Tucson Food Tours Progressive Dinner Tour

Experience Tucson’s culinary and historic charm on the Tucson Food Tours Progressive Dinner. For $126 per person, you’ll spend about four to five hours walking through downtown Tucson, sampling dishes at five handpicked eateries. Our guide, whose name we wish we knew, takes you from the historic Hotel Congress to a modern pizza joint, blending stories of Tucson’s past with bites of its current culinary greatness.

What we love most about this tour are two things: first, the way it threads history with food—starting at Hotel Congress, where the story of John Dillinger’s capture is told amid the ambiance of a historic hotel; second, the quality and diversity of the food, from Mexican classics to innovative pizzas and decadent desserts. It’s a well-paced, intimate experience that feels both local and personalized.

A potential consideration is that the tour is limited to six travelers, making it more suited for those who prefer small groups and personalized attention. Also, since alcohol is only included at the first stop, you’ll need to purchase additional drinks if you want to extend your tasting experience. This tour is perfect for food lovers, history buffs, or anyone looking to savor Tucson’s authentic flavors while learning about its past.

Key Points

• Authentic Tucson experience blending history and cuisine
• Five carefully selected restaurants showcasing local flavors
• Small group size for a more personalized experience
• Knowledgeable guides who share engaging stories
• Delicious dishes like albondigas meatballs, craft pizza, and Mexican tiramisu
• Value for price considering the variety, quality, and storytelling

An In-Depth Look at the Tucson Food Tours Progressive Dinner

A Mix of History and Flavor from the Start

The tour begins in the lobby of Hotel Congress, a building with a storied past. As you walk inside, your guide will share tales about the fire that damaged the hotel and the famous story of John Dillinger’s arrest right here. This mix of history and local lore immediately adds depth to what might otherwise be just another food excursion. The hotel itself is a charming, vintage spot that sets the tone for a leisurely, storytelling journey. We loved the way the guide seamlessly weaved historical anecdotes into the culinary stops.

Walking through historic Tucson streets, your guide points out landmarks and offers insights into the city’s designation as a City of Gastronomy by UNESCO. This recognition highlights Tucson’s vibrant, diverse food scene rooted in a fusion of Native American, Mexican, and American influences. It’s this rich cultural tapestry that makes the tour not just about eating, but about understanding Tucson’s identity.

Stop 1: Charro Steak & Del Rey – Mexican Classics with a Modern Twist

Your first culinary stop is at Charro Steak & Del Rey, a longstanding family restaurant that embodies Tucson’s Mexican heritage. Established in 1922, the restaurant sources grass-fed beef, sustainable seafood, and cage-free poultry, emphasizing quality and sustainability. The dishes here make a great first impression: prickly pear glazed albondigas meatballs, savory chorizo-stuffed mushrooms, and fresh guacamole with chips. Plus, you get a choice of margarita or local beer, which adds a refreshing touch after the short walk from the hotel.

Reviewers have praised the food quality and the friendly atmosphere, with one noting that portions were “great and food was delish.” It’s a solid start, offering a taste of Tucson’s Mexican-inspired cuisine with a contemporary, health-conscious approach.

Stop 2: HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery – Classic Reuben and Fresh Salads

Next, you’ll head to the HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery, where your guide shares the story behind the building’s history—originally a funeral home from the early 1900s. Here, you’ll enjoy a house-made pastrami reuben sandwich on grilled rye with sauerkraut, melted Swiss, and thousand island dressing. Alongside, a roasted corn avocado salad and tempura battered fried cheese curds round out the tasting.

The reviews highlight the quality of these dishes, especially noting the house-made mustard and sriracha ketchup that elevate the fried cheese curds. It’s a well-balanced stop that offers hearty, flavorful options and a glimpse into Tucson’s evolving restaurant scene.

Stop 3: Reilly Craft Pizza and Drink – A Slice of Creative Pizzas

Reilly Craft Pizza has a fascinating history—initially a 1900s funeral home, now a lively spot with a beer garden and a hidden basement bar. Your tasting features a craft pizza topped with Yukon Gold potatoes, pecorino, mozzarella, roasted garlic, and rosemary. Expect crispy crust, gooey cheese, and aromatic herbs.

