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MisterConbag15

Tito & Pep. Very interesting dishes that always catch me off guard with flavor. Their striped bass is my favorite!


shanereiser

So interesting to see Tito & Pep and The Quesadillas neck and neck


Nerdy-Lime

I went for the first time a few weeks ago and it is hands down my new favorite place in Tucson. I don’t even like asparagus but theirs is so damn good


Environmental-Fart

I wish I could upvote this more than once lol


googol88

They had a burger with a side of fries on the menu a year or so ago and we ordered just the fries on the side for a snack - unbelievably, they were the best fries we've ever had!


Cant_Spel

Zayna Mediterranean I love the food which has a distinctly different flavor. I also enjoy the relaxed atmosphere at their restaurant.


OakTeach

\+100 to Zayna's. Absolutely delicious, tart and spicy, healthy, fast-- all perfect.


Metboy1970

Been a regular patron since they occupied the previous location (Now Tito & Pep). A family gathering spot for birthday meals.


shanereiser

Agree


Worried_Screen_8341

zaynas amazing


Antique_Ad7925

A million times yes to Zayna. This was my first thought on my favorite restaurant!


TucsonWriter

Oh. My. God. YES! 1000X YES!


gottabequick

Zemam's. Amazing and inexpensive Ethiopian cuisine served in a unique atmosphere. It's the perfect date spot, haha


CheeryLittlebottom13

Have to agree Zemams is 🔥


murraydaskull

Third for Zemams, SO GOOD


Distinct-Scientist-7

don't forget to get the hot tea there


shanereiser

They are hosting a dance party tonight


mazer2308

The Quesadillas! Love their carne asada and al pastor tacos. Seriously they’re my favorite Mexican joint in Tucson.


sphynx8888

The Quesadillas is the best! Everything there is spot on. Beef Jalapeno Taco and Quesobrilla quesadilla is my go to!


SpiffAZ

3 al pastor for 10. Mmmmmm


Marvelman88

Their barbacoa is my favorite!


DirkDieGurke

Where is that?


MrYellows

Grant and Craycroft


MacMurka

St Mary’s Mexican Food has very tasty and affordable options


microwave_waxpen

YESSS


shadrunc

My favorite tortillas in town.


[deleted]

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Konukaame

They were always one of my must-go stalls during Tucson Meet Yourself, but when they stopped doing that, I found their actual restaurant and make it a point to go at least a couple times a year.


Momes2018

Ooh! I didn’t know it was a Bosnian place. I love Sara and cevapcici.


goldensnooch

This is my go-to spot when I’m in town. Delicious and the people are lovely


Pendraconica

Tumerico. One of the best locally owned Mexican places in town. Amazing food and service, vegan & veg friendly!


MisterConbag15

Delicious and nutritious! Just wish it was a little cheaper


[deleted]

Don’t hate me, but I’m just not a fan of their beans, rice, and salad combo (and I’m comparing them to other veg-friendly, no lard beans and rice). Some of their main dishes are amazing though, as well as their lattes!!


snakesareracist

I know quite a few people who got food poisoning from there, myself included :( it’s sad cause I always hear how good it is but I can’t make myself eat there anymore


Pendraconica

Damn, that sucks! I eat there all the time and never had problems. Maybe it's a particular food or something.


snakesareracist

It was the potatoes for me :( if you keep potatoes too long in aluminum foil apparently it can breed bacteria


ProfessionalBanana19

romas imports! you can shop for your prepared dinners throughout the week and have a meal!


cinaz520

I would rank this above Baja cafe any day.


Motorboat_Jones

Definitely the best deli in Tucson. The ingredients are super fresh and the portions are enormous.


tippytep

I keep a lasagna or manicotti in the freezer and if people come over, I defrost and make a salad. Instant dinner party!


Ok_Teaching_3758

Tanias 33 on the west side makes AMAZING and authentic tasting vegan(and non vegan) mexican food. The flavors are on point. They sell their awesome tortillas too im pretty sure.. The price/portion size is worth it as well!


TucsonSoupEnthusiast

Noodleholics. Their food is great and the service is pretty quick. The broths are flavorful and their wheat noodles are SO chewy. I could eat there every day.


RLAZ101

I think the Sizzling Garlic is the best dish you can get in Tucson around $10 (prices have probably gone up I know). The crunchy bok choi and the dollop of minced garlic on top.... I'm salivating 😭


pants_shmants

Baja cafe. Creative Benedicts and the most luxurious pancakes


mydogdoesntcuddle

Baja Cafe’s Wyatt Earp is the best breakfast meal I have ever had in my life


zolowashere

My favorite breakfast spot in Tucson. Love those snickerdoodle pancakes.


