Best Restaurants in Tucson

There are over hundreds eateries in Tucson Arizona, and we haven’t even begun to sample them all. We have every reason to think that if you visit one of these establishments, you will have the same delightful experience that we and our friends and family had. However, your experience may differ due to a variety of factors beyond our control.

There’s a lot to discover in Tucson, from swanky hotel restaurants to family restaurants and some of the best Mexican fast food this side of the border. Here is a list of the best places to eat in the city to help you navigate dining out in the city.

Full Court Press

1636 N. Swan Rd., Ste. 151, Tucson, AZ 85712, 321-7989, FAX 321-7988, [email protected] Rachel Puchi, media specialist. Funded by Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Designed to implement and capture interventions resulting in a 10% reduction in teen tobacco use by the year 2000. Q-12

MiniMenus/MiniMenus, Inc.

5399 E. 29th St., Tucson, AZ 85711, Carolyn A. Golde, president. Pick up complimentary MiniMenu cards of Tucson’s finest restaurants, shopping, entertainment, attractions, visitor services from your hotel concierge/guest services desk, Visitors Center or Airport Information Center.

Passport

2222 E. Walnut St., Tucson, AZ 85706, 294-6579, William J. Bourassa, owner. A guide to restaurants and clubs that are patronized by visitors and Tucsonans. Also current events and other information of interest to tourists.

Tucson Gourmet

1350 N. Kolb Rd., Ste. 220, Tucson, AZ 85711, 721-1300, FAX 721-6300, www.oser.com/food [email protected] Jim Kerr. The definitive publication for lovers of fine dining. A free copy of the current issue is available at better restaurants, food and wine shops.

AMERICAN

Coco’s Bakery Restaurant

2990 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson, AZ 85719, 795-7494, John Kerrigan, district manager. Full-service, family-style restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Try our delicious pies, muffins, cookies or other products that are all baked fresh daily. M-13

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store(r)

8400 N. Cracker Barrel Dr., Tucson, AZ 85743; 579-1845, Doug Grinnell, general manager. Homestyle country cooking for breakfast, lunch, dinner & dessert, plus a nostalgic retail store featuring crafts, gifts, foods, collectibles & toys. Open Sun.-Thurs. 6 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 6 a.m.-11 p.m. E-20

Geronimoz Restaurant & Bar (in the Historic Geronimo Hotel)

800 E. University Blvd., #104, Tucson, AZ 85719, 623-1711, Phillip Giddings, general manager. Local favorite near University of Arizona main gate entrance, Marriott University Park. Regional American cuisine. Patio, late-night dining. Validated parking. Call for information/reservations. Groups welcome. M-11

Gus Balon’s Restaurant

6027 E. 22nd St., Tucson, AZ 85711, 747-7788, Frank Fling, manager. A Tucson tradition since 1965. Serving homemade bread, pies and sweet rolls. Home-cooked food. Fast, friendly service. Economically priced. Open Mon.-Sat. 7 a.m.-3 p.m. R-9

Hugo O’Conor’s Restaurant at The Manning House

450 W. Paseo Redondo, Tucson, AZ 85701, 770-0651, Colleen E. Concannon, CEO. Traditional American cuisine in a romantic historic mansion setting. Travel back in time when the ambiance of a grand fireplace/palatial atrium warmed this southwest landmark. K-11

Jonathan’s Tucson Cork

6320 E. Tanque Verde Rd., Tucson, AZ, 85715, 296-1631, FAX 296-0765, Michelle Hicks, marketing manager. Elegant dining in a casual southwest setting. Chef Jonathan Landeen presents steak, fresh seafood, ostrich and buffalo. Excellent wine list, espresso and homemade desserts.

Keaton’s Arizona Grill

4500 E. Speedway Blvd., Ste. 75, Tucson, AZ 85712-5322, 881-6588, FAX 881-6654, Mark Bianchi & Tom Firth, owners. American regional grill specializing in mesquite wood-fired fresh seafood, certified Angus steaks, innovative salads, pasta dishes. Full-service bar, microbrewery beers. Open daily 11 a.m. Reservations. Locations: Eastside, 6464 E. Tanque Verde Rd., 721-1299; Foothills Mall, 7401 N. La Cholla, 297-1999. S-12, I-19

