Best Contemporary American Restaurants in South Tucson

10 restaurants available nearby

1. Maynards

4.5

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson

Booked 8 times today

Maynards, nestled in the historic train depot of Downtown Tucson, epitomizes the essence of fine American cuisine with a delightful local twist. This gem is celebrated for integrating the vibrant flavors of the Southwest into its dishes, making each meal a captivating experience. Patrons regularly rave about the "fabulous food and timely service," and the "freshest fish" they've ever had in Tucson, underscoring Maynards' commitment to quality and freshness. The ambiance, described as "romantic" and "intimate," perfectly complements the seasonal menu that honors the Sonoran Desert's bounty. Whether it's for a special "date night" or a festive gathering, Maynards promises an authentic dining journey that's both innovative and deeply rooted in American culinary traditions.

2. The Cup Cafe

4.8

Exceptional(2118)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson

Booked 24 times today

Recently awarded "Top 100 Neighborhood Gems in America" by OpenTable!Reservations are highly recommended for dinner due to limited indoor seating and high demand for patio seating. During breakfast and lunch we do not accept reservations, *EXCEPT* on these holidays: Easter, Mother's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.The Cup Café is a downtown Tucson tradition with a reputation for delicious, inspired fare, alive with flavor. A full-service, historic modern bistro, The Cup Café appeals to locals and visitors alike.Enjoy the variety of The Cup’s all-day menu and the fresh, delectable, and ever-changing daily features. Selections include build-your-own omelets, unique salads, great appetizers, full-course entrees, classic sandwiches, as well as vegan and vegetarian options.The Cup also proudly features homemade desserts, baked in-house, as well as a comfortable and expansive outdoor patio, full-service bar, unique signature cocktails, and intriguing wine selections.Thank you!

3. Nook - Tucson

4.8

Exceptional(287)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson

Booked 1 time today

Enjoy exceptional service and a friendly atmosphere at Nook. It's a wonderful spot for enjoying a delicious meal while catching up with old acquaintances over lunch. Nook is located just south of the Prima County Public Library on East Congress Street. It opened in 2015 and has become a trendy eatery that serves up New American cuisine. Owners Nikki and Matt Thompson along with Todd Anderson are fellow Tucsonans who love their community. Local artists have work showcased throughout this contemporary restaurant. Nook also prides itself on serving up locally sourced food. Try the Godfather Benedict with prosciutto, arugula, poached egg hollandaise and balsamic drizzle for breakfast, or come down during lunch for a green corn tamale pie with cabbage salad. It offers take-out service and is open for breakfast and lunch during the week. This restaurant also serves brunch on Saturday and Sunday.

4. Bata

4.7

Exceptional(1067)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson

Booked 24 times today

Bata, located in Downtown Tucson, is a culinary haven renowned for its exceptional Tapas / Small Plates, which have continuously captivated diners with their uniqueness and delightful flavors. Guests rave about the "truly innovative and delicious food, beautifully presented," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to creativity and quality. The daily-changing menu ensures a fresh and adventurous dining experience, perfect for food enthusiasts eager to explore new tastes. The restaurant's emphasis on using local ingredients and sophisticated techniques is evident, as diners describe every dish as a "culinary delight." The Tapas at Bata are not just meals; they are a vibrant celebration of Tucson's local bounty, meticulously crafted to offer a memorable dining experience. Whether it's the "spectacular smoked beets" or the "buttery, melt-in-your-mouth halibut," Bata’s small plates are a testament to the culinary artistry that keeps guests returning for more.

5. Agustin Kitchen

4.6

Exceptional(2413)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson

Booked 15 times today

Agustin Kitchen in Downtown Tucson is a gem for lovers of Vegetarian cuisine, offering a delightful array of dishes that are both inventive and deeply satisfying. Patrons consistently praise the quality and freshness of the food, noting that even simple dishes are executed with care. "The food is amazing…so incredibly fresh," says one satisfied diner. The restaurant's commitment to excellent service complements its culinary offerings, creating a dining experience that is both memorable and enjoyable. Reviews highlight the attentive and warm staff, making Agustin Kitchen a must-visit for anyone seeking exceptional vegetarian fare in a beautiful setting.

A photo of Arizona Inn Main Dining Room restaurant

6. Arizona Inn Main Dining Room

4.5

Awesome(1560)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Midtown

Nestled in the heart of Tucson's Midtown, the Arizona Inn Main Dining Room offers an exemplary American dining experience, celebrated with a AAA Four Diamond Award. Known for its elegant ambiance, complete with a cathedral ceiling and cozy fireplace, guests enjoy not only the setting but a menu that marries classic American cuisine with innovative techniques. Chef Allison's seasonal approach ensures each dish, from breakfast through dinner, features the freshest ingredients, delighting diners and earning glowing reviews. As one diner put it, "The food was excellent. This would be a wonderful spot for locals to come for a romantic dinner." With accolades like the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, it's clear that Arizona Inn stands as a pinnacle of American dining in Tucson.

7. Cielos

4.5

Awesome(1294)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Midtown

Booked 10 times today

Cielos, nestled in Midtown Tucson, is a gem for Southwest cuisine enthusiasts. Praised for its "delicious and beautifully presented" dishes, Cielos offers a seasonal menu that celebrates the region’s flavors with a contemporary twist. Diners rave about the "amazing blackened salmon," paired perfectly with local wines, and the "exceptional" custom meals tailored to dietary needs. The ambiance, featuring an outdoor patio with bistro lighting and a four-sided fireplace, sets the stage for memorable meals. As one reviewer put it, "It’s a bit pricey, but WELL WORTH IT!!!" making Cielos a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Southwest dining experience in Tucson.

A photo of Dante's Fire Cocktails and Cuisine restaurant

8. Dante's Fire Cocktails and Cuisine

4.5

Awesome(395)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Midtown

Booked 2 times today

Dante's Fire, Cocktails & Cuisine has a simple philosophy - Food made from food. Executive Chef & Owner Ken Foy's vision of a scratch kitchen creating Fine Food For Everyone. Dante’s Fire has been voted Best Late Night eatery by the Community in Tucson, received multiple articles from The Tucson Foodie, and Best Margarita & Food by the Judges & Crowd at the 2022 & 2023 World Margarita Championship, respectively. In July of 2022, Chef Kenneth Foy was crowned the Iron Chef of Tucson. In July of 2023, Chef Kenneth Foy was challenged for his title of Iron Chef of Tucson. Through a tough battle, Chef Kenneth Foy emerged victorious and still holds his title as the Reining Iron Chef of Tucson.We've created a fine food, casual atmosphere that caters to well, everyone. Start with our daily Happy Hour and feel welcome to hang out all night long.

A photo of Palm at the Westward Look Resort restaurant

9. Palm at the Westward Look Resort

4.3

Awesome(487)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Casas Adobes

Booked 1 time today

Located inside the historical Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa! Surrounded with native vegetation and breathe taking city views in the Palm Room & Palm Terrace! Featuring our award-winning Tacos. Recently won people's choice at the 2024 Margarita Challange in June Palm restaurant has opened as a three-meal restaurant open daily from 7am - 9pm. We offer daily Happy Hour 4pm-6pmConcert Series: Every Friday each month from 7pm - 9pmTuesday: Receive a FREE Appetizer when you purchase from our "MAIN" section of the dinner menu Wednesday: Wine Down Wednesday. 50% off on a selection of Reds and Whites (bottle only)Saturday Night: Taco & Tequila 50% off all Tequilas, including cocktails! 20% our amazing TacosSunday Night: Prime Rib Dinner $25. Jazz Band from 5pm-7pmCOMING JULY 1 HAPPY HOUR FOOD MENU For any questions, please call 520-297-1151 Ext 474

A photo of Amelia's Mexican Kitchen - Grant restaurant

10. Amelia's Mexican Kitchen - Grant

4.8

Exceptional(124)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • East Tucson

Booked 15 times today

Amelia's Mexican Kitchen in East Tucson is a celebrated haven for authentic Mexican and Southwestern cuisine, recognized with awards for the Best Quesabirria Taco and Best Salsas in 2023. Patrons rave about the "exceptional, authentic Mexican food" and the "best I've had in Tucson," emphasizing the quality and taste of dishes like the Chile Rellenos and Birria Ramen. The restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and is praised for its "excellent service" and "very reasonable prices." With glowing reviews and a reputation for delicious, authentically prepared meals, Amelia's Mexican Kitchen stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Mexican flavors in Tucson.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
Susanvip
Indiana •36 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Had dinner before heading to a concert Seating was quick and on time Offered choice of seating We dined outside on the patio A heater was brought over immediately Very attentive! Good service throughout the meal We had the duck stew and flank steak Both were delicious! I would have liked a bread with the stew, would be my only recommendation. Great atmosphere! Highly recommend
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The Cup CafePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown Tucson
•
4.8
R
Robert
Dallas - Fort Worth •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
What a wonderful meal! This is our new favorite spot in Tucson.
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Agustin KitchenPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Tucson
•
4.6
M
Manuel
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Exceptional dinner experience! We enjoy seafood and started with the oyster appetizer which was delicious. It was wonderful to try all three different oyster options. The halibut and cioppino were fantastic! Dessert was so creative and deliciously amazing. Excellent service by our server Marley. We can’t wait to go back!
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MaynardsPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Tucson
•
4.5
M
Martinvip
Cleveland / Akron / Canton •40 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Stayed downtown Tucson and was looking for a more affordable breakfast alternative that the Leo Kent. Nook came up, so we gave it a shot and were not disappointed. Terrific food and service. Fresh and cooked to order. Highly and heartily recommended.
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Nook - TucsonPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown Tucson
•
4.8
L
Lori
Tucson •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
We loved BATA. Our excellent server gave us advice on how to order from the menu - small plates, shared with each other, great suggestions and explanations of the dishes themselves. Everything was delicious. The interior was lovely and even though the space has high ceilings, it wasn't too noisy for us to hear each other. Highly recommend.
More info
BataPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Tucson
•
4.7

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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in South Tucson

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10 restaurants available nearby

1. Maynards

2. The Cup Cafe

3. Nook - Tucson

4. Bata

5. Agustin Kitchen

6. Arizona Inn Main Dining Room

7. Cielos

8. Dante's Fire Cocktails and Cuisine

9. Palm at the Westward Look Resort

10. Amelia's Mexican Kitchen - Grant

See what locals rave about

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