Diners' Choice: Hot spot restaurants in Tucson

OpenTable

Updated December 05, 2024

Looking for restaurants that are the best hot spots in Tucson? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

The Steak Out Restaurant

4.8

4.8 (292)

$31 to $50

Steakhouse

Sonoita

About the restaurant

Sonoita’s longest-running restaurant and saloon serving cowboys, wine enthusiasts, locals, and out-of-towners for sixty years.
The Steak Out is a hallmark of any Southern Arizona Trip and a local gathering spot for generations of Santa Cruz County residents. Our signature mesquite-grilled steaks, burgers, barbecue ribs & chicken bring customers from near and far to our rural corner of SE Arizona. We feature a full bar, local wines, and live music in an authentic country western setting. Whether you’re looking for a special dinner for two, a spot to accommodate your large group, or just an appetizer and drink at the bar; we’ve got you covered!

Top review

Randy

Dined 6 days ago

Some of the best and most consistent steaks in the country with an amazing atmosphere whether it be a quiet weekend night or an eventful weekend accompanied by music. Staff is always happy and welcoming and they provide amazing service and show true teamwork! I recommend this place to everyone I know!

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4.7

4.7 (2133)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Downtown Tucson

About the restaurant

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!

Top review

Dined 4 days ago

Love! Fantastic Christmas dinner! The vibe of the hotel and cafe is charming. Our waiter was attentive and polite. We will be back!

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Popular dish

Fish 'N' Chips

Popular dish

Stuffed Chicken Gnocchi

Reilly Craft Pizza & Drink - Downtown

4.7

4.7 (1319)

$30 and under

Italian

Downtown Tucson

About the restaurant

REILLY offers modern Italian food in a casual urban setting. Our menu features smalls, salads, craft pizzas, fresh house-made pastas, desserts and craft drinks. If you are looking for outdoor dining, check out our Beer Garden and rooftop-now open! Rooftop and Beer Garden dining are open seating, order at the counter.

Top review

FrankVIP

Dined on Dec 20, 2024

The ricotta toast is still one of our very favorite dishes in Tucson! My rigatoni was equally delicious, great dinner!

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Zinburger Wine and Burger Bar – Tucson River

4.7

4.7 (802)

$30 and under

American

Midtown

About the restaurant

When it comes to a great meal, there’s nothing better than biting into a perfectly grilled, juicy burger, and sipping on a cold, creamy milkshake between every mouthwatering bite. At Zinburger, we create the perfect balance of comfort, flavor, and high quality ingredients in each of our menu items. Elevate your all-American burger experience with a Samburger and a side of truffle fries or hand-cut zucchini fries. Our vast selection of beer and wine is carefully picked to complement every delicious style of burger on our menu. Come over and treat yourself to a Zinfully indulgent experience at Zinburger.

Top review

ValerieVIP

Dined today

David is a gem of a bartender. He knows the menu inside and out, and he offers thoughtful suggestions for food and wine.

Doughbird - Tucson

4.7

4.7 (445)

$30 and under

American

Midtown

About the restaurant

Doughbird brings you a crave-worthy menu with an unexpected yet perfect duo: Pizza and Rotisserie. Yep, you heard right...Pizza and Rotisserie. A neighborhood spot where you can get spicy with eclectic combinations like our BBQ Chicken Pizza adorned with melted cheddar, jalapeño pesto and charred corn or try our juicy Red Bird Chicken with an array of comforting sides and flavorful sauces. At Doughbird, you'll discover a new irresistible favorite. So, savor a fun family dinner any night of the week, or grab a bite & sip on a cocktail at happy hour daily, any which way, you will always find your flavor.

Top review

TerryVIP

Dined 1 day ago

I didn’t care for the dry rub on my rotisserie chicken and the vegetables were overcooked

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Popular dish

Rotisserie Chicken

The Grill at Quail Creek

4.5

4.5 (86)

$30 and under

Grill

Sahuarita

About the restaurant

The Grill at Quail Creek is truly a delightful centerpiece, a gathering place where neighbors come to catch up on conversation or plan that next big adventure. With the renovation and expansion complete, it now features larger indoor & outdoor dining areas, board room with fireplace for private parties, and a U-shaped bar for enjoying happy hours with friends.

