Best Contemporary American Restaurants in East Tucson

10 restaurants available nearby

1. Cielos

4.5

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 Amelia's Mexican Kitchen - Grant restaurant

2. Amelia's Mexican Kitchen - Grant

4.8

Exceptional(123)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • East Tucson

Booked 21 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.

A photo of Arizona Inn Main Dining Room restaurant

3. 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 Dante's Fire Cocktails and Cuisine restaurant

4. Dante's Fire Cocktails and Cuisine

4.5

Awesome(395)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Midtown

Booked 7 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.

5. 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.

6. Maynards

4.5

Awesome(2353)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson

Booked 11 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.

7. Agustin Kitchen

4.7

Exceptional(2410)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson

Booked 29 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.

8. The Cup Cafe

4.8

Exceptional(2115)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson

Booked 39 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!

9. Nook - Tucson

4.8

Exceptional(286)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown Tucson

Booked 7 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 Palm at the Westward Look Resort restaurant

10. Palm at the Westward Look Resort

4.3

Awesome(486)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Casas Adobes

Booked 3 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

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

C
Cathy
Baltimore / Maryland •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
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
L
Lori
Tucson •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days 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
N
Natalie
Phoenix / Arizona •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 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
C
Cathyvip
Phoenix / Arizona •4 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 16, 2024
It was our first visit and we will be back! Nice of the chef to visit our table.
More info
Dante's Fire Cocktails and CuisinePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Midtown
•
4.5
S
Saori
Chicago / Illinois •4 reviews
4.0
Dined on Nov 11, 2024
We were excited for our anniversary dinner here since we have been wanting to try this place out and have heard good things. We made a reservation stating that it was for an anniversary. Nobody from the restaurant acknowledged this, not even once during our time there. We ordered 2 appetizers and shared an entree. All of them were bland and lacked salt and flavor. Though he was nice, we were not impressed with our waitress. Needless to say we were disappointed with the dinner that was supposed to be for our special occasion. The thing we loved about the place was the outside seating. It was quiet and the ambiance was very good with the lights and fireplace going.
More info
CielosPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Midtown
•
4.5

Explore OpenTable

East Tucson

Contemporary american

Best Contemporary American Restaurants in East Tucson

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Accessibility

10 restaurants available nearby

1. Cielos

2. Amelia's Mexican Kitchen - Grant

3. Arizona Inn Main Dining Room

4. Dante's Fire Cocktails and Cuisine

5. Bata

6. Maynards

7. Agustin Kitchen

8. The Cup Cafe

9. Nook - Tucson

10. Palm at the Westward Look Resort

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable