Tucson’s Fourth Avenue is home to dozens of independently run bars, cafes, restaurants and pubs, making feeding the hungry student competitive.
Bumsted’s could be considered a local favorite in terms of its creative menu, which features sandwiches with all the fixings, including an array of deli meats, cheeses and condiments. Other unique menu items include a peanut-butter-fried-egg burger, called the “Ape Drape”. Bacon and meatloaf are other options.
Bumsted’s is sure to intrigue customers with its one-of-a-kind flavors and creations, but it lacks menu diversity; there really isn’t a choice for everyone. Not all customers are going to want such a specific meal. When a customer asked a waitress for a plain cheeseburger, she even seemed surprised. However, if someone is looking for a dish they’ve never had before, Bumsted’s may be the perfect place.
Bumsted’s was quite empty around 6 p.m. for dinner. In fact, the only customers in the establishment were those at the bar. Bumsted’s definitely seems like it is more of a lunch spot.
In terms of ambience, the restaurant was unmemorably decorated and the temperature was uncomfortably warm; it evoked an almost stuffy feeling. The booths looked outdated and the pastry presentation—the first thing the customer sees after walking in—looked boring and plain.
In terms of pricing, Bumsted’s is on the more expensive side compared to its competitors. The most inexpensive meal was around $6, but some of the selections sat around $14. I guess good food is worth good money.
The meal ordered—a burger and spaghetti—arrived at my table in a timely manner and was steaming hot. Both serving sizes were huge, the meals were fresh and both looked delicious.
The burger, smothered in American cheese and topped with crispy lettuce, sat between a fluffy Kaiser Roll. Taste-wise, it was good, but not better than any other Fourth Avenue burger joints. I didn’t even receive french fries with my meal. Instead, I got a measly bag of Lays chips.
On the other hand, Bumsted’s spaghetti and meatballs were absolutely delicious and well worth the price. I will definitely have leftovers for at least another one or two meals.
Bumsted’s has the potential to be a one-of-a-kind Tucson delicacy, but some changes need to be made, both aesthetically and food-wise. A makeover of the inside restaurant is well overdue, and the addition of some more basic, reasonably priced menu items could really lure more students to eat at the restaurant.
Overall, Bumsted’s has a great location, a unique flavor and a memorable personality. With just a few small upgrades, Bumsted’s could revamp its dinner-time experience and attract more customers from not only the UA, but from the greater Tucson community.
Follow Kristine Bruun-Andersen on Twitter.
