What a lovely surprise to happen upon this "find" directly across from the newly updated Tucson Convention Center! All 5 of us found the food and service were wonderful - only major complaint...we were seated in one of their "out-back" buildings that is usually used for private parties. Cold and drafty, (one of the waitresses did turn up the heat and try to keep the door closed) no ambiance, NO MUSIC, no soul. To enter their main restaurant/bar (wonderful) then to be shuttled off to this other room - very disappointing and let down...will definitely try again when we are back in town - but will make reservations for the main restaurant/bar!!
(3)
John B.
Chorizo stuffed mushroom caps? Wha? Delicious. Full bar. Absolutely. The food is always good. The courtyard is magical. Currently listening to some live, easy jazz, drinking 12 year old scotch and wondering why life can't always be this enjoyable and easy.
(4)
Lisa S.
The best drink to get is the mojito. The happy hour is a pretty good deal for really good appetizers. My only complaint is they open at 5pm.
(5)
Cody S.
I went with a large group of co-workers for a staff lunch back in May, and I was very impressed. They were able to accommodate our large group inside, the restaurant's staff and ownership were friendly, and the service was prompt. Even having submitted our lunch menu choices beforehand, the service was impressive for a group of 40+ people. I had the Sueno Burger from the menu and was very impressed. This is what tipped my review to 5 stars; it was a great burger with what seemed like homemade ketchup on the side. Homemade or not, it was excellent - a nice change from fast food-style meals with what always seems like generic ketchup from a jar. I got the sense that the meal was carefully prepared, and everybody else I talked to from our group enjoyed our lunch. Very good experience, and I would go back.
(5)
Adele V.
I was part of a group of 14 who dined at Cushing's last night. Several of us ordered the Cajun Meatloaf with mashed potatoes. The plates came to us with country fires instead. When we protested, the waiter stated that the kitchen made the switch and they did not have mashed potatoes. When asked why the waiter had not told us ahead of time so that we might have made another choice, he said that he did not know that there would be a switch. The country fries were dry and burnt, clearly "yesterday's" food, and the meatloaf very dry. We have come to expect better from this restaurant, and were clearly disappointed. I can no longer recommend this place.
(2)
Morgan C.
This place has a very a good brunch on Sundays. My favorite is the BLTOE. It is a unique and delicious twist on the classic BLT. They also have great breakfast drinks like Bloody Marys, Mimosas, and Freshly squeezed juices. They have a beautiful courtyard to sit outside for breakfast, its perfect.
(5)
Gus M.
AVOID THIS PLACE. Pretentious and rude staff and owner. We went here for dinner after a show and after we paid our bill we were asked to leave becuase they had a reservaton for our table even though there were open tables. we told the hostess we were staying for the jazz and she left. a few minutes later, the owner came to our table and asked if the hostess explained that the table was needed for reservations (we made reservations too). when we asked about the open tables, she said that we have overstayed our reservation and kept reminding us what time our reservations were for. For 3 of us, the bill, with tip, came to $170 so it wasnt like we dropped only $10. As we were rising from the table, the owner continued to berate us about overstaying our welcome and insisted that we "need to understand" that you can't stay for jazz at 7:30 for a 4:30 reservation. My friend said she didn't need to understand anything because she would not be returning and shockingly, the owner said good, don't come back. We were so embarrased to be asked to leave a restaurant. we are 3 professional women who went after a show so it wasn't like we were college kids acting rowdy. The owner actually followed us out into the street continuing to explain her reason for asking us to leave. The way the owner should have acted was to explain to us that they had reservations waiting and offer to move us to the bar and even offer to buy a drink for our troubles (although we would have declined a free drink becuase we had already had 2 glasses with dinner). I am simply amazed that the owner and hostess asked us to leave instead of offering to relocate us. I will never return and I will make sure to spread the word to avoid this place.
(1)
Tuyen C.
Good food. The quality of entrees coming from the kitchen at CS is on par with finer dining establishments in town. Small details like perfectly blanched veggies, grilled chicken that are still moist , etc .... The only downside is that their menu is rater limited. But this may be a way that allows them to do those few things well. Also, I have always had the best Mojitos here. Drink prices here are a little steep so beware. Try it. You won't be disappointed.
(4)
Nali M.
our party of four hit up cushing street bar before a concert on a friday night. the service was a little bit slow for my liking, but he made up for his slowness with his politeness. their happy hour menu (tuesday-friday) was excellent! a selection of drinks to choose from(lemon drops & house wine $4 margaritas $5 well liquor & imported beer $3 domestic beer $2) as well as an array of appetizers all for $3. we ordered a bunch of everything and split them between us. i would love to go back!
(4)
Sabrina D.
First time I've eaten here and first time in Tucson. The food was delicious and I loved that the building had history behind it. The atmosphere was great two different dinning areas and an outside patio, so lots of seating options. I wouldn't say they had a lot of dishes on their menu (in relation to quantity), however the variation of dishes was impressive. Something for anyone and everyone loved it!
(4)
Heidi S.
