Schmap.com supports the following browsers:
PC
 Like visiting Crete to eat |
500 North 4th Avenue Tucson, AZ 85705 United States +1 520 624 6886 |
You won't get much closer to a Greek gastronomic experience without a passport! Simply decorated with stark white walls and wooden floors, this Greek cafe is one of Tucson's top choices for Mediterranean meals. The Fourth Avenue shopping and arts district is home to this tavern-type restaurant that offers all of the classic Greek specialties, plus some interesting additions. Among these are the Thalasina Sardorinis seafood platter and Mezethakia (a combination platter of sausage, sweetbreads and pork tenderloin). Dinner entrees are priced from about USD8 to USD20. An interesting list of Greek wines can be had for about USD4-6 a glass. Many bottles are priced below USD20. The cocktail bar is open 5p to 11p Monday through Thursday, 5p to midnight Friday and Saturday. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jewel Waldrip |
|
Downtown bistro with contemporary cuisine |
135 South Sixth Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 629 0191 |
Just across Sixth Avenue from the historic Santa Rita Hotel, this modern, upbeat bistro serves creative contemporary cuisine in an attractive, lively atmosphere. It's a convenient dining spot when attending theater and music events or when doing business in the downtown area. It can be quite noisy here, but it's an energized, delightful din. The menu features a full range of appetizers and "little plates," salads, chicken, veal, pastas, plus daily entree specials. Dinner entrees are priced between USD 8-24. Full bar service is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Popular spot for Happy Hour |
326 North Fourth Avenue Tucson, AZ 85705 United States +1 520 740 1541 |
This place is one of the favorite hangouts for University of Arizona coeds and others, as it serves the famous Bison Witches Bloody Mary, a drink consumed in large quantities by droves of hungover college students on Sundays. That's part of the Fourth Avenue tradition. Another reason to visit this bar is speedy service, plus the legendary overstuffed deli sandwiches. It's not easy to find a seat during lunch hour, and even more difficult during Happy Hour, when skilled bartenders serve up a good selection of vodkas, tequilas and bourbons. So be prepared to wait a little for the Great Happy Hour Special, but be assured it'll be worth it. A bread bowl of hot soup and sandwich will won't cost you much, with other items ranging between USD2.50 and USD7. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Fun and cozy |
2501 East Sixth Street (Sixth Street and Tucson Boulevard) Tucson, AZ 85716 United States +1 520 325 3767 |
Seems like everyone knows everyone else here, and the cozy and fun atmosphere at this bar and grill makes it easy for you to get to know them. This is one of the favorites of the college crowd. It does get loud here, especially during Happy Hour when people have to raise their voices to be heard while the TVs are running, but that's what you might expect at a sports bar. The fare consists of burgers and sandwiches with an entree of ribs. Both domestic and imported beers abound, while the wine list is rather limited. Breakfast is served on weekends only. Two patios are available for outside dining. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Pleasing hand tossed pies |
534 North Fourth Avenue Tucson, AZ 85705 United States +1 520 622 6868 http://www.brooklynpizzacompan... |
If you're a fan of New York-style pizza, this is the place in Tucson to find it. A small and simple spot, it serves up some of the area's best thin crust, hand-tossed pies. From a basic tomato basil to more adventurous options, each comes hot and crisp from the oven. A few Calzones and hero sandwiches are also on the menu. Soft drinks and beer are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Erin O'Meara |
 Photo: Evan Osherow  |
|
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 |
 Photo: Brandie |
 Photo: kee edwards |
|
Tucson Art Museums' cozy cafe |
150 North Main Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 628 8533 |
In this historic space (previously housing Janos Restaurant), the Tucson Museum of Art cafe serves pastries, salads, sandwiches, coffees and teas in a pretty cafe and patio setting. Indoors, a country garden atmosphere is achieved with lattices on the walls, light wood furnishings and botanical art. Outdoors, the patio overlooks the park-like grounds of the museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Panini sandwiches |
47 West Congress Street Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 628 1601 |
From breakfast to lunch, this closet-sized downtown cafe is bustling with business people looking for a quick and flavorful bite to eat. Because of its small size and its great popularity, you may have to wait awhile to place your order. In the morning, croissants, muffins and a few breakfast entrées are served along with a full range of specialty coffees. Panini sandwiches are the lunch of choice with a variety of fillings. Daily specials range from salads and sandwiches to hot entrees. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
A Tucson tradition |
434 North 4th Avenue Tucson, AZ 85705 United States +1 520 624 5765 |
For more than half a century, the Zagona family (three generations of them) has been serving up some of Tucson's favorite home-style Italian cuisine. The patio, with fountain and flowers, is a favorite choice with diners. Inside dining is comfortable and casual with a family-friendly staff. Hefty portions of pastas dishes are the popular choice here. Accompany your dinner with a glass of Italian chianti. Buon Appetito! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: cardhouse.com |
|
Dining, old cantina-style |
201 North Court Avenue (One block west of Church) Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 622 0351 |
