If you’re hungry and hanging around the University of Arizona, you’re in luck.
Don’t worry about chain restaurants at the food court – venture around the perimeter of campus for a variety of eats from around the world.
From Broadway and Euclid to Speedway and Campbell (with a few exceptions), here’s our dining guide to 39 local spots around the University of Arizona.
Pizza and salad at 1702 (Credit: Jackie Tran)
With 30 rotating drafts and bottles in the fridge, 1702 has one of the largest tap selections of craft beer in town. Come to relax at the bar with a beer or eat a giant slice of pizza.
For more information, visit 1702az.com.
Antipasto Plate at Bacio Italiano (Credit: Jackie Tran)
The Italian restaurant at Main Gate Square has been open for less than a week. Stay tuned for menu highlights and a full feature.
Keep up with Bacio Italiano on Facebook.
Willow Scramble at Bentley’s House of Coffee & Tea (Credit: Jackie Tran)
This quiet coffee shop is a popular study spot. The sandwiches and daily quiche also make it worth the walk.
For more information, visit bentleyscoffeehouse.com.
We love our shady patios, like this one at @caffeluce. #maingatesquare #tucson #cafe #patio
A post shared by Main Gate Square (@maingatesquare) on Oct 3, 2017 at 5:40pm PDT
Caffe Luce is one of the best coffee roasters to visit in the campus area. Their shaded patio is perfect for studying and light people-watching.
Keep up with Caffe Luce on Facebook.
Shrimp Dumplings and Pork Steamed Buns (soup dumplings) at China Pasta House (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Many of China Pasta House’s meals hover around $7.99, but some don’t even break a dollar. You can even order a variety of appetizers à la carte without reaching $8. It’s dumpling and noodle heaven for a broke college student.
For more information, visit chinapastahousetucson.com.
GUESS WHAT DAY IT IS ? What better way to spice up your Hump Day then with a Dirtburger and Spicy Fries?!? Kitchen's open till 11 pm everyday #apartofgrowingup #punny #dirtbagsbar #humpdaaaaaayyy . . . ?: @wendyolliemom
A post shared by Dirtbag's (@dirtbagsbar) on Jan 25, 2017 at 9:01am PST
While Dirtbag’s is wildly successful as a bar for sororities and fraternities, it’s easy to forget they have food. Their secret spice blend for their burgers and fries is the key.
For more information, visit dirtbagsbar.com.
Bleu Cheese Brunch Burger at the Dutch Eatery & Refuge (Credit: Jackie Tran)
While “Dutch” is the name, the restaurant offers plenty of non-Dutch options as well. Come for brunch, comfort food or an elegant dinner.
For more information, visit thedutchtucson.com.
The East Coast Special and Schreiner sauced wings (half bbq, half medium buffalo).
A post shared by Dennis Ferrell (@dennis_ferrell) on Sep 1, 2018 at 12:14pm PDT
Hidden in the neighborhood south of Sixth Street, East Coast Super Subs provides a genuine East Coast bar feel — hate for the Dallas Cowboys and all.
For more information, visit tucsoneastcoastsupersubs.com.
Espresso Art is a cozy place to study with a cup of coffee. They also offer hookah and a little speakeasy in the back for cocktails.
For more information, visit espressoartcafe.com.
(Photo courtesy of The Blind Pig)
We haven’t swung by to chat with anyone or eat yet, but we will eventually; stay tuned for updates.
For more information, visit blindpigtucson.com.
Assorted food at Frog & Firkin (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Frog’s patio makes it one of the best places to people-watch on University Boulevard.
If you’re here with a crowd, share one of their not-technically-deep-dish-but-still-really-thick pizzas. They also feature a beer club with prizes and almost 200 beers to choose from.
For more information, visit frogandfirkin.com.
? It’s almost #LunchTime! Stop in today at #GentleBens for one of our signature burgers!? ? ? ?? ?? ?? #lunch #food #delicious #yummy #instafood #eat #tasty #yum #restaurant #foodpics #hungry #fresh #foodie #delish #burger #fries #bacon #cheeseburger #burgerlove #cheatday #universityofarizona #tucson #arizona #uofa #beardown #wildcats #arizonawildcats #tucsonaz
A post shared by Gentle Ben's (@gentlebens) on Jan 9, 2019 at 10:08am PST
Gentle Ben’s features beer from Barrio Brewing Co. and a large bar food menu with Southwestern influences. The upstairs patio picks up on the weekends with nightlife.
