Welcome to the FIFTH FAB edition of Tucson’s newest guide to FUN, FUSION and FIESTAS!
We have so much more food, music, dancing and party spots to share with you this week.
Let’s start with food… as in food trucks! The Tucson food scene is set to come alive with the Food Truck Food Fights, a series of culinary competitions leading up to the Snoop Dog� Arizona Bowl Tailgate. There will be live music so you can jam while you nosh.
And if you’d like to learn more about a fine dining experience, we also introduce you to the new chef in charge of the Flying V restaurant at Ventana Canyon Resort.
Our musical focus this week is kind of all over the place.. in the best way! We introduce you to one family with two very different bands… Xplosion’s sound is a mix of Tejano and country, with jazz influences, while the Jesse Colt Band is a country group. Plus, we profile Tucson native Liz Cracchiolo, a U of A grad whose vocal skills cross over multiple genres as she performs across the Old Pueblo.
On any given weekend there are music events across almost every genre. When you ask the question “Where do you want to eat?” there are even more choices. Tucson is internationally known for amazing restaurants and was the first city in America recognized by United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as a “City of Gastronomy” because the food here tells the story of a culture that dates back 4,000 years.
The truth is, Tucson is so hot it’s cool. But lots of the best stuff is underground and you need an insider to show you the way. That’s why we’re here with TUCSON WTF (WHERE’S THE FUN).
Tucson WTF asks and answers:
• Where’s the FOOD?
o What are some great places to eat and/or drink??
•Where’s the FUSION?
o Where can I go to listen to music and dance?
• Where’s the FIESTAS?
o What else is there to do? Get me to the party!
Clearly, we are working that alliteration very hard. However, Tucson WTF is your guide to the underground and to the coolest parts of Tucson.
Every issue we will have new features and events for you to see. Our website will be up and running soon along with all the needed social media channels to keep you informed on all the food, fun, fiestas and even friends Tucson has to offer. WTF!
Catch you on the FUN side!
UA Student Media
Food Truck Food Fights – Road to the Snoop Dogg’s Arizona Bowl!
The vibrant Tucson food scene is set to come alive with the Food Truck Food Fights, a thrilling series of culinary competitions leading up to the Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl Tailgate. This exciting event celebrates the talent and creativity of local food trucks, providing a unique opportunity for the community to come together and sample an incredible array of delicious dishes.
Food trucks will compete for the best dish, offering everyone a chance to indulge in gourmet tacos, artisan burgers, and more. The competition not only highlights culinary creativity but also fosters a supportive community spirit among local vendors.
Attendees can enjoy live music, food, drinks, and opportunities for local artisans to showcase their crafts. It’s a celebration of food, culture, and camaraderie, bringing together foodies, residents, and visitors alike for an unforgettable experience.
Upcoming Competitions:
All times are 6-9pm
Date
Date
Date
Date
November 8th, 2024
Harbottle Brewery Live Band
November 15th, 2024
Blackrock Brewers Live DJ
December 6th, 2024
ZNORA Live
December 13th, 2024
4th Ave Street Fair
*** Live music courtesy of Tucson Loves Music
Food Truck Food Fight
FINALS
10 am - 2 pm
Date December 28th, 2024
Snoop Dogg’s Arizona Bowl Tail Gate
Sponsorship Opportunities:
We invite local businesses to participate in this vibrant initiative by becoming sponsors. Multiple sponsorship tiers are available:
- Title Sponsor: $5,000
- Event Premium Sponsor: $2,500
- Print Sponsor: $1,000
- Trophy Sponsor: $250
- Vendor Spot: $100
For sponsorship inquiries, please contact Wesley Sorce at (520) 977-3925 or email WesleySorce@ TheTastyShow.com. Stay Tasty Tucson!
Food feature - flying v Tucson staple Flying V gets a new chef with diverse experience
Just over 11 miles from The University of Arizona, the Flying V restaurant at the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort is making new waves in Tucson’s already diverse culinary scene. Chef Christian Padilla, who has been at the helm as Chef de Cuisine for the past ten months, brings with him a wealth of experience and a passion for creativity.
Originally from Nogales, he spent years honing his culinary skills while exploring diverse cuisines. “I started cooking around the age of ten with my grandmother,” Padilla recalls. “We would dive into old cookbooks where the recipes were a bit wild.”