Red Robin Restaurant Tucson Mall

4500 N. Oracle Rd., Ste. 155, Tucson, AZ 85705, 292-0888, FAX 888-8502, Gary Tomlinson. For lunch and dinner, friends and family flock to the Red Robin for gourmet burgers, fresh salads, pasta dishes, children’s menu and full bar. L-15

Saguaro Corners

3750 S. Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ 85730, 886-5424, FAX 733-0622, Frank Calvert, owner. Opposite Saguaro National Park East. Full menu. Lunch Tues.-Sat. noon-2:30 p.m., dinner 5-9:30 p.m., Sun. noon-9:30 p.m. Reservations advised. Major credit cards. X-8

Tohono Chul Tea Room

7366 N. Paseo del Norte, Tucson, AZ 85704, 797-1222, www.arizonaguide.com/tohonochul, Joan Donnelly, executive director. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea served in a desert setting with fountains, courtyard and garden patio. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Private parties 20-200. Full-service catering. K-19

Tucson Golden Corral

715 E. Wetmore Ave., Tucson, AZ 85719, 293-0088, FAX 293-0046, Quentin J. Cormell, managing partner. Buffet and steakhouse. Smoke-free casual dining featuring 200-item, all-you-can-eat buffet. Fresh fruits, salads and USDA choice steaks cut daily. Senior discounts, busses welcome. Other location: 4380 E. 22nd St., 512-0088. P-10, L-15

BAR & GRILL

Barrio

135 S. 6th Ave., Tucson, AZ 85701, 629-0191, Tess O’Shea & Ted Parks. Intimate bistro in heart of downtown. Contemporary little plates, greens, pastas, daily specials. Upbeat bar. Moments from theater, convention events. Lunch and dinner. Parking. L-10

Buddy’s Grill

4821 E. Grant Rd., Tucson, AZ 85715; 795-2226, www.metrorestaurants.com. A Tucson favorite! Featuring mesquite grilled seafood, steaks, ribs, fajitas, hamburgers. Homemade frozen custard, frozen yogurt. Full bar, wines by the glass. Major credit cards. Q-13

City Grill

6350 E. Tanque Verde Rd., Tucson, AZ 85715; 733-1111, www.metrorestaurants.com. Contemporary American cuisine. Fresh seafood, pasta, prime rib, signature desserts. Specialty: designer pizza from wood-fire! Extensive bar, wines by the glass. Major credit cards. S-12

El Mercado Grill & Bar

6366 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85710, 512-8282, FAX 512-8289, Richard Suskind, co-owner. Serving breakfast/lunch/dinner in true Tucson casual style. Fresh quality food prepared daily. Burgers, pastas, salad, house specialties. Full bar. Reservations for eight or more. 8 a.m.-9 p.m. daily.

Javelina Cantina

445 S. Alvernon Way, Tucson, AZ, 85711, 881-4200, Paul Jameson, manager. Home of 46-oz. Jumbo Margarita. Great food, tasty drinks and just plain fun with Friday Happy Hour. Spacious patio, bar games in Cantina atmosphere.

Mt. Lemmon Alpine Lodge

Village of Summerhaven, P.O. Box 789, Mt. Lemmon, AZ, 85619, 576-1644, FAX 576-1391, www.mtlemmon.com, Don Underhill, owner. Featuring homemade soups, chili, 1/2-lb hamburgers, sandwiches, desserts, along with cocktails and fine dining Fri./Sat. evenings in a rustic atmosphere. Rental rooms also available.

BARBECUE

Bobby Dean’s Hickory Bar-B-Que

3643 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson, AZ, 85719, 327-0720, FAX 327-3630, [email protected], Dan Routhier and Robert & Linda Mikles, owners. Southern style, slow-roasted, hickory-smoked barbecue, ribs, pulled pork, beef, chicken with a variety of side dishes. Unique daily specials. Reasonable prices/generous portions. Mon.-Thu., 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 10 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. noon-8 p.m.

CAFÉS

The Good Egg

7225 E. Speedway Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85710, 885-4838, FAX 885-4904, Frank Collins, owner. Cheerful atmosphere for Arizona’s best breakfast and lunch. Variety of delicious omelets, frittatas, pancakes, sandwiches, salads in a comfortable country-french atmosphere. Meeting space available. Daily 6:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. T-12

La Placita Village

110 S Church, Tucson, AZ, 85701, 623-2748, FAX 882-0538, [email protected] Catherine Rice, manager. History, beauty, ambiance and special events make La Placita Village a downtown destination featuring three restaurants, outdoor dining and more. Retail opening winter/spring, 1998/99.

