There are many ethnic food places dispersed throughout Tucson. For students with families coming in for Family Weekend, it may be a good idea to ask your parents to treat you to some non-American cuisine and take a trip across the globe with your palette.
1. Fifth Street Deli and Market
The Fifth Street Deli and Market is the place to go if you have a taste for traditional Jewish cuisine. Everything is kosher, and many of the clientele are regulars. The food is cooked to order, and the market has all types of Jewish snacks and delicacies for every type of appetite. I highly recommend trying anything there. Matzah ball soup is an awesome gateway into Jewish food. If soup doesn’t strike your fancy, then the fried matzah with eggs breakfast dish, which is available all day on Sundays, can still fulfill your tasty experience. It is located off of Fifth Street and Rosemont Boulevard.
2. Zayna Mediterranean
Zayna Mediterranean is delicious for Greek foodies. Even if you’re a little hesitant to try a traditional Mediterranean dish, hummus and pita bread is a simple appetizer served there that can be an easy transition into the food flavors. Shish tawook and mujadara are just a few menu items available. It is located off of Speedway and Columbus boulevards.
3. Kababeque Indian Grill
Kababeque is often overlooked as just another restaurant on University Boulevard, but it is far more than that. Its food is traditional, and every dish is absolutely delicious. A favorite of mine is the chana masala, which is basmati rice with garbanzo beans and spices mixed together. It also delivers, so your appetite for Indian food can always be satisfied.
4. Luckie’s Thai-Asian Cuisine
Luckie’s is just one of the many Asian restaurants in Tucson, but it has a unique menu that sets it apart. Customers can choose from a number of beef, pork, chicken and shrimp items. There are 22 different types of chicken dishes available, with some dabbling in flavors such as garlic, ginger, almond and mushroom. This place also offers interesting desserts, such as sweet rice with mango or fried bananas. It is definitely worth the drive, and there is nothing on the menu that I haven’t enjoyed. It is located off of Houghton and Rita roads.
5. Zemam’s Ethiopian Food
Zemam’s is amazing. First of all, the restaurant is bring-your-own-beverage, so bring in a bottle of wine, tea or whatever you want. The menu has many options for any type of eater. This Ethiopian eatery has strips of succulent lamb for the carnivores and spicy, roasted cauliflower for the herbivores. The staff is welcoming and more than happy to offer recommendations from the menu. It is located off of Treat Avenue and Broadway Boulevard.
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