The Monica Tucson

Welcome to The Monica, a culinary delight located in the heart of downtown Tucson, Arizona. As a self-proclaimed foodie, I am always looking for unique dining experiences that offer a fusion of flavors. And let me tell you, The Monica restaurant did not disappoint. 

In this blog post, I’ll be sharing my review of The Monica and providing you with helpful information to make the most of your visit. 

First, let me take you on a quick journey of how The Monica restaurant came to be. 

History of The Monica

The Monica is part of the esteemed Flores Concepts culinary group, which traces its roots back to the iconic El Charro Café. It currently has restaurants under its umbrellas, such as Charro Steak, Charro Vida, to name a few.

The Monica opened its doors in early 2022 to coincide with El Charro Café’s centennial anniversary. Named after Monica Flin, the visionary founder of El Charro Café in 1922, the Monica is a labor of love run by her great-niece, Chef Carlotta Flores, and her family. With a legacy spanning a century, the Charro Cafe proudly holds the title of being the “oldest restaurant in America owned by the same family.” Steeped in tradition yet infused with modern creativity, the Monica Restaurant is a culinary masterpiece that pays homage to its storied past while continuously pushing the boundaries of innovative cuisine.

The Monica: Know Before You Go

The Monica restaurant is located downtown on the first floor of the glistening Hexagon building at City Park at 40 E Congress Tucson, AZ 85701

The Monica Hours

It is open 7 days a week:

Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Friday & Saturday: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM* (11:00 PM Bar)

Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Happier Hours:

Mon – Fri 2–6 PM

Be sure to check their website/socials or give them a call for special hours or closures on holidays.

The Monica Parking

The Monica is located in downtown Tucson, meaning parking can sometimes be difficult, depending on the time you go. Luckily there are many different options, from paid parking, free parking, and parking garages.

Street Parking

Street parking is available through meters. You will have to use the Park Tucson app to use the parking meters. Metered parking spaces downtown are free after 5:00 PM on weekdays and all day on weekends.

Be sure to check the parking signs for any restrictions and follow the posted time limits and payment requirements. Keep in mind that street parking may be limited during peak hours or special events, so arriving early or allowing extra time for parking is recommended.

Parking Garages

There are several parking garages located within walking distance of The Monica restaurant. The closest parking garages are the Pennington Street Garage and the Depot Plaza Garage, both located within a few blocks of the restaurant and open 24/7. These garages offer hourly rates or daily parking options. Remember to check the parking rates and payment methods at each garage before parking.

The Monica Reservations

The Monica Tucson restaurant caters to a diverse range of diners. It’s suitable for families, couples, friends, solo diners, or groups. 

The Monica does NOT require reservations, so you can drop in whenever you’re craving a delicious meal. However, I’d recommend arriving early to secure your preferred seating option, whether it’s inside or on the patio. I’ve been to The Monica a couple of times and could find a seat right away, but I noticed that tables filled up quickly as time passed.

For parties of 10 or more, The Monica staff asks that you contact them and fill out a banquet form so they can better service you and set up special accommodations. The last time I was there for dinner, a family had an area set up for a baby shower, and it looked so cute out on the patio!

The Monica Ambiance

From the moment I walked through the doors, I knew I would like the Monica Tucson. One of the highlights of The Monica restaurant’s ambiance is the open kitchen concept, where you can catch a glimpse of the talented chefs at work. The sights, sounds, and aromas emanating from the kitchen add to the excitement and anticipation of the dining experience.

I visited the Monica for both brunch and dinner, and each experience was unique in its own way.

During the morning, you get a chill vibe, with people sipping their morning coffee and getting their weekend started. It’s quiet and homey.

On the other hand, dinner at The Monica was a different experience. The ambiance was more lively and energetic, with a buzz of excitement in the air. The dimmed lights and the upbeat live music set the stage for a fun and vibrant evening. The restaurant was bustling with activity, yet it never felt too loud or crowded.

The Monica Tucson Menu

When it comes to dining out, one of the most important aspects that capture our attention and keeps us coming back for more is the food. So how was the food at the Monica Tucson?

The menu at The Monica is diverse and caters to a variety of tastes and dietary needs. They offer full breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus with options ranging from quick-fix sandwiches, salads, and soups to full-plate entrees.

The restaurant also has a happy hour and weekend brunch menu. The dishes include artisan bread, grab-and-go meals, and snacks.

The menu has options for special dietary needs, such as keto, vegan, and more. The Monica is also family-friendly, with items on the menu for children. 

They have a full-service bar both inside and on the patio. Additionally, they have an open floor seating and service plan, which is ideal for customers on a tight schedule.

Breakfast/Brunch

If you are looking for brunch in Tucson, then you have to consider The Monica Tucson. The Monica has great options for anyone who wants a classic breakfast or brunch.

I ordered the chicken chilaquiles hash with a michelada, and they were both A-MA-ZING!

The chicken chilaquiles hash comes with scrambled eggs, breakfast potatoes, rotisserie chicken, tomatillo verde sauce, fried corn tortillas, queso blanco, and topped with fresh cilantro and cotija. Literally, everything that is good in a bowl! And there was so much food! I tried to finish it, but I just couldn’t!

As for the michelada, y’all know I am constantly searching for the best micheladas around, and the one at The Monica is easily one of my top three!!! Yes, it is THAT good. It has the perfect amount of spice, with some fresh sliced jalapeno and cucumber in the mix. O loved that even as you continue to add the beer they bring on the side, it still maintains an even taste, which is hard to find!

My friend ordered the 40 East breakfast with a mimosa, and she really liked her dish too!

There is a whole different menu for dinner, so if you want don’t like breakfast or want to see what else the Monica has to offer, make sure you try the Monica for dinner as well!

Dinner

Because the brunch was so good, I had to go back and try the Monica Tucson for dinner!

For dinner, I ordered the risotto with chicken. It was creamy and flavorful. I loved the pop of color and balance the broccolini gave the dish! We also ordered the Jules burger and Tia’s Pasta. Both were okay, but I’d probably try something different for dinner next time.

Overall, I preferred the brunch menu over the dinner menu. 

Regardless of which time of day you decide to visit, you can’t go wrong at The Monica! Both vibes, morning and night, at The Monica were great. Definitely, a place I could see myself going to again and again!

How To Order

To order, you can grab a menu with the plated options that are made to order, or you can get one of the ready-to-eat pantry items. Either way, you will check out at the counter.

Once you have ordered, you will receive a number to take to your seat. 

Inside the Monica, you’ll find various sections to sit in. There’s a full-service bar for those who want something more casual or to enjoy a refreshing drink, an open dining area for a more intimate and fun vibe, and an outdoor patio that is dog friendly for enjoying the nice Tucson weather.

Once you have decided on a seat, one of the friendly staff members will bring your food and/or drink order to you when it is ready.

You can also do this process at the bar. Food is served at the bar; they can also take your order there.

The Monica FAQ

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Conclusion: The Monica Tucson Restaurant

The Monica was voted “Tucson’s Best New Restaurant of 2022” by Tucson Weekly readers, the same year it opened!

If that doesn’t convince you to visit the Monica restaurant, then I hope my review will!

Overall, my experience at The Monica was nothing short of exceptional. The welcoming ambiance, delicious food, and outstanding service made it a memorable dining experience. Whether it’s a relaxing breakfast or a lively dinner, The Monica offers something for every occasion. I can’t wait to visit again and indulge in their culinary delights!

After brunch at the Monica, make sure you walk around downtown and check out the local breweries or do a ladder tour at Colossal Cave Park!