My Favorite Tucson Shops for Dining Out
When friends visit, I tend to take them to places that are always consistent in service and execution. The food is top notch and rarely disappoints. Here are some of my favorites.
Forbes Meat Company
When I want quality cuts, this is where I go. Forbes is a local butcher shop 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.
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 back where you can grab local goods to take home.
BATA
Bata is where I go when I want something a little more special. The menu changes often, built around seasonal ingredients, and the dishes are as creative as they are delicious. 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
Anello
When I’m in the mood for a salad and pizza, Anello is my spot. The crust has that perfect blister and chew, and the toppings are simple but done really well. The room is pared back and minimal, which keeps the focus on the food and the natural wines they serve alongside it.
Midtown Mercantile Merchants
Midtown Mercantile Merchants is a treasure trove of vintage finds and eclectic collections. With dozens of individual dealers under one roof, you’ll find everything from antique furniture and retro décor to art, jewelry, and quirky one-of-a-kind pieces. It’s the kind of place you can wander for hours and always stumble across something unexpected.
Saturday Generation
Saturday Generation is a fresh, modern boutique offering stylish furniture and home goods that blend form and function. Their pieces strike a balance between playful and practical, with design-forward details that make everyday living feel special. It’s a go-to for anyone wanting to bring a touch of contemporary charm into their home. Beyond retail, they offer styling and staging to create spaces that feel curated and personal.
Tito & Pep
This is one of my favorite dinner spots in town. The menu is Southwestern with a modern 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 because I know it will be good every time.