dining out in Tucson

Michael L. wrote:
->
->   Any suggestions for restaurants in the Tucson area?  I am particularly
->interested in places that have some local character.  Thanks in advance.

Mike:

I no longer live in Tucson, so I can't give the best advice, but since I do visit frequently, I have a couple of ideas for you.

The best Mexican food in town can be had in small "hole in the wall" places in the downtown & south of downtown area.  (Names of any fail me right now, sorry.)  My personal (sentimental) favorite Mexican place is La Fuente, on (what used to be called) Miracle Mile, on the west side of town.

A few other good choices:
     The Blue Willow, on Campbell, north of Grant
            omelets, sandwiches, etc -- great for brunch
     Terracotta (I think it's near River Rd.)  -- This restaurant
            has a "sister" within the same complex which is also
            very good.  (A husband & wife team owned one, then
            divorced, and this was their solution!)
     Capriccio's (sp) -- excellent Italian food; however, this may be
            no longer open, so call first.
     Tequila Grille -- on Speedway.  I have to admit, I'm not sure
            this is the correct name of the place.  It has great
            food, tho it's located very surprisingly in a "strip mall".

There are lots of good restaurants in Tucson, but the ones I've listed above have a good combination of great food & local color (meaning not parts of chains, etc.).

Hope this helps.
:m

Michael L. wrote:
>
>    Any suggestions for restaurants in the Tucson area?  I am particularly
> interested in places that have some local character.  Thanks in advance.
>
>
> Mike

I made a similar request to this newsgroup in August of 1992, just before we drove our then-freshman daughter to the University of Arizona, and I was rewarded with the name of one of the best restaurants I've ever eaten in (and this includes Paul Bocuse, among others!).

Janos, in downtown Tucson, is a unique blend of southwest, oriental and French influences -- magnificently prepared and elegantly served -- but without being pretentious.  It's located in an old adobe mansion -- hard to find but worth the search.  It's on Main Street.  Make reservations and tell them you heard about it on that computer bulletin board!  I can't wait till Kate graduates so we can go back!

Peggy Sweeney