Dining in Southern Arizona
An alphabetical listing of Jim’s Dining Reviews.
Jim’s Dining Reviews
Afternoon at Hacienda del Sol. Cocktails, Fine Dining, & Lodging in Central Tucson
The Hacienda del Sol offers old Tucson resort comfort. The best in Fine Dining and Lodging in Central Tucson
Continue readingAgave Restaurant at Desert Diamond Casino
We made reservations for a show at Desert Diamond Casino and, as an after thought, also made reservations at their Agave Restaurant. The show was a dud, but the Agave was a delight.
Continue readingAmado Territory Inn Steakhouse
We had lunch at the Amado Steakhouse about a year ago (2010) and it was a most pleasant experience. Serene grounds, good food and service. We dined on the patio then walked along a tree-lined path to visit some art studios. However, I understand the Amado Territory Inn & Steakhouse has new owners since we were there, so I can’t vouch for the place now. I will be down that way again soon and will check it out for you. Visit the website 3001 East Frontage Road, Amado … Continue reading
Anthony’s In The Catalinas – Tucson Foothills
We three arrived early just as Anthony’s was opening at 5:30PM. We entered through a small bar. The maitre d’ greeted us and I asked to be seated near the very large window on the south overlooking Metropolitan Tucson. On the way to our window table we took note of the large patio that would have been inviting if the weather had been warmer.
Continue readingB Line on 4th Avenue, Tucson
The B Line is casual dining and a local favorite for good reason. For breakfast, their crapes, bagels, and pancakes are excellent.
For lunch and dinner, their menu is varied – from soups & sandwiches, to salads w/ or w/o chicken or fish; to carne asada burritos; to pan fried salmon – all very tasty.
Barrio Brewing Company: A Review
Barrio Brewing Company: 2nd in my series on local breweries. In my first local brewery review, Thunder Canyon Brewery, I shared my general preferences and prejudices regarding beer. So, I don’t need to repeat them here. As we did at Thunder Canyon, Michael Polletta and I each ordered the sampler rack. We also ordered food [...]
Continue readingBeyond Bread-Lunch
Beyond Bread has the Best Sandwiches according to Jim. Not fancy, just fresh bread, sandwiches, soups, salads and pastries. Locally owned since 1998. Visit the website Three Locations: Central: 3026 N Campbell Road, Tucson North: 421 W Ina Road Tucson East: 6220 E Speedway Blvd … Continue reading
Bisbee Breakfast Club
I had breakfast at the Bisbee Breakfast Club. Every local I talked to recommended the place, so I felt compelled to test it out. The locals were right. Nothing fancy, but breakfast in Bisbee. Definitely. January 1, 2012 Update. Bisbee Breakfast Club just opened a new restaurant in Tucson at 4131 W. Ina Road. It will be interesting to compare their breakfasts with Old Pueblo standards such as the Blue Willow on Campbell. Neighbor Roy and I will have to check them out soon. … Continue reading
Blanco Tacos + Tequila. La Encantada Mall – Tucson.
September, 2011 BLANCO Tacos + Tequila says they offer “modern Mexican fare in a casual-chic setting. Updated classics like tacos, enchiladas, and queso crisps are reinterpreted with fresh, flavorful, and unique ingredients.” That they do and they said it better than I could. Blanco is not ‘authentic’ Tucson. It’s very new and in theory could be anywhere USA. But you can sit on the patio overlooking the city and have yourself a fine Mexican meal. Like North just around the corner, it’s on the upper level of La Encantada. 2905 E Skyline Drive; Tucson AZ 85718 520-232-1007 Hours: Sun – Thu 11am to 10pm; Fri – Sat 11am to 11pm; Happy Hour Daily 4pm to 6pm. … Continue reading
Blue Willow-Breakfast – Tucson
First, Blue Willow Restaurant on Campbell is a bakery: fresh-out-of-the-oven cakes, pies, muffins, cookies, you-name-it.
Continue readingBrooklyn Pizza Company
I have yet to eat at Brooklyn Pizza on 4th Ave. However, until I can get there, I can tell you that the Yelp & TripAdvisor customer reviews are generally 3-4 Stars. And the Weekly’s readers say it’s the best of 2011. AND for all you environmentally conscious people out there, Brooklyn Pizza Company has gone 100% solar. Of the negative reviews I have read, the issue seems to be the wait staff rather than the food. Visit the Website 534 N. 4th Ave. Tucson … Continue reading
Cafe a la C’Art
Cafe’ a la C’Art is a small, but fine country-style restaurant in the Art Museum’s courtyard. You can dine inside or be seated on the patio. Great sandwiches and salads, but of particular interest is their delectable baked goods.
