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Arizona food tours | Things to Do This Weekend in Mesa, Arizona - Taste Of Arizona

Things to Do This Weekend in Mesa, Arizona

If you’re thinking of visiting Mesa, Arizona this weekend, your experience could be truly unique! Mesa is not only full of natural landscapes and historical sites, but there is also a great food scene. In this article by Taste of Arizona, we will tell you about some of the best activities to do this weekend in Mesa that will make your day memorable.

Mesa’s Food Tour

  1. If you’re a foodie, a food tour of Mesa would be a great choice. The local markets and restaurants here have a variety of flavours. Mesa’s food tours take you from traditional Arizona cuisine to world-class culinary experiences.

Arizona food tours

Here’s what you’ll find on the food tour:

  • The local food markets
  • Visits to a variety of restaurants
  • Arizona’s local and international cuisine
  • The best desserts and drinks
  • A chance to get acquainted with the local culture

Famous Food Tour Locations:

  • Old School Grub
  • Erysian Fields
  • Sassy’s Cafe and Bakery
  • Nates BBQ

You can visit our event page for the schedule related to food tours of these restaurants

A Visit to the Grand Opera House (Mesa Grande Opera House)

  1. A visit to Mesa’s historic Grand Opera House gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in Arizona’s culture. A variety of cultural events, performances, and shows are held here. There will be some interesting performances this weekend.

The memorable experiences:

  • Performances and concerts
  • Paintings and art by local artists
  • Participating in cultural events

The Arizona Museum of Natural History (Arizona Museum of Natural History)

If you’re interested in Arizona’s natural history, visit the Arizona Museum of Natural History. This museum not only provides information about the geological history of Arizona but also about the ancient creatures and fossils here.

Here are some interesting exhibits:

  • The fossils of dinosaurs
  • The Minerals of Arizona
  • Ancient Plants and Animals
  • Projects and workshops.

Enjoy the Natural Beauty of Mesa Park (Explore Mesa Parks)

There are many beautiful parks in Mesa, where you can enjoy the natural scenery. Here you can enjoy hiking, biking, or picnicking.

The famous park:

  • The Santos Park
  • Ringer’s Park
  • The Mesa Wrigley Park

Activities in the Park:

  • The observation of natural scenery
  • Bicycling and Hiking
  • Picnics and camping.

A Visit to the Local Market of Mesa (Visit the Local Farmers Market)

Mesa’s local markets offer fresh fruits, vegetables, and local crafts. This place introduces you to the local flavours of Arizona and you can also shop directly from the local farmers.

Here you’ll find:

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
  • The hand-made products
  • Meeting with the local farmers.
  • Experience the local flavours

Best locations in the local market:

  • The Mesa Farm Tour Market
  • The Downtown Mesa Farmers Market

Visit the Historic Buildings of Mesa (Visit Historic Buildings in Mesa)
There are several historic buildings in Mesa that introduce you to Arizona’s history. Here you can see the old buildings.

Famous historical buildings:

  • The Mesa Pewter House
  • The Historic Mesa Ranch
  • The Arizona Pearls

A Visit to the Arizona Ranch (Visit an Arizona Ranch)

A visit to Arizona’s ranches introduces you to the natural open landscape and the culture of Arizona. Here you can enjoy horse riding, farming experience, and the open air.

On the ranch you’ll find all of the following:

  • The riding of horses
  • The open air of Arizona
  • Experience of working on the farm
  • A picnic in the fields

Conclusion

There’s a lot to do this weekend in Mesa, Arizona. Whether you’re a foodie, want to enjoy the natural beauty, or want to explore Arizona’s history, there’s definitely something for you in Mesa. Enjoy a variety of food tours, historic sites, and scenic vistas of Mesa this weekend.

