Romantic Restaurants in Tucson, AZ

El Charro Cafe is the oldest family-owned Mexican restaurant in the United States. The eatery is equally famous for its carne asada and other Mexican delights. The restaurant, originally established in 1922 by Tia Monica Flin, is run by the grandniece of its founder. Carlotta Flores is El Charro Café’s chef and the artist behind of all those delectable specials. The menu showcases traditional Northern Mexico-Sonoran cuisine with a twist, including vegetarian and gluten-free dishes.

El Charro now has several locations in Tucson. You will find the original one in the heart of Tucson's historic El Presidio district. The restaurant is cozy and family oriented, where diners are surrounded by beautiful Mexican art and family memorabilia. The restaurant is very popular and can get crowded, but the food with its authentic flavors, make a visit to El Charro Café worth your time.

311 N. Court Ave. 520-622-1922; 6910 E. Sunrise, Tucson, Arizona, Phone: 520-514-1922

The Coronet restaurant is a charming brasserie-style eatery which received an award from the Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation after being meticulously restored. Chef Erika Bostick-Esham and head bartender Jesse Van Rijn Shaefer have collaborated to produce a tempting and original menu of traditional European cuisine.

The Coronet serves only sustainable meats and Monterey Aquarium approved fish. Organic produce is used whenever possible. The restaurant even has its own beehive. The large shady patio is a delight; add a well-stocked bar and music playing quietly in the background, and you’ve got the perfect atmosphere. The menu includes great options for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-sensitive customers as well.

198 W Cushing St, Tucson, AZ 85701, Phone: 520-222-9889

Vivace means lively or vivid in Italian, which is exactly what you can expect from the Northern Italian cuisine you will be enjoying in this beautiful and romantic restaurant. The restaurant is set in a beautiful Tuscan-style manor featuring a huge fireplace for cold winter nights and an elegant terrace for good-weather days. Memorable appetizers include their Escargot and Artichokes, Grilled Asparagus with Parma Ham and a mouth-watering antipasti platter for two. These are followed by a selection of pasta and risotto dishes before you get to the hearty entrees – you can try a traditional Osso Bucco, a Crab-filled breaded Chicken Breast or a gluten-free Eggplant Lasagna.

Vivace, 6440 N. Campbell Ave, Tucson, AZ 85718, 520 795 7221

Restaurants For a Date

Cafe a la C'Art is a family owned café and bakery located just off the patio at the Tucson Museum of Art. The glass display is filled with absolutely mouth-watering pies, cookies, layered cakes, and other delights. And that’s just the dessert!

The Café menu features hearty Southwestern fare that is imaginative, delicious, and surprisingly affordable. Café a la C’Art is open for breakfast and frequently offers live music concerts on the patio.

150 N Main Ave, Tucson, AZ, Phone: 520-628-8533

The Flying-V Bar & Grill serves a fresh and exciting take on traditional Southwestern dishes as well as 70 different tequilas. This rustic but luxurious restaurant is located in the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort. Sit by the romantic fireplace or on the patio with a magnificent view of the gardens.

Executive Chef Ken Harvey prepares delicious classics, including Baby Back Ribs with Chili and Charred BBQ Sauce or Veal Porterhouse. His methods will turn your meal into a unique and memorable dining experience. The Flying-V Bar & Grill has their own guacamolierre, who uses the freshest ingredients to make the perfect tableside guacamole. In addition to Tequila, the extensive wine list provides numerous options for you to enjoy with your meal.

7000 N. Resort Drive, Tucson, Arizona, Phone: 520-299-2020