Tucson Restaurants

Truly a gem of Tucson. This was our first visit, so we didn't know what to expect. Based on meals at other highly regarded Tucson restaurants I didn't expect much, to be honest. Frankly, we were blown away. Everything we ordered was delicious, and a few items were truly something else. We ordered the charred broccoli expecting a fairly straightforward, and basic, starter. What we got was a dish of such complexity that we were taken aback. Another highlight was the rosemary olive oil cake. Usually olive oil cake is one of those hip menu items that never lives up to the hype. This cake was the exception. It was so moist and flavorful. When I took a bite with the cake, cream, and dark maraschino cherries (Luxardo?), it was a mouthful of heaven. We seriously considered extending our stay in Tucson one more day simply to return for dinner tomorrow. Alas, it was unrealistic. But we do plan on stopping in the next time we're in town.

Bata is hands-down our favorite restaurant in Tucson. There is nowhere else in town that is as creative with their menu as the team at Bata, and they do it using local suppliers and farmers. The menu is always an adventure and the entire staff is professional, talented and kind.

The ribs are always perfectly prepared. Wait staff respond quickly to any request.

Christmas dinner at Sullivan’s was very busy. Considering the number of diners, the staff did an excellent job of service that felt surprisingly personal. We were seated at a table for five that felt surprisingly intimate. We were warned by our server that we were going to have to wait a while for our entrees to be prepared. But the time passed comfortably for us at least as it gave us more time for a good family conversation and visit. We have been dining out each Christmas for 10 years (except for 2 years during the Covid pandemic). This was the best Christmas dining-out experience we have had.

We always enjoy going to Doughbird! Everything on their menu is amazing. Service is outstanding