Best Restaurants in Tucson
Creative fusion makes Tucson a hot bed of innovative cooking and fun dining—surrounded by majestic giant saguaro cacti
With authentic steak houses, Mexican and Southwestern choices, you could spend weeks hopping from one restaurant to another without exhausting all the possibilities. Find your favorite among these restaurants in Tucson.
A Classic Tucson Steakhouse
When you've been in the restaurant business since 1939, it means you're doing something right, which explains why El Corral is still a local favorite after all these years. This family friendly Tucson icon has unique decor with a very old west feel, including a polished wooden bar, visible beams, stone walls and western art. This Tucson steak house is known for their prime rib, but their baby back ribs and steaks stand up to the test too. Enjoy a classic cocktail, such as their red sangria, wine or beer with your steak dinner.
An Authentic Mexican Establishment
For a taste of something south of the border, head to Tucson's oldest Mexican restaurant, El Charro Café, in downtown’s historic El Presidio area. Ask for a seat on the patio where you and your crew can dine in the bustling, festive outdoor atmosphere. At night, the patio is lit with strings of lights and filled with boisterous conversation. The restaurant was established in 1922 and is still run by the original family owners. They've since opened two other locations in the Tucson area, but for the authentic experience, head to the original location on North Court Avenue. Order up platters of appetizers and finger food to share, but save room for your entree, as El Charro never skimps on portions.
Fresh Daily at Cafe Poca Cosa
You won’t find a printed menu at Cafe Poca Cosa, but your server will bring a chalk board to your table with the day’s menu. The options, which change twice a day, are made with fresh ingredients. Despite the ever-changing menu, the servers are always ready to answer questions and make recommendations. Cafe Poca Cosa is a local favorite that fills up every day of the week. Call ahead to make a reservation. Prefer to take your chances? The expansive bar is the perfect spot to sample tequila or sip a glass of wine while you wait for your table.
Gluten-Free and Delicious
For a healthy, tasty meal made from scratch with locally sourced ingredients, Renee's Organic Oven is the place to go. "Eat Well Feel Good" is painted on the wall when you walk in to the cheery, brightly painted dining room. As you bite into a gluten-free pizza or hummus tostada plate, check out the other inspirational quotes on the walls like "Change Your Thoughts and Change Your World." Renee's Organic Oven serves a variety of gluten-free and vegan options as well as nitrate-free meat dishes. When it's not too hot, you can sit outside at one of the cafe tables and enjoy your meal as you recap your day in this painted desert town.
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