For more information, visit gentlebens.com.
Feta Fries at Greek House (Credit: Jackie Tran)
This hidden hole-in-the-wall features a range of traditional Greek dishes with modern American takes as well, such as a Greek burger and fries served with gyro meat. Anything they serve with their signature lemon sauce is highly addictive.
For more information, visit azgreekhouse.com.
Poke bowl from Jimmy’s Pita & Poke (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Pita and poke are an unintuitive combo, but Jimmy’s manages to do a good job at both. Choose from a wide variety of proteins and sauces for the custom pita or poke bowl of your dreams.
For more information, visit jimmyspitaandpoke.com.
There's? a simple reason that @kababequetucson's chicken tikka masala is a best seller… it's delicious! #maingatesquare #tucson #tucsonfoodie #tastingtucson #tucsoneats #indianfood
A post shared by Main Gate Square (@maingatesquare) on Jun 13, 2017 at 4:19pm PDT
If you’re craving some afternoon curry Between classes and in a hurry Or you want to take time With a wrap that’s sublime Eat Kababeque and don’t worry I’m so proud of myself
For more information, visit kababeque.net.
Bun Tom Nuong at Miss Saigon in Tucson (Credit: Mark Navarro)
Perhaps Tucson’s most popular Vietnamese restaurant, Miss Saigon, has saved countless hangovers one bowl of pho at a time. But don’t forget about their spring rolls and other noodle dishes.
For more information, visit misssaigontucson.com.
Tacos at Momo’s (Photo courtesy of Momo’s Mexican Food on Facebook)
The food truck recently opened a brick-and-mortar restaurant. Stay tuned for an article.
Keep up with Momo’s Mexican Food on Facebook.
Buff Loaded Tots at No Anchovies (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Another joint for prime people-watching along University Boulevard, grab a quick slice at No Anchovies. The patio has more TVs than you can shake your fist at. The menu also offers loaded tots, sandwiches, and more.
For more information, visit noanchoviesaz.com.
Beef Chow Fun! One if many popular dishes here at Oriental Express #oriental #asianfood #tucson #arizona
A post shared by Oriental_Express (@oriental_express_tucson) on Apr 8, 2014 at 12:53pm PDT
Hidden out of sight upstairs at Main Gate Square, Oriental Express offers cheap Chinese food in a divey setting.
For more information, call (520) 624-5798.
Sichuan Cold Noodles at Panda House (Credit: Jackie Tran)
When it comes to Sichuan cuisine, Panda House is the best option around the university. If you’re not adventurous enough for the Sichuan menu, even their lo mein stands out with house-made noodles. They also opened up a coffee and tea house next door.
For more information, visit pandahousetogotucson.com.
#lunchtime #greekfood #greeklife @peliogrill @maingatesquare @uacampusrec @uacampushealth #peliogrill
A post shared by Pelio Grill Greek Taverna (@peliogrill) on Sep 2, 2016 at 12:25pm PDT
While Pelio Grill offers a wide variety of Greek dishes, try one of their basmati rice bowls with proteins ranging from halloumi to lamb chops or calamari.
Keep up with Pelio Grill Greek Taverna & Catering on Facebook.
A post shared by Zoe Sand (@plantedblissfully) on Feb 6, 2019 at 8:06pm PST
Saigon Pho earned a following for its expansive vegetarian and vegan menu. Banh mi also makes for a satisfying, affordable on-the-go snack.
Keep up with Saigon Pho on Facebook.
What are your plans for this lazy Sunday? We’re over here drinking iced Jasmine ?
A post shared by Scented Leaf Tea House (@scentedleaf) on Jan 13, 2019 at 9:16am PST
Scented Tea offers a laid back environment to enjoy tea. They offer fine loose-leaf tea for enthusiasts and also fun, unorthodox combinations such as Banana Chocolate Cake Rooibos.
For more information, visit thescentedleaf.com.
"God bless the chickpea" — George Clooney
A post shared by amanda (@akerramba) on Jul 28, 2016 at 9:04pm PDT
Sinbad’s focuses on Mediterranean and halal cuisine. Their patio and vegetarian options are lovely; order the Foule Muddamas, a delectable combination of garlicky baked fava and garbanzo beans with lemon and olive oil.
Keep up with Sinbad’s Restaurant on Facebook.
Decided to get some amazing sushi while waiting for the car to be done. #sushi #arizona #tucson #eatbigliftbig #gaintrain #gainz #naptime !!
