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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(2353)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson
Booked 20 times today
Maynards, nestled in the historic train depot of Downtown Tucson, epitomizes the essence of fine American cuisine with a delightful local twist. This gem is celebrated for integrating the vibrant flavors of the Southwest into its dishes, making each meal a captivating experience. Patrons regularly rave about the "fabulous food and timely service," and the "freshest fish" they've ever had in Tucson, underscoring Maynards' commitment to quality and freshness. The ambiance, described as "romantic" and "intimate," perfectly complements the seasonal menu that honors the Sonoran Desert's bounty. Whether it's for a special "date night" or a festive gathering, Maynards promises an authentic dining journey that's both innovative and deeply rooted in American culinary traditions.
A photo of The Cup Cafe restaurant
2. The Cup Cafe
4.8
Exceptional(2115)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson
Booked 30 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(1062)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson
Booked 23 times today
Bata, located in Downtown Tucson, is a culinary haven renowned for its exceptional Tapas / Small Plates, which have continuously captivated diners with their uniqueness and delightful flavors. Guests rave about the "truly innovative and delicious food, beautifully presented," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to creativity and quality. The daily-changing menu ensures a fresh and adventurous dining experience, perfect for food enthusiasts eager to explore new tastes. The restaurant's emphasis on using local ingredients and sophisticated techniques is evident, as diners describe every dish as a "culinary delight." The Tapas at Bata are not just meals; they are a vibrant celebration of Tucson's local bounty, meticulously crafted to offer a memorable dining experience. Whether it's the "spectacular smoked beets" or the "buttery, melt-in-your-mouth halibut," Bata’s small plates are a testament to the culinary artistry that keeps guests returning for more.
A photo of Agustin Kitchen restaurant
4. Agustin Kitchen
4.7
Exceptional(2410)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson
Booked 21 times today
Agustin Kitchen in Downtown Tucson is a gem for lovers of Vegetarian cuisine, offering a delightful array of dishes that are both inventive and deeply satisfying. Patrons consistently praise the quality and freshness of the food, noting that even simple dishes are executed with care. "The food is amazing…so incredibly fresh," says one satisfied diner. The restaurant's commitment to excellent service complements its culinary offerings, creating a dining experience that is both memorable and enjoyable. Reviews highlight the attentive and warm staff, making Agustin Kitchen a must-visit for anyone seeking exceptional vegetarian fare in a beautiful setting.
A photo of Nook - Tucson restaurant
5. Nook - Tucson
4.8
Exceptional(286)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson
Booked 4 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(1561)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Midtown
Nestled in the heart of Tucson's Midtown, the Arizona Inn Main Dining Room offers an exemplary American dining experience, celebrated with a AAA Four Diamond Award. Known for its elegant ambiance, complete with a cathedral ceiling and cozy fireplace, guests enjoy not only the setting but a menu that marries classic American cuisine with innovative techniques. Chef Allison's seasonal approach ensures each dish, from breakfast through dinner, features the freshest ingredients, delighting diners and earning glowing reviews. As one diner put it, "The food was excellent. This would be a wonderful spot for locals to come for a romantic dinner." With accolades like the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, it's clear that Arizona Inn stands as a pinnacle of American dining in Tucson.
A photo of Cielos restaurant
7. Cielos
4.5
Awesome(1291)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Midtown
Booked 13 times today
Cielos, nestled in Midtown Tucson, is a gem for Southwest cuisine enthusiasts. Praised for its "delicious and beautifully presented" dishes, Cielos offers a seasonal menu that celebrates the region’s flavors with a contemporary twist. Diners rave about the "amazing blackened salmon," paired perfectly with local wines, and the "exceptional" custom meals tailored to dietary needs. The ambiance, featuring an outdoor patio with bistro lighting and a four-sided fireplace, sets the stage for memorable meals. As one reviewer put it, "It’s a bit pricey, but WELL WORTH IT!!!" making Cielos a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Southwest dining experience in Tucson.
A photo of Dante's Fire Cocktails and Cuisine restaurant
8. Dante's Fire Cocktails and Cuisine
4.5
Awesome(395)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Midtown
Booked 8 times today
Dante's Fire, Cocktails & Cuisine has a simple philosophy - Food made from food. Executive Chef & Owner Ken Foy's vision of a scratch kitchen creating Fine Food For Everyone. Dante’s Fire has been voted Best Late Night eatery by the Community in Tucson, received multiple articles from The Tucson Foodie, and Best Margarita & Food by the Judges & Crowd at the 2022 & 2023 World Margarita Championship, respectively. In July of 2022, Chef Kenneth Foy was crowned the Iron Chef of Tucson. In July of 2023, Chef Kenneth Foy was challenged for his title of Iron Chef of Tucson. Through a tough battle, Chef Kenneth Foy emerged victorious and still holds his title as the Reining Iron Chef of Tucson.We've created a fine food, casual atmosphere that caters to well, everyone. Start with our daily Happy Hour and feel welcome to hang out all night long.
A photo of Palm at the Westward Look Resort restaurant
9. Palm at the Westward Look Resort
4.3
Awesome(486)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Casas Adobes
Booked 2 times today
Located inside the historical Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa! Surrounded with native vegetation and breathe taking city views in the Palm Room & Palm Terrace! Featuring our award-winning Tacos. Recently won people's choice at the 2024 Margarita Challange in June Palm restaurant has opened as a three-meal restaurant open daily from 7am - 9pm. We offer daily Happy Hour 4pm-6pmConcert Series: Every Friday each month from 7pm - 9pmTuesday: Receive a FREE Appetizer when you purchase from our "MAIN" section of the dinner menu Wednesday: Wine Down Wednesday. 50% off on a selection of Reds and Whites (bottle only)Saturday Night: Taco & Tequila 50% off all Tequilas, including cocktails! 20% our amazing TacosSunday Night: Prime Rib Dinner $25. Jazz Band from 5pm-7pmCOMING JULY 1 HAPPY HOUR FOOD MENU For any questions, please call 520-297-1151 Ext 474
A photo of Amelia's Mexican Kitchen - Grant restaurant
10. Amelia's Mexican Kitchen - Grant
4.8
Exceptional(123)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • East Tucson
Booked 14 times today
Amelia's Mexican Kitchen in East Tucson is a celebrated haven for authentic Mexican and Southwestern cuisine, recognized with awards for the Best Quesabirria Taco and Best Salsas in 2023. Patrons rave about the "exceptional, authentic Mexican food" and the "best I've had in Tucson," emphasizing the quality and taste of dishes like the Chile Rellenos and Birria Ramen. The restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and is praised for its "excellent service" and "very reasonable prices." With glowing reviews and a reputation for delicious, authentically prepared meals, Amelia's Mexican Kitchen stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Mexican flavors in Tucson.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Cathy
    Baltimore / Maryland •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Totally a Tucson Treasure! Thank you Richard Oseran for your continued innovation in the culinary world!
    More info
    MaynardsPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Tucson
    •
    4.5
  • Tom
    Tucson •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    A busy night for The Cup, but servers did not get frazzled, We were attended to promptly. Our order was simple, but delicious. That burger of theirs is terrific. Haven't been to The Cup in a long time, but we'll be sure to get back there sooner. BTW, kudos to the greeter who really kept her cool while a small hurricane of activity was going on around her.
    More info
    The Cup CafePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown Tucson
    •
    4.8
  • Lori
    Tucson •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We loved BATA. Our excellent server gave us advice on how to order from the menu - small plates, shared with each other, great suggestions and explanations of the dishes themselves. Everything was delicious. The interior was lovely and even though the space has high ceilings, it wasn't too noisy for us to hear each other. Highly recommend.
    More info
    BataPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Tucson
    •
    4.7
  • Natalie
    Phoenix / Arizona •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Busy Monday! Helpful staff despite the big business group there. Loved our meal
    More info
    Agustin KitchenPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Tucson
    •
    4.7
  • Terry Annvip
    Phoenix / Arizona •48 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    We were in Tucson and took our grandson and his girlfriend for brunch at the Nook. It was just the four of us. We had a reservation and got seated immediately. My husband and I had trouble deciding, everything on the menu sounded fabulous, so making a decision was tough. My husband ordered the cinnamon griddle cakes and he absolutely loved them. I had the steak and eggs, and brought most of it home for breakfast the next day. The kids ate parfait, breakfast burrito, folded eggs and blueberry scones and specialty coffees. Amazingly, it didn’t break the bank. Large portions and so very good. Our server was great, and everything came to the table just as we ordered it. Parking in the area was easy for us when we went , which was on a Sunday. We look forward to going back.
    More info
    Nook - TucsonPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown Tucson
    •
    4.8

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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