A Foodie’s Guide: Our Top 10 Favorite Restaurants in Tucson
Today we’re sharing our favorite restaurants in Tucson, Arizona. Tucson has such a large and vibrant food scene, it was ridiculously hard to narrow down the list but these are our go-to spots that have never disappointed. Whether you're a local or planning a visit, Tucson offers a vibrant culinary scene that's sure to satisfy any palate. From authentic Mexican cuisine to innovative American dishes, let's dive into these gastronomic gems!
Harvest Restaurant
Northwest / Oro Valley (La Cañada & Lambert): 10355 N La Cañada Dr, Tucson, AZ 85737
Nestled in the heart of Oro Valley, Harvest Restaurant combines a cozy atmosphere with farm-to-table freshness. The menu features seasonal ingredients sourced locally, ensuring each dish bursts with flavor. It’s our go-to spot when we’re craving a juicy, flavorful burger - we think they’ve got the best in town. They also have a cute patio that is cooled and heated in more extreme temps and open-air when its gorgeous out.
Favorite Dish: Chimichurri burger, medium rare, add bacon. The thick cut skin-on fries it comes with are so good, too. Don’t forget to order the bread and cherry butter for your app.
Frida Mexican Cuisine
Eastside (22nd St & Kolb Rd): 7230 E 22nd St, Tucson, AZ 85710
Named after the iconic Frida Kahlo, this restaurant celebrates traditional Mexican flavors with a modern twist. The vibrant decor and lively ambiance complement the authentic dishes. Go super early or be prepared for a long wait. They don’t take reservations. If you need to burn time while you’re waiting for your table, go to Arizona Beer House for a drink on the patio.
Favorite Dish: Mole Poblano – a rich, complex mole sauce served over tender chicken, a true homage to Mexican culinary heritage.
Guadalajara Original Grill
Northwest (Oracle Rd & Ina): 7360 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85704
Midtown (Prince Rd & First Ave): 1220 E Prince Rd, Tucson, AZ 85719
Step into Guadalajara Original Grill for a taste of Jalisco, Mexico. Some may say that the decor is overly enthusiastic and a bit of a tourist trap, but the tableside salsa cart and fresh made tortillas will have you swooning. This family-owned restaurant offers a diverse menu of traditional dishes and refreshing margaritas, all served with warm hospitality. The servings are large so plan to share your entree or you’ll have leftovers. And be careful to not eat too many chips and salsa so you still have room for the rest of your meal!
Favorite Dish: Carne Asada molcajete – grilled marinated steak served in a sizzling bowl of juices with all the fixings to make your own fajitas plus rice, beans, guacamole, and handmade tortillas. And don’t forget the queso fundido con chorizo as your appetizer.
Wild Garlic Grill
Foothills (Skyline Dr & Campbell Rd): 2870 E Skyline Dr Suite 120, Tucson, AZ 85718
Known for its intimate setting and French-inspired cuisine, Wild Garlic Grill is a hidden gem in Tucson and perfect for a date night or a more upscale celebratory or business dinner. Chef Steven Schultz has crafted an incredible menu that showcases culinary creativity with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. You’ll want a reservation and ask to sit on the patio as the acoustics are terrible inside. Plan for a slow, leisurely meal as the service can be slow but the food is worth the wait! Be prepared for a HUGE daily specials menu. Everything we’ve ever tried here has been spectacular.
Favorite Dish: Grilled Cabrilla Sea Bass – This sea bass is sourced from the Sea of Cortez, and is one of the few times we actually recommend ordering seafood in the desert!
Seis Kitchen
Original downtown at Mercado San Agustin: 130 S Avenida del Convento #100, Tucson, AZ 85745
Oro Valley (Oracle Rd & Linda Vista): 9740 N Oracle Rd, Oro Valley, AZ 85704
Foothills (River Rd & Campbell Rd): 1765 E River Rd #131, Tucson, AZ 85718
Locally owned and with 3 locations, Seis Kitchen offers a fusion of flavors from the six regions of Mexico. This casual eatery is perfect for enjoying tacos and other street food classics. The Oro Valley location has a cute little patio with views of Pusch Ridge. The Mercado San Agustin location is always super busy, order ahead online and then eat in the courtyard.
Favorite Dish(es): Nachos (the BEST in town!), Ensalada Rustica add Birria if you’re looking for a lovely bowl of greens, or the tacos grande.
Charro Vida
Northwest (Oracle Rd & Ina Rd): 7109 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85704
Charro Vida brings healthy Mexican cuisine to Tucson without sacrificing flavor. The vegan-forward menu features lighter options made with fresh, organic ingredients, perfect for health-conscious diners. But don’t worry, there are plenty of options for our carnivores. Truthfully, if we could eat like this every day, I’d have zero issues with being a vegan. It’s that good. Located in the Casas Adobes Plaza, they’ve got a cute patio with misters for dining al fresco but their interior is equally beautiful and they have a huge bar area, too.
Favorite Dish(es): Vida Brussels, Hola Hemp Mini Chimis, Taqueria Chopped salad add carne asada, and Three Sister Taco Plate with jackfruit carnitas. Don’t forget the chocolate churros for dessert - they’re outrageous (and maybe get an extra order to-go so you can enjoy them with your coffee the next morning!)
El Charro
Downtown (Court & Franklin): 311 N Court Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701 make a reservation!
Oro Valley (Oracle Rd & Ina): 7725 N Oracle Rd #101, Tucson, AZ 85704
Foothills/East (Sunrise & Kolb): 6910 E Sunrise Dr, Tucson, AZ 85750
Established in 1922, El Charro is America's oldest Mexican restaurant continuously operated by the same family. It's a Tucson institution known for its traditional Sonoran cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. Legend has it that the founder, Monica, also invented the chimichanga when she accidentally dropped a burrito in oil and yelled “chimichanga!”. With 3 locations, excellent Mexican food is never far!
Favorite Dish: Carne Seca – dried beef simmered with tomatoes, onions, and Anaheim peppers, served with flour tortillas. Don’t forget to order a cheese crisp for an appetizer - it's a Tucson classic!
Tohono Chul Garden Bistro
Northwest (Oracle Rd & Ina Rd): 7366 N Paseo Del Norte, Tucson, AZ 85704
Our favorite spot for brunch or lunch! Set within the stunning Tohono Chul Park, this bistro offers a tranquil dining experience surrounded by desert botanical gardens. Make sure to request to sit on the patio so you can watch the wildlife and soak in the desert scenery. The menu highlights local ingredients and seasonal flavors.
Favorite Dish: Sonoran Eggs Benedict – a southwestern spin on a breakfast classic! For a refreshing drink, try the prickly pear margarita or for a non-alcoholic spin, try the prickly pear lemonade; both are made with locally harvested prickly pear syrup.
Bata
Downtown: 35 E Toole Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701
Small plates made of fresh, seasonal ingredients and cooked in a Japanese style robata oven, the food and experience created by local chef Tyler Fenton is a masterpiece. Most ingredients are sourced within a 400 mile radius, an ode the Southwest. Downstairs you’ll find a charming, speakeasy type bar aptly named Barbata. Keep your eye on their Instagram page for updates on special dinner events.
Favorite Dish: The menu changes daily – be adventurous!
Reilly Craft Pizza & Drink
Downtown: 101 E Pennington St, Tucson, AZ 85701
Located in a historic building with a unique story, if you love thinner crust artisanal pizzas and a curated selection of craft beers, this is the spot. The industrial-chic decor and kitchen that is visible to the dining area adds to the lively atmosphere. Outside you’ll discover a beer garden and a speakeasy bar in the cellar.
Favorite Dish: Fig & Prosciutto Pizza – topped with fresh figs, prosciutto, arugula, and balsamic glaze, a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Bonus: Go on a Tucson Food Tour!
Get in your steps, learn about Tucson history, and taste food from a few favorite downtown restaurants! Locally owned by a firefighter and foodie fanatics, Tucson Food Tours is the original walking food tour and will take you on a 3 hour leisurely afternoon adventure.
Tucson’s culinary landscape is as diverse as it is delicious, with each of these restaurants offering a unique dining experience. Whether you're craving authentic Mexican flavors, innovative American dishes, or adventerous cuisine, Tucson has something to satisfy every foodie's appetite. So, what are you waiting for? Explore these top-notch eateries and let your taste buds embark on a flavorful journey through the Old Pueblo!