A post shared by 1morerep (@1morereptokillit) on Mar 20, 2017 at 12:16pm PDT
Sushi Cho isn’t for sushi snobs, but the portions for the price make it worth the trip south of campus.
Keep up with Sushi Cho on Facebook.
Anyone else in desperate need of a breakfast burrito this morning? ????The line at The Taco Shop at 9 a.m. makes us think we weren’t the only ones who partied last night. #tucsonfoodie #halloweenwasfun #halloweenhangover
A post shared by Tucson Foodie (@tucsonfoodie) on Nov 1, 2018 at 9:50am PDT
Taco Shop is one of Tucson’s few 24-hour joints, so it might be busier at 3 a.m. than it is at lunch. Regardless, they make exceptional breakfast burritos.
Keep up with Taco Shop Co. on Instagram. For more information, call (520) 622-1899.
Boba tea at Teaholic (Credit: Jackie Tran)
TEAholic features tea (with boba options) in a plush environment with Prince levels of purple. They also offer a small selection of rice bowls: Mongolian Beef, House Fried Rice (shrimp, chicken, & beef), and Braised Beef.
For more information, visit TEAholic.
Pizza from Time Market (Credit Melissa Stihl)
Time Market is technically beyond the boundaries specified at the beginning of the article, but it’s still an easy walk.
It would be a sin to omit this foodie’s paradise — cheap large slices of pizza, a market with quality ingredients, a solid coffee, tea and pastry program, a diverse happy hour… the lists goes on and on.
Last but not least, they bake some of the best loaves of artisanal bread in Tucson.
For more information, visit timemarket.xyz.
Come into Trident today and have something amazing off our menu! #tridentbargrill #tucson #lunch #dinner
A post shared by Trident Bar Grill (@tridentbargrill) on Aug 31, 2017 at 9:21am PDT
Trident Grill offers consistently solid bar food and seafood in a sports bar environment just east of campus. It’s a fun place to meet up with friends for wings or oysters.
For more information, visit tridentgrill.com.
Trident Pizza Pub (Credit: Jackie Tran)
A sister restaurant to Trident Grill, Trident Pizza Pub features brick-oven pizza in a sports bar environment. The pizza chef is also trained in pizza acrobatics, so don’t miss out on the show.
For more information, visit tridentgrill.com.
Summer cocktails at Welcome Diner (Credit: Jackie Tran)
A hip renovated diner, Welcome Diner is a place you can take your parents to in the morning for brunch and then come back at night with a date for some of the best cocktails in town. They also have some of the best mac and cheese in town.
For more information, visit welcomediner.net.
Grilled Bowl with vermicelli noodles and steak, Spring Rolls with BBQ pork at Wok Fire & Grill (Credit: Jackie Tran)
Perfectly located for Eller students, Wok Fire & Grill offers a wide range of customizable Chinese and Vietnamese dishes. Service can slow down when it’s packed, so consider ordering online.
For more information, visit wokfire.com.
A post shared by Woops! BakeShop – Main Gate (@woopsmaingate) on Apr 26, 2019 at 3:55pm PDT
Although the colorful macarons will grab your eye first, don’t neglect the fabulous croissants or rugelach.
For more information, visit bywoops.com.
Xiangxi Stir-Fried Beef at Zing Zing’s (Credit: Jackie Tran)
A heat lamp buffet lunch combo isn’t usually executed well but Zing Zing’s nails it with unique non-bastardized dishes such as braised pork belly. They also feature various Sichuan and Hunan dishes.
This restaurant is for the adventurous eater.
For more information, visit zingzings.com.
Jackie is a food writer and photographer native to Tucson. He loves corgis and still thinks rickrolling is funny. If you'd like to stalk him, visit jackietran.com and his Instagram @jackie_tran_.
Whether it’s a pumpkin spice drink, Halloween-themed decor in and outside…
One of the best things about so many food trucks here in Tucson is…
Ah, autumn. It’s the time of year when Tucsonans shake off their summer somnolence…
06oct(oct 6)12:00 pm 09(oct 9)6:00 am Halloween Candy and Wine Pairing Flights 12:00 pm - 6:00 am (9) Arizona Charron Vineyards & Winery
Only available during the month of October, you can get enjoy a pre-selected Charron Vineyards wine tasting flight paired with your favorite Halloween candy! Available during normal tasting room hours. The
Only available during the month of October, you can get enjoy a pre-selected Charron Vineyards wine tasting flight paired with your favorite Halloween candy! Available during normal tasting room hours.
