the south are the visual focus of the restaurant. An underground wine cellar houses more than 25,000 bottles with more than 1,400 individual selections.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Anthony's in the Catalinas photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Cafe Poca Cosa


Culinary Adventure
110 E. Pennington
Tucson, AZ 85701
United States
+1 520 622 6400
Chef/owner Suzana Davila gives locals and visitors a taste of the complex flavors of southern Mexico at this funky and popular cafe inside the historic Clarion Santa Rita Hotel. Just take a look at the many international articles and awards that line the walls and you'll know that you're in for an exciting culinary adventure. Vibrant Mexican colors abound with just about every wall a different bright hue. The menu changes twice, daily, to offer guests to try both classic dishes and new adventurous ones. Lunches are USD16-USD18; dinners, USD19-20.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Cafe Poca Cosa photo by Brandie
Photo: Brandie
 

 
City Grill


Favorite for business lunch
6464 East Tanque Verde Road
Tucson, AZ 85715
United States
+1 520 733 1111
http://www.metrorestaurants.com
The menu at this casual cafe travels the globe with specialties from right here in the Southwest to dishes with Mediterranean and Asian accents. The place took the Best Business Lunch award from Tucson Lifestyles Magazine. Rich wood furnishings and accents, stacked-stone walls and comfortable booths give this grill a contemporary, casual atmosphere. It's one of Tucson's favorite places for business lunches. A wood-fired rotisserie turns out succulent chicken and prime ribs of beef.

Review © 2007, Wcities
City Grill photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
City Limits


Drinks and live music
6350 E Tanque Verde Rd
Tucson, AZ 85715
United States
+1 520 733 6262
http://www.citylimitstucson.com/
Booking@citylimitstucson.com
Formerly known as Bob's Grill and Backstage Sports Grill, this popular place specializes in live music and is vamped with $100,000 of the finest audio equipment available. Come here to experience shows from hit artists. Don't miss Tuesdays' live 80's music with KLPX and Metalhead. If you dress up in your favorite 80's outfit/costume there is no cover charge! Also don't miss an awesome Happy Hour and variable daily specials. Check out the website for details.

Review © 2007, Wcities
City Limits photo by Dave
Photo: Dave
City Limits photo by Todd and Haley Campbell
Photo: Todd and Haley Campbell
 

 
El Charro


A Tucson culinary landmark
311 North Court Avenue
Tucson, AZ 85701
United States
+1 520 622 1922
elcharro@theriver.com
This legendary eatery is the foundation on which Tucson's dining scene was built, and it's a must-visit when you come to the Old Pueblo. All areas are decked out in brightly colored furnishings and authentic Mexican accessories. A festive, lively atmosphere pervades, and the huge menu features dishes that have been served here since it opened in 1922. Some specialties have been updated by Chef Carlotta Flores to appeal to modern tastes by lowering the fat content. Full bar service features more than 80 types of tequilas. Try them straight up, or in one of many margarita mixtures. Drinks run USD3 and up. Additional location at 6310 East Broadway Boulevard, at El Mercado Shops and Restaurants.

Review © 2007, Wcities
El Charro photo by Rick Donaldson
Photo: Rick Donaldson
El Charro photo by Gina Compitello
Photo: Gina Compitello
El Charro photo by Cathy Roberts
Photo: Cathy Roberts
El Charro photo by tucsonzclub
Photo: tucsonzclub
El Charro photo by Tim Perkins
Photo: Tim Perkins
 

 
Evangelos Scordato's


Italian elegance
4405 West Speedway Boulevard
(Anklam Road and Speedway Boulevard)
Tucson, AZ 85745
United States
Not far from Old Tucson Studios, the Scordato family has been providing local diners and visitors with an appetizing array of Italian classics since 1972. High-backed chairs, starched linens, pastel walls and classic prints give the dining room a somewhat formal, but not unapproachable, air. Service is professional and knowledgeable. Priced from USD16 for pastas to USD25 for hearty veal and meat dishes, you'll find a full range of classic Italian entrees. Wines by the bottle average around USD30-50, but you'll fine rare vintages priced at up to USD700.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Evangelos Scordato's photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Firecracker


Explosive Pacific Rim cuisine
2990 North Swan Road
(In Plaza Palomino)
Tucson, AZ 85712
United States
+1 520 318 1118
Do not panic when you see the flames shooting from the roof on North Swan Road, it is just an indication that you are closing in on Tucson's hottest Pacific Rim bistro. Firecracker is loved for both its innovative cuisine and whimsical atmosphere. The brightly checkered banquettes and abundance of bamboo set the scene for festive, fulfilling dining. Patio seating is also available. So go ahead, have a blast!

Review © 2007, Wcities
Firecracker photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Janos


Franco frontier cuisine
3770 East Sunrise Drive
(Westin La Paloma Resort)
Tucson, AZ 85718
United States
+1 520 615 6100
http://www.janos.com
janosrest@aol.com
This ultra-elegant dining experience is one that shouldn't be missed by global gastronomes. The decor is all opulence and ornate elegance: rich upholstery, classic French-influenced furnishings and jewel-and-precious metal-tones abound. The menu changes regularly to make the best use of fresh seasonal ingredients. A few examples include Venison Loin Adobada with Black Bean Coulis as well as Mushroom Chilaquiles and Rosemary-Scented Chicken, Chili Con Queso and Guaymas Shrimp. A list of more than 500 wines is one of the city's finest.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Janos photo by eizabeth eves
Photo: eizabeth eves
Janos photo by Desert Watercolors
Photo: Desert Watercolors
 

 
Jonathan's Tucson Cork


Sensational southwestern setting
6320 East Tanque Verde Road
Tucson, AZ 85715
United States
+1 520 296 1631
http://www.jonathanscork.com
jcork@jonathanscork.com
Chef and owner Jonathan Landeen's culinary style is as distinctive as his trademark mustache. The restaurant's five southwestern-style dining rooms are kept cozy with beehive fireplaces and regional art and accessories. Ask any local where to go for buffalo or ostrich, and this place will surely be one of their top picks. Exotic ostrich and buffalo star on a menu of meaty entrees, which also includes steaks, prime rib, roast pork loin and several chicken and seafood dishes.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Jonathan's Tucson Cork photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
KingFisher


Award-winning seafood
2564 East Grant Road
Tucson, AZ 85716
United States
+1 520 323 7739
http://www.kingfisherbarandgri...
kfbgtuc@aol.com
This place serves up some of the best seafood you'll find in the city. Not into seafood? There are plenty of other appetizing options. The main dining room is subtle and sophisticated with a large vase as its focal point. To one side, its sea-blue walls define the oyster bar. The fireplaced-lounge is a cozy spot to settle in with a glass from the award-winning wine list. A late night menu features soups, salads, sandwiches and many of their popular seafood items.

Review © 2007, Wcities
KingFisher photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Le Bistro


Say Oui to Parisian taste
2574 North Campbell Road
Tucson, AZ 85719
United States
+1 520 327 3086
Look for the impressionistic French street scene on the front of the building and you'll easily find one of Tucson's favorite choices for French and European cuisine. The decor is a bit flowery, without being overly feminine. Twinkle lights and lush greenery, flowered tablecloths, lace curtains and etched glass mirrors decorate this place. Chef/owner Laurent Reux offers nightly specials on a menu board, which are always a good bet. The wine list includes a "chef's selections" section with interesting choices in the mid-USD20 range.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Le Bistro photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
McMahon's Prime Steakhouse


Pricey but worth every penny
2959 North Swan Road
Tucson, AZ 85712
United States
+1 520 327 7463
http://www.metrorestaurants.com
The cream of classic cuisine is painstakingly prepared here at the Metro Restaurants Group's upscale steak and seafood house. Brighter, airier and more contemporary than many of its upscale cohorts, this understatedly elegant dining room showcases the original works of local artists. A 1,000-bottle, climate-controlled wine case is another focal point of the space. The bar is cigar-friendly, and a piano lounge offers nightly entertainment. While pleasing your palate here may be a bit pricey, sharing is encouraged at no extra charge. Full bar service includes the aforementioned 1,000 bottles of wine.

