Tavolino was great in its original location at Ina & Oracle and it’s great now, too. No offense to any other Italian restaurants in Tucson, but this is the truest Italian food I can imagine. There’s no spaghetti and meatballs or lasagna at Tavolino (actually, there is, but not like you expect), which is fine when there’s Salti en Bocca alla Romano (veal medallions, prosciutto and sage, white wine reduction sauce, gnocchi alla romana, and spinach); Ossobuco, or braised lamb shank; amazing Italian pizzas, and wine made from the owner, Massimo Tenino’s brother’s company, Pietro Rinaldi in Piemonte.

Italian cuisine has been short-hand for “romance” for as long as anyone can remember, so the opportunity to eat delicious northern Italian food in the Tucson foothills is an easy choice. Tucsonans were a bit concerned when owner/chef Massimo Tenino moved from a previous, more-cozy spot to this, more-expansive space, but the family photos on the wall and supremely charming service ensures this still feels like home. Try the Salti in Bocca alla Romana, veal medallions with prosciutto and sage, as delicious as it sounds (sorry, vegetarians...there’s stuff for you at Tavolino as well).

Chef Massimo Tennino describes his Tavolino as “an inviting restaurant that feels like an Italian neighborhood trattoria. Tavolino specializes in simple, elegant food, including fresh salads, homemade pastas, succulent roast and grilled meats, rotisserie chicken and game, and luscious desserts. Tavolino brings Italy to life in Tucson.” Thus far, I have no argument with his self-description, but I will have to return a few more times and try some other dishes.

Experience Tucson in the cool and beautiful Arizona weather while dining at the spacious patio of Tavolino Ristorante Italiano, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views. The outdoor seating area provides a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a delicious meal with friends and family. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner under the stars or a casual lunch with colleagues, their Italian lunch and dinner menus are sure to impress.

Tiny and trendy, Tavolino is one restaurant where reservations are an absolute must. Northern Italian cuisine is the specialty, with homemade pastas and grilled meats being the main choices. The logical appetizer choice is the Antipasto Assortito, a daily-changing array of meats, cheeses and marinated veggies that serves to excite the taste buds without sating the appetite.

Address: 2890 E Skyline Dr, Tucson, AZ 85718Phone:+1 (520) 531-1913Website:tavolinoristorante.comDetails: $$$, Northern Italian restaurant. Tavolino Ristorante Italiano in Tucson is a hidden gem that offers an exceptional dining experience. The attentive staff ensures that every guest receives excellent service, making you feel well taken care of throughout your meal.

At Tavolino Ristorante Italiano, enjoy access to a chic, comfortable, and secluded patio in the Santa Catalina Foothills. Dine on fresh, award-winning Italian fare while taking in the stunning desert surroundings from this European-style porch. Known for its sophisticated atmosphere, Tavolino Ristorante Italiano serves as the perfect date night spot.

If you’re looking for an elegant restaurant in Tucson, AZ that is sure to impress your date or dinner party, you need to go to Tavolino Ristorante Italiano. Not only is their northern Italian cuisine authentic, it’s award winning. Start the night off with their refreshing prosciutto and melon appetizer.

Outstanding northern Italian cuisine, award winning wine list and welcoming atmosphere have made Chef Massimo Tenino’s Tavolino Ristorante Italiano one of Tucson’s best restaurants since opening in 2003. Italian, Fine Dining, Casual, Wine, Cocktails, patio, authentic, award winning

The gorgeous interior of Tavolino Ristorante Italiano will be the perfect start to a perfect meal, and it’ll only get better once you have an authentic Italian dish in front of you!. Image courtesy of Instagram. 2890 E Skyline Dr | Tucson | tavolinoristorante.com

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (587 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5)- Type of cuisine: Italian, Northern-Italian- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 2890 E Skyline Dr, Tucson, AZ 85718-8002- Read more on Tripadvisor

Tavolino is a restaurant that I started frequenting in 2018 for their happy hour. After many margherita pizzas later, Alex and I still find ourselves coming back to this Foothills restaurant. While it’s more on the simple side, I adore their affogato.