Sonoran Restaurant Week: A Culinary Celebration of Local Gems

Sonoran Restaurant Week, taking place until Sunday, Sept. 15, spotlights Tucson’s vibrant culinary landscape. Over 50 participating restaurants showcase their offerings through prix fixe menus at special rates, ranging from $15 to $55.

The event highlights a variety of cuisines, demonstrating the diversity of Tucson’s communities. Kenneth Foy, owner and chef of Dante’s Fire located at 2526 E Grant Rd., noted the positive impact of participating in the event, stating, “For us, this is the slowest time of the year, and we’ve seen a 100 percent uptick in sales.”

Dante’s Fire presents a $35 three-course menu featuring options like poached pear and brie or petite tomato burrata as starters. Guests can choose from chicken marsala, Thai curry shrimp, or petite miso-glazed pork belly for the main course. Desserts include a strawberry and pear shortcake. Additionally, a signature bourbon cocktail, Beet the Heat, is available for $7.

Foy is poised to compete against Anthony Dromgoole, executive chef at Obon Sushi and Ramen, in the upcoming Iron Chef Tucson competition on Saturday, Oct. 5.

Another notable participant, Midtown Vegan Deli and Market, located at 5071 East 5th St., has received enthusiastic support. Owned by Tanya Barnett, the deli aims to create a welcoming environment for vegetarians, vegans, and omnivores alike. General Manager May Gottfried expressed, “We love it when people who are not vegan come in.”

Midtown Vegan Deli serves a thoughtfully crafted vegan experience, emphasizing flavorful dishes. Their $25 menu includes breakfast options like curry eggs benedict, alongside lunch offerings like a French Reuben and a superfruit smoothie. Dinner features a truffle Gouda burger, all served with dessert at various times throughout the day. The popular curry eggs benedict will continue to be offered after the event concludes due to customer demand, Gottfried confirmed.

Dedicated, a gluten-free and allergy-friendly bakery, is also participating, though owner Jen Kinkade reported a decline in activity this year. “I’m not sure why the pace has dropped; I am grateful for the customers who make Dedicated part of their lives,” she remarked.

Dedicated offers an array of menu items, including the Brat Breakfast for $15 for one or $25 for two, featuring breakfast sandwiches and a selection of berries with barista’s coffee. Their grazing boards, available for $25 for one or $45 for two, encompass classic meats, vegan selections, and dessert options. Kinkade highlighted their commitment to creating a menu that reflects their values, stating, “We wanted a menu that reflected where we stand politically.”