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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Downtown Tucson

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10 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Maynards restaurant
1. Maynards
4.5
Awesome(2373)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson
Booked 23 times today
Maynards in Downtown Tucson is a shining beacon of authentic American cuisine, capturing the essence of the Southwest with elegance and flair. Nestled in the historic train depot, this restaurant offers a "fantastic experience from start to finish," with a menu that showcases locally-inspired, market-driven dishes. Diners rave about the creative and eclectic offerings, such as the divine swordfish and the exquisite desserts that cap off a perfect meal. The charming, romantic atmosphere, coupled with "exceptional service," makes it a favorite for date nights and special occasions. Maynards stands out as a true "Tucson Treasure" with a touch of timeless charm.
A photo of The Cup Cafe restaurant
2. The Cup Cafe
4.7
Exceptional(2134)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson
Booked 22 times today
Recently awarded "Top 100 Neighborhood Gems in America" by OpenTable!Reservations are highly recommended for dinner due to limited indoor seating and high demand for patio seating. During breakfast and lunch we do not accept reservations, *EXCEPT* on these holidays: Easter, Mother's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.The Cup Café is a downtown Tucson tradition with a reputation for delicious, inspired fare, alive with flavor. A full-service, historic modern bistro, The Cup Café appeals to locals and visitors alike.Enjoy the variety of The Cup’s all-day menu and the fresh, delectable, and ever-changing daily features. Selections include build-your-own omelets, unique salads, great appetizers, full-course entrees, classic sandwiches, as well as vegan and vegetarian options.The Cup also proudly features homemade desserts, baked in-house, as well as a comfortable and expansive outdoor patio, full-service bar, unique signature cocktails, and intriguing wine selections.Thank you!
A photo of Bata restaurant
3. Bata
4.7
Exceptional(1109)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson
Booked 43 times today
Bata in Downtown Tucson offers an unparalleled Tapas/Small Plates experience, celebrated for its authentic and inventive approach to dining. Each dish is crafted with locally sourced ingredients, cooked over a live oak fire, ensuring an exceptional depth of flavor. Guests often rave about the "creative plates" and the "wonderful dining experience" that make every visit memorable. Bata's dishes like the lion’s mane mushroom skewers and charred eggplant have earned high praise for their flavor and presentation. With a focus on quality and hospitality, Bata's ever-changing menu promises a fresh and exciting culinary adventure, making it a must-visit destination for tapas enthusiasts.
A photo of Agustin Kitchen restaurant
4. Agustin Kitchen
4.5
Awesome(2442)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson
Booked 24 times today
Agustin Kitchen in Downtown Tucson is a beacon for Vegetarian cuisine enthusiasts, celebrated for its authentic and high-quality offerings. Diners rave about the "fantastic food" and "creative dishes" that grace the menu, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to fresh, flavorful vegetarian options. The vibrant and welcoming atmosphere enhances the dining experience, making it a "new favorite spot" for locals and visitors alike. Agustin Kitchen's dedication to exceptional service is evident in the glowing reviews, with guests praising the attentive staff and their ability to "turn any meal into a memorable occasion." This is a must-visit destination for Vegetarian food lovers in Tucson.
A photo of Nook - Tucson restaurant
5. Nook - Tucson
4.8
Exceptional(293)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson
Booked 3 times today
Enjoy exceptional service and a friendly atmosphere at Nook. It's a wonderful spot for enjoying a delicious meal while catching up with old acquaintances over lunch. Nook is located just south of the Prima County Public Library on East Congress Street. It opened in 2015 and has become a trendy eatery that serves up New American cuisine. Owners Nikki and Matt Thompson along with Todd Anderson are fellow Tucsonans who love their community. Local artists have work showcased throughout this contemporary restaurant. Nook also prides itself on serving up locally sourced food. Try the Godfather Benedict with prosciutto, arugula, poached egg hollandaise and balsamic drizzle for breakfast, or come down during lunch for a green corn tamale pie with cabbage salad. It offers take-out service and is open for breakfast and lunch during the week. This restaurant also serves brunch on Saturday and Sunday.
A photo of Arizona Inn Main Dining Room restaurant
6. Arizona Inn Main Dining Room
4.5
Awesome(1557)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Midtown
The Arizona Inn is an historic resort spread over 14 tranquil acres of gardens, flowers and lawns in the heart of mid-town Tucson. The Inn offers AAA Four Diamond Award winning dining in our Main Dining Room with cathedral-ceiling and fireplace as well as our more intimate Catlin Room with views of the gardens. The Dining Room provides legendary service in an elegant yet comfortable setting for breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Chef Fonte combines classic cuisine with seasonal ingredients and innovative techniques. The menus change with the seasons to feature the freshest ingredients. Wine Spectator has recognized the wine list with an Award of Excellence. The Audubon Bar, with live piano music nightly and patio seating, provides a perfect setting for enjoying a classic cocktail.
A photo of Cielos restaurant
7. Cielos
4.2
Awesome(1310)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Midtown
Booked 12 times today
Cielos at Lodge on the Desert in Midtown Tucson is a culinary gem that expertly captures the essence of Southwest cuisine. This restaurant offers a dining experience that's as authentic as it is delicious, with dishes that highlight the region's vibrant ingredients. Reviewers rave about the “exceptional food, cooked to perfection,” and note that “the tamale was one of the best I’ve ever had.” The inviting atmosphere, complete with a charming outdoor patio and a four-sided fireplace, adds to the allure, making it perfect for any occasion. Cielos' commitment to authenticity and quality makes it a must-visit for Southwest cuisine enthusiasts.
A photo of Dante's Fire Cocktails and Cuisine restaurant
8. Dante's Fire Cocktails and Cuisine
4.5
Awesome(398)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Midtown
Booked 5 times today
Dante's Fire Cocktails and Cuisine is a shining star in Midtown Tucson, celebrated for its authentic American cuisine crafted with a commitment to quality. With Executive Chef Kenneth Foy at the helm, diners can expect a "gem of a restaurant" experience that brilliantly combines fine food with a casual atmosphere. Known for its "delicious entrees" and "excellent, reasonably priced food," Dante's Fire offers a diverse menu that delights every palate, from hearty burgers to refined plates that flirt with haute cuisine. The restaurant’s accolades, including being crowned the Iron Chef of Tucson, affirm its status as a top culinary destination.
A photo of Palm at the Westward Look Resort restaurant
9. Palm at the Westward Look Resort
4.0
Excellent(498)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Casas Adobes
Booked 2 times today
Nestled within the picturesque Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa, Palm at the Westward Look Resort is a gem for Comfort Food enthusiasts. With breathtaking city views and an ambiance that "lends to the charm," this restaurant offers a delightful dining experience. Their comfort food menu shines with standout dishes like the "Del Bacon burger" and "tinga tacos," which reviewers rave as "excellent." Their recent accolade at the 2024 Margarita Challenge highlights their dedication to quality and flavor. Whether enjoying a quiet dinner or soaking in live music, Palm promises a memorable and savory escape for all comfort food lovers.
A photo of Amelia's Mexican Kitchen - Grant restaurant
10. Amelia's Mexican Kitchen - Grant
4.4
Awesome(136)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • East Tucson
Booked 15 times today
Amelia's Mexican Kitchen - Grant is a vibrant culinary destination in East Tucson, celebrated for its award-winning Contemporary Mexican cuisine. Known for its exceptional quesabirria tacos, which earned the title of "Best Quesabirria Taco 2023," this charming spot offers a menu rich in authentic flavors with a modern twist. Guests rave about the "best chili rellenos" and outstanding burritos, while the "spicy, flavorful salsas" add an extra kick that has won accolades. With an inviting atmosphere and friendly, attentive service, Amelia's truly captures the essence of Mexican culture, making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors seeking a genuine dining experience.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • DouglasVIP
    Tucson •136 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Excellent restaurant for classic experience. Very good and well presented cocktails. Food, including amuse bouche, appetizer, one main course (duck breast), and deserts excellent. One exception was entree of "pressed" chicken breast which was a bad concept. Flavor OK but very heavy and dry and too big a portion. Sides were good. Wine list pretty good and not too expensive by today's standards. Ambience, at night, excellent. Parking convenient. Not inexpensive, but not outrageous either. Have been before for lunch, will certainly return for dinner.
    More info
    MaynardsPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Tucson
    •
    4.5
  • JeffVIP
    Tucson •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Lovely meal all around: good cocktails, creative appetizers and entrees with fresh ingredients and wonderful flavor. The appetizers are a bit on the small size, but the entrees are ample. Highly recommended!
    More info
    BataPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Tucson
    •
    4.7
  • KarenVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Restaurant was busy but not overly crowded. I think if it were full it would be difficult for a table of 6 to converse. Noisy. Food was delicious. Server (John, maybe? It was a little noisy). Was attentive and patient. Helpful with menu and wine questions. The place is a little pricey, but upscale and high quality. Enjoyed our evening.
    More info
    Agustin KitchenPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Tucson
    •
    4.5
  • Margaret
    Austin •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Stopped in before afternoon performance @ Fox theatre. Had wonderful brunch on a beautiful January Sunday in Tucson. Perfect!
    More info
    Nook - TucsonPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown Tucson
    •
    4.8
  • SharonVIP
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •72 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jan 3, 2025
    We had dinner and were able to eat outside. It was quiet and lovely. We didn't need heaters, but they were there in case. We started with the Dillinger side car----a great drink. I had the fish tacos. They were delicious---not quite a main meal for heavier eaters, but I wasn't too hungry so they were perfect. My friend ordered the St Louis ribs. Magnificent! Tasty and meaty.
    More info
    The Cup CafePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown Tucson
    •
    4.7

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Downtown Tucson

Discover the vibrant flavors of contemporary American cuisine right in the heart of Downtown Tucson. Our curated selection of restaurants offers a sophisticated blend of innovative dishes that reflect the unique culinary spirit of the region. Each restaurant features a menu that is both inventive and deeply rooted in local traditions, showcasing the best of what Tucson has to offer. Downtown Tucson's dining scene is characterized by its dynamic approach to Contemporary American cuisine, with chefs utilizing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to craft meals that are both visually appealing and bursting with flavor. Whether you're in the mood for something elegantly simple or intricately prepared, these dining establishments are sure to provide an exceptional gastronomic adventure. The atmosphere in these restaurants ranges from modern elegance to rustic charm, complementing the high-quality food with equally impressive service and setting. Perfect for food enthusiasts and culinary adventurers alike, Downtown Tucson's contemporary American eateries promise not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience that resonates with every bite.

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