Penca Penca
50 E. Broadway Blvd. (Stone Ave.)
Tucson, AZ 85701
Map
Cuisine: Mexican / Tacos
Penca adds new Mexican flavors to Tucson's palate.
Openings: Breakfast Sat.-Sun., Lunch & Dinner Tues.-Sun.

Features

  • Dress code: Casual
  • Full bar
  • Reservations suggested


Penca Restaurant Review:


In a town already rich with Sonoran food, Penca delves deeper into Mexico, the area around Mexico City to be exact. Appetizers, called "Ligeras," include a simple dish of grilled corn (elote) served with chipotle crema, queso fresco and green onions, as well as chicharrones, fried pork skins spritzed with citrus. Entrées include chile en nogada, a traditional dish from Puebla created by nuns to celebrate their victory in the infamous battle of Puebla. Meanwhile, pork stew is mixed with fruits and nuts and topped with a walnut (nogada) sauce and pomegranates. Sides are just as alluring, especially the calabacitas, a mix of squash, corn, cheese and chiles. Tacos, unique and made to order, are filled with everything from tongue and turkey to strips of roasted chiles. The lunch menu features many of the same dishes, along with Mexican tortas. The cocktail program boasts sangría and contemporary concoctions that nicely complement the food. Note that a different breakfast menu is served on weekends.