Judy Michelet, her son Mark and his wife Shirley take pride in presenting artistically crafted menu items based on traditional Southwest cuisine flavors. You will enjoy!
Cafe Roka – Bisbee
July, 2011 Is Cafe’ Roka the best restaurant in Baja Arizona? You decide. But I’ll tell you this little story. Mr. Woodry and I have been dear friends for well over 40 years. He was my first supervisor on my first job after I graduated. Since then we have traveled extensively together and experienced some of the finest restaurants in Los Angeles, New York, London, and Paris. One night, we stayed at the Copper Queen Hotel in Old Bisbee and made reservations to dine at what we were told was, not only the best restaurant in Bisbee, but the best restaurant in the Western World…Cafe’ Roka. To be sure, we had our doubts, but off we went with high expectations. I ordered lamb chops. Mr. Woodry ordered salmon. Both were artistically presented by an attentive waiter. The wine was excellent. Was it the best lamb chop dinner I ever had. … Continue reading
Cafe’ Poca Cosa. In Search Of The Best Mexican Restaurant In Tucson
Café Poca Cosa Poca Cosa was where we first had a night out with two people who would become dear friends, Dan & Wanda. That was six or seven years ago and I thought then that Café Poca Cosa was very special. I can’t tell you how may friends and family I have recommended Poca [...]
Continue readingCafe’ Poca Cosa
As noted several days ago with the Vivace Restaurant review, I occasionally post reviews by others I know well and trust their judgment in such matters. Scott Reed and his wife Sheryl are friends who visit us from Wisconsin in the fall or spring. This past April, they resided in our casita and enjoyed our [...]
Continue readingChef Alisah’s Restaurant: A Review of Bosnian Dining in Tucson
If you’re looking for a different yet pleasant dining experience, Chef Alisah’s Restaurant is highly recommended. We will be adding Chef Alisah’s to our 2012 List of the Best Restaurants In Southern Arizona as we update for 2013.
Continue readingCow Palace – Amado
As you’re headed down the I-19 from Tucson to Tumacacori, you will see a sign for the little town of Amado. Most prominently, you will see two rustic looking restaurants across the street from each other.
One, the Cow Palace, has a large cow on the roof. The other, the Longhorn Grill, sports a gigantic cow skull for an entrance.
Cup Cafe at the Hotel Congress
The Cup Cafe is a downtown tradition enjoyed by visitors and locals alike. Creative dishes, eclectic wine list, freshly baked desserts, full bar, indoor or patio seating.
Continue readingDakota Cafe
Desert Museum Membership
The Arizona Sonora Desert Museum needs no introduction but, If you are going to have lunch at the Desert Museum, visit more than once or take advantage of the Gift Shop, it is worthwhile to buy a membership when you first arrive. There is a 10% discount for all members on most purchases, and the coffee is free! … Continue reading
Dining & Lodging In Apache Country (Cochise County)
Good food and lodging are few and far between in Cochise County Apache Country. Here are a couple of suggestions.
Continue readingDining at the Desert Museum
The Desert Museum offers 3 places to dine plus various snack bars around the property. The Coffee Bar in the Gift Shop opens early and offers snacks, coffee, ice cream sandwiches and pastries. If you’re a member, coffee is FREE! The IronWood Terraces is cafeteria style, but don’t let the “cafeteria” label fool you. It offers a wide selection of more than just “cafeteria” food. Good food. Informal. The Ocotillo Cafe is more formal and upscale. Very good! Open Wed – Sunday in season. They serve lunch 11AM – 3PM December – April. Dinner: Saturdays June – August. Do call for reservation: 520-883-2702 … Continue reading
Dining In Tombstone: Steaks And Ribs Served With Authentic Old West History
Dining in Tombstone can be hoot. Here you can get a good steak, outstanding BBQ ribs, or a decent burger all served with a large helping of Old West History.
Continue readingDining Near Tucson Museum of Art
This is what our eastern sky looked like a few minutes ago from our viewing deck. Just thought I should share. On another note, Ms. Karen & I had Sunday brunch yesterday at Agustin Brasserie in the Mercado just west of Downtown Tucson on Congress Street. What a magnificent interior. The food and service was [...]
Continue readingDoes The Dish Bistro & Wine Bar Serve The Best Steaks In Tucson?
I have been searching for a steakhouse that serves a better ribeye than I can BBQ at home. I almost always purchase my ribeyes from Costco. They are ALWAYS better than any of the big-name grocery stores. If you know what you’re looking for, you can pick up a generous package of prime-cut ribeye’s for the cost of U.S.D.A. choice.
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