Tucson Restaurants
15 kid-friendly restaurants with regional Sonoran food for adults
Pima County Health Scores
You can verify the health scores for all Tucson restaurants using the official Pima County Health Inspection Portal.
Breakfast & Brunch
Baja Cafe
Southwest Breakfast
Colorful Southwest decor, famous cake-flavored pancakes. Two locations: Broadway (larger) and Campbell (neighborhood feel).
Bobo's Restaurant
Classic Diner
Retro diner with booths and UA murals. Cash-only Tucson institution. BEST for picky eaters!
Prep & Pastry
Modern Brunch
Bright, airy cafe with trendy decor. Instagram-worthy brunch. Yelp Top 100 Places to Eat 2025.
Barista del Barrio
Coffee & Light Breakfast
Cute neighborhood coffee shop in historic Barrio Viejo. Artisan coffee, pastries. Open until noon.
Seis Kitchen
Mexican Breakfast
Family-owned with extensive patios. Handmade tortillas, regional Mexican breakfast. Three locations.
Hotel Congress / Cup Cafe
Historic Downtown
1919 historic hotel downtown. Expansive outdoor patio, reliable kids menu, Bloody Mary bar on weekends.
Blue Willow
Historic Patio & Brunch
Historic adobe home with a famous garden patio and gift shop. Comfort food, pancakes, and French toast served all day (even at dinner for kids!).
Sonoran & Mexican
El Guero Canelo
James Beard Winner
Authentic Sonoran hot dogs (bacon-wrapped!). Quick service, outdoor seating. James Beard America's Classics Award 2018.
El Charro Cafe
Historic Since 1922
Oldest Mexican restaurant in US. Traditional Sonoran cuisine, allegedly invented the chimichanga. Kids under 12 eat FREE Mon-Wed!
Mi Nidito
Famous Mexican
Colorful, bustling "my little nest" serving Tucson since 1952. Try the President's Plate (Bill Clinton's order!). Worth the wait.
Amelia's Mexican Kitchen
Cute Kid-Friendly
Adorable colorful decor with family-friendly vibe. Cheerful atmosphere and welcoming service for families with kids.
Paco's Mexican Food
Simple Authentic
No-frills neighborhood spot with excellent food and excellent health score. Side orders of rice, cheese, beans for picky eaters.
El Sinaloense
Hot Dog Cart
Legendary outdoor hot dog cart. Authentic, no-frills, and delicious. A true local favorite for Sonoran dogs.
Ruiz Hot Dogs
Los Chipilones
Famous for their toasted "Chipilon" buns. A crispy twist on the classic Sonoran dog. Located on S. 6th Ave.
La Reyna
S. 12th Classic
A classic spot on the South 12th Ave food corridor. Authentic, affordable, and cash-only. A true local experience.
El Manantial
Hidden Gem
Located on 36th St. Famous for jalapeno-stuffed dogs. Casual outdoor seating and excellent health score.
El Perro Loco
"Crazy Dog"
Known for "Quesadogos" and Chipilon style. Fun twists on the classic hot dog. Locations on Ajo and 36th.
El Kora
South Side
Deep South 6th Ave staple. Try the "Chucho Dog". Authentic vibes and excellent health rating.
Other Cuisines & Quick Bites
Jewel's Noodle Kitchen
Chinese Dumplings
Small family business, Northern Chinese. Handmade dumplings, fresh noodles, potstickers. Request plain noodles for picky eaters.
Eegee's
Local Chain
Quick, cheap local institution since 1971. Famous frozen "eegee" fruit drinks. 25+ locations. Subs and hot dogs.
American Eat Co.
Food Court + Arcade
Locally-owned food court with small arcade. Multiple vendors: pizza, tacos, hot dogs, sandwiches, chicken. South-side staple since 2018.
Jojo's Restaurant
Classic American
Local Tucson restaurant with classic American dining. Check specific menu and hours before visiting.
Barnyard Crafthouse
Family Dining + Play Space
Casual restaurant with outdoor seating and play space for children. Great when kids need to burn energy while adults enjoy a meal.
Pinnacle Peak Steakhouse
Old West Steakhouse
Located in Trail Dust Town. Famous "No Ties Allowed" policy (they cut them off!). Cowboy steaks, burgers, and gunfight shows nearby.