This is the natural place to pick for lunch after strolling around the downtown arts district. Situated in the shaded courtyard of the Old Town Artisans complex, this grill restaurant offers Sonoran-style dishes in a 19th century cantina setting. Locals like to take out-of-town visitors to this pleasant place in order to show off their city. The ambience is that of an 1890-style cantina, combined with patio dining in a beautiful courtyard setting lush with flowers and ponds. The fare is mostly Mexican. Try the summer sizzling rib special rib-eye steak, or the Fettucine con Pollo. Beer and wine is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Piece of Tucson history |
311 East Congress Street Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 798 1618 |
Here's one of the most interesting places to dine in Tucson. Located in the historic Hotel Congress in downtown Tucson, the cafe retains the ambiance of another era, but the clientele is definitely hip. Full bar service is available. The food is eclectic, reflecting American, Mexican and Italian tastes, but always top rate. The desserts, all homemade, are simply superb. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Khawkins Photography |
 Photo: lofigirl |
 Photo: Erin McWilliams |
 Photo: signolicious |
 Photo: Erin Parker |
|
A local legend |
198 West Cushing Street Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 622 7984 |
At the northern tip of the Barrio Viejo and just south of the Tucson Convention Center sits this historic dining landmark, as well known for who ate there as what was served. It's a convenient stop on the way to the theater or other downtown event and is popular with visiting convention goers. A menu of southwestern and southeastern American favorites includes items like Brenda's Cajun Meatloaf and red pepper shrimp. Full bar service includes wines-by-the-glass and by the bottle. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Distinctive dining |
533 North Fourth Avenue Tucson, AZ 85705 United States +1 520 884 9289 http://www.delectables.com |
This fourth avenue find could easily skate by on its innovative edibles, but it also offers a comfortable, casual ambience in a convenient, contemporary space. Taking its cues from California cuisine and French bistro fare, this place gets raves from its guests for both its aesthetics and its edibles. The parade of pastries just inside the door is a pleasing portent of things to come. The colorful art acts as an appetizer stimulant and, from the appetizers on, so do the pretty presentations. A few items to try: Baked Pesto Camembert in Puff Pastry; Asparagus and Leek Crepes; Orange roughly in Potato Crust. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Upscale and inventive Asian |
400 North Bonita Avenu Tucson, AZ 85745 United States +1 520 792 3811 |
Many Chinese weddings are held here, so you know you're going to be getting some of the most authentic Asian dishes in town, with an awesome mountain view. The large and somewhat formal space also has banquet facilities, which can accommodate up to 450 guests. Chef Iuan Hsieh, a transplant from Hong Kong, works his magic with fresh vegetables, meats, fish and shellfish to put out appetizing and attractively garnished, palate-pleasing plates. A few examples: Lobster with XO Sauce Stir fry; Mongolian Three Delights (shrimp, beef and chicken with vegetables); and Chicken with Garlic and Scallion Sauce. Full bar service is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Subs from Philly |
1820 East Sixth Street (Campbell and Sixth St) Tucson, AZ 85719 United States +1 520 882 4005 |
According to owner Keith McNesby, the best submarine sandwiches are made on the East Coast, and the best subs on the East Coast are from Philadelphia. Be that as it may, after 40 years, Keith has finally brought his family sub shop to the West, where it is being appreciated by a mostly young college crowd. Most prominently, the menu features the Irish sub, made famous by his grandmother in Philly. Other choices include regular sandwiches, tortilla wraps, and a variety of chicken dishes in the $4.50-$10 range. No alcoholic beverages are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
A Tucson culinary landmark |
311 North Court Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 622 1922 |
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 |
 Photo: Rick Donaldson |
 Photo: Gina Compitello |
 Photo: Cathy Roberts |
 Photo: tucsonzclub |
 Photo: Tim Perkins |
 Photo: Melia Shumaker |
|
Busy Downtown Mexican Spot |
354 S Main Ave Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 882 4145 http://www.elminutocafe.com |
It will almost always take more than "un minuto" to get a table at this busy downtown Mexican eatery, but people don't seem to mind waiting. The dining room is comfortable, colorful and convenient to all downtown venues. Its consistently good Sonoran-style Mexican food is a favorite with downtown workers and attendees at the Tucson Convention Center. The menu includes Tacos, Enchiladas, Burros, Chimichangas and the local favorite, Topopo salad. Everything is homemade and hearty. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Greg Fellin |
|
Downtowns funky 24 hour diner |
100 East Congress Street Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 623 7621 |
You never know who you'll be sitting next to at Grill, it could be a down-and-out slacker or it could be a senator. Maybe that's because it's open at all hours or maybe because it's an attraction in its own right. Just about everybody comes here. This is the kind of place where nobody thinks twice about ordering a bowl of Cap'n Crunch cereal and a beer for breakfast. Then you can stop in again at dinnertime for Smoked Salmon Pasta in a Shallot and Dill Cream Sauce. You'll also find those and everything in between. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Vietnamese family cooking |
