Discovering Exquisite Cuisine and Beverages in Tucson

In simple terms, Tucson is a haven of culinary delights. Its commitment to integrating local ingredients into its food scene earned it the title of a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, one of only two cities in the U.S. With a rich historical backdrop and stunning landscapes, the area offers a captivating and tranquil environment. The expansive vistas of the Sonoran Desert's warm browns and pinks, the majestic mountain ranges, and the iconic saguaro cacti encourage visitors to unwind and savor the moment.

Blending ancient Native American traditions with Mexican culinary influences—given Tucson's proximity, just 60 miles from the Mexican border—the unique cultural tapestry that led to its UNESCO recognition in 2017 also extends to its acclaimed wellness offerings. Wellness seekers flock to the region for its renowned spas, including the celebrated Canyon Ranch and the Oprah-endorsed Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa, both famed for their delicious, locally sourced dishes. The invigorating air, serene desert ambiance, and centuries-old Indigenous healing practices come together to create a setting perfectly crafted for rejuvenation, starting with the culinary experience.

Local Delicacies and Artisans

Upon exploring Tucson’s lively dining scene, you'll soon encounter some local specialties, particularly two standout ingredients. Prickly pear is a frequent star, featured in everything from refreshing margaritas to chimichurri sauce drizzled over savory meat dishes. Cactus paddles can also be enjoyed on their own, stuffed with cheese and eggs, or grilled with a splash of lemon.

Another Tucson favorite is carne seca (meaning “dried meat”), often prepared by drying it in the sun within simple cages just outside the restaurant. While Tucson is renowned for its Sonoran Desert setting, it also boasts a vibrant community of artisanal producers crafting a variety of local beers, wines, olive oils, traditional breads, flours, and cheeses.

Savory Dining in Downtown

Tucson leverages the restorative qualities of its landscape in its diverse culinary offerings across various neighborhoods. Downtown Tucson has emerged as a vibrant food hub, attracting patrons with its “desert to dish” philosophy.

The iconic El Charro Café (which also operates in Oro Valley, Ventana, and the Tucson airport), established in 1922, holds the title of the oldest Mexican restaurant in the U.S. still run by the same family. It’s famously credited with creating the beloved chimichanga. Furthermore, the eco-conscious sister restaurant Charro Steak & del Rey offers ranch-to-table dishes that range from delectable (and sustainably sourced) seafood to chicken and beef raised without hormones or antibiotics.

For outdoor dining year-round—where temperatures frequently hover in the upper 60s and low 70s, even in winter—consider LaCo, which features a wide variety of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options (imagine quinoa bowls with jackfruit and elote, also known as Mexican street corn) for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.

Mexican and Indigenous Flavors

Mexican cuisine is immensely popular in Tucson, where some neighborhoods boast over 75 percent Mexican residents. This popularity has given rise to the unofficial “Best 23 Miles of Mexican Food” tour, showcasing beloved dining spots. Highlights include Tucson’s Seis Kitchen, renowned for its unbeatable homemade tortillas and salsa, and 5 Points Market & Restaurant in South Tucson, which collaborates with local organic farms and artisans for its brunch, lunch, coffee, and dessert offerings. A great starting point is 12^th Avenue.

For a taste of Indigenous cuisine, visit downtown’s La Indita, where you can enjoy Mexican–Native American dishes, including their signature popover fry bread topped with beans, beef, and red chili, inspired by the Tohono O’Odham people of the Sonoran Desert. In South Tucson, don’t miss Café Santa Rosa, famous for its red or green chili popovers. This southwestern gem is also a breakfast hotspot, offering eight combination plates served with a homemade tortilla or popover, along with breakfast burros and weekend-only red or white menudo (a traditional Mexican dish made with tripe in chili broth).

When it comes to breakfast, Tucson offers a wealth of choices. Baja Café features southwestern classics like huevos rancheros topped with sauces made from the region’s famous Hatch green chilis. Nearby, Nook provides a lighter alternative amid the rich southwestern fare, showcasing items like its renowned Nourish Bowl, crafted with falafel, avocado, and a hard-boiled egg. This is just another reason to indulge in incredible flavors from morning to night in Tucson.