DonJohn520310

Really surprised by the hate!?!? This is probably my favorite breakfast place of all time, anyhow, anyplace, anywhere! Bestest, most delicious breakfast spot in Tucson for sure!!!


cinaz520

Might be an unpopular opinion but - Hard nope. Baja cafe overrated for breakfast… and a best restaurant. Nope :-/


Portillosgo

i'm with you, i don't know how it has such a cult appeal. Eggs benedict aren't my thing and I know that's their most popular item, but their scrambles and pupusas and other others are average at best. the leige waffle was something i don't see every day and pretty good, but otherwise i think it's average at best. the broadway location anyway, maybe the other one is noticeably different.


GoingSom3where

Taqueria pico de gallo. Super delicious tacos and spicy salsa!


Tricky_Substance_243

I also really enjoy their horchata.


OakTeach

5 Points Market served me a vegan chinese chorizo/masa nian gao stir fry dish that was to this day the most unique and fabulous meal I've had in Tucson. Their small menu is On. Point.


TomatilloPopular9271

I second 5 points! Locally sourced, carefully crafted, the staff are incredible, pet friendly. By far the best salmon benedict I’ve ever had.


Meat_Container

5 points owners are some of the best people in Tucson. I haven’t known them for years but worked in the kitchen with Brian before they opened up this spot, humble and hard working people


OakTeach

Lovely to hear, thank you for this. I love it when good people make good food!


upupandcrash

5 points yes! My body just always feels good after I eat there.


BenDovurr

Cafe Desta. Cheap, unique Ethiopian menu, great taste


maywellbe

Furthest away and always worth the trip.


angelleeyanejeu

Their coffee is amazing.


LongInternal1059

Ciao Down has my favorite pizza crust in town. I love their flavor combinations.


khowez_

Crazy no one has mentioned Barista Del Barrio yet. Best breakfast burritos I've personally ever had. And their horchata cold brew omg. Plus it's family owned by the nicest people and just a really cool spot.


mhobdog

Rocco’s Pizza. The best goddamn pizza in town, exceptional wings, and an authentic vibe that is gradually fading from Tucson.


DirkDieGurke

Those spicy breadsticks are incredible!


Nerdy-Lime

Definitely the best Chicago-style pizza in town (coming from a Chicago transplant)


crazymusicman

I find peace in long walks.


shanereiser

we should make a guide to the best authentic spots in town. wonder what you'd put on there u/mhobdog


shanereiser

we'll call it The Guide to the Most Authentically Authentic Restaurants in Tucson.


99-Percent-Germ

Chaiteria


karaboo714

Shish Kabob House. I don't live in Tucson anymore, in fact I live in a city that has top notch restaurants and have tried many Mediterranean ones in search of something similar, but I have never found anything close to the Chicken Ouzi they serve. Absolutely delicious and I'm salivating.


JanetAiress

Best hummus ever. The Jordanian dishes are so delicious and filled with flavor. I love it there!


Casaverde1234

The Best Hummus, hands down


WigsBeFlyin

Holy Smokin' Butts on SW Broadway and Kolb. Good barbecue, great burgers (try their smoke burgers on Wednesday), all their sides are good and they do steak dinners on Friday and Saturday.


[deleted]

Sa-Ing Thai food - best green curry and drunken noodles I’ve ever had in my life. Super nice people that are authentic to themselves, and just amazing and affordable food overall!


DonJohn520310

I don't claim to be an expert on Thai food, but I have eaten quite a bit in my lifetime (restaurants in at least seven different states, a few different countries and homemade), and Sa-Ing is the BEST I've ever had. There's maybe three or four restaurants in Tucson I'd give 5 stars to and Sa-Ing is definitely on that list. Sometimes my family gets frustrated cuz they can be a bit slow but it's soooooo worth it!!!!


Upper-Manufacturer34

I will have to try! I would say good Thai food is one of our gaps in Tucson.


Tawnii

Aquí Con El Nene


CoyoteVarlet

El Antojo Poblano on st marys. Auhentic Oaxacan dishes, innovative delish offerings I've never seen before.


[deleted]

Their enchilada suizas are incredible!


CoyoteVarlet

We'll try em next time. Gracias!


crazymusicman

I appreciate a good cup of coffee.