Mt. Lemmon Cafe

P.O. Box 592, Mt. Lemmon, AZ 85619, 576-1234, Pam Rinella, owner. Pennsylvania Dutch (Berks County) cooking and baking on Mt. Lemmon in Summerhaven, next to the post office. We smoke our meats in our own smokehouse.

SundanSe Bakery Cafe & Juice Bar

621 N. 4th Ave., Tucson, AZ, 85705, 620-1699; Deborah Mechigian, owner. Tucson’s premier health-oriented restaurant offers a wonderful selection of vegetarian/non-vegetarian meals, fresh baked goods, award-winning desserts, live juice bar and smoothies. Open 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon.-Sat.

CAFETERIAS & BUFFETS

Furr’s Cafeteria

1095 W. St. Mary’s Rd., Tucson, AZ 85745, 624-1688, Todd Parke, food/beverage manager. Over 100 items prepared daily. Traditional home-cooked meals for lunch and dinner daily, weekend breakfasts. Fast-moving serving line, ample parking, friendly service. Buses welcome. Other locations: 5910 E. Broadway Blvd., 747-7881; 4329 N. Oracle Rd., 293-8550. K-15, R-10, K-11

Luby’s at The Tucson Mall

4500 N. Oracle Rd., Tucson, AZ 85705, 293-0202, FAX 293-8760, Lloyd Nichols, manager. We offer homestyle meals made from scratch. Our dining room is available daily for private breakfasts for as many as 275 people. L-15

Luby’s Cafeteria

7140 E. Rosewood, Tucson, AZ 85710, 290-9086, FAX 290-0620, Paul Andow, manager. 12-14 entrees, 12-15 vegetables, more than 20 chilled salads, fresh baked breads, 18-20 desserts. Prepared fresh on-site, everyday. Carry-out available. Buses welcomed. T-11

Sweet Tomatoes

6202 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85711, 747-4137, 619-675-1616; Lesa Pickinpaugh. All you care to eat salads, made from scratch soups and muffins, hot pasta, Pizza Focaccia, a yogurt bar with toppings, and so much more! Other location: 4420 N. Stone Ave., 293-3343. R-10

CHINESE

Dragon’s View Restaurant

400 N. Bonita Ave., Tucson, AZ 85745, 792-3811, FAX 792-9813, Harry Gee, manager. Tucson Mountains back drop. Chinese cuisine. Relaxed atmosphere. Lunch, dinner daily, Sunday brunch. Banquet facilities. Carry-out. Off I-10, exit St. Mary’s Rd. or Congress St. K-11

Firecracker

2990 N. Swan Rd., Tucson, AZ 85712; 318-1118, www.metrorestaurants.com. Tucson’s Asian-American bistro featuring Pacific Rim cuisine. Enjoy wok-charred fresh salmon, grilled five-spice breast of duck, Asian-style appetizers, entree salads, Chinese stir-fry dishes. Reservations. Q-13

Lotus Garden Chinese Restaurant

5975 E. Speedway Blvd., Tucson, AZ, 85712, 298-3351, FAX 298-3352, [email protected], Darryl K. Wong, owner. Family-owned/operated, Chinese cuisine from Szechwan and Canton provinces. Pleasant patio or indoor dining and full bar. Take-out and banquet facilities available. Sun.-Thur. 11:30 a.m.-11 pm., Fri. and Sat. 11:30 a.m.-midnight.

COFFEE HOUSES

Coffee Etc.

2830 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson, AZ 85719, 881-8070, Michael Hayden, director of operations. 200-seat cafe in a village setting, serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and banquets. Surrounded by our gift shop, clothing store and gourmet coffee roasting facility.

Starbucks Coffee Company

2240 33rd St., Sacramento, CA, 95817, 888-796-5282 ext. 1307, www.starbucks.com [email protected] Jeff Davis, marketing manager. Offering specialty coffee beverages, pastries, whole bean coffees, tea, espresso machines and a variety of gifts. Locations : Starbucks Grant & Swan, 4811 E. Grant Rd., 325-8669; Starbucks River & Stone, 92 W. River Rd., 408-2292; Starbucks Ina & Oracle, 7151 N. Oracle Rd., 219-4880; Starbucks University of Arizona, 802 E. University Blvd., 620-9344; Starbucks Swan & Sunrise (opening fall, 1999).

