Favorite Dining Destinations

Whenever friends from out of town visit, I like to take them to places that won’t disappoint, where the food is top notch and and the service is consistently good. Here are some of my favorites.

ANELLO

When I’m in the mood for seasonal salads, pizza, and carefully selected natural wines, Anello is my spot. The crust has that perfect blister and chew, the toppings are simple but done really well, and the produce is from local growers. Open to the kitchen and its Neapolitan wood-fired pizza oven, the minimalist dining room has a beautiful simplicity that’s a perfect match for the food.

222 E 6th St, Tucson, AZ 85705

BATA

Bata is where I go when I want something a little more special and I’m ready to splurge. The always-changing menu is built around seasonal ingredients, the dishes are as creative as they are delicious, and the cocktails are some of the best in town. The space has a modern, industrial vibe with high ceilings and an open kitchen that makes the whole experience feel exciting.

35 E Toole Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701

5 Points Market & Restaurant

This is one of my go-to spots for breakfast or brunch. The food is fresh, consistent, and always beautifully put together. I love their huevos rancheros and house-made pastries. The space has a relaxed, light-filled vibe, with a market in the front where you can grab local goods and natural wines to take home.

756 S Stone Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701

Forbes Meat Company

Forbes is a local butcher shop and restaurant that takes real pride in what they do. The cases are always stocked with fresh, beautifully prepared meats, and the staff is helpful if you’re looking for cooking tips or something special. It feels like an old-school shop with a modern edge, and the attached restaurant has a casual vibe that belies the polish of the cooking.

747 S 6th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701

Tito & Pep

This is one of my favorite dinner spots in town. The menu is Sonoran with a modern, sophisticated twist, and everything is packed with flavor. The space has a mid-century desert feel that I really love, and the service is always on point. It’s the kind of place I’m happy to take friends from out of town because I know it will be good every time.

4122 E Speedway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85712