Tucson's Hidden Foods

Tucson's Hidden Foods

The charm of Tucson comes from its individuality. If one wanted to visit cookie cutter, all they’d need to do is drive an hour and forty-five minutes north to the land of the apartment complex. Tucsonan's favorite spots say a lot about them. They’re often a little off the beaten path, may not have the freshest coat of paint and that’s what people love about them. As for food places, you’ll find that the best spots are stashed just out of sight.

La Cocina - The serving sizes may not justify the meal price, but the food is still quality and the energy of live music on their outdoor stage is perfect. Especially when that summer nighttime breeze hits you.

Where can I find it? Just a short stumble to Court Avenue downtown and you’ll find the sign. (Don’t get fooled by El Charro’s line, it’s just another block south) Open everyday with a late night grill.  

Zemam’s Ethiopian - What’s not to love? B.Y.O.B. and you pay a small corking fee and you’re guaranteed to leave full and happy. You tend to feel as though you’re in their living room as the service staff is friendly but quiet.

Where can I find it? Right on the side of the road on Broadway. You’ve driven by it a thousand times. Closed on Monday.

Cafe a la C’Art - Tucked downtown adjacent from the Tucson Museum of Art is this small gem. The patio is big enough to accommodate those who come during the crowds since inside holds only a few sets of tables and chairs. I recommend dessert. But then again, I always recommend dessert.  
Where can I find it? Downtown, find Washington Street and you’ll get to their parking lot. It’s not straightforward, but you can always park at the Museum of Art and ask around. Open except for dinner on Sunday.

Don’t get me wrong, I love Cafe Poca Cosa, Sushi Garden and No Anchovies, and usually my suggestions for visitors include these. But in this case, the effort you take to hunt down these obscure spots rewards you with the chance to really meet Tucson. These places exist to give a little more character to the city I’ve grown to love.