I hit this place up for drinks and dinner on Friday. The cocktails were pretty good, but nothing special. The food was fresh and good quality...well prepared. But the only thing that was truly great was the atmosphere. The old-timey feel really sinks into your bones. The patio was really nice, especially on a summer evening. And the jazz trio was fab. The more mature crowd sat and appreciated...but me, I danced. :)
(3)
Eric G.
This is a decent place for an occasional visit. I couldn't see myself being a regular here however. That said, I really do like Cushing Street. The restaurant area is fairly classy. I've always enjoyed the interior and the beautiful, old-fashioned bar. It has a somewhat elegant feel to me, although more classic than the contemporary edge that many new Tucson restaurants are tending towards. Sadly, you pay for that classy feel--menu items are pricey. On days with nice weather, the patio is a great option. Nestled in a white-washed stucco courtyard with a wonderful fruit tree, it is a minimal and airy space. Stand-alone heaters are in place if the weather turns brisk. Staff are professional and courteous. From my experience, they fit the bill for a higher-price dining experience. Bartenders definitely know how to pour a cocktail. There's beer and wine, by I'd recommend trying a concoction. They make a nice Mojito. The food is good. I don't know if it's as good as the prices might suggest. That's why I wouldn't go here to regularly. I've had their pasta offerings and their fish. Both were well made, decent-sized portions, that left you happy but not overstuffed. I'd love for this place to shine. It's refined to the T, but until the food becomes amazing--which it should be for the cost--I can think of better cost-for-quality experiences. Still, worth a stop, even if only for a cocktail and appetizer.
(3)
E O.
Pleasantly surprised to find this place while wandering around the barrio on foot alone one Saturday night (what? like you're social calendar is so great. i likes my freedom). I was attracted by the live jazz floating on the air and mixing with the smell of refried beans near El Minuto Cafe. What a pleasure to sit in the back patio, have a drink, and listen to a swinging quartet. No food, just drinks for me. Classy place. Might this be the place for live jazz in Tucson?
(4)
Samuel A.
Went to Cushing street Bar and Restaurant after a play downtown and was surprised by the Building and mostly the food. We started with a Mojito one of the best in town made by hand no mix - then Roasted Garlic & Brie starter that was wonderful the garlic had been roasted perfectly and was sweet and yummy. For dinner I had the Cajun Meatloaf it was some of the best meatloaf I have ever had spicy and meaty and just real good my spouse had the Salmon and she said ti was wonderful and cooked to perfection. They had a Jazz band playing in the background and it just added tot eh great experience. The only let down was the coffee to finish the meal it was lousy so stopped at Starbucks on the way home for and espresso. All in all a very good dining experience - will try the patio next time as it looks very appealing. I will go back. Oh and they have their own parking so you don't have to worry about what is going on at the convention center across the street.
(4)
Bradley B.
They took a reservation for 7:PM on Saturday night, I got there a little before my party and they seated me early anyways. I ordered a drink from the bar and had a great conversation with the bartender who really knew her stuff and went out of her way to explain the drinks to me. When my party arrived we sat and the band started. I ordered an appetizer which came pretty quick and we ordered more drinks. After seeing the bartender make a mojito me and my friend decided we needed one. She had a great margarita prior to this and we both agreed that the mojitos were awesome! When the food came I was impressed all over again. The food isn't terribly expensive and the band made it totally worth any extra expense. It's got a generally quirky atmosphere with an odd mix of hacienda and chicago jazz club type fixtures. All in all great night spot for downtown Tucson. I even thought I'd have trouble parking with it being downtown but they had an adequate parking lot and I didn't have to go anywhere to pay for parking. Highly recommended! Try the Mojito and Margarita...you'll be happy you did.
(5)
Sarita M.
Love this place, especially for Saturday night jazz. Food is delicious, makes sense because it can get pretty pricey. I love that it's a historical landmark, but not being able to separate checks is just not okay for this day and age. We had a $400 check (birthday party) and it was a huge hassle to try and figure out what everyone ordered. Aside from that, try the side car for a drink, stuffed mushrooms for an app and the surf & turf for an entree. Our server was amazing.
(4)
Kurt P.
Dinner for four last night. The setting and ambiance are spectacular here - we sat out on the patio and it was absolutely perfect. The meals were OK. We started with a charcuterie plate which had a nice asparagus-prosciutto wrap. The meatloaf had a nice crust and flavor, but the veggies were pretty non-descript. The chicken curry dish was OK, but a char on the outside would have been nice. The surf & turf elicited no comment from the consumer. Overall this seems like a great place to go for live music and ambiance, but is not a foodie destination in and of itself.
(3)
ciria e.
High end but worth stopping by for a few drinks. Great place to watch the 4th of July fireworks!
(3)
Kim L.
We have been wanting to go for a long time, and finally made it for my husbands birthday last night. It was wonderful! We sat right in front of the jazz band, and they were wonderful! We completely enjoyed the relaxing and classy environment. It's a very cool, old historic building. We had the shrimp tacos, which melted in your mouth, and came a couple of nice sauces. I had the asparagus mushroom pappardelle which was all cooked perfectly. Mu husband had the surf and turf, he wasn't as happy as me, he asked for very well done, and his steak was red in the middle, he sent it back, and it still came back red in the middle, and he said he liked his own mashed potatoes better. We would like to go back for wine and appetizers and jazz. We enjoyed Don Kludges energy, and friendliness. He is so much fun, and made everything special!
I surprised my husband for a date night here. I called up ahead for reservation to sit close to the jazz band. The staff was very friendly, ask for the free bread. They dont bring it to you. Food is off the hook. Salmon with cous cous is great... Drinks are delicious. The band was super cool too.
(5)
Vera Marie B.
Love what they've done with the inside of this historic house. We don't go downtown frequently, and I had not been at Cushing Street for decades, so it was high time. The eclectic decorations are fun conversation pieces while you are waiting for food, or for your dining partner to catch up. Conversation can really get lively if you engage Doug, the Bartender. It is worth sitting at one of the tables by the bar to talk to him. Be sure to ask him about the falcons!! We had a Mediterranean appetizer plate of hummus and pita and olives, etc. The server had warned us that it was a large dish, and it was. I love Kalamata olives, but there were enough there for four people. For entrees, my husband had the portobello mushroom burger with sweet potato planks (oblong slices) and a mayo sauce on the side. It came on a bun with the usual tomato and lettuce and a big dill pickle. He liked it but neither of us thought the sweet potato added much. The potato wedges were no crispy. I had shrimp and grits which made a nice combo. The shrimp is very spicy and the creamy smooth grits provided a nice contrast. For dessert he ordered a chocolate mousse pie which was very good--but how can a chocolate mousse not be good? I would like to go back and sample more things off the menu, and particularly would like to sit on the patio in slightly less toasty weather, and hear the Saturday night Jazz. Don't forget to ask Doug about the falcons.
(4)
Jennifer D.
Right now it's just A- OK I'm going to have to back and properly eat at a table and not at the bar to really feel the experience. We had gone there for a last minute dinner before heading over to the TMH for a show. The bartender was nice, but I felt that he had to much on his plate to really handle everyone's order. I kind of felt like we were bothering him from doing whatever he does. I had ordered the Quesadilla with just cheese no shrimp, and it did taste good =) I didn't have bite of my friends Salmon salad and the Salmon wasn't to bad I must say.
(3)
Nina P.
I arrived at Cushing Street bar and immediately felt like I was taking a step back in history as I walked through the tiniest front door and saw a huge legal bookcase, unique glass chandelier and a bronze status of Cleopatra. My friend and I were instructed to seat ourselves, and we were lucky to find a table because the restaurant was packed with concert goers grabbing dinner before a concert at the TCC. We were immediately given water when we sat down, but then out waitress never returned. After a short wait, a waiter came over with menus. We had to flag him down again to order a bottle of the Havenscourt Pinot Noir, but when he returned with the bottle he took our main course order. He looked very flustered and must have been running around to get everyone's checks before the concert started, because when our appetizer, the Chorizo Stuffed Mushrooms (yum!) arrived, almost half of the restaurant had cleared out. For my main course, I had the Asparagus salad, which is a romaine and kale salad with three huge bacon-wrapped asparagus stalks on top. It was delicious. My friend had the Cajun Meatloaf. It is definitely a spicy and uniquely delicious version of the comfort dish. We still had some wine to finish, so I ordered Housemade Chocolate Mousse Pie for dessert and it's amazing. All in all, it was a great dinner experience, especially because the music is kept low, so it is a great place for conversation. Next time, I'll try to make sure I don't come in with the TCC dinner crowd.
(4)
Michelle L.
Cushing Street is in my neighborhood, so I have visited several times for convenience. I hate to say it but I've never been very impressed. The menu seems a bit generic for the price, and the wine list (by the glass) is terribly disappointing. Not only have the servers never been able to talk about the wines, but the selections are fairly pedestrian and frequently taste as if they've been open too long. I've also been underwhelmed by the cocktails I've ordered here. On the other hand the ambiance of the bar and the beautiful patio somewhat make up for the menu. The interior has this great sort of Art Nouveau style, but on a warm evening it's lovely to sit in their garden and listen to the live music they bring in on the weekends. I suppose if you're satisfied with a good surf & turf or some crab cakes, you might be happy at Cushing Street. But as someone who seeks out menus that offer a little something "more," with a solid selection of wine, I'll pass.
(2)
Deuce S.
Entering the restaurant, it smelled as though I was walking into a YMCA indoor pool area.... highly chlorinated smell. The only reason I would consider coming back to this place is for the music. I ordered penne pasta with sausage, which came out luke warm with pasta that was very undercooked. You know it's not a good thing when your server tells you that food is prepared prior to order. Still not quite sure what the plates are for that were brought with the silverware; no bread was ever served, but there were the empty plates. On a positive note, the music was great.... So no stars for the food, and two stars for the music....
(2)
Elizabeth C.
We had a wonderful and reasonably-priced Easter brunch here. It was the best meal our large group had during the long weekend. Some unique brunch dishes and terrific french bread and pastries freshly baked on the premises. Great food and attentive service. A true in-town find for dining.
(5)
Andy H.
I had heard of this bar before but never been there. I didn't eat food. Decent draft beers were $4, not too awful. I'll have to try eating food here some time. The atmosphere of this bar is awesome. They play decent music, the staff is friendly and chilled out, and it has a really comfortable antequated but contemporary and not antique-store feel to it. It was a great place to go have a drink and try to relax nerves after ASU beat the Icecats in the most exciting yet anticlimactic hockey game ever.
(4)
Tiffany T.
best mojitos ever . PATIO is sooooo pretty for a party.
We held a surprise birthday party at Cushing Street yesterday and wanted to share what a great time we had. Everyone was absolutely fantastic from the catering manager to the extremely talented bartenders and finally a special nod to our wonderful server Alex. You were so welcoming and accommodating that I left feeling that we were old friends. We have long loved this restaurant, but after holding our private party there I would highly recommend CSB&R for any event. Thanks to the entire staff for making this a success!
(5)
Rob B.
We had very good citrusy Margaritinis (shaken w/ice, poured into a saslt-rimmed martini glass) on the patio. ($7.50 ea. Good price for a fairly fancy place.) No food, although the menu was inviting and well-priced. Beautiful bar/restaurant space with mile-high ceilings and a 19th Century feel. Next time in in TUAZ, I'm going fto try some scallops. Pretty neighborhood, the Barrio. Worth a walk. Verrrry good service too. Our waitress was very friendly and helpful, as was everyone else we dealt with. Seems like a happy place to work.
(4)
Kimberly F.
Bomb! Loved this place. Their portions aren't too big, so you don't over eat. The food is delicious. Our waiter was knowledgeable and recommended good food and great wine. I will definitely go back.
(4)
Margot O.
Well service, food, drinks and atmosphere are above and beyond standard. Very happy we will be back anytime we are in Tucson!!! This goes on my too 10 restaurants. I wish there was a section on yelp for that!!!!! Salud!
(5)
Timothy R.
We walk by this place and decided to kill some time before we met up with others for another event. We decided to get an appetizer and a meal to share. The Ahi appetizer was cook almost to perfection and the Cajun style meatloaf was great! The server was kind enough to bring both plates out together. My girl enjoyed a couple Mojitos and myself a couple beers. We went there with no reservations but was seated promptly on the patio, with the heaters it was comfortable. As for parking, I cannot make comment as we paid for parking at the Civic Center to attend another event. All in all, the service was great, the food was great and most of all the drink and atmosphere was great. Will certainly try to come here again!
(4)
Ray L.
The hacienda of art deco? Cushing Street has an interior that feels close without feeling especially intimate or warm, but their patio is excellent. Grabbed an early Saturday dinner there and the service was prompt and businesslike--it wasn't memorably friendly, but we certainly didn't experience any rudeness. In terms of the food, the brie burger with red onion marmalade and chipotle mayonnaise was a damn respectable piece of work. The pasta with fennel and sausage was fine, but not as good as its price would have suggested. Overall, the prices seemed like an affectation that wasn't fully matched by the taste. Cushing Street's burger warrants a try if you are in the area but, if you are looking to drop a little money on a nicer dinner, you could do better elsewhere.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street, Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Intimate Noise Level : Average Music : Live Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Marie W.
What a lovely surprise to happen upon this "find" directly across from the newly updated Tucson Convention Center! All 5 of us found the food and service were wonderful - only major complaint...we were seated in one of their "out-back" buildings that is usually used for private parties. Cold and drafty, (one of the waitresses did turn up the heat and try to keep the door closed) no ambiance, NO MUSIC, no soul. To enter their main restaurant/bar (wonderful) then to be shuttled off to this other room - very disappointing and let down...will definitely try again when we are back in town - but will make reservations for the main restaurant/bar!!
(3)John B.
Chorizo stuffed mushroom caps? Wha? Delicious. Full bar. Absolutely. The food is always good. The courtyard is magical. Currently listening to some live, easy jazz, drinking 12 year old scotch and wondering why life can't always be this enjoyable and easy.
(4)Lisa S.
The best drink to get is the mojito. The happy hour is a pretty good deal for really good appetizers. My only complaint is they open at 5pm.
(5)Cody S.
I went with a large group of co-workers for a staff lunch back in May, and I was very impressed. They were able to accommodate our large group inside, the restaurant's staff and ownership were friendly, and the service was prompt. Even having submitted our lunch menu choices beforehand, the service was impressive for a group of 40+ people. I had the Sueno Burger from the menu and was very impressed. This is what tipped my review to 5 stars; it was a great burger with what seemed like homemade ketchup on the side. Homemade or not, it was excellent - a nice change from fast food-style meals with what always seems like generic ketchup from a jar. I got the sense that the meal was carefully prepared, and everybody else I talked to from our group enjoyed our lunch. Very good experience, and I would go back.
(5)Adele V.
I was part of a group of 14 who dined at Cushing's last night. Several of us ordered the Cajun Meatloaf with mashed potatoes. The plates came to us with country fires instead. When we protested, the waiter stated that the kitchen made the switch and they did not have mashed potatoes. When asked why the waiter had not told us ahead of time so that we might have made another choice, he said that he did not know that there would be a switch. The country fries were dry and burnt, clearly "yesterday's" food, and the meatloaf very dry. We have come to expect better from this restaurant, and were clearly disappointed. I can no longer recommend this place.
(2)Morgan C.
This place has a very a good brunch on Sundays. My favorite is the BLTOE. It is a unique and delicious twist on the classic BLT. They also have great breakfast drinks like Bloody Marys, Mimosas, and Freshly squeezed juices. They have a beautiful courtyard to sit outside for breakfast, its perfect.
(5)Gus M.
AVOID THIS PLACE. Pretentious and rude staff and owner. We went here for dinner after a show and after we paid our bill we were asked to leave becuase they had a reservaton for our table even though there were open tables. we told the hostess we were staying for the jazz and she left. a few minutes later, the owner came to our table and asked if the hostess explained that the table was needed for reservations (we made reservations too). when we asked about the open tables, she said that we have overstayed our reservation and kept reminding us what time our reservations were for. For 3 of us, the bill, with tip, came to $170 so it wasnt like we dropped only $10. As we were rising from the table, the owner continued to berate us about overstaying our welcome and insisted that we "need to understand" that you can't stay for jazz at 7:30 for a 4:30 reservation. My friend said she didn't need to understand anything because she would not be returning and shockingly, the owner said good, don't come back. We were so embarrased to be asked to leave a restaurant. we are 3 professional women who went after a show so it wasn't like we were college kids acting rowdy. The owner actually followed us out into the street continuing to explain her reason for asking us to leave. The way the owner should have acted was to explain to us that they had reservations waiting and offer to move us to the bar and even offer to buy a drink for our troubles (although we would have declined a free drink becuase we had already had 2 glasses with dinner). I am simply amazed that the owner and hostess asked us to leave instead of offering to relocate us. I will never return and I will make sure to spread the word to avoid this place.
(1)Tuyen C.
Good food. The quality of entrees coming from the kitchen at CS is on par with finer dining establishments in town. Small details like perfectly blanched veggies, grilled chicken that are still moist , etc .... The only downside is that their menu is rater limited. But this may be a way that allows them to do those few things well. Also, I have always had the best Mojitos here. Drink prices here are a little steep so beware. Try it. You won't be disappointed.
(4)Nali M.
our party of four hit up cushing street bar before a concert on a friday night. the service was a little bit slow for my liking, but he made up for his slowness with his politeness. their happy hour menu (tuesday-friday) was excellent! a selection of drinks to choose from(lemon drops & house wine $4 margaritas $5 well liquor & imported beer $3 domestic beer $2) as well as an array of appetizers all for $3. we ordered a bunch of everything and split them between us. i would love to go back!
(4)Sabrina D.
First time I've eaten here and first time in Tucson. The food was delicious and I loved that the building had history behind it. The atmosphere was great two different dinning areas and an outside patio, so lots of seating options. I wouldn't say they had a lot of dishes on their menu (in relation to quantity), however the variation of dishes was impressive. Something for anyone and everyone loved it!
(4)Heidi S.
I hit this place up for drinks and dinner on Friday. The cocktails were pretty good, but nothing special. The food was fresh and good quality...well prepared. But the only thing that was truly great was the atmosphere. The old-timey feel really sinks into your bones. The patio was really nice, especially on a summer evening. And the jazz trio was fab. The more mature crowd sat and appreciated...but me, I danced. :)
(3)Eric G.
This is a decent place for an occasional visit. I couldn't see myself being a regular here however. That said, I really do like Cushing Street. The restaurant area is fairly classy. I've always enjoyed the interior and the beautiful, old-fashioned bar. It has a somewhat elegant feel to me, although more classic than the contemporary edge that many new Tucson restaurants are tending towards. Sadly, you pay for that classy feel--menu items are pricey. On days with nice weather, the patio is a great option. Nestled in a white-washed stucco courtyard with a wonderful fruit tree, it is a minimal and airy space. Stand-alone heaters are in place if the weather turns brisk. Staff are professional and courteous. From my experience, they fit the bill for a higher-price dining experience. Bartenders definitely know how to pour a cocktail. There's beer and wine, by I'd recommend trying a concoction. They make a nice Mojito. The food is good. I don't know if it's as good as the prices might suggest. That's why I wouldn't go here to regularly. I've had their pasta offerings and their fish. Both were well made, decent-sized portions, that left you happy but not overstuffed. I'd love for this place to shine. It's refined to the T, but until the food becomes amazing--which it should be for the cost--I can think of better cost-for-quality experiences. Still, worth a stop, even if only for a cocktail and appetizer.
(3)E O.