Review © 2007, Wcities
McMahon's Prime Steakhouse photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Metropolitan Grill


Excellent grill menu
7892 North Oracle Road
(Southeast corner of Oracle and Magee)
Tucson, AZ 85712
United States
+1 520 531 1212
http://www.metrorestaurants.com
This casual mid-town grill, a member of the Metro Restaurants family, is a favorite for its specialty sandwiches, mesquite-grilled burgers, pastas, pizzas and entrees with a southwestern flair. Its awards include being Tucson Lifestyle Magazine's winner under the category of Best Grill. Internationally influenced dishes include Firecracker Shrimp, Santa Fe Chicken Salad, New Orleans Pasta, Mediterranean Shrimp Pasta and rotisserie meats.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Metropolitan Grill photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Old Pueblo Grill


New Territorial Cuisine
60 North Alvernon Way
(Northeast corner of Broadway and Alvernon)
Tucson, AZ 85711
United States
+1 520 326 6000
The Metro Restaurants group has updated the former Cottonwood Cafe into a modern and even more inviting Southwestern grill and bar. Several dining rooms are decorated in an Arizona motif, using a desert color scheme. One dining room looks out onto the patio, which provides the perfect place for cocktails, lunch or dinner in Tucson's temperate climate. A regional American menu, includes meat, poultry, seafood and pasta dishes. Full bar service is available both in the comfortable lounge and in the dining room. The wine list offers mainly Californian bottlings.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Old Pueblo Grill photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Old Pueblo Grille


60 Bottles of Tequila on the Wall
Foothills Mall
7401 N La Cholla Boulevard
Tucson, AZ 85741
United States
+1 520 297 1999
http://www.metrorestaurants.co...
Located in the Foothills Mall, this friendly family restaurant has long been a favorite for comfortable, casual dining with an inventive twist. The light, contemporary furnishings and color scheme make this a cozy, though large, dining space. Patio seating outside the mall is a good place for people-watching. House specialties include several seafood dishes as well as a wide range of chicken, beef and pasta dishes, salads and sandwiches. Everything has a bit of a contemporary southwestern kick, including the tequila-heavy drink menu at the full bar.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Old Pueblo Grille photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Santa Catalina Mountains


Miles of hiking trails
Mount Lemmon Highway
(Coronado National Forest)
Tucson, AZ 85619
United States
Enjoy cool air and mountain scenery at this ragged mountain range north of the city. Crowned by 9,157-foot Mount Lemmon, the range dominates the Tucson basin and offers 150 miles of hiking trails of varying difficulty. The drive up passes cliffs and canyons, lined with saguaro cactus, through pinions and junipers, to cool pine forests and lakes near the top. Some campgrounds charge a fee for overnight stays. Take Tanque Verde Road east to Catalina Highway (Mount Lemmon Highway).

Review © 2007, Wcities
Santa Catalina Mountains photo by Adam Fritzler
Photo: Adam Fritzler
Santa Catalina Mountains photo by D. Bryan Johnson
Photo: D. Bryan Johnson
Santa Catalina Mountains photo by Tim Stahmer
Photo: Tim Stahmer
Santa Catalina Mountains photo by Michael Stone
Photo: Michael Stone
Santa Catalina Mountains photo by Michael Estes
Photo: Michael Estes
Santa Catalina Mountains photo by jeremy.rmiller
Photo: jeremy.rmiller
Santa Catalina Mountains photo by vickigupta
Photo: vickigupta
Santa Catalina Mountains photo by Matt Ried
Photo: Matt Ried
Santa Catalina Mountains photo by Eleys
Photo: Eleys
Santa Catalina Mountains photo by William Bauer
Photo: William Bauer
Santa Catalina Mountains photo by John Gardner
Photo: John Gardner
Santa Catalina Mountains photo by FrozenChris
Photo: FrozenChris
Santa Catalina Mountains photo by Brianne Ince
Photo: Brianne Ince
 

 
Tucson Museum of Art


More than a museum
140 North Main Avenue
Tucson, AZ 85701
United States
+1 520 624 2333
http://www.tucsonarts.com
info@tucsonarts.com
The Tucson Museum has moved from exhibiting mostly traditional Western art to contemporary and experimental, with a large section devoted to pre-Columbian artistry of the American Southwest and Mexico. The museum shop features works by some of Arizona's most talented artists. Docent tours may be scheduled by calling +1 520 696 7450. Children under 12 and members are admitted free of charge and it's free for all on the first Sunday of the month.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Tucson Museum of Art photo by Jessica Michallet
Photo: Jessica Michallet
 

