Looking for Central Tucson restaurants, bars, and cafes?
Here’s our map with Stone Avenue as the western border, Wetmore Road as the northern border, Swan Road as the eastern border, and Broadway Boulevard as the southern border.
Since downtown, Fourth Avenue, and the University of Arizona already have their own respective area guides, those restaurants are excluded from this list.
If you are experiencing issues with the map above, click here to visit the map directly.
We’re not featuring every restaurant from the map above (…yet), but here are some of the notable Central Tucson restaurants that we’ve already featured in the past.
Grilled Pear & Radicchio at Tito & Pep (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Even though this restaurant has been open for only a year, it quickly became a Tucson Foodie favorite. Visit for the modern cuisine with a Tucson flair.
Read our November 2019 article Fancy these 9 photos of Tito & Pep’s new fall dishes.
For more information, visit titoandpep.com.
Assorted dishes at Feast (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Feast changes their menu every single month. Wine Enthusiast also named them one of America’s best wine restaurants. Visit one of their regular wine tastings for a peek at their well-curated selection.
Read our June 2019 article Wine Enthusiast’s 100 best wine restaurants in America features Tucson’s Feast.
For more information, visit eatatfeast.com.
Fresco Pizzeria & Pastaria (Credit: Taylor Noel Photography)
Not your average pizzeria, Fresco makes their own bacon and sausages from scratch in house. They also feature 16 craft beers on tap.
Read our August 2017 article Fresco’s House-made Meats Continue to Steal the Show.
For more information, visit frescopizzeria.com.
Snickerdoodle Pancake, Shelby Benedict, and Pecan Roll Pancake at Baja Cafe (Credit: Jackie Tran)
The Snickerdoodle Pancake is the popular favorite but creative specials for both pancakes and Benedicts are introduced regularly. If it’s your first time visiting, let them know for a special treat.
Read our January 2019 article Brunch must-have of the week: Snickerdoodle Pancake.
For more information, visit bajacafetucson.com.
Spicy Miso Ramen at Raijin Ramen (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Since opening in early 2018, Raijin has sustained a loyal following of ramen fans. They also keep things fresh with seasonal ramen specialties.
Read our January 2018 article Raijin Ramen to Open January 23 in Former Saga Sushi.
Keep up with Raijin Ramen on Facebook.
Burger, fries, and milkshake at Graze Premium Burgers (Credit: Taylor Noel Photography)
Don’t overlook this restaurant just because it is fast food. It’s local and it serves some of the best burgers and fries in town for an affordable price; they have both the technique and the quality ingredients down.
Read our August 2014 article Graze Premium Burgers & Fresh Cut Fries Now Open.
For more information, visit grazepremiumburgers.com.
Assorted items at Prep & Pastry (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Prep & Pastry has the whole package down with a fun vibe, wide selection of mimosas, and assorted dishes and pastries you’ll find yourselves craving by dinner time.
Read our December 2019 article Visual guide to the baked treats at popular brunch restaurant Prep & Pastry.
For more information, visit prepandpastry.com.
Hot Wings at Rocco’s Little Chicago Pizzeria (Credit: Jackie Tran)
A Tucson institution, Rocco’s has gained national fame with its witty daily changing street sign. Locally, they’re known for their pizza and some of the best wings in town.
Read our December 2016 article Keeping It Real with Rocco’s Little Chicago Pizzeria.
For more information, visit roccoslittlechicago.com.
Assorted food at Kimchi Time (Credit: Jackie Tran)
One of Tucson’s Korean staples, Kimchi Time offers the popular Korean classics along with hearty soups and stews.
Read our November 2019 article Korean favorite Kimchi Time bold and flavorful, expansion in the works.
Keep up with Kimchi Time on Instagram.
Vegan Za Zucca pizza at Falora (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Falora serves Neapolitan-inspired pizza in a sleek, sexy environment. While the Za Zucca pizza isn’t traditional Neapolitan, it’s easily one of the best vegan pizzas available. Also, check out their cousin cocktail bar Sidecar a few doors north.
Read our May 2019 article Meatless Monday: Za Zucca Pizza.
