recommendation request

Question

I'm a foodie but not a snooty one.

Can anyone recommend a non-chain restaurant roughly 1/2 way between Scottsdale and Tucson?

Answer

Traveling between Scottsdale and Tucson gives you a stretch of roughly 120-130 miles along I-10, so aiming for a midpoint town is a good strategy. The town of Casa Grande is almost perfectly midway and has a few local gems worth checking out.

Here are some recommended non-chain restaurants around that area:

The 49er Steakhouse – A classic American steakhouse offering hearty dishes, a comfortable atmosphere, and local charm. Great for a sit-down lunch or early dinner.
La Casita Mexican Restaurant – Known for authentic Mexican cuisine with fresh ingredients. Offers flavorful tacos, enchiladas, and traditional plates, ideal for a quick yet satisfying stop.
Blue Adobe Grille – Southwest-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. Serves dishes with local flavors and has vegetarian-friendly options. A nice spot for casual dining without feeling touristy.
Old Pueblo Café – A cozy, locally-owned café in Casa Grande featuring breakfast and lunch options with fresh ingredients, great for lighter meals or coffee breaks.

If you’re willing to divert slightly off the main I-10 corridor, towns like Florence or Coolidge also have locally-owned cafés and diners with a similar homey, flavorful style.

In general, sticking to Casa Grande will give you the convenience of being on your route while still offering a variety of locally-owned, non-chain options for a quality meal experience.