Top review

Jim

Dined 3 days ago

Always a pleasure to dine at the Grill at Quail Creek. Great food, great service and all around great atmosphere.

Terraza Garden Patio & Lounge at the Hacienda del Sol

4.4

4.4 (788)

$30 and under

Mexican / Southwestern

Foothills

About the restaurant

Step into the open-air haven of Terraza Garden Patio & Lounge at Hacienda del Sol and enjoy the refreshing desert breeze and captivating surroundings. Delight in a feast for the senses, from al fresco dining and signature drinks to live melodies, all crafting a unique gastronomic journey in the heart of Tucson, AZ. Within our historic hotel's dining oasis, our skilled chefs infuse innovation into every dish - whether it's tapas, tacos, or any culinary masterpiece in between.

We do allow pets and we even have a pet menu!

Top review

chris

Dined 4 days ago

Birria quesadilla was amazing. Live holiday music was a real treat

Culinary Dropout - Tucson

4.3

4.3 (2778)

$30 and under

American

Midtown

About the restaurant

At Culinary Dropout, raise your glass to friends coming together. A place where food and music are life. Join us at happy hour for ice cold beer and our famous soft pretzels with provolone fondue. At dinner, a signature cocktail and slow braised 36-hour pork ribs are a perfect pair. While you and your crew enjoy damn good food and drinks, a local band plays live for great vibes. Come hang out and stay a while.

Top review

Steve

Dined 3 days ago

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

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Epazote Kitchen & Cocktails

4.2

4.2 (610)

$30 and under

Southwest

Oro Valley

About the restaurant

A new dining experience at the Hilton El Conquistador. Literally translated as "Mexican Tea", Epazote is prominently used in Southwest cuisine to add spicy yet earthy flavor somewhat reminiscent of fennel. Inspired by this flavor and the traditions of the Southwest.

Enjoy Southwestern dishes featuring locally sourced specialties such as Poblano Peppers for Rellenos, Arizona raised Free-Range Chicken, selected cheeses and Arizona grown produce. Along with your meal, you will enjoy some of the most spectacular views of Pusch Ridge, on the outdoor patio.

Featuring a wide selection of tequilas, locally brewed beers and Arizona Wines. Those looking to sample a taste of the Southwest will be able to select from a bar menu of delectable options ideal for a shared dinner or snack.

Top review

Anne

Dined 5 days ago

Incredible ambiance! We had an outdoor table. Duck was luscious. Bourbon/ Rye cocktail was top notch.

HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery

4.1

4.1 (700)

$30 and under

American

Downtown Tucson

About the restaurant

UPDATE: HUB is currently operating out of PLAYGROUND until early fall 2024

Located on historic Congress Street in Tucson, HUB is right in the heart of all the excitement that downtown has to offer. Our dining room gives warm romantic vibes, while our patio comes to life with the greenery, and night life. With our locally sourced ingredients, we’ve created an elevated American cuisine while embracing the taste of the southwest. Make sure you leave room for our famous homemade ice cream with flavors such as Bourbon Almond Brittle and Oatmeal Cookie Dough. We’re also proud to offer our dine-in guests complimentary valet or self parking for 2 hours. This service is offered at The AC Hotel, located directly behind HUB. We look forward to welcoming you soon!

Top review

Miguel

Dined today

Had a wonderful experience at HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery. The atmosphere was welcoming and comfortable, and the service was excellent. We ordered burgers which were delicious and perfectly prepared. The drink selection was great - we enjoyed some sodas and I particularly liked their Hazy IPA. The restaurant offers a nice blend of casual dining with quality food and attentive service. The staff was friendly and helpful throughout our meal. Would definitely recommend this place for anyone looking for good burgers in a pleasant setting with great service.

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Popular dish

Shrimp & Grits

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