Summerhaven Coffee House

CONTINENTAL

The Alps

6761 E. Tanque Verde Rd., Tucson, AZ, 85715, 298-2233, FAX 298-5211, Brigitte Machler, vice president. Opening October 1999. “The Heart of Europe” with its famous cuisines. Traditional delicious menus in a warm, relaxing atmosphere. Lunch and dinner. Swiss chef/owner. Closed Mon.

Cactus Rose Restaurant

445 S. Alvernon Way, Tucson, AZ, 85711, 881-4200, Eric Peek, assistant manager. Experience culinary mastery in colorful, casually elegant decor. Award-winning continental cuisine, prepared with Southwestern flare. Fine wines and outstanding service. Tucson’s #1 Sunday Brunch, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Cielos at Lodge on the Desert

306 N. Alvernon Way, Tucson, AZ, 85711, 325-3366, 800-456-5634, FAX 327-5834, www.lodgeonthedesert.com, [email protected] Gloria Carmichael, general manager. An elegant but comfortable eatery which has drawn raves for its Continental/French cuisine. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Patio dining available.

EAST INDIAN

Cuisine of India

6751 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85710, 296-8585, [email protected] Jas Khangura, owner. Arizona’s first East Indian restaurant and bar. Voted best of Tucson, 1987 to 1997. Tandoori dishes, vegetarian, non-vegetarian and Indian seafood dishes.

GERMAN

Millie’s West Pancake Haus

6530 E. Tanque Verde Rd., Tucson, AZ 85715, 298-4250, Beverly Whitmer, owner. Belgian waffles, Bohemian pancakes, Russian blintzes, smierkase and apple butter on homemade bread. Sandwiches, salads, soups and desserts. Tues.-Mon. 6:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Breakfast and lunch. Other location : 7053 N. Oracle Rd., 797-8997.

Mountain View Restaurant

1220 E. Prince Rd., Tucson, AZ, 85719, (928)293-0375, Laddie Kletechka, owner. Featuring home-cooked German, Czech and American meals and family-style service for groups up to 100 people. Banquet facilities, full-service bar. Open daily, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

GOURMET

Daniel’s Restaurant St. Philip’s Plaza

4340 N. Campbell Ave., Ste. 107, Tucson, AZ 85718, 742-3200, FAX 529-1907, www.ibs-net.com/daniels/, Jeffrey Fuld, proprietor. Chef’s daily/seasonal menus include fresh fish, pastas, veal, lamb. Mouth-watering desserts. Phenomenal selection of wines, liquors. Intimate dining rooms/lovely patio. Private groups. Catering. Reservations suggested.

Elle, A Wine Country Restaurant

3048 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson, AZ, 85716, 327-0500, FAX 327-2353, Todd Bernhard, owner. Wine country cuisine matches with tempting wines. Private dining rooms available for meetings, lunch, dinners or receptions.

Janos Restaurant

3770 E. Sunrise Dr., Tucson, AZ 85718, 615-6100, FAX 623-4172, [email protected] , http://desert.net/nexus/janos/home/ Janos Wilder, owner/executive chef. Extraordinary French-inspired Southwestern cuisine in contemporary Southwestern building. Phenomenal views of Tucson. Award-winning wine list. Reservations suggested Major credit cards. Mobil Four-Star Award/AAA 4-Diamond Award.

Metropolitan Grill

7892 N. Oracle Rd., Tucson, AZ 85704; 531-1212, www.metrorestaurants.com. Enjoy an upscale, comfortable, definitely metropolitan dining experience. Exhibition kitchen features rotisserie roasted prime rib, pork chops, chicken. Brick oven pizza, fresh seafood, pasta, extensive bar.

Scordato’s

4405 W. Speedway Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85745, 624-8946, FAX 792-9808, www.ibs-net.com/scordatos/index.htm; James Scordato, owner. For 25 years, serving fine continental and gourmet Italian cuisine. Specials include fresh veal and seafood. Featuring one of Arizona’s most extensive wine lists.

The Tack Room

7300 E. Vactor Ranch Trail (1/4 mile north of Tanque Verde Rd. on Sabino Canyon Rd.), Tucson, AZ 85715-3298, 722-2800, FAX 296-0464, http://emol.org/emol/thetackroom/ [email protected] Richard Tyler, general manager. Arizona’s only AAA Five-Diamond independent restaurant. Extensive wine cellar. In old, family-owned, Southwestern adobe hacienda. Locally popular. Dinner. Reservations advised. Major credit cards.