The Halloween Candy & Wine Tasting flight costs $11 if you bring your own glass or goblet, $15 if you get it with our souvenir acrylic glass, and $17 if you get it with our souvenir crystal glass.
6 (Thursday) 12:00 pm - 9 (Sunday) 6:00 am Arizona
09oct12:00 pm 4:30 pm OKTOBERFEST 2022 at Ski Valley 12:00 pm - 4:30 pm Arizona Ski Valley
Oktoberfest 2022 is right around the corner. This fabulous event runs weekends only beginning the weekend of September 17th and ending the weekend of October 9th. Make the small trek
Oktoberfest 2022 is right around the corner. This fabulous event runs weekends only beginning the weekend of September 17th and ending the weekend of October 9th. Make the small trek for fabulous German food, authentic German music performed by the John Prokop Band and, as always, fun games for the kids. The band plays from 12:00 noon until 4:30pm. All sales are at the resort.
(Sunday) 12:00 pm - 4:30 pm Arizona
09oct6:00 pm Whiskey Del Bac Whiskey Dinner at The Barn 6:00 pm Arizona The Barn
Enjoy a whiskey dinner with food pairings provided by The Barn's exceptional culinary team! Cost: $95/person. Reservations required. Make your reservations by emailing moleary@tvgr.com or by calling 520-731-5565 (ext. 3238.)
Enjoy a whiskey dinner with food pairings provided by The Barn’s exceptional culinary team!
Cost: $95/person. Reservations required. Make your reservations by emailing moleary@tvgr.com or by calling 520-731-5565 (ext. 3238.)
01nov6:30 pm 8:30 pm Veggie Monthly Dinner & Conversation at Lovin' Spoonfuls 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Arizona Lovin' Spoonfuls Vegan Restaurant
Grab a delicious vegan meal and maybe make a new friend! Feel free to arrive between 6:30 and 7:00 pm. It is a casual dinner and conversation meetup, open to everyone
Grab a delicious vegan meal and maybe make a new friend!
Feel free to arrive between 6:30 and 7:00 pm. It is a casual dinner and conversation meetup, open to everyone (bring your friends). Tables are reserved along the wall to the left.
The food is FANTASTIC! Lovin’ Spoonfuls is Tucson’s first all vegan restaurant, and vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores all rave about the food. If you have never tried it before, you are in for a treat! There are so many wonderful dishes on the menu that you could come to this event for years and never have the same dish twice!
Sometimes, if there is a large turn-out between the meetup and other patrons, there may not be enough seating in the restaurant. Because of that, we have to cap this event, so that also means RSVPs count. Don’t RSVP unless you are going, and if you later change your mind, change your RSVP to “no” so someone else can go. Abusing this by RVSPing “yes” and not showing can lead to a ban from other events in the future. Sorry to be strict, but it is necessary so everyone can benefit.
Finally, there may not always be a meetup host present for this event.
(Tuesday) 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Arizona
04nov5:00 pm 9:00 pm Brewin at the Chul 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm Arizona Tohono Chul Garden Bistro
Welcome to fall! Come enjoy Tohono Chul's first-ever autumn series, Brewin at the Chul, located at The Garden Bistro! Join on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 to 9 p.m. October 1
Welcome to fall! Come enjoy Tohono Chul’s first-ever autumn series, Brewin at the Chul, located at The Garden Bistro! Join on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 to 9 p.m. October 1 through November 26 for music, refreshing spirits, local brews, and a rotating menu of tasty bites.
Enjoy beers and brats, friends and fun at the Garden Bistro Fridays and Saturday nights. Check out the menu.
(Friday) 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm Arizona
05nov5:00 pm 9:00 pm Brewin at the Chul 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm Arizona Tohono Chul Garden Bistro
Welcome to fall! Come enjoy Tohono Chul's first-ever autumn series, Brewin at the Chul, located at The Garden Bistro! Join on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 to 9 p.m. October 1
Welcome to fall! Come enjoy Tohono Chul’s first-ever autumn series, Brewin at the Chul, located at The Garden Bistro! Join on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 to 9 p.m. October 1 through November 26 for music, refreshing spirits, local brews, and a rotating menu of tasty bites.
Enjoy beers and brats, friends and fun at the Garden Bistro Fridays and Saturday nights. Check out the menu.
(Saturday) 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm Arizona