2547 East Broadway Boulevard (At Broadway and Tucson boulevards) Tucson, AZ 85716 United States +1 520 319 8420 |
Stop at this small midtown restaurant, meet the Trang family, and have them cook an authentic Vietnamese meal for you suited just to your tastes. One of their favorites is the charbroiled pork or beef served on a rice noodle bowl ($6.95). Do not miss the excellent pho soups that the family is famous for. Mr. and Mrs. Trang will take every effort to make their customers happy; you will leave well-fed and with a new appreciation of Vietnamese hospitality. Beer and wine are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Cuban sandwiches on Congress |
210 East Congress Street Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 882 5140 |
Almost any time of the day, and any day of the week, you'll find folks congregating at this Congress Street cafe to enjoy a casual meal or just some friendly company. The great little spot has a laid-back feeling with an island-casual look and atmosphere. A few street-side tables make a great spots to people watch. Oven-fresh Cuban bread is piled with tasty meats, cheeses and veggies, and makes a satisfying lunch or afternoon snack. Salads and bagel sandwiches are also offered, and full bar service is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
A taste of the Andes |
254 East Congress Street Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 206 9385 |
Located at the center of downtown Tucson right across from the central bus terminal, Irene's offers authentic Peruvian food in an upbeat environment. It's a good place to come for breakfast and lunch after exploring the arts district, just have a drink at the bar, or to continue partying past midnight after Downtown Saturday Night is over. Exotic South American beverages and liquors are served in abundant quantities. The decor is simple, but effective: blue colors and no frills except some Peruviana. Your own attire should be casual, but colorful. Pork, chicken, and beef the Peruvian way, is usually served with peppers, onions, basmati rice, beans, and plantains. The Pudrin (Peruvian Bread Pudding), is delicious for dessert. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
|
Creative cuisine |
201 North Court Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 623 6024 |
Within the Old Town Artisans complex in the El Presidio District, this contemporary cafe presents an imaginative menu in attractive surroundings. Choose to dine in the slightly formal indoor space or go casual under the tree-shaded outdoor tables. Entrees run the gamut from deli sandwiches to a variety of pastas. Ribs, steaks and pastas are also offered. Lunches are mostly in the $7-9 range. A small wine list is offered ($20s-30s), and the owners also operate Two Micks, the lively bar across the way, where you'll find full bar service. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Stylish trattoria and wine bar |
222 South Church Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 884 9420 |
The historic Samaniego House is now home to one of the downtown area's most popular restaurants and meeting places. This attractive adobe building, part of La Placita Village and next to the Tucson Convention Center, is ideally located for business meals and pre-theater dining. What they call "simple Italian cooking" goes way beyond that humble description, with dinner selections like the Pane di Carne (veal and sirloin meatloaf), Pistachio-encrusted Lamb Chops and a New York Sirloin with Gorgonzola Brandy Butter. A well-chosen wine list offers by the glass pours and by-the-bottle bargains. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
|
The taste of Guatemala |
429 North Fourth Avenue Tucson, AZ 85705 United States +1 520 622 8207 |
It's chile rellenos, tamales, tostadas and burritos here! Except, this is Guatemalan instead of Mexican, meaning that most dishes are a little milder and served in a cream sauce with black beans and rice on the side. It's also very casual, nestled between bookstores and student cafes on funky Fourth Avenue. Outside seating is available on the shaded patio surrounded by statuettes spouting cool water, which makes dining at the Maya Quetzal a very pleasurable experience on hot Tucson summer nights. Central American imagery with images of volcanoes and Indian gods adorn the walls in bright colors. Try the chile relleno with walnuts and spinach and consider the rice-based horchata as a soft drink refreshment. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
To celebrate St. Patrick's Day |
247 North Fourth Avenue Tucson, AZ 85705 United States +1 520 623 8600 |
Here is the one and only truly Irish bar in Tucson (though there are others who claim to be). This is where you want to be on St. Patrick's Day. On all other days, it's a good place to start the bar-hopping that takes place at the many drinking establishments on Fourth Avenue. There is live music here Thursday, Friday and Saturdays. It is suggested you call ahead for details. The fare is simple but hearty, including sandwiches, pizza and hamburgers. And, yes, the supply of Guinness is abundant. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Arts, crafts and a beautiful courtyard |
186 North Meyer Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 623 6024 / +1 800 782 8072 http://www.oldtownartisans.com |
This is a place not to be missed when sightseeing in downtown Tucson. The old adobe structure in the historic Presidio district invites visitors to explore its shops, galleries and restaurants, or to just sit and relax in the wonderful courtyard shaded by palm trees. It's a kind of art shopping center catering to tourists eagerly looking for souvenirs from the Southwest; in fact, it offers everything from Navajo rugs to dried prickly pear jam. There is no admission fee. All stores and restaurants accept major credit cards. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: J Gregory Barnes |
 Photo: sillowet |