GREEK

The Olive Tree Restaurant

7000 E. Tanque Verde Rd., Tucson, AZ, 85715, 298-1845, FAX 298-1846, John Condiss, owner. Finest in Greek specialties. Fresh broiled fish, spring lamb, moussaka, spanakotyropita. Extensive wine list, full-service bar. Intimate atmosphere, seasonal courtyard dining. Banquet room, catering.

ITALIAN

Caruso’s

434 N. Fourth Ave., Tucson, AZ 85705, 624-5765, Sal Zagona, owner/manager. Three generations of Zagona family serving fine Italian food for over 50 years, a Tucson tradition. Featuring lasagna, homemade ravioli, spaghetti, other favorites. Open 4:30 p.m.

Larocca’s

5689 N. Swan Rd., Tucson, AZ, 85718, 299-4301, FAX 299-7878 www.laroccasitalian.com Ralph Larocca, owner. Homemade specialities include linguini with clam sauce, gnocchi, veal marsala, gourmet pizzas, cannoli, cheesecakes, tiramisu. Fridays, cioppino and mussels. Full bar, wine list. Open daily 5:30-10 p.m.

Lume Trattoria and Wine Bar

110 S. Church Ave., Tucson, AZ, 85701, 884-9420, FAX 622-4270, Grace A. Johnson, director of marketing. Located in the historic Samaniego House, Lume combines downtown style with delicious, simple Italian cooking. Patio dining, full bar, catering available. Lunch and dinner only.

Michelangelo Ristorante Italiano

420 W. Magee, Tucson, AZ 85704, 297-5775, Giuseppe, Assunta, Vince & Frank Ali, owners. The Damiano Ali family offers the ultimate in regional Italian cuisine, featuring daily specials, fresh fish, homemade pasta, gracious hospitality, extensive wine list, gourmet desserts.

Romano’s Macaroni Grill

5100 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85711, 790-0177, FAX 790-0173, Reneé Mayo, manager. Specializing in Northern and Southern Italian cuisine. White and red sauces, seafood, pasta, specialty appetizers, desserts. Families and large groups welcome. Casual dining, moderately priced.

JAPANESE

Sachiko Sushi

1101 N. Wilmot Rd., Ste. 109, Tucson, AZ 85712, 886-7000, Tomio Ishii, owner. Delicious and healthy Japanese food. Fresh fish delivered daily. The best sushi in town. Lunch and dinner specials. Reasonable prices.

Sakura Teppan Steak & Sushi

6534 E. Tanque Verde Rd., Tucson, AZ 85715, 298-7777, Kwang & Christina Ahn, owners. Enjoy dining in elegant decor. Lunch specials, cocktail lounge, banquet facilities, catering, take-out. P.A. system available. Visitors, convention delegates welcome. American Express, MasterCard, Visa.

Yuki Sushi & Japanese Restaurant

7153 E. Tanque Verde Rd., Tucson, AZ, 85715, 546-9854, Leona Watabe, owner.

MALAYSIAN

Seri Melaka

6133 E. Broadway Blvd. (at Wilmot Rd.), Tucson, AZ 85711, 747-7811, FAX 790-2707, Chris Yap, owner. Treat yourself to authentic Malaysian cuisine and scrumptious Chinese dishes. Served in plentiful portions at very affordable prices.

MEXICAN

Cafe Poca Cosa

88 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85701, 622-6400, Suzana Davila, owner. Cuisine from across Mexico. daily changing menu. Mole sauces, unusual preparations. Broadway location serves lunch, dinner Mon.-Sat., Scott location for breakfast, lunch weekdays. MasterCard, Visa. Other location : 20 S. Scott Ave.

Carlos Murphy’s

419 W. Congress St., Tucson, AZ 85701, 628-1958. Mexican dining in downtown historic train depot. Including appetizers, burgers, fish tacos. Happy hour Mon.-Fri. 4-7 p.m. Nine TVs, two satellites, NTN trivia.

El Burrito Mexican Restaurant & Catering

10420 N. La Canada, Oro Valley, AZ, 85737, 797-6554, Michaele Ann Melton, owner. Other location : 3930 W. Ina Rd., 744-2225.

El Charro Mexican Cafe, Gifts, Bar, ¡Toma!

311 N. Court Ave., Tucson, AZ 85701, 622-1922, FAX 628-4188,www.arizonaguide.com/elcharro/, [email protected], Chef Carlotta Flores, owner. Oldest family-operated Mexican restaurant in the USA. USA Today: “One of country’s five best..” Late-night shopping and cantina. All locations open daily. Other locations: El Mercado, 6310 E. Broadway Blvd., 745-1922. International Airport, 7250 S. Tucson Blvd., 573-8222.

El Minuto Cafe

354 S. Main Ave., Tucson, AZ 85701, 882-4145, Teresa Shaar, manager. Homemade Sonoran-style food in a charming Southwestern atmosphere. Conveniently located across from the Tucson Convention Center. 11 a.m.-1 a.m. daily. MasterCard and Visa accepted. Other location : 8 N. Kolb Rd., 290-9591

El Saguarito

7216 N. Oracle Rd., Tucson, AZ 85704, 297-1264, Albert Vasquez, owner. Ola Canola! Family-owned by native Tucsonans. The healthy Mexican food alternative. Sonoran-style cooking. Vegetarian, low-fat. Complete non-smoking environment. Patio dining. You’ll love our margaritas.

Guillermo’s Double L Restaurant

1830 S. Fourth Ave., Tucson, AZ 85713, 792-1585, Bill Ford, owner. Fine Sonoran-style Mexican food under same ownership since 1948. Extensive menu. Full beverage service. Hand-mixed margaritas. Visitors and conventions welcome. Extensive carry-out.

Karichimaka Restaurant

5252 S. Mission Rd., Tucson, AZ 85746, 883-0311, Mary Ann Lopez, president. Same location since 1949. Serving Sonoran-style Mexican food. Home of the Cucurucho, specialty of the house. Beer, wine and wine cocktails.

La Fuente Restaurant

1749 N. Oracle Rd., Tucson, AZ 85705, 623-8659, FAX 623-6188, Frank Davis, co-owner. Fine Mexican cuisine. Mariachi music nightly, parties and catering. Minutes from the University of Arizona, Tucson Convention Center. Lunch, dinner. Reservations advised. Major credit cards.

Las Margaritas

3602 E. Grant Rd., Tucson, AZ 85716, 323-9880, Christina Hall, owner/manager. Sonoran-style Mexican cuisine. Specialties of the house range from appetizers to complete dinner entrees complemented by refreshing margaritas in a relaxed atmosphere. Other location : 6011 N. Oracle Rd., 297-8341.

Macayo Tucson del Este

7040 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85710, 722-8090, FAX 722-9768, [email protected] Vince Divarco, general manager. Authentic Mexican Sonoran cuisine, including famous margaritas. Beautiful decor and exciting recipes. Major credit cards accepted. Banquet facilities. Call for reservations. Other location : Macayo Tucson del Norte, 7360 N. Oracle Rd., 742-2141.

MICROBREWERIES

Dark Mountain Brewery/R.W. Webb Winery

13605 E. Benson Hwy., Vail, AZ 85641, 762-5777, FAX 762-5898. Only 20 minutes from Tucson. Handcrafted beers/premium wines. Only micro brewery/winery in Arizona. Tours, tastings daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. noon-5 p.m. I-10 east, exit 279 N. Frontage Rd., 1.4 miles east.

Gentle Ben’s Brewing Co.

865 E. University Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85719, 624-4177, FAX 884-9776, Jane McClarren, office manager. Tucson’s original brewery, one block west of University of Arizona. Serving lunch/dinner; spacious outside seating. This landmark serves Arizona’s best beers, complemented by great food. M-11

Thunder Canyon Brewery Foothills Mall

7401 N. La Cholla Blvd., #178, Tucson, AZ 85741, 797-2652, FAX 797-2589; Roxane Nielsen, owner. Tucson’s premier restaurant/brewery featuring eclectic menu, outside patio dining and handcrafted beers from national award-winning Brewmaster, John Nielsen. Lunch/dinner, premium liquor selection, daily happy hour. I-19

Ye Olde Lantern

1800 N. Oracle Rd., Tucson, AZ, 85705, 622-6761, FAX 622-0452, Robert L. Hawes, proprietor. A Tucson favorite since 1924. Open for lunch/dinner daily. Comfortable restaurant/lounge featuring mesquite-broiled steaks, prime rib and popular seafood salad bar. Meeting space, live entertainment. K-12