For more information, visit falora.com.
Sizzling Garlic noodles at Noodleholics (Credit: Jackie Tran)
A staff favorite, Noodleholics excels with the eponymous noodles in a Chinese fashion. However, their chicken wings and chili oil dumplings have also gained a cult following.
Read our April 2018 article New Chinese noodle shop “Noodleholics” to open on Grant Road.
For more information, visit noodleholics.com.
Thai Curry Shrimp at Dante’s Fire (Credit: Jackie Tran)
A restaurant industry late-night favorite with a kitchen open until 2 a.m. daily, Dante’s Fire features a wide array of adventurous options. Don’t miss out on the Thai Curry Shrimp with candied orange zest.
Read our April 2019 article Dante’s Fire’ s Ken Foy stoking new flames with fresh menu updates, new partner.
For more information, visit dantesfireaz.com.
Oysters and a martini at Kingfisher (Credit: Jackie Tran)
One of Tucson’s premier seafood restaurants, Kingfisher is the place to go for oysters. It’s also the place for no-fuss food with consistent execution.
Read our February 2019 article Kingfisher Still a Catch After 25 Years in Tucson.
For more information, visit kingfishertucson.com.
Oxtail Stew at D’s Island Grill JA (Credit: Taylor Noel Photography)
While D’s features some quirky Jamaican fusion dishes, the classics alone are worth the trip. Get the oxtail stew, jerk chicken, a cup of watermelon splash, and a cup of carrot pineapple juice.
Read our April 2017 article D’s Island Grill JA: Spicy Stews & Cooling Caribbean Refreshments.
For more information, visit dsislandgrill.com.
Eggs Provençal at Ghini’s French Caffe (Credit: Jackie Tran)
A longtime brunch staple, Ghini’s has served central Tucson since 1992. While they are most well-known for their brunch, check out their Friday and Saturday dinner menu for essentials such as Steak au Poivre.
Read our July 2018 article Celebrate 26 Years of Ghini’s French Caffe with these 10 French classics (SLIDESHOW).
For more information, visit ghiniscafe.com.
Roma Imports (Credit: Chelsey Wade)
Although Roma Imports features countless prepared foods to take home, they also feature pasta and superb sandwiches to enjoy while you’re there. Try not to come too hungry or you’ll empty your savings account.
Read our August 2018 article Roma Imports: Italian Charm Just South of Broadway.
For more information, visit romaimports.com.
BLT, Chicken Salad Sandwich, and Cabbage Salad with chicken at Rincon Market (Credit: Jackie Tran)
This ain’t your grandparents’ Rincon Market; now you can enjoy exceptional rotisserie chicken with some of the best darn schmaltzy roast potatoes this side of the Gila River. Also check out the sandwiches, salads, and Yuri’s special fish.
Read our February 2019 article Rincon Market’s Cheese Program Is Now Tucson’s Best.
For more information, visit rinconmarket.com.
Spinach Salad at Tumerico (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Even though Tumerico is a vegetarian and vegan restaurant, meat-eaters (including myself) flock in regularly to enjoy the fresh bountiful meals from the ever-changing blackboard menu. Free coffee helps, along with servers that will remember you even if they haven’t seen you in months.
Read our August 2019 article Tumerico charms locals with quality food & warm vibes (& free yoga).
For more information, visit tumerico.com.
Tandoori Chicken at Indian Twist (Credit: Jackie Tran)
A relative newcomer to Tucson’s Indian cuisine scene, Indian Twist features stand-out butter chicken. They also feature a chic dining room and bar.
Read our January 2019 article Indian Twist Restaurant Now Open in Former Twisted Tandoor Space.
For more information, visit indiantwistaz.com.
Interior at Le Rendez-vous (Credit: Jackie Tran)
While Le Rendez-vous is best known for their fancy French classics such as beef wellington and frog legs, check out their small plate menu and enjoy a tapas-style meal.
Read our July 2019 article With formal dining & a bistro, Le Rendez-vous makes French classics available to everyone.
For more information, visit rendezvoustucson.com.