Pleasantly surprised to find this place while wandering around the barrio on foot alone one Saturday night (what? like you're social calendar is so great. i likes my freedom). I was attracted by the live jazz floating on the air and mixing with the smell of refried beans near El Minuto Cafe. What a pleasure to sit in the back patio, have a drink, and listen to a swinging quartet. No food, just drinks for me. Classy place. Might this be the place for live jazz in Tucson?
(4)Samuel A.
Went to Cushing street Bar and Restaurant after a play downtown and was surprised by the Building and mostly the food. We started with a Mojito one of the best in town made by hand no mix - then Roasted Garlic & Brie starter that was wonderful the garlic had been roasted perfectly and was sweet and yummy. For dinner I had the Cajun Meatloaf it was some of the best meatloaf I have ever had spicy and meaty and just real good my spouse had the Salmon and she said ti was wonderful and cooked to perfection. They had a Jazz band playing in the background and it just added tot eh great experience. The only let down was the coffee to finish the meal it was lousy so stopped at Starbucks on the way home for and espresso. All in all a very good dining experience - will try the patio next time as it looks very appealing. I will go back. Oh and they have their own parking so you don't have to worry about what is going on at the convention center across the street.
(4)Bradley B.
They took a reservation for 7:PM on Saturday night, I got there a little before my party and they seated me early anyways. I ordered a drink from the bar and had a great conversation with the bartender who really knew her stuff and went out of her way to explain the drinks to me. When my party arrived we sat and the band started. I ordered an appetizer which came pretty quick and we ordered more drinks. After seeing the bartender make a mojito me and my friend decided we needed one. She had a great margarita prior to this and we both agreed that the mojitos were awesome! When the food came I was impressed all over again. The food isn't terribly expensive and the band made it totally worth any extra expense. It's got a generally quirky atmosphere with an odd mix of hacienda and chicago jazz club type fixtures. All in all great night spot for downtown Tucson. I even thought I'd have trouble parking with it being downtown but they had an adequate parking lot and I didn't have to go anywhere to pay for parking. Highly recommended! Try the Mojito and Margarita...you'll be happy you did.
(5)Sarita M.
Love this place, especially for Saturday night jazz. Food is delicious, makes sense because it can get pretty pricey. I love that it's a historical landmark, but not being able to separate checks is just not okay for this day and age. We had a $400 check (birthday party) and it was a huge hassle to try and figure out what everyone ordered. Aside from that, try the side car for a drink, stuffed mushrooms for an app and the surf & turf for an entree. Our server was amazing.
(4)Kurt P.
Dinner for four last night. The setting and ambiance are spectacular here - we sat out on the patio and it was absolutely perfect. The meals were OK. We started with a charcuterie plate which had a nice asparagus-prosciutto wrap. The meatloaf had a nice crust and flavor, but the veggies were pretty non-descript. The chicken curry dish was OK, but a char on the outside would have been nice. The surf & turf elicited no comment from the consumer. Overall this seems like a great place to go for live music and ambiance, but is not a foodie destination in and of itself.
(3)ciria e.
High end but worth stopping by for a few drinks. Great place to watch the 4th of July fireworks!
(3)Kim L.
We have been wanting to go for a long time, and finally made it for my husbands birthday last night. It was wonderful! We sat right in front of the jazz band, and they were wonderful! We completely enjoyed the relaxing and classy environment. It's a very cool, old historic building. We had the shrimp tacos, which melted in your mouth, and came a couple of nice sauces. I had the asparagus mushroom pappardelle which was all cooked perfectly. Mu husband had the surf and turf, he wasn't as happy as me, he asked for very well done, and his steak was red in the middle, he sent it back, and it still came back red in the middle, and he said he liked his own mashed potatoes better. We would like to go back for wine and appetizers and jazz. We enjoyed Don Kludges energy, and friendliness. He is so much fun, and made everything special!
(4)Angela O.
Every single star is for server Michael, and all residual starlight is just for the restaurant's ambience. Londoner Michael, our server, should start a hospitality school. Having managed several restaurants as a young, young woman, I wish I had him to train my front-of-the-house staff, and to train myself. I would have made a lot more money and maybe stayed in the industry because Michael reminds you that people can be bona fide fun. Any restaurant would be privileged to have him on staff. He is amicable, funny, and charming, and actually enjoys his job. He knows wine and could recommend what pairs with red meat and meaty fish, though my friend selected a Sauvignon Blanc, which would not by my go-to (it's fine - it was her night). For dessert, though we were the last straggling table at the wee hour of 10:30, he brought that same friend a surprise raspberry sorbet to honor her opening night in a play. The ambience is charming and classier - yet more eclectic, a difficult balance to strike, I think - than most comparably priced establishments I can think of in Tucson. The setting honors the Barrio Viejo while not being a Mexican cliché, and the flow matches the structural architecture. Entering the building is kind of like entering a wormhole: you go through a teeny tiny door and suddenly you're in a hypnotic library-like setting: Alice in Wonderland with the freedom to decide where to eat. The large twinkly patio is a good choice. It would be a nice place to have a party. The food let us down though. Medium rare translates to medium well for both meat and fish, at least when you are the last table of the night. The menu is uninspired anyway, as far as I can tell. We didn't have much time to look at it. Even though I called to see when the kitchen closed (10 p.m.), and we arrived at about 9:20, we were rather rushed to order. Not "rather." We were RUSHED. The wine list is so-so. I would like to have been more impressed by the rest of the usual experience - you know, food, wine ... but it is the service that does it. No report for ya on the bathroom.
(4)Prusha S.
I surprised my husband for a date night here. I called up ahead for reservation to sit close to the jazz band. The staff was very friendly, ask for the free bread. They dont bring it to you. Food is off the hook. Salmon with cous cous is great... Drinks are delicious. The band was super cool too.
(5)Vera Marie B.
Love what they've done with the inside of this historic house. We don't go downtown frequently, and I had not been at Cushing Street for decades, so it was high time. The eclectic decorations are fun conversation pieces while you are waiting for food, or for your dining partner to catch up. Conversation can really get lively if you engage Doug, the Bartender. It is worth sitting at one of the tables by the bar to talk to him. Be sure to ask him about the falcons!! We had a Mediterranean appetizer plate of hummus and pita and olives, etc. The server had warned us that it was a large dish, and it was. I love Kalamata olives, but there were enough there for four people. For entrees, my husband had the portobello mushroom burger with sweet potato planks (oblong slices) and a mayo sauce on the side. It came on a bun with the usual tomato and lettuce and a big dill pickle. He liked it but neither of us thought the sweet potato added much. The potato wedges were no crispy. I had shrimp and grits which made a nice combo. The shrimp is very spicy and the creamy smooth grits provided a nice contrast. For dessert he ordered a chocolate mousse pie which was very good--but how can a chocolate mousse not be good? I would like to go back and sample more things off the menu, and particularly would like to sit on the patio in slightly less toasty weather, and hear the Saturday night Jazz. Don't forget to ask Doug about the falcons.
(4)Jennifer D.
Right now it's just A- OK I'm going to have to back and properly eat at a table and not at the bar to really feel the experience. We had gone there for a last minute dinner before heading over to the TMH for a show. The bartender was nice, but I felt that he had to much on his plate to really handle everyone's order. I kind of felt like we were bothering him from doing whatever he does. I had ordered the Quesadilla with just cheese no shrimp, and it did taste good =) I didn't have bite of my friends Salmon salad and the Salmon wasn't to bad I must say.
(3)Nina P.
I arrived at Cushing Street bar and immediately felt like I was taking a step back in history as I walked through the tiniest front door and saw a huge legal bookcase, unique glass chandelier and a bronze status of Cleopatra. My friend and I were instructed to seat ourselves, and we were lucky to find a table because the restaurant was packed with concert goers grabbing dinner before a concert at the TCC. We were immediately given water when we sat down, but then out waitress never returned. After a short wait, a waiter came over with menus. We had to flag him down again to order a bottle of the Havenscourt Pinot Noir, but when he returned with the bottle he took our main course order. He looked very flustered and must have been running around to get everyone's checks before the concert started, because when our appetizer, the Chorizo Stuffed Mushrooms (yum!) arrived, almost half of the restaurant had cleared out. For my main course, I had the Asparagus salad, which is a romaine and kale salad with three huge bacon-wrapped asparagus stalks on top. It was delicious. My friend had the Cajun Meatloaf. It is definitely a spicy and uniquely delicious version of the comfort dish. We still had some wine to finish, so I ordered Housemade Chocolate Mousse Pie for dessert and it's amazing. All in all, it was a great dinner experience, especially because the music is kept low, so it is a great place for conversation. Next time, I'll try to make sure I don't come in with the TCC dinner crowd.
(4)Michelle L.
Cushing Street is in my neighborhood, so I have visited several times for convenience. I hate to say it but I've never been very impressed. The menu seems a bit generic for the price, and the wine list (by the glass) is terribly disappointing. Not only have the servers never been able to talk about the wines, but the selections are fairly pedestrian and frequently taste as if they've been open too long. I've also been underwhelmed by the cocktails I've ordered here. On the other hand the ambiance of the bar and the beautiful patio somewhat make up for the menu. The interior has this great sort of Art Nouveau style, but on a warm evening it's lovely to sit in their garden and listen to the live music they bring in on the weekends. I suppose if you're satisfied with a good surf & turf or some crab cakes, you might be happy at Cushing Street. But as someone who seeks out menus that offer a little something "more," with a solid selection of wine, I'll pass.
(2)Deuce S.
Entering the restaurant, it smelled as though I was walking into a YMCA indoor pool area.... highly chlorinated smell. The only reason I would consider coming back to this place is for the music. I ordered penne pasta with sausage, which came out luke warm with pasta that was very undercooked. You know it's not a good thing when your server tells you that food is prepared prior to order. Still not quite sure what the plates are for that were brought with the silverware; no bread was ever served, but there were the empty plates. On a positive note, the music was great.... So no stars for the food, and two stars for the music....
(2)Elizabeth C.