What Food Is Arizona Known For? Tasting the Grand Canyon State

Surrounded by amazingly beautiful views, Arizona is also a great destination for gourmets. If you fancy Mexican or Native American food, Arizona offers some incredible tasting dishes for you. But what food is Arizona known for? Here is the article from taste of Arizona for popular dishes and where to find them in the state:

Sonoran Hot Dog: Top Street Food of Arizona

For anyone considering street food in the region, particularly in Arizona, the Sonoran hot dog is unique. A seasoned beef sausage is grilled and packed into a soft, slightly toasted bun, layered with pinto beans, fresh tomatoes, onions, relish, jalapeños, mustard, and a tangy mayo-mustard sauce. You should try this in cities like Mesa, Tucson, or Phoenix.

  Sonoran Hot Dog: Top Street Food of Arizona

Chimichangas: A Deep-Fried Delight

Though people in Arizona love chimichangas, many attribute the dish to the town of Tucson. A flour tortilla is tightly wrapped around seasoned beef, chicken, beans, and cheese—sometimes with guacamole—then deep-fried until crunchy and golden brown for a mouth-watering meal. At Old School Grub, you can enjoy this crispy treat, where traditional meals have been given a contemporary touch, bringing out the best in their chimichangas.

Chimichangas: A Deep-Fried Delight

Prickly Pear Cactus: A Unique Arizona Ingredient

In Arizona, food without prickly pear cactus, or “tuna,” can seem incomplete. From cocktails to sauces and preserves, this cactus fruit adds a delicious shade of red and pink to dishes.

Arizona Beef: Tender and Flavorful

Currently, Arizona is famous for its high-quality beef production, thanks to extensive cattle farming. Rich and juicy, it’s ideal for carne asada, steaks, and burgers. If you’re searching for tender beef dishes, check out local restaurants in Arizona, with upcoming food tours showcasing the best options.

Mesquite Flour

Mesquite pod flour, made from mesquite tree pods, has a nutty taste similar to walnuts and serves as a gluten-free substitute for regular flour. It is commonly used in bread, pancakes, and even cookies, often found in dishes offered by local Arizona restaurants to provide a taste of what the desert offers.

Tacos: Sort of Like a Mexican Classic but Arizona’s Own

Tacos represent Arizona cuisine well, filled with carne asada, al pastor, or carnitas, packed inside soft corn tortillas and served with cilantro, onions, salsa, and a dash of lime juice.

Sweet Corn: A Local Favorite in Arizona

Sweet corn thrives in Arizona’s warm climate and is cherished for its soft texture and intense flavor. It’s often prepared on the BBQ or steamed with butter, salt, chili powder, or lime juice. Sweet corn can be a side dish or combined with other plates, like Sonoran hot dogs or chimichangas, and is commonly served at local spots such as Old School Grub.

Salsa: A Must-Have with Every Meal

Arizona’s salsa, often made from roasted tomatoes, peppers, onions, and garlic, sometimes offers barbeque flavors. It accompanies meals like tacos, chips, and grilled meats. At Sassy’s Cafe & Bakery or Erysian Fields, salsa adds a bright touch to every meal.

Salsa: A Must-Have with Every Meal

Flour Tortillas: Coming Soft and Fresh from Local Kitchens

A good flour tortilla is essential in Arizona cuisine. Whether as chips or the base for burritos, quesadillas, or tacos, soft chewy tortillas hold everything together. Local spots like Nate’s BBQ use tortillas as a support for their star dishes.

Flour Tortillas: Coming Soft and Fresh from Local Kitchens

Craft Beer

Craft beer has seen a boom in Arizona, with local breweries experimenting with flavors like chili pepper, citrus, and prickly pear. These brews pair well with Arizona’s spicy and strong-flavored foods.

Conclusion

So, what food is Arizona known for? Consumer preferences have given rise to diverse offerings, from the spicy Sonoran hot dog and crunchy chimichangas to prickly pear cactus dishes and Arizona beef. Local eateries, such as Sassy’s Cafe & Bakery and Nate’s BBQ, offer unique cuisine that showcases the state’s flavors.

Top four Must-Try Restaurants in Arizona for Food Lovers

 

Top Four Must-Try Restaurants in Arizona for Food Lovers

Arizona offers a rich and diverse culinary experience, where food lovers can indulge in everything from comfort food to artisanal enjoyment. If you’re planning an Arizona food tour, here are four excellent Restaurants in Arizona for Food Lovers. Each offers a unique tasting experience, capturing the essence of Arizona’s food culture.

Elysian Fields: A Magical Bakery Experience in Mesa

If you’re in the mood for artisan baked goods crafted with precision and passion, Elysian Fields is the place to be. Located in Mesa, this Artisan bakery in Mesa hosts enchanting tasting events where visitors can sample a selection of unique pastries, breads, and desserts that capture the artistry of Arizona’s baking scene.

  • Elysian Fields: A Magical Bakery Experience in Mesa What to Expect: Delightful baked treats made with quality ingredients, from flaky pastries to decadent cakes.
  • Pro Tip: Visit during one of their tasting events to experience an array of bakery creations all in one sitting.

Join a food tasting event at Elysian Fields to enjoy their latest creations by visiting our Artisan Bakery page

Nate’s BBQ: Mesa’s Top BBQ Restaurant

BBQ enthusiasts, this one’s for you! Nate’s BBQ in Mesa serves up lots of smoked meats, rich flavors, and traditional elements that make for an unforgettable barbecue experience. Known as one of Mesa’s top BBQ restaurants, this restaurant also hosts tasting events, allowing you to relish their great dishes.

Nate’s BBQ: Mesa’s Top BBQ Restaurants in Arizona for food lovers
What to Expect: Juicy, tender meats smoked to perfection, paired with traditional BBQ sides like coleslaw and cornbread.
Pro Tip: Make a reservation online to secure a seat at their tasting events, where you can enjoy a curated selection of BBQ favorites.
Reserve your spot at Nate’s BBQ by visiting our BBQ Restaurant page.

Old School Grub: Comfort Food with a Modern Twist

For those searching for hearty, nostalgic flavors with a creative edge, Old School Grub offers a unique dining and food tasting experience in Mesa. This restaurant is all about blending traditional comfort food with a fresh, modern approach, providing visitors with a tasting experience that takes them back to the good old days.


What to Expect: Classic comfort foods with a twist, including loaded mac and cheese, gourmet burgers, and innovative sides.
Pro Tip: Reserve early to experience their popular tasting events and sample many of their comfort dishes.
Discover the traditional tastes of Old School Grub by exploring more on our Food Tasting Experience page.

Sassy’s Cafe and Bakery: Breakfast and Beyond

Sassy’s Cafe and Bakery is a cherished Mesa spot that takes breakfast and lunch to the next level. Known for their fresh pastries, savory breakfasts, and exquisite lunch items, Sassy’s provides a warm and welcoming environment to start your day or grab a midday treat. Their breakfast food tasting events offer an opportunity to sample everything from fluffy pancakes to savory breakfast sandwiches.

Breakfast food tasting Mesa | Lunch | Sassy's Cafe and Bakery

What to Expect: A blend of traditional and creative breakfast options, including pancakes, omelets, and specialty baked goods.
Pro Tip: Try one of their tasting events to explore a variety of breakfast items all in one sitting.
Start your day with a memorable meal at Sassy’s Cafe and Bakery; discover more on our Breakfast Food Tasting page.

Plan Your Mesa Food Adventure With Top Restaurants in Arizona for Food Lovers

These four top local restaurants in Mesa offer unique tasting experiences that highlight the culinary diversity of Mesa, Arizona. From bakery treats to smoked BBQ, traditional comfort food, and mouthwatering breakfast dishes, each stop brings something special to the table. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, make sure to add these must-try spots to your list.
For more culinary events and updates, check out our Upcoming Events page, and if you’d like to connect with us directly, visit our Taste of Arizona Contact Us page.
Embark on a journey of flavors, and make your Arizona dining experience unforgettable!