Discover Tucson’s Culinary Scene with the Progressive Dinner Tour
If you’re looking to combine history, culture, and incredible food into one charming experience, the Tucson Food Tours Progressive Dinner is worth considering. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture of what you can expect. It’s a thoughtfully curated way to explore Tucson’s diverse food landscape, guided by knowledgeable hosts who make the journey both tasty and informative.
What I really like about this tour is how it balances historical insights with delicious bites—so it’s not just about eating but about understanding the city’s story behind each plate. Plus, the small group size (a maximum of six travelers) promises a more personal, engaging experience. The only warning? It runs for about 4 to 5 hours, so it’s a good idea to come hungry and ready to walk a bit.
One thing to keep in mind is the focus on food and cultural exploration, so if you have strict dietary restrictions, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re open to trying new flavors and learning about Tucson’s heritage through its cuisine, this tour can be a fun, flavorful adventure. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good stories paired with even better food.
Key Points
- Small group experience with a maximum of 6 travelers fosters intimacy and personalized attention.
- Diverse culinary stops showcase Tucson’s unique, local flavors and history.
- Knowledgeable guides share interesting stories about Tucson’s landmarks and food scene.
- Tasty, thoughtfully curated dishes range from appetizers to desserts, with alcohol included.
- 4 to 5-hour duration makes it perfect for an evening outing, blending walking, eating, and learning.
- Price point of $126 offers good value considering the multiple stops and included beverages.
Planning more time in Tucson? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What’s Included and What’s Not
This tour offers a lot for the price. You’ll get to sample dishes at five carefully selected local restaurants, along with an alcoholic beverage (a Blue Azul Margarita) included in your ticket. Think prinkly pear glazed albondigas meatballs, house-made pastrami reuben, craft pizza, and a special Mexican-inspired tiramisu, all chosen to highlight Tucson’s culinary diversity.
On the downside, bottled water isn’t included, so it’s smart to bring your own if you’re thirsty. Also, while alcohol is provided at the start, additional drinks are at your own expense, so you might want to budget for extra beverages if you’re thirsty or want to keep the drinks flowing.
The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Taste of Tucson
Starting Point: Hotel Congress and a Slice of Tucson History
The tour kicks off right at Proper Shops on E Congress Street, a lively, central spot. From here, your guide will take you into the historic Hotel Congress lobby, a city landmark with quite a story—especially about how John Dillinger was captured here after a fire. Walking through this space sets a great tone, blending Tucson’s past with its present.
This initial stop isn’t just about history; your guide will share stories about Tucson being the first North American city labeled a “City of Gastronomy” by UNESCO, framing the city as a destination for culinary innovation.
Stop 1: Charro Steak & Del Rey
The first restaurant, Charro Steak & Del Rey, is a family of Mexican food pioneers who opened El Charro back in 1922. Here, you’ll taste prickly pear glazed albondigas meatballs, chorizo stuffed mushrooms, guacamole, chips, and salsa. You can also choose between a margarita or local beer, which adds a nice relaxing touch.
Guests consistently praise the quality of the food and the sourcing—only the best grass-fed beef, sustainable seafood, and cage-free poultry. One reviewer raved about how portions were generous and food was “delish,” describing the experience as both tasty and educational.
Stop 2: HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery
Next, you’ll visit HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery for a hearty, comforting lunch. The highlights include a house-made pastrami reuben on grilled rye, paired with roasted corn avocado salad and tempura battered cheese curds. The combination of savory flavors and crispy textures makes this stop stand out.
The tour emphasizes the variety of tastes you’ll experience—from the tangy sauerkraut to the creamy cheese curds—showing that Tucson’s culinary scene isn’t just about southwestern fare but also good old-fashioned comfort food. The guide will likely chat about the ingredients and preparation, making the food even more enjoyable.
Stop 3: Reilly Craft Pizza and Drink
At Reilly Craft Pizza, you’ll learn about the building’s past as a 1900s funeral home, giving this stop an added layer of local color. The pizza is crafted with Yukon gold potatoes and pecorino cheese, topped with roasted garlic and rosemary—simple, yet flavorful. Pecan brittle-topped Brussels sprouts complete the meal.
Expect a cozy atmosphere with a beer garden and a basement bar, which adds a fun twist to the evening. One reviewer appreciated the helpful stories about the building’s history and the interesting craft beer options available (though beers are not included in the ticket).
Final Stop: The Monica
The tour wraps up at The Monica with a taste of Cafe de la Olla Tiramisu—a Mexican-style dessert dipped in orange and clove coffee. It’s a sweet way to end a journey that’s been heavy on flavorful bites and stories. The custard and cookies bring a satisfying, aromatic finish to the evening.
What Makes This Tour Special?
The small group size ensures you aren’t lost in the crowd, and your guide’s knowledge really shines through as they share stories about Tucson’s landmarks and culinary scene. Many reviews highlight the guide’s fun and informative style, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
The food itself is carefully curated, with each stop offering a different flavor profile. From Mexican classics to pizza and desserts, it’s a well-rounded taste of Tucson’s culinary diversity. Portions are described as “great,” so you won’t leave hungry or disappointed.
The inclusion of alcohol at the start makes the evening feel festive, and additional drinks can be purchased if desired. It’s a relaxed, social setup where you get to sample a variety of authentic, local dishes.
Who Is It Best For?
This tour is ideal for food lovers interested in exploring Tucson through its flavors and stories. It’s perfect if you enjoy learning about local history while indulging in good food and drinks. The 4-5 hour duration makes it more of a leisurely evening activity rather than a rushed experience.
While not specified as family-friendly, the focus on adult beverages and the nature of the stops suggest it’s best suited for adults. Those with dietary restrictions should note that the tour isn’t designed to accommodate special diets.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
For about $126, you’re getting a solid, curated taste of Tucson’s culinary identity, combined with engaging storytelling. The reviews indicate that guides are well-liked and food is consistently praised, making it a reliable option for a memorable evening. The small group setup and the diversity of stops add value, especially if you want to experience Tucson’s food scene in a relaxed, intimate way.
This tour is especially good for newcomers wanting a quick yet comprehensive introduction to Tucson’s flavors, or for anyone who appreciates good storytelling paired with tasty bites. If you’re after a fun, educational, and delicious way to spend an evening, this could be just the ticket.
Tucson Food Tours Progressive Dinner Tour
“Awesome! Chris was a fantastic, fun and informative guide and he treated all to one cocktail at our first stop. So nice! Taking this food tour was …”
FAQs
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, making it an enjoyable evening activity.
What’s included in the price?
You get tastings at five restaurants—ranging from appetizers to desserts—and one alcoholic beverage at the start, a Blue Azul Margarita.
Are drinks at additional cost?
Yes, you’re welcome to purchase additional alcoholic beverages during the tour, but they’re not included in the ticket price.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not explicitly tailored for children, and the focus on adult beverages suggests it’s best suited for adults.
What about dietary restrictions?
The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with dietary restrictions, so keep that in mind if you have special needs.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Proper Shops on E Congress St and ends back at the same location.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 13 days ahead, as spots are limited and popular.
What’s the maximum group size?
Small groups, with a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
Whether you’re after a fun way to explore Tucson’s history and flavors or looking for an evening filled with good eats and stories, this tour offers a flavorful, well-rounded experience. Just bring your appetite, an open mind, and a sense of adventure—you’ll leave with more than just a full belly.