Tucson is often touted for its desert landscapes, rich history, historical landmarks and interactive experiences. But the southern Arizona city is also known for its melting pot of cultures and cuisines. Check out these must-try restaurants in the Old Pueblo.
Photo by Tiffany Acosta
Start Your Day at The Dutch Eatery & Refuge
Tucson native Nicole Van Winden and Marcus Van Winden, who originally hails from Holland, discovered a cozy, convenient space next to the University of Arizona and decided to turn it into a restaurant. Marked by high ceilings, an open kitchen and large bar, The Dutch has a modern industrial aesthetic and inviting atmosphere that lives up to its name – the dining area is a refuge from downtown Tucson’s hustle and bustle. The Dutch Eatery sticks to classic Dutch dishes like the Uitsmijter (Dutch breakfast) – three fried eggs, ham, gouda cheese, tomatoes and whole grain toast. Guests can also stray from Dutch dining with something from the new American-style menu like the l’orange tacos stuffed with slow-braised duck, Brussels sprout slaw, pickled red onion and Cotija.
943 E. University Blvd., Tucson, 520-792-6684, thedutchtucson.com
Photo by Tiffany Acosta
Choose Endless Meals at American Eat Co.
If you’re feeling indecisive on where or what to eat, you’ll likely find something to satisfy any appetite at Tucson’s first local food court, home to seven local restaurants, a bar, coffee shop, juice bar and an arcade. Eateries include Pops Hot Chicken, Walters Pizzeria, Mariscos El Bochas, Monster Sonoran Hot Dogs, El Tacoson, Kitchen 86, Hielitos and Hub Ice Cream. Neon signs with the names of each restaurant light up the space and the long tables and the wooden chairs tie into the location’s fun industrial farmhouse aesthetic.
1439 S. 4th Ave., Tucson, 520-867-8700, americaneatco.com
Photo by Tiffany Acosta
Get Authentic Chinese Cuisine at E Hot Pot
Hot pot is a traditional Chinese cooking method that is prepared at the table with a simmering pot of soup stock. E Hot Pot makes it unique and serves individual hot pots to its customers. This restaurant has colorful walls and bamboo ceiling panels. One of its most popular hot pots is the Seafood Hot Pot which includes shrimp, fish filet, scallops, lobster balls, fish balls, squid, mussel, imitation crab meat and clams. The Vegan Hot Pot includes tofu skin, vegan shrimp balls, tofu, mushroom balls and vegan meatballs. And what’s a Hot Pot restaurant without a make-your-own-sauce cart? The cart includes ingredients such as soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, scallions, chile oil, peanut sauce and more.
243 E. Speedway Blvd. Suite 141, Tucson, 520-999-8839, ehotpot.com
