The Tao of Chow - from a Guy who Loves FAMILY, FOOD, and WINE!

Posted by bern from tucson on 8/31/06

I Love FOOD. All Food. From the local pizza joint Upper Crust to upscale places like Bistro Zin. When I have to travel, I treat myself and visit top notch restaurants in places like San Francisco, Chicago, New Orleans, New York, and DC to name a few. And, in comparison, I can proudly say Tucson also has an excellent selection of outstanding restaurants. Bistro Zin is one of them. The descriptor of pretentiousness goes with fashionable restaurants as hands go with gloves, but so often it seems unfair and an easy jab. I've routinely gone to Bistro Zin in polo shirts, shorts and sandals and was never given a condescending glance or poor treatment. While not a children-centric establishment, I've taken my well-behaved 6 yr old there and seen other families with their young children. No matter. The staff has ALWAYS been attentive, extremely gracious, and professional. Is it popular among people who love to look pretty and dress to the nines. Sure. The restaurant is located at the edge of the foothills after all, and the restaurant is catering to its clientele. The food is of the highest quality, fresh and fabulous. A real bistro. The food is straightforward with a touch of special, but not self-absorbed or self important at all. It has the best filet mignon in town and I have visited every steakhouse in Tucson over the past 16 years. Along with the filet is served one of the best potato pave I have had. The appetizers are outstanding, especially the artichokes, with love parmesan shavings and an excellent balsamic vinegar. Im not much of a dessert person, but my wife and kid rave about them. I do like wine, however, and a nice winelist, offered by the bottle, glass, or flight really enhances the meal at Bistro Zin. The knowledgeable staff can help navigate the offerings. The flights are especially enticing and on one flight I had a pinot noir that made me want to cry it was so good. What was it? Sea Smokes, Santa Rita Hills.

Asthetically pleasing environment

Posted by Judy from Mpls and Tucson on 12/7/05

We eaten here many times and all but once it was ecellent. The one time it wasn't the management was very gracious, apologetic and took it off the bill. i personally love the hallibut and soups.