His early experiences ignited a passion for food, but he initially pursued a career in surgical technology. “It wasn’t until I was about 20 that I realized being a chef could be a career,” he says. From Italian restaurants to French cuisine, Padilla’s culinary experience
is diverse. But his travels, particularly a trip to Mexico City, inspired him to embrace his roots and focus on Sonoran cooking once back in Tucson. “I wanted to get back to the flavors I grew up eating,” he explains.
Chef Padilla says his experiences across different cuisines have shaped his unique culinary style. “I’ve done Italian food for nearly a decade, explored Japanese dishes, and even spent time as a French chef,” he shares. His love for visual presentation, which he describes as “hunter-gatherer plating,” emphasizes using whole ingredients to create visually striking dishes.
At Flying V, locally sourced ingredients play a pivotal role in the menu. “It’s a slower process to work with independent suppliers, but I love using local greens and mushrooms,” the chef explains. He is particularly enthusiastic about seasonal ingredients, especially squash, which he incorporates cleverly into dishes. “Right now, we launched a kabocha squash dish that I’m very proud of,” he adds.
Padilla says his ambition to place Flying V firmly on the culinary map of Tucson has been met with plenty of positive feedback. “We’re really focusing on showcasing what Sonoran cuisine
can be, and people are starting to notice,” he says. “I want to continue to push forward, improving the menu and diversifying our offerings,” he explains. His culinary philosophy—to play with food and embrace experimentation—sets an exciting tone for what’s to come. “Right now, I’m interested in exploring mole-making in depth,” he mentions enthusiastically.
With stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere, the Flying V offers a unique experience for hungry people in Tucson. “Our patio is gorgeous at night, and the ambiance is perfect for a date spot or a fun night out,” he says, adding, “We are very far from light pollution, allowing for a beautiful night sky.”
Whether you’re a student looking for a unique dining experience or a special date night, a local resident intrigued by fine dining, or a culinary enthusiast seeking fresh inspiration, Flying V offers something for everyone. Don’t miss a chance to take a journey through flavors that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Tucson, thanks to new Chef de Cuisine Christian Padilla.
The Flying V at Loews Ventana Canyon Resort is open nightly for dinner. It’s located at 7000 N Resort Drive, Tucson, AZ 85750. You can check the menu that changes seasonally online.
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Boca Tacos y Tequila
533 N 4th Ave
- Known for its inventive taco menu and extensive tequila selection, Boca is a casual and vibrant spot for taco lovers. Each taco is packed with bold flavors and served with a side of creativity.
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Where’s the Food on Fourth?
Explore the diverse flavors of Tucson's 4th Avenue with our curated list of local favorites.
The Boxyard
238 N 4th Ave
- The Boxyard offers a unique dining experience with its array of shipping container eateries featuring different cuisines. With outdoor seating and a mix of food vendors, it’s a lively spot to enjoy diverse flavors in a fun setting.
The Royal Room
450 N 6th Ave
- A sleek and stylish cocktail bar offering an intimate setting for enjoying craft cocktails and a rotating food menu. It’s an ideal place to wind down with friends after a long day or kick off your weekend.
Caruso's
434 N 4th Ave
- This family-owned restaurant has been serving authentic Italian cuisine since 1938. Known for its homemade pasta, traditional dishes, and cozy outdoor seating, Caruso’s offers a charming old-school dining experience.
Brooklyn Pizza Company
534 N 4th Ave
A favorite for pizza lovers, Brooklyn Pizza serves New York-style pizza with a variety of toppings. Their commitment to fresh ingredients and their casual, no-frills atmosphere makes it a great spot to grab a slice.
247 N 4th Ave
- A lively Irish pub known for its great selection of beers, cocktails, and pub fare. With large TV screens, a spacious outdoor patio, and frequent live music, O’Malley’s is a popular spot for sports enthusiasts and those looking for a fun night out.
Time Market
444 E University Blvd
- A trendy, market-style café and pizzeria that serves fresh, organic fare. Time Market is popular for its wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. The market also offers craft beers, wines, and artisanal products.
- A local favorite for vegetarian and vegan food, Tumerico serves up creative, Latin-inspired dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Their rotating menu keeps things exciting and full of bold flavors.
Where’s the Family Fusion?
Tucson’s vibrant music scene is supercharged by Xplosion, a band that showcases diverse sounds and traditional family values. Originally hailing from El Paso, Texas, the group relocated to Tucson three years ago after commuting for frequent performances here in the Old Pueblo. The move was a natural progression—bringing them closer to their loyal fanbase and opening the door to new opportunities in their adopted city.