NIGHTCLUBS

Sunset Strip

3650 E. Speedway Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85716, 323-8985, FAX 323-6316, [email protected]. Tucson’s newest and classiest gentlemen’s showclub featuring continuous entertainment with Southern Arizona’s loveliest women. Full bar, billiards, food and all sporting events. 11 a.m.-1 a.m. daily. O-11

TD’s Showclubs East & West

5822 E. Speedway Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85712, 790-7307, Marc Fagan, general manager. The Southwest’s premier gentleman’s showclubs with 200 of the finest ladies, the best service staff and a VIP room. Great food menu. Open 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Other location: TD’s West, 749 W. Miracle Mile, 882-0650.

Ten’s Nightclub

5120 E. Speedway Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85712, 325-8367, FAX 327-9648, Jeff McClelland, general manager. Tucson’s premier adult showclub featuring 200 exotic dancers, from 11 am.- 1 a.m. daily. Feature entertainers weekly, fine food, sports events. A totally sensual experience. Q-12

PIZZA

Domino’s Pizza

4937 E. Fifth St., Tucson, AZ 85711, 323-3500, Julie Dyer, director of marketing. Makes custom-ordered pizzas, salads, Buffalo wings and breadsticks. Delivers to most Tucson hotels and motels. 21 locations. Q-11

Luigi’s Pizza

7782 E. Speedway Blvd., Tucson, AZ, 85710, 885-8580, John Caccitolo, owner. Chicago thin crust at its finest! Family-owned, originating in Chicago since the 50s. Featuring calzones, spaghetti, salads, sausage, meatball and Chicago beef sandwiches. Open daily.

Magpies Gourmet Pizza, Inc.

605 N. Fourth Ave., Tucson, AZ 85705, 628-1661, FAX 798-3117, Ute Gascho, operations manager. Voted Tucson’s best pizza for quality/service/value, nine years straight! Fresh, homemade, hand tossed. Delicious toppings, beautiful crusts, special sauces. Take & bake/pick-up/delivery/dine-in. Beer & wine patio. Other locations: Speedway/Swan, 795-5977; Ina/Oracle, 297-2712; Broadway/Pantano, 751-9949. M-11

Peter Piper Pizza

6049 E. Grant Rd., Tucson, AZ 85712-2317, 296-9396, FAX 296-9145; Kathryn Baxla, public relations/promotions. Delicious pizza made with the freshest ingredients at the lowest prices. Family entertainment featuring games, kiddy rides and birthday parties. We accommodate any size group.

Peter Piper Pizza

4167 N. Oracle Rd., 888-5520; 4112 E. 22nd St., 790-4232; 3780 W. Ina Rd., 744-1111; 3717 S. 12th Ave., 624-1111; 432 W. Valencia Rd., 889-0600; 1505 W. St. Mary’s Rd., 624-7475; 7119 E. Broadway Blvd., 886-5566; 2989 E. Grant Rd., 326-6200; 466 N. Grand Court Plaza Dr., Nogales, 287-6511. J-11, Q-13, T-11, K-15, P-10

SEAFOOD

Fuego Restaurant, Bar & Grill

6958 E. Tanque Verde Rd., Tucson, AZ 85715, 886-1745, FAX 886-6084, www.arizonaguide.com/fuego Alan Zeman, owner. Chef Alan Zeman’s bold, innovative cuisine. Oyster bar, seafood, ostrich and mesquite grill. Unique wine and microbrewery selections. Party room, patio, happy hour and dinner. S-12

Kingfisher Bar & Grill

2564 E. Grant Rd., Tucson, AZ 85716, 323-7739, John Burke & Tim Ivankovich, owners and Jeff Azersky & James Murphy, chef/owners. American regional restaurant specializing in seafood. We feature rotisserie meats, poultry and a full-service raw bar. Extensive wine-by-the-glass. Lunch, dinner, late-night.

Solarium

6444 E. Tanque Verde Rd., Tucson, AZ 85715, 886-8186, Frank Wood & Bill Mac Morran, owners. Specializes in seafood. Also, steak, prime rib, chicken. Wood, glass, greenery ambiance. Beautiful patio, lounge. Banquet and catering available. Lunch Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Dinner from 5 p.m. S-12

SOUTHWESTERN

Cafe Terra Cotta

4310 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson, AZ 85718, 577-8100, FAX 577-9015, www.cafeterracotta.com, Don Luria & Donna Nordin, owners. Contemporary Southwestern cuisine in a creative, casual atmosphere. Innovative, flavorful lunches and dinners served daily. Award-winning California and private label wine list. Patio dining. N-15

Cottonwood Cafe

60 N. Alvernon Way, Tucson, AZ 85711, 326-6000, FAX 881-7412. Newly-renovated hacienda. 3 dining rooms, full-service bar/cafe, patio. Open-grill preparation of meats, chicken, fresh fish. Innovative herbs, spices. Pasta, vegetarian dishes. Cottonwood Club. entertainment 6 nights; jazz/dancing. P-11

Old Town Artisans/La Cocina, The Restaurant in Historic Old Town

201 N. Court, Tucson, AZ 85701, 622-0351, 800-782-8072, FAX 622-0494, http://www.oldtownartisans.com, [email protected] Terry Moore, general manager. 1850s adobe in historic district. Largest collection of local, regional, Native American arts. Southwest foods, clothing. Open daily. Major credit cards. Climate-controlled indoor, courtyard dining. L-11

SPORTS BARS

Hooters

6335 E. Tanque Verde Rd., Tucson, AZ 85715, 722-8500, FAX 722-0375, www.gomeals.com/?hooterstucson, Chris Kratsas, general manager. Delightfully tacky, yet unrefined Hooters offers patio dining on the eastside. Enjoy fresh oysters, shrimp, burgers and the nearly world-famous chicken wings. S-12

Trophies Sheraton Tucson, Hotel & Suites

5151 E. Grant Rd., Tucson, AZ 85748; 323-6262. Tucson’s ultimate sports cafe. Big screen and 10 other monitors for all sports. Pool tables, darts, great pizzas, sandwiches, soups, grande cocktails, variety of beers. Q-13

STEAKHOUSES

Hidden Valley Inn

4825 N. Sabino Canyon Rd., Tucson, AZ, 85750, 299-4941, FAX 299-4009, Diane Wolford, general manager. Western dining, live music. Mesquite-broiled steaks, prime ribs, seafood. Lunch 11 a.m., dinner 4:30 p.m. From $8.95. Banquet facilities up to 250. Off-premise catering. MasterCard, Visa. T16

Li’l Abner’s Steakhouse

8500 N. Silverbell Rd., Tucson, AZ 85743, 744-2800, David Hoffman, owner. Historic mesquite steakhouse serving steak, chicken, ribs, fish. Rated best in Arizona. Indoors, outdoors. Open daily 5 p.m. Western band and dancing Fri.-Sat. Major credit cards. C-20

McMahon’s Steakhouse

2959 N. Swan Rd., Tucson, AZ 85712; 327-7463, www.metrorestaurants.com. A premier Tucson steakhouse featuring U.S.D.A. prime aged beef, Australian lobster tails and Alaskan king crab legs. Piano bar, cigar-friendly bar. Dinner only, reservations requested. P-13

Pack Em Inn Steakhouse

22 W. Drachman, Tucson, AZ 85705, 624-5956, FAX 624-1530, Lorraine Valenzuela, owner. A family restaurant for over 30 years. Serving down-home traditional steaks, fresh seafood, chicken, ribs. Experience our mouth-watering prime rib Thur.-Sun. Casual dining.

Pinnacle Peak Steakhouse

6541 E. Tanque Verde Rd., Tucson, AZ 85715, 886-5012, FAX 298-3614, Peggy Kuhn, director of sales/marketing. Mesquite-broiled cowboy steaks, chicken, ribs, fish, full bar. groups up to 80. Daily 5-10 p.m. Major credit cards. Savoy Opera House in Trail Dust Town; groups 50-500. S-12

Texas T-Bone

8981 E. Tanque Verde Rd., Tucson, AZ 85749, 760-8599, FAX 760-1287; J. Chick, owner. Country-style steakhouse where families gather. We’re famous for our T-Bone steaks, the best tasting steak around. At Texas T-Bone, quality and service are everything!

WESTERN

Triple C Chuckwagon Suppers

8900 W. Bopp Rd., Tucson, AZ 85746, 883-2333, 800-446-1798; William Camp, director of sales/marketing. Hearty chuckwagon supper and Western stage show, featuring the world-famous Sons of the Pioneers, all held inside. Late Dec.-Apr. Reservations requested. Major credit cards. A-8

Tucson Dining Guide – Best Tucson Restaurants