The accompanying brussel sprouts with house hot sauce, sherry vinaigrette, and pecan brittle crumbs are a hit, according to reviews. The mix of history, craft beer, and innovative pizza makes this stop a highlight for lovers of comfort food with a twist. The setting is relaxed, and the stories about the building add a layer of local charm.

Stop 4: The Monica – A Sweet Finish with Mexican Flavors

The final stop is at The Monica, where you’ll indulge in a Cafe de la Olla Tiramisu—a delightful twist on the classic, dipped in orange and clove coffee, layered with house-made custard, and Mexican Maria cookies. This sweet treat perfectly caps the evening’s culinary journey.

Guests mention that the dessert is “delicious and unique,” giving a fitting end to the tour that balances savory and sweet experiences. It’s a cozy spot that adds a touch of warmth and authenticity to the overall experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The ticket price of $126 covers all five stops, snacks, and the first alcoholic beverage—a Blue Azul Margarita. You’ll also enjoy samples like albondigas meatballs, guacamole, craft pizza, and tiramisu, making the experience feel generous and well-rounded.

However, bottled water is not included, and additional drinks can be purchased at each stop, giving you the flexibility to extend your tastings if you wish. Since alcohol is only included at the beginning, those seeking a more boisterous evening should budget for extra drinks.

Group Size and Timing

With a maximum of six travelers, this tour feels intimate and personalized—perfect if you prefer small groups and engaging conversations. Starting at 4:30 pm, it’s well-timed to kick off a relaxed evening, especially if you plan to dine later or explore downtown Tucson afterward.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

The tour is weather-dependent, with a full refund or rescheduling offered if canceled due to poor conditions. Since it’s a walking experience, good weather will make all the difference. The non-refundable policy emphasizes the importance of checking the forecast before booking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a food enthusiast eager to sample Tucson’s best dishes in a cozy, small-group setting, this tour is a winner. History buffs will appreciate the stories woven into each stop, especially the tales about the hotel and old Tucson buildings. It’s also an excellent choice for travelers who want to support local businesses and enjoy authentic, well-prepared food without the hassle of planning individual restaurant visits.

The experience is ideal for those who value quality over quantity, as the portions are described as “great,” and the variety ensures you get a full taste of Tucson’s cuisine. However, if you have dietary restrictions, this might not be the best fit since the menu seems curated for general tastes.

Final Thoughts

The Tucson Food Tours Progressive Dinner offers a thoughtful blend of history, culture, and cuisine. It’s a relaxed, engaging way to spend an evening, ideal for small groups who appreciate authentic flavors and stories behind the dishes. We loved how the tour balances delicious food with local lore, making it more than just a meal—it’s an experience with a story.

For those who enjoy exploring city neighborhoods through food, this tour provides a taste of Tucson’s diverse culinary landscape without the need to research or plan multiple restaurant visits. The quality, storytelling, and intimate setting make it a worthwhile choice for a memorable night out.

If you’re traveling to Tucson and want a relaxed, enriching way to discover the city’s food scene, this tour is worth every penny. It suits food lovers, history enthusiasts, and those who simply want to enjoy a flavorful evening with a side of local stories.

FAQ

How long does the tour take?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, including all five stops, making it a leisurely, manageable experience.

What is the cost of the tour?
The ticket price is $126 per person, which includes all food tastings, the first drink, and guided storytelling.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or people with dietary restrictions?
It’s not recommended for travelers with dietary restrictions, as the menu is curated for general tastes and doesn’t specify vegetarian options.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Proper Shops, 300 E Congress St, Tucson, and returns there at the end of the evening.

Are alcohol drinks included?
Only the first alcoholic beverage, a Blue Azul Margarita, is included. Additional drinks can be purchased at each stop.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of six travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Be sure of your plans before booking.

In the end, this Tucson Food Tours Progressive Dinner offers a well-rounded, flavorful, and historically engaging evening that’s perfect for curious travelers eager to experience the city’s authentic tastes without the hassle of planning. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or a history lover, you’ll find something to enjoy here.