At the core of Xplosion is the family that powers it. Founded by Chuy, the band includes his three sons, Jesse, Jake, and Joey. Rounding out the lineup are Jaquin “Wok” on lead guitar, and “Ray-Ray” plus Chris on trumpets and gritos.
This family dynamic shapes everything about the band, from the explosive energy of their performances to the way they navigate creative differences.
As Chuy says, “We focus on what the crowd wants, keeping the audience front and center of every performance, no matter the setlist we might choose for ourselves.”
This crowd-first mentality makes Xplosion stand out in Tucson’s crowded music scene. More than just a band playing a setlist, Xplosion brings a genuine experience. Whether it’s stepping off the stage to mingle with the audience or adjusting their song choices based on the energy in the room, the band feeds off the crowd and makes every performance feel like a party.
But life off-stage isn’t just about the music. Xplosion’s members juggle a wide range of day jobs along with their passion for performing. Chuy, the band’s driving force, has been in the insurance business for over 20 years and toured nationally with a popular Tejano band prior to turning his attention to starting his family.
Jesse, Chuy’s eldest, runs a car detailing business, Jake is in the insurance business, and Joey, the youngest, is navigating his way through college. Wok works in IT, Ray splits his time as a Pima County plumber and softball umpire, and Chris wears a variety of hats.
Last but certainly not least, Chuy’s wife, Erica, has been the “Momager” since Xplosion began in 2015. She has a strong influence on the band’s appearance and pushes each of member to focus on their performance. Erica also manages all communications for bookings and contracts. If that’s not enough, she monitors and adjusts the audio mix at every gig!
Despite these demanding lives, when it’s showtime, all the stresses fade away, leaving only the joy of performing. As Jesse reflects, “Once we’re on stage, everything else just disappears.”
Xplosion's performances aren't just concerts. They are communal events where the audience becomes part of the show and a member of the family!
Xplosion’s sound is a mix of Tejano and country, with jazz influences, combining a musical fusion that reflects their backgrounds and tastes. Their spontaneous, high-energy performances have earned them a dedicated following, whether covering today’s hits or putting their unique spin on classic tunes.
In addition to Xplosion, they have a country-themed group, The Jesse Colt Band. This lineup features Jesse on lead vocals, accordion, acoustic guitar, and sax; Chuy on bass; Jake on drums; Wok on guitar; and Joey on keyboards.
The Jesse Colt Band recently released their single, Love Dance, which is already making waves on the national music scene. This catchy tune combines heartfelt lyrics with a lively melody and tasteful harmonies, making it a favorite among fans. The song captures the essence of their journey and the joy of coming together to create music as a family. It’s a testament to their ability to connect with listeners through relatable themes and melodies.
Looking ahead, the band is gearing up to release a full-length album in 2025. With each track, they aim to create an authentic
One Family – Two Bands
sound that resonates with their audience, inviting them into their world of family, fun, and heartfelt stories.
Experience the Jesse Colt Band EVERY
Thursday night at Little Mexico Steakhouse on Valencia Road for Thirsty Thursdays Country Night!
Ray and Chris join Jesse and crew as Xplosion at Whiskey Roads on November 1st for a Día de los Muertos celebration. With their genuine interactions and solid musical chemistry, both bands create an intimate atmosphere that resonates deeply with their audience.
Xplosion will also appear on Friday night November 8th at Little Mexico, then take the stage at American Eat Company on November 15th.
Expect engaging sets filled with infectious energy along with a few audience surprises! Every performance is an eclectic experience that show-cases their tight-knit family bond and love for the musical experiences they create.
Whether drawn
to the lively Tejano-style brass of Xplosion or the heartfelt country classics of the Jesse Colt Band, one thing is clear: the audience is in for a memorable show. Music isn’t just a side gig for these guys—it’s their release, their joy, and their way of connecting with each other and the community.
As they continue to carve out their place in Tucson’s music scene, both bands remain committed to creating fresh, fun, and unforgettable shows that keep fans coming back for more.
Stay tuned for future performances via their social media.
Music with a Mission
2nd Annual
Hearts & Guitars Benefit
Friday, Nov 1st - 7:00pm
Hotel Congress – Plaza Stage
Proceeds benefit the Giovanni Terranella Heart Transplant Research Fund through Phoenix Children’s Hospital
by Valley Fever, Pineross & Rolