The Ultimate Foodie Itinerary to the Culinary Capital of the Southwest

Sunset’s Insider Guide series highlights seasonal diversions and secret travel tips from local experts. Follow along as we learn where to eat, drink, stay, and shop.

Donna M. Lannon/Genuine Photography

Meet the Insider: Ayla Kapahi, Director of Production, Borderlands Brewing Company

Location: Tucson, Arizona

Ayla Kapahi is the head of the female-owned and operated Borderlands Brewing Company, whose two Tucson locations are known for award-winning, innovative beers (Horchata cream ale, anyone?). Kapahi is passionate about creating cross-cultural collaborations that empower women, like the brewery’s Las Hermanas, which linked about 40 Hispanic brewers on both sides of the border to create a delicious, Southwestern-inspired lager. Kapahi also co-founded Pink Boots of Southern Arizona, a nonprofit supporting women in alcohol fermentation sciences. Here, she highlights spots with serious Sonoran flair in her hometown of Tucson.

STAY

JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass

Hotel McCoy is an affordable, 1960s retro hotel that captures the spirit of Tucson. It has a great location with a fun craft beer and wine bar. And JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa is right in the heart of Saguaro National Park with the most beautiful desert views. I love being able to hike right from the property and then spend the afternoon on the lazy river.

EAT

Casey James

Contigo Latin Kitchen is known for its delicious tapas and paella. It features one of the best views of Tucson, especially for sunsets! Rollies Mexican Patio serves up authentic Mexican street food. Try the potato rollies, or rolled tacos, and anything made with the signature beef birria. Order the tamale-stuffed lobster at Charro Steak & Del Rey. It’s one of my favorite Tucson dishes. And go for the birria pizza at Zio Peppe, and save room for the chocolate taco cannolis!

DRINK

Torey Photo

Aside from Borderlands Brewing Company, a wise pop-in is REVEL Tucson Wine Bar. It has an excellent list of rotating wines and offers delicious charcuterie boards with local meats and cheeses. The staff are so knowledgeable, and friendly, too. Presta Coffee Roasters offers small-batch beans, roasted with care and expertise. And Good Oak Bar shakes up delicious and creative cocktails with a Southwestern twist.

DO

Denis Tangney Jr/Getty Images

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is an outdoor wildlife preserve in Saguaro National Park that features interactive experiences, including the Raptor Free Flight and Stingray Touch. It’s truly an immersive desert experience. Catch a comedy show or performance at Hotel Congress, a classic and intimate Tucson venue. Check out local art and handmade goods from Pop Cycle. And take a stroll through Old Town Artisans, where you’ll find shops like La Cocina Cantina, featuring a variety of vintage and traditional Southwestern items.