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In southern Arizona, cowboy fare is more common than haute cuisine. There are exceptions, though, especially in the wine region of Sonoita and in the trendy town of Bisbee, both popular for weekend outings from Tucson. And, as one would expect, Mexican food dominates menus.
Packed with locals at lunchtime, this large, funky restaurant and bar claims to be the oldest pool hall and domino parlor in Arizona. It's a great place for a burger or tacos and a brew. The "Especial" combines a cheeseburger and a hot dog and adds a generous dollop of Lutes's "special sauce." For dinner, dine early on weeknights: Monday through Thursday it shutters at 8; Sunday, at 6.
At the Sells Shopping Center, this good-size chain market with a deli section can supply all the makings for a picnic.
This colorful café and espresso bar, which also doubles as an art gallery featuring local artists, serves healthful breakfasts and soups, salads, and sandwiches through the late afternoon. Vegetarian options, like vegan burritos and spinach pesto wraps, are plentiful. Beverages include organic fair-trade coffees; ice cream, cakes, and cookies draw the local younger set.
A Yuma institution, La Fonda opened as a tortilla factory in 1940, then added a colorful restaurant onto the original building in 1982; locals have been enjoying the carne asada, pollo asado, and chiles rellenos here ever since. Only canola oil is used (not lard), and all the sauces and marinades are made fresh, as are the corn tortillas, which many say are the best in town. Save room for the homemade desserts—the flan and fried ice cream are fabulous. Open for breakfast (served all day), lunch, and early dinner, La Fonda closes at 8 (7:30 on weekdays) so the employees can go home to their families.
For traditional Indian food like fry bread, tacos, and chili, or a hearty traditional breakfast, try the Papago Café, the only restaurant on a long stretch of highway. Bring cash—they don't take anything else.
Before or after a visit to the Sanguinetti House Museum, this adjoining café is a good place to stop for breakfast or lunch. The charming dining spot features lush gardens and aviaries on the outdoor patio, historical photos on the walls, and a menu of homemade salads, soups, and sandwiches. Favorites include the quiche, served with homemade fruit bread, and the tortilla soup. Breakfasts are top-notch, too. One of the best times to visit is Sunday brunch—complete with carne asada, tortillas, potatoes, scrambled eggs, a layered ham-and-egg strata, breakfast meats, fruit, and dessert.
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