 
University of Arizona


Call of the Wildcats
Cherry Avenue and University Boulevard
(Visitor Center)
Tucson, AZ 85721
United States
+1 520 621 5130 / +1 520 621 2211
visitor@w3.arizona.edu
You've heard that wild cats roam the Sonoran Desert. Visit the historically significant U of A campus and discover that Wildcats rule the playing field as well. Tour the grounds, first broken for construction in 1887 and experience the sites, sounds and action that helped make this campus one of the top-rated schools in the nation today. Take in a light and laser show at Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium or a stage show at Centennial Hall. Wildcat souvenirs are available for sports enthusiasts of all ages. Contact the Visitor Center in advance for a guided walking tour, hosted by a U of A student. Visitor parking and public transportation are available.

Review © 2007, Wcities
University of Arizona photo by Prabjit Virdee
Photo: Prabjit Virdee
University of Arizona photo by Bill Walsh
Photo: Bill Walsh
University of Arizona photo by Tim Stahmer
Photo: Tim Stahmer
University of Arizona photo by Lisa Johanna Hyde
Photo: Lisa Johanna Hyde
University of Arizona photo by William Liow
Photo: William Liow
University of Arizona photo by Juliana Diaz
Photo: Juliana Diaz
University of Arizona photo by Robert Garcia
Photo: Robert Garcia
University of Arizona photo by Andrew Wyss
Photo: Andrew Wyss
University of Arizona photo by MaHusain
Photo: MaHusain
University of Arizona photo by Aliyah Vinikoor
Photo: Aliyah Vinikoor
University of Arizona photo by Matt Holzmann
Photo: Matt Holzmann
 

 
Vivace


Cosmopolitan cucina Italiana
4310 North Campbell Avenue
(St. Philip's Plaza)
Tucson, AZ 85718
United States
+1 520 795 7221
Noted Tucson restaurateur Daniel Scordato has created an energized eatery that combines a cosmopolitan atmosphere with his contemporary takes on the Italian classics. The restaurant feels open and airy, with a surprisingly urban ambience for Tucson. Specialties include a fork-tender Osso Buco, Pork Tenderloin with Fontina and Spinach, a Crab-stuffed Chicken Breast and Linguine Pasta with Salmon. A large wine list features many Italian offerings with a good number of selections.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Westin La Paloma


Pamper yourself at La Paloma
3800 East Sunrise Drive
Tucson, AZ 85718
United States
+1 520 742 6000 / +1 800 937 8461
http://www.westinlapalomaresor...
tucson@westin.com
One of Tucson's premier resorts, this three-story modern brick hotel was built in 1986. Renovated in 1997, it features a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf course, tennis, racquetball and volleyball, plus three pools with waterslide and swim up bar. Beautiful mountain and city views enhance the setting. Rates are subject to frequent changes according to season, so it is advisable to call ahead shortly before you leave on your trip.

Review © 2007, Wcities
hotel availability
Westin La Paloma photo by Ben Burleson
Photo: Ben Burleson
Westin La Paloma photo by John Hinrichsen
Photo: John Hinrichsen
Westin La Paloma photo by Christian Renaud
Photo: Christian Renaud
 

 
Wildflower


A bouquet of fresh flavors
7037 North Oracle Road
Tucson, AZ 85704
United States
+1 520 219 4230
Considered one of the top Tucson restaurants for contemporary fine dining, this beautifully appointed North Oracle eatery is an experience that shouldn't be missed. The regional American cuisine is accented with elements of French, Italian and Asian ingredients and preparations. The high-ceilinged space is comfortable and contemporary. Fairly heavy on seafood, the menu also features poultry, meats and pastas.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Wildflower photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Other Schmapplets in this city related to "Tucson - Dining & Drinking"
Tucson
Tucson - Historical Background
Tucson - Neighborhood Guide
Tucson - Where to Stay
Tucson - Art & Entertainment

Other nearby cities:
Phoenix (191 miles)
Albuquerque (515 miles)
Las Vegas (572 miles)
San Diego (575 miles)
Los Angeles (714 miles)
Salt Lake City (950 miles)
Denver (991 miles)
Boulder (1006 miles)
Yosemite (1007 miles)
Monterey and Carmel (1122 miles)

Schmap.com
About
News & Reviews
Travel Store
Privacy
Terms of Use
Contact Us
© 2008 Schmap, Inc. All rights reserved.