34 Best Restaurants in Tucson, Arizona

A modern Italian bistro in a lovely Foothills setting, Vivace has long been a favorite with Tucsonans. Wild mushrooms and goat cheese in puff pastry is hard to resist as a starter, and the fettuccine with grilled salmon is a nice, lighter alternative to such entrées as a rich osso buco. For dessert, the molten chocolate cake with spumoni is worth the 20 minutes it takes to create. Patio seating, with either city or mountain views, is especially inviting on warm evenings.

Well known—and loved—for its creative American fare and stunning presentation, Wildflower has compelling choices like a salmon and seafood bouillabaise; bow-tie pasta with grilled chicken, tomatoes, spinach, and pine nuts; and red wine–braised short ribs. The decadently huge desserts are equally top-notch. A glass wall separates the bar from the dining area, where an open kitchen, high ceiling with painted flowers, and blue-green banquettes complete the light and airy effect. Request a banquette or seating on the patio in the evening if you want quiet conversation, as the room can be noisy.

This small, friendly eatery with a loyal following prepares classic Ethiopian dishes, served on a communal platter with injera, a spongy bread, and eaten with the hands. Sampler plates of any three items allow you to try dishes like yesimir wat (a spicy lentil dish) and lega tibs (a milder beef dish with a tomato sauce).

Have a glass of wine or a cocktail with your gourmet burger and fries at this high-energy, somewhat noisy, and unquestionably hip burger joint. Zinburger delivers tempting burgers—try the Kobe beef with cheddar and wild mushrooms—and decadent milkshakes made of creative combinations like dates and honey or melted chocolate with praline flakes. A few creative salads, including one with ahi tuna, round out the menu. The restaurant also has a second location on the northeast side of town.