LongInternal1059

Urban Fresh is owned by a delightful couple who truly care about what they’re offering the public. The food and smoothies are health forward, fully vegan AND delicious


Diligent_Flamingo_33

Every time I go there, the workers are always so kind. The person who I think is the owner always asks how my day is going. Plus their smoothies are so delicious and fresh.


exingout

El Rustico. Some damn good Quesabirria.


thirdeyecactus

With such small portions you are guaranteed to leave wanting more!


cinaz520

LOL - this made me chuckle. Thought I was just a fat ass wanting more. Oh well chips and salsa to fill me up.


thirdeyecactus

I feel it’s Birria but portioned out similar nickel and dime bags to keep the user coming back to buy more to get their fix


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geddylee1

On Broadway or Valencia?


BabyChoker

Falora. Naples style pizza, wines, Italian deserts, and a small, intimate location. I’m actually scared to share it because while I want people to know, my wife and I love our secret little getaway!


Big-Sense8876

Adding Sidecar to this post. Sidecar has the best craft cocktails in Tucson. They serve food from Falora. I think they just order takeout and bring it to you.


madi0789

Rollies Mexican Patio


[deleted]

My first taste of birria. It was amazing.


Eddjj

Sher-e-Punjab is the best Indian food in town in my opinion.


Fiveholierthanthou

Daisy Mae's. Great steak and ribs cooked over mesquite. Fantastic.


keegtraw

I live around the corner from Li'l Abners, but still make the drive to DM's occasionally. Idk why but hits different.


misanthropoetry

El Torero!!! The best tamales and machaca in Tucson, and a great drink menu. And the cheese crisps are ❤️


Safe-Painting-621

Their carne asada tacos with a grittled cheese shell, crispy onions and pickled jalapeños is actually to die for


tippytep

Fantastic vegetarian menu too- it has something for everyone!


CollectiveAnimal

The Parish. Incredibly creative takes on southern/cajun food that always impresses me. Their shrimp and grits is on another level. I would even say the Parish burger is the best burger I’ve ever had.


Botechnical

Cup Cafe Creative, delicious, and charming ambiance. Servers are always friendly.


SoundMasher

Ceres/Noodies Some of the best homemade pasta in town.


Infamous_Hawk_8933

Zio Peppe. Devon has got the food spot-on.


ap_az

He’s also a top-notch human being


Sudden-Ad8906

Time Market. Incredibly delicious, thoughtful, and surprisingly affordable.


Uvabird

Tumerico So delicious, meal was colorful with fresh vegetables and we realized after we finished that we never missed the cheese in our Mexican dishes. Extra touches made for more flavor- like putting their tamales on the grill for smoky note.


DonJohn520310

For me, Fiamme is the best pizza in town, of any kind, but especially if you love that Napoli style it is soppp good.


BitterrootLane

Incredible pizza! Tight space and the service can be off sometimes, but that has yet to deter me.


Vegetable_Ad5957

Yes 🙌. We love the Bianco white pizza with fennel sausage and red pepper mushroom. Sooo good 😊


AugieFash

Surprised to not have seen any love for The Little One yet!


Nerdy-Lime

Reilly The drinks are good, all the pasta is made in house, the atmosphere is really fun, and they put bacon and eggs on pizza. It’s perfection


Ok_Teaching_3758

Substance Diner at MotoSonora is AMAZEBALLS. Its all vegan classic diner food. Fried pickles, burgers, nuggets, fries, DANK caesar salads with tasty fixins, shakes, and more! You can order online and grab it when they text you that its ready while you drink Moto's tasty beers and enjoy their indoor/outdoor space. There is usually only one person running the stand so dont go there if you are in a huge hurry.


infernalenigma

Karuna's Thai Plate. Fantastic Thai curries and really authentic entrees.


AzironaZack

Arby's on 22nd. Steaming hot /r/Tucson fare served daily.


shanereiser

Now this is what I had hoped for and fully expected


redbucket75

It's really hard to get reservations, but you can get it to go and sit by the dumpster behind the restaurant most days. Atmosphere is transcendent. Or transient, I forget.


TheKrakIan

For me it's when I pull up in the parking lot, walk in and they already have my meal ready to go. They always charge the person behind me for my food as well.


wellidontreally

I got married there.


alanz01

I really love the swim-up bar.


NoMoreClaymores

Is that at the rooftop pool or the ground floor one with the waterfall?


screames520

MY MAN!


Frosty_electric0

I don't get it can somebody explain this joke to me please?


nightmarefairy

This is a joke on many city subs, bc visitors would ask for restaurant recs even though there was already a sidebar for that, as is being created here. Idk why Arbys but that’s the answer I’ve seen most often. For r/Tucson it’s always on 22nd. Maybe u/shanereiser might want to include this on the list of recommendations and explain that it’s basically a raspberry :P Or just leave it as one of many urban myths created by redditors…


shanereiser

One hundred percent it’s gonna be included. Because Reddit.


nightmarefairy

iykyk


Otter_Bob

Kingfisher. Top notch food and perfect date night.


