Best restaurants near me in Vail, AZ

Truly a gem of Tucson. This was our first visit, so we didn't know what to expect. Based on meals at other highly regarded Tucson restaurants I didn't expect much, to be honest. Frankly, we were blown away. Everything we ordered was delicious, and a few items were truly something else. We ordered the charred broccoli expecting a fairly straightforward, and basic, starter. What we got was a dish of such complexity that we were taken aback. Another highlight was the rosemary olive oil cake. Usually olive oil cake is one of those hip menu items that never lives up to the hype. This cake was the exception. It was so moist and flavorful. When I took a bite with the cake, cream, and dark maraschino cherries (Luxardo?), it was a mouthful of heaven. We seriously considered extending our stay in Tucson one more day simply to return for dinner tomorrow. Alas, it was unrealistic. But we do plan on stopping in the next time we're in town.

First time at this restaurant. Escargot and artichoke appetizer was wonderful. My Caesar salad was excellent. Entrees were also great. I have a lactose issue so the menu was difficult, but our server was so helpful. Back and forth to the kitchen trying to find something that would work. She was truly amazing. Would highly recommend.

Christmas dinner at Sullivan’s was very busy. Considering the number of diners, the staff did an excellent job of service that felt surprisingly personal. We were seated at a table for five that felt surprisingly intimate. We were warned by our server that we were going to have to wait a while for our entrees to be prepared. But the time passed comfortably for us at least as it gave us more time for a good family conversation and visit. We have been dining out each Christmas for 10 years (except for 2 years during the Covid pandemic). This was the best Christmas dining-out experience we have had.

Fun experience. This was our second time at the Cowboy Cookout. All the staff are helpful and friendly. Tasty food and lots of it. Good entertainment with line dance lessons. Lovely to sit outside and eat under the stars. Would definitely come back when we are in the area again.

Our meal was good. Excellent margaritas at a very good price at happy hour. Shrimp tacos were loved by picky eater grandson. Granddaughter didn’t like chicken nuggets. All the other enchiladas, burritos, and carne asada were very good. Refried beans were kind of tasteless. But overall a pleasant meal.