The 15 Best Places to Eat in Tucson Today

If you are planning to take your family out for dinner, you want to make sure that you are choosing the best place that suits your budget. If you are living in or visiting Tucson, Arizona, you are in luck, as there are plenty of food options available. From authentic Mexican cuisine to classic American dishes to excellent vegan restaurants, Tucson's culinary scene has something for everyone. As a result, we have compiled a list of the fifteen best places to eat in Tucson, taking into account factors such as food quality, ambiance, portion size, cost, and customer reviews.

1. Baja Café of Tucson

7002 E Broadway Blvd Suite A, 85710

There are two Baja Cafes located in Tucson that offer authentic Southwestern cuisine, including vegetarian and vegan options. Moreover, the restaurant has been featured on the Food Network, which has made it very popular among the locals and tourists alike. According to online reviews, these two cafes serve some of the best breakfast and brunch food in the city. However, reviewers also advise that the restaurant often has wait times due to its small size and popularity.

2. Bobo's Restaurant

2938 E Grant Road, Tucson, 85716

Bobo's Restaurant is a popular spot among locals, but it is only open for breakfast and lunch until 1 pm. The cozy atmosphere and reasonable prices make it a favorite among many online reviewers. They serve classic breakfast diner food such as omelets and French toast. However, due to its small size and popularity, this restaurant often has long wait times.

3. Chef Alisah

5931 N Oracle Road, 85704

Chef Alisah's, a Bosnian restaurant, was featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. The restaurant is known for its delicious stuffed cabbage, Bosnian sausages, and roasted lamb. It also has a casual atmosphere and is quite peaceful with no music playing in the background. Since the restaurant is BYOB, it is recommended that you bring a nice bottle of wine to enjoy with your meal. The portions at Chef Alisah's are huge, so expect to take home plenty of leftovers.

4. Guadalajara Original Grill

1220 E Prince Road, Tucson, 85719

With two locations in the city, Guadalajara Original Grill offers delicious and innovative Mexican food in a warm, colorful environment. There are plenty of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options to please everyone in the family. This restaurant is frequently rated as the number-one restaurant in Tucson. Reviewers praise the freshness and authenticity of the dishes.

5. JoJo's (formerly LaCo Tucson)

201 N Court Avenue, 85701

JoJo's Restaurant, formerly Laco Tuscon, has transformed into a restaurant that serves quick grilled food such as grilled chicken, vegetables, and homemade burgers. The restaurant offers three different menus throughout the day, including a dinner menu that focuses on shareable entrees. Moreover, JoJo's was recently recognized as the Best Outdoor Dining in the Best of Tucson.

6. La Olla Mexican Café

8553 N Silverbell Road, 85743

La Olla is a family-owned business that offers affordable, delicious Mexican dishes. In addition to the variety of menu offerings, La Olla also has a large kid's menu, sure to satisfy the family's pickiest eater. Reviewers praise the food portions and the excellent and consistent service.

7. Le Buzz

9121 E Tanque Verde Road Suite 125, 85749

Le Buzz has been operating for twenty-six years and now has two locations in Tucson. They specialize in serving healthy comfort food and excellent coffee drinks. At their Plaza Palomino location, they also offer local wines from Flying Leap Vineyards, rotating varieties of beer from local breweries, and hand-crafted cocktails. Moreover, their entrees feature cage-free eggs, chicken without antibiotics, and ham without nitrates.

The Little One

151 N Stone Avenue, 85701

Owned by the Davila family, The Little One restaurant offers breakfast and brunch options. Famously friendly, the owners have operated this restaurant in various locations since the 1980s. Moreover, the restaurant gives back to local charities in the community. The Little One is small, with only about twelve tables, but it is also quaint. Many reviewers suggest getting the horchata, a popular local favorite.

8. Polish Cottage

4520 E Broadway Boulevard, 85711

Offering lunch and dinner, the Polish Cottage offers traditional Polish fare such as handmade dumplings, sauerkraut and mushrooms, and stuffed cabbage. And, of course, Polish sausage and potato pancakes, too. Reviewers praise the authenticity of the food and the consistently good service, as well as the recent restaurant renovations.

9. Scordato's Pizzeria

4911 N Stone Ave Suite 55, 85704

Scordato's Pizzeria, originally Pizzeria Vivace, offers both pizza and authentic Italian dishes. They also receive praise from reviewers for their delicious gluten-free pizzas and pasta. They also offer a fifteen-dollar bento box for lunch that features an appetizer, entrée, and salad. However, many reviewers state that the appearance of the restaurant needs to be updated but emphasize the prices, portions, and quality of the food are good.

10. Trident Grill

2033 E Speedway Boulevard, 85719

Trident Grill is a restaurant chain in Tucson with four locations. The founder of the restaurants is a former Navy Seal who named them after the special insignia worn by Navy Seals. Additionally, the Trident Grill is known for supporting many charitable organizations, including military and sports charities, as well as animal shelters. The restaurant's specialty is East Coast seafood, with popular dishes such as shrimp, crab cakes, and clam chowder. In addition to seafood, the menu also features a pizza pub selection.

11. Tumerico

2526 E 6th Street, 85716

Tumerico is a vegan restaurant that garners rave reviews online for its healthy menu. However, even if you are not vegan, many reviewers state that this is some of the best Mexican food they have ever had. All of the entrees are made from organic and locally sourced foods. In addition to their restaurant, Tumerico offers catering to weddings, offices, and community events.

12. Villa Peru Restaurant

1745 E River Road, Suite 165, 85718

Villa Peru is a restaurant owned and operated by a Peruvian family, serving authentic Peruvian cuisine. They offer lunch and dinner, with an additional brunch on Sundays. They also have a cocktail and wine bar. The menu includes made-to-order Ceviches, which are made with seasonal fish, and Causas, which are whipped Peruvian potatoes and aji pepper. Along with these, they also serve rotisserie chicken and Peruvian sandwiches.

13. Vivace Restaurant

6440 N Campbell Avenue, 85718

Vivace Restaurant is an Italian restaurant that is a favorite among the locals, especially for special occasions. Many reviewers say the view the restaurant offers is worth the trip alone. Vivace overlooks the valley and is a great place to watch desert sunsets. However, their food also gets high praise for its taste and presentation.

14. Wildflower

7037 N Oracle Road, 85704

Wildflower offers American cuisine like braised beef short ribs and pan-roasted chicken. Online reviewers praise the quality of the food, the service, and the overall experience. However, some reviewers do mention that the restaurant can be quite loud. Wildflower also has a popular patio area with heaters in the winter.

15. Zinburger

1865 E River Road #101, 85718

If you are craving a gourmet burger or a delicious milkshake, Zinburger is the perfect place to go. The restaurant's happy hour menu is highly regarded by locals and is one of the most popular in the city. Customers also appreciate the reasonable prices of the entrees.

In Summary

If you live in Tuscon, Arizona, or happen to be visiting the city, you will want to explore some of its amazing restaurants. Tuscon boasts a vibrant and delicious culinary scene, providing a wide range of options to suit everyone's tastes. From organic and locally sourced vegetarian dishes to mouth-watering Italian entrees and authentic Peruvian cuisine, you will find something that satisfies you and your family's cravings.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©zimmytws/Shutterstock.com.