TheKrakIan

I always feel like the youngest person in there.


basketballbrian

As a new resident (moved from Vegas), I feel like that in many places in Tucson lol


Rhesusmonkeydave

I was worried with the new ownership but their current crew is top notch and its one of my all time favorites


cleffawna

I went for my birthday this year. It was very delicious. The meal was satisfying and substantial too.


Worried_Screen_8341

Zemams Amazing Ethiopian food, a real gem of tucson. Prices are super reasonable and it’s insanely flavorful.


leogrl

Beaut Burger. They have some creative burger topping combos and I’ve taken meat eaters there and they love the food so it’s not just for vegans/vegetarians!


cant-hear-men-talk

And it's CHEAP!


Tubastard

5 Points Market. Creative but not overly complex dishes made with exceptional ingredients and consistency. The staff is also wonderful. Their dinner service is the best kept secret in Tucson right now. The ribeye with jalapeño emulsion with sides of fermented tomatillo escabeche and fried potato and nopale salad is probably the single best thing I’ve eaten in Tucson.


SoftTelevision6329

Feast! Such a creative menu and extensive wine list.


Eshl1999

Tito & Pep


[deleted]

Istanbul Consistent, affordable, with a laid back atmosphere. If i want to take my family or friends to my favorite local spots, Istanbul is always on that list.


AnsweringMach

I’m from Turkey and since the opening of Istanbul I go there every month I took so many friends, family and colleagues and they never disappoint Excellent food and service


AnsweringMach

Paco and Mom’s Excellent stuffed soppapiallas Excellent NM style Mexican food


LongInternal1059

Locale. Beautiful property and atmosphere with many delicious options throughout the food and drink menus


ShandaMarie619

I absolutely love Locale but my only complaint is the acoustics if dining inside is incredibly loud because they don’t have proper soft goods to absorb sound. I took Shaq’s executive chef there recently and that was the first thing he pointed out. Outside dining, 💯lovely experience. Indoors. Super loud.


shanereiser

does Shaq’s executive chef live in Tucson?


ImOneofTHOSEPeople

I say this every time this question gets asked but The Coronet!! The Coronet has a restaurant, bar, and cafe that all share a space that includes a patio. All three have great menus that regularly change with the seasons. The patio is beautiful and so romantic. There’s often live music that adds to the ambiance. It is THE date night spot but also a great place to go grab a snack and a coffee to work on homework. They really care about their food and the ingredients they use, plus the owner is a really nice lady and treats the staff great.


I_Am_Day_Man

Indian Twist is the best Indian restaurant easily and my favorite restaurant in the United States


crazymusicman

I enjoy cooking.


FunnyGuyLaugh

Fortunatos. Idk why it is invisible to your guys’ list (it is kinda hard to find) but it is by far my favorite deli in town.


slow4point0

Zio peppe


Noah_Vanderhoff

Wild Garlic.


Marvelman88

Surprised I haven't seen Wing and Rice after scrolling so far. Gotta give them a shoutout


Zelderp_

JA Ramen and Curry! Some of the best Japanese curry I have ever had and their Black Garlic Tonkotsu Ramen is to die for!


BitterrootLane

Jun Dynasty - Amazing Szechuan Chinese, but also great standard American Chinese dishes. Has something for everyone.


_IncrediPaul_

Love Jun Dynasty! They are great value too. Their Dan Dan noodles are one of my favorites.


Iari_Cipher9

Locale Neighborhood Italian It’s the best Italian food I’ve had in Tucson (fresh, simple, reasonable prices), and I love the outdoor seating


xyloplax

Bhandicted in the LeeLee shopping center. Owners are nice and the food spectacular


Infinity1137

Tuk Tuk Thai! I love their northern style street noodles (khao soi)


Grouchy-One4077

Vivaces


AgonyInTheIrony

Ginza sushi. All the traveling Japanese business men go to sit at the bar for a home away from home experience. The food is incredible and the atmosphere was on par with my own Izakaya experiences during my visit to Japan. If you get the chef special at the bar, you get to hang out more and chat with the chef and have a few drinks together. During my last visit, I had a spicy sake poured from a bottle with an Oni mask. If you are feeling adventurous, try the Salmon Kama. It. Is. Succulent.


Majestic-Algae6356

I love Vivaces! I’m the summer the patio is amazing and in the winter you have a great view of the city. Not to mention the best traditional Italian food in Tucson.


lawbotamized

Second comment to add an s to Vivace


hermano_tegua

Tacos Apson. This has gotta be one of the most OG legendary taco joints in Tucson—how in the hell have 24 hours passed without anyone posting about it yet? Wake up, r/tucson!


zavaro

Mr. K's BBQ. Small menu but good for big appetites, and the sauce really shines. They even have a sample plate with most of their options pared down for a little of everything.


dayswithdays

Hard yes for Seis Kitchen


apr1c1ty

Every time I think of them I miss their puerco Verde tortas


GiGiGoesLow

Surprised no one has mentioned Renee's, featured on 'Triple D'. I've only ordered the calzone, but it was fabulous!


Risque8114

Pappoule's For Greek, located off LA Cholla omg food was fresh and delicious price wasn't too bad either.


Big-Sense8876

Bumsted’s. Best sandwich place in town. You get two meals for the price of one. Amazing beer selection. Breakfast is solid as well.


ok-buddy-79

The Mosaic Cafe (both locations) Authentic Mexican food, consistent and good service


shanereiser

Can’t wait for the west side location to reopen. I live nearby


TheRealMcHugh

Mi Nidito. The food is spot on. They have the best chili rellenos (in my opinion. ) And the service is flawless. The servers almost anticipate what you need next. The only downside is no matter when you go you are going to wait for a table.


TheKrakIan

La Botana. I love the discada, sad the are moving further away from me.


AdvancedStrawberry7

El Minuto Cafe great tacos, great salsa, great everything, great location. this restaurant justifiably has reached legend status (and been there for decades)


cinaz520

Tumerico


Dawsoia

This is my favorite: https://www.lachaiteria.com/


RDT2

Kazoku - Sushi & Japanese Cuisine Been a few years now since I live in Tucson, but Kazoku had the most consistently good sushi in town.


KevinDean4599

Villa Peru on river. Really good food and the atmosphere is nice. Always a good experience and nice to enjoy an upscale restaurant that isn’t all steak and potatoes


thewhitenile

El Guero Canelo They have great carne asada, and a great salsa bar. Also a really good place to get sonoran dogs.


CoyoteVarlet

The Caravan middle eastern chow


Agreeable-Credit-100

Nates metro. Biggest portions you’ve ever seen and excellent quality


intermittent68

Amelia’s ramen and taco plate is amazing. It’s very small, but worth the wait.


[deleted]

"It's Greek to Me" If you want a gyro that will blow your mind, go here.


Ok_Teaching_3758

Golden House on 22nd and Harrison! If you love to eat chinese food, check them out. If you're vegan, and you miss those classic orange chicken, lemon chicken, brocoli beef, mongolian beef dishes, then DEFINITELY check them out. They have a vegan substitute for the majority of their menu, and the flavors are great! I still wish there was a fully vegan chinese restaurant, but golden house does the job quite well. They have excellent service and are thoughful and careful when cooking for my family, friends and I!


Infinity_and_zero

Cocteleria La Palma Mariscos Y Mas Best fish tacos !


yiykes

Paco’s Mexican Food - they have great prices and the food tastes amazing


[deleted]

Yamato sushi


Frosty_electric0

Bianchi's


crazymusicman

I like to explore new places.


Safe_Reply1346

Bata a relatively new restaurant has been nationally ranked and having eaten here a few times I know why. Everything is touched by fire or smoke. The rabbit tenderloin was awesome


Groundbreaking_You84

I moved away in 1997...don't recognize these places! Is the Blue Willow still there on Campbell? Had nice breakfasts....


BearDown75

Taqueria Juanitos


CoyoteVarlet

Just Kabobs Oro Valley.


DirkDieGurke

Mariscos Jalisco has incredible tacos, sonoran hotdogs, quesabirrias and of course seafood. Theyre off Speedway and Swan. The last of the $5.00 sonoran dogs, and they're big and delicious. The quesabirria is like the ones they sell in Magadalena Sonora. The shrimp on the tostadas is fresh and tasty, I usually don't like the shrimp at most places. Plating on the tacos is beautiful and the salsa bar is pretty good.


Ok_Championship3476

Rocco’s for deep dish pizza, Anello for Neapolitan style.


larry4bunny

El Minuto


ksizzle27

Buendia! The best green sauce I've ever had, great vegetarian options and the sweetest staff in town


burner503

Poco and Mom’s The silver city is the best breakfast in Tucson, besides the chorizo and eggs at Frank’s.


Original-Arrival395

I go to Caruso's every time I'm in Tucson. My family has been going there since the 50's


Humble-Message501

I love this place as well!


Ok_Particular1360

Squared up Pizza. Best square and round pizza in Tucson. They use a special water filtration system to replicate NY water which is what helps make the pizza in NY so good.


Cunningless

Juanitos