New Jersey Joe Sandwich at August Rhodes Market (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Even though August Rhodes has only been open a few months, it quickly impressed the team with its artisanal bread and exceptional sandwiches. Even its brisket, part of the New Jersey Joe Sandwich, quickly proved itself as some of the best in town.
Read our August 2019 article PHOTO FEATURE: Sneak peek at August Rhodes Market, opening August 3.
Cherry Bomb at Blue Willow (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Open since 1978, Blue Willow has one of the best patios in town. The menu features American classics in a comfortable environment influenced by Julia Child and a touch of the Southwest. Don’t miss out on their desserts.
Read our January 2019 article Visit Historic Blue Willow Restaurant to taste Julia Child-inspired Cuisine.
For more information, visit bluewillowtucson.com.
Black Garlic Shrimp Poke Bowl at Yoshimatsu (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Yoshimatsu features one of the most comprehensive Japanese menus in Tucson, with rarities such as okonomiyaki. The lunch menu also features exclusive poke bowls and poke burritos.
Read our November 2018 article Appetizing Sushi Burritos & Cute Decor Draw You in at Yoshimatsu.
For more information, visit yoshimatsuaz.com.
Bun Bo Hue at Pho Can Tho (Credit: Jackie Tran)
While Pho Can Tho has the namesake pho on the menu, try the bun bo hue instead with spicy beef broth, rice noodles, pork hock, blood curd, cha lua, and sliced brisket.
Read our March 2018 article “Pho Can Tho” Vietnamese Restaurant Now Open in Former “Pho 88”.
Kafta Kebab Plate and Falafel Plate at Caravan Grill (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Located next door to its cousin spice market, Caravan Grill features Mediterranean cuisine executed well. Their shish tawook is among the juiciest chicken breast you can find in Tucson.
Read our February 2018 article Caravan Market’s new Caravan Grill a Mediterranean taste of home.
Keep up with Caravan Grill on Facebook.
Red cabbage special, Pizza Bianca, and Pizza Margherita at Anello (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Hidden in plain sight, Anello doesn’t even have a sign on their door. However, their pizza is world class. Also, make sure to order whatever the seasonal vegetable dish is. Afterwards, swing by neighbors The Royal Room or El Crisol for a craft cocktail and Tap & Bottle for a craft beer.
Read our October 2017 article Anello Pizzeria Open in Warehouse Arts District October 3.
Interior at Sher-e-Punjab (Credit: Jackie Tran)
A neighborhood favorite for Indian cuisine, Sher-e-Punjab recently renovated the restaurant with a sleek bar. They also now offer delivery.
Read our October 2018 article Newly renovated Sher-e-Punjab adds full bar, booths, contemporary ambience.
For more information, visit sher-e-punjabtucson.us.
Owner-chef Noboru Nakajima at Yamato Japanese Restaurant (Credit: Jackie Tran)
A sushi purist’s delight, Yamato offers exceptional nigiri sushi and sashimi. They also low-key feature one of the better tonkotsu ramen bowls in Tucson.
Read our September 2018 article I spent the last decade going to Yamato Japanese Restaurant for sushi.
Keep up with Yamato Japanese Restaurant on Facebook.
Hot pot at Potwhale (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Gather a group of four and share a hot pot at Potwhale. If you have the room in your belly, order some appetizers and noodle dishes as well.
Read our October 2019 article Newly opened “Potwhale” brings addictive Chinese hot pot back to Tucson.
Keep up with Pot Whale on Instagram.
El Ceviche Route at El Berraco (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Cousin restaurant to BK Tacos, El Berraco also features some of the best micheladas in town. Come enjoy the towering tostadas and try not to eat too much of the chips and salsa right off the bat.
Read our July 2019 article 5 spicy drinks in Tucson that’ll entice the tastebuds.
For more information, visit el-berraco.com.
View the map for our extensive Central Tucson restaurants list! Did we miss one of your favorites? Let us know in the comments.
Jackie is a food writer and photographer native to Tucson. He loves corgis and still thinks rickrolling is funny. If you’d like to stalk him, visit jackietran.com and his Instagram @jackie_tran_.
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10dec(dec 10)6:00 pm26(dec 26)10:00 pmWinterhaven Festival of Lights6:00 pm – 10:00 pm (26) Arizona Winterhaven
Once again, the annual Winterhaven Festival of Lights is lighting up midtown Tucson during 6 – 10 p.m. from Saturday, December 10 – Monday, December 26. Throughout the Festival of
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Once again, the annual Winterhaven Festival of Lights is lighting up midtown Tucson during 6 – 10 p.m. from Saturday, December 10 – Monday, December 26. Throughout the Festival of Lights, everyone’s encouraged to bring non-perishable food or monetary donations to the event for the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona.
Most needed items include:
10 (Saturday) 6:00 pm – 26 (Monday) 10:00 pm Arizona
Winterhaven
3334-3398 N. Christmas Ave.
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15decAll DayChristmas Market at Caps & Corks(All Day: thursday) Arizona Caps & Corks
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All Day (Thursday) Arizona
Caps & Corks
3830 W. River Rd. Suite 100
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16dec9:00 am1:00 pmHOLIDAYS AT THE MARKETS9:00 am – 1:00 pm Arizona
Get your local holiday shopping done at Heirloom Farmers Markets Holidays at the Markets event at the Green Valley Village Farmers & Artisans Market, Udall Park Farmers Market,
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(Friday) 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
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03jan5:45 pm6:45 pmSunset Yoga at Westbound5:45 pm – 6:45 pm Arizona Westbound
Join Westbound for relaxing sunset yoga every Tuesday at the MSA Annex. Cost: $10 includes the full session plus a draft drink (wine, beer, or cocktail) included.
Join Westbound for relaxing sunset yoga every Tuesday at the MSA Annex.
Cost: $10 includes the full session plus a draft drink (wine, beer, or cocktail) included.
(Tuesday) 5:45 pm – 6:45 pm Arizona
Westbound
267 S. Avenida del Convento #12
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03jan6:30 pm8:30 pmVeggie Monthly Dinner & Conversation at Lovin’ Spoonfuls6:30 pm – 8:30 pm Arizona Lovin' Spoonfuls Vegan Restaurant
Grab a delicious vegan meal and maybe make a new friend! Feel free to arrive between 6:30 and 7:00 pm. It is a casual dinner and conversation meetup, open to everyone
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Grab a delicious vegan meal and maybe make a new friend!
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The food is FANTASTIC! Lovin’ Spoonfuls is Tucson’s first all vegan restaurant, and vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores all rave about the food. If you have never tried it before, you are in for a treat! There are so many wonderful dishes on the menu that you could come to this event for years and never have the same dish twice!
Sometimes, if there is a large turn-out between the meetup and other patrons, there may not be enough seating in the restaurant. Because of that, we have to cap this event, so that also means RSVPs count. Don’t RSVP unless you are going, and if you later change your mind, change your RSVP to “no” so someone else can go. Abusing this by RVSPing “yes” and not showing can lead to a ban from other events in the future. Sorry to be strict, but it is necessary so everyone can benefit.
Finally, there may not always be a meetup host present for this event.
(Tuesday) 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm Arizona
Lovin' Spoonfuls Vegan Restaurant
2990 N. Campbell Ave. #120
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06jan5:00 pm9:00 pmBrewin at the Chul5:00 pm – 9:00 pm Arizona Tohono Chul Garden Bistro
Welcome to fall! Come enjoy Tohono Chul’s first-ever autumn series, Brewin at the Chul, located at The Garden Bistro! Join on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 to 9 p.m. October 1
Welcome to fall! Come enjoy Tohono Chul’s first-ever autumn series, Brewin at the Chul, located at The Garden Bistro!
Join on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 to 9 p.m. October 1 through November 26 for music, refreshing spirits, local brews, and a rotating menu of tasty bites.
Enjoy beers and brats, friends and fun at the Garden Bistro Fridays and Saturday nights. Check out the menu.
(Friday) 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm Arizona
Tohono Chul Garden Bistro
7366 N Paseo Del Norte
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