We had a wonderful and reasonably-priced Easter brunch here. It was the best meal our large group had during the long weekend. Some unique brunch dishes and terrific french bread and pastries freshly baked on the premises. Great food and attentive service. A true in-town find for dining.
(5)Andy H.
I had heard of this bar before but never been there. I didn't eat food. Decent draft beers were $4, not too awful. I'll have to try eating food here some time. The atmosphere of this bar is awesome. They play decent music, the staff is friendly and chilled out, and it has a really comfortable antequated but contemporary and not antique-store feel to it. It was a great place to go have a drink and try to relax nerves after ASU beat the Icecats in the most exciting yet anticlimactic hockey game ever.
(4)Tiffany T.
best mojitos ever . PATIO is sooooo pretty for a party.
(5)Jay K.
I'm not completely sure what all the fuss is about this place. Fiancé and I joined some friends here for a late dinner and drinks recently and were rather underwhelmed. For a Thursday evening, the place was hopping, so maybe I'm just missing something. First, the good. The ambience is great. The building is billed as a Tucson historical landmark, and it certainly feels that way. Several dining areas are adorned with large, ornate wooden furniture that feels ripped out of a Mexican hacienda. The lights are kept at an acceptably low level - dim enough to lend a romantic feel to one's dinner, but not so low that one feels as though the manager is trying to hide something. The outdoor patio is nicely landscaped and feels like a refreshing desert oasis. Finally, the manager(owner?) seems like a friendly, stand-up guy. When his waitstaff seemed to be put-upon and out to lunch, he was kind, solicitous and made some good wine pairing suggestions. Unfortunately, the menu doesn't really match the overall experience. Food is awfully expensive for what you get. While some of the more adventurous entrees have clearly had some care put in to them, a number of the meals and appetizers have a decidedly store-bought feel to them, and the salads seem to contain an abundance of iceberg lettuce to conceal the fact that they don't have much else going on. The wine list is anemic, and, at least on the night we were there, the first four wines I tried to order were either out of stock or had been removed from the menu. When I finally settled on a glass of port for dessert, the price was marked up considerably over what the same glass goes for at Rumrunner's bistro. Our friends thought the place was the second coming of Christ, but for us, Cushing Street fell short. I mean, it was ok, and if I had to go there for a work function, I wouldn't put up a stink, but, in the end, I felt like the upscale tone the place sets for itself didn't really live up to it's actual dining experience.
(2)Lini B.
We held a surprise birthday party at Cushing Street yesterday and wanted to share what a great time we had. Everyone was absolutely fantastic from the catering manager to the extremely talented bartenders and finally a special nod to our wonderful server Alex. You were so welcoming and accommodating that I left feeling that we were old friends. We have long loved this restaurant, but after holding our private party there I would highly recommend CSB&R for any event. Thanks to the entire staff for making this a success!
(5)Rob B.
We had very good citrusy Margaritinis (shaken w/ice, poured into a saslt-rimmed martini glass) on the patio. ($7.50 ea. Good price for a fairly fancy place.) No food, although the menu was inviting and well-priced. Beautiful bar/restaurant space with mile-high ceilings and a 19th Century feel. Next time in in TUAZ, I'm going fto try some scallops. Pretty neighborhood, the Barrio. Worth a walk. Verrrry good service too. Our waitress was very friendly and helpful, as was everyone else we dealt with. Seems like a happy place to work.
(4)Kimberly F.
Bomb! Loved this place. Their portions aren't too big, so you don't over eat. The food is delicious. Our waiter was knowledgeable and recommended good food and great wine. I will definitely go back.
(4)Margot O.
Well service, food, drinks and atmosphere are above and beyond standard. Very happy we will be back anytime we are in Tucson!!! This goes on my too 10 restaurants. I wish there was a section on yelp for that!!!!! Salud!
(5)Timothy R.
We walk by this place and decided to kill some time before we met up with others for another event. We decided to get an appetizer and a meal to share. The Ahi appetizer was cook almost to perfection and the Cajun style meatloaf was great! The server was kind enough to bring both plates out together. My girl enjoyed a couple Mojitos and myself a couple beers. We went there with no reservations but was seated promptly on the patio, with the heaters it was comfortable. As for parking, I cannot make comment as we paid for parking at the Civic Center to attend another event. All in all, the service was great, the food was great and most of all the drink and atmosphere was great. Will certainly try to come here again!
(4)Ray L.
The hacienda of art deco? Cushing Street has an interior that feels close without feeling especially intimate or warm, but their patio is excellent. Grabbed an early Saturday dinner there and the service was prompt and businesslike--it wasn't memorably friendly, but we certainly didn't experience any rudeness. In terms of the food, the brie burger with red onion marmalade and chipotle mayonnaise was a damn respectable piece of work. The pasta with fennel and sausage was fine, but not as good as its price would have suggested. Overall, the prices seemed like an affectation that wasn't fully matched by the taste. Cushing Street's burger warrants a try if you are in the area but, if you are looking to drop a little money on a nicer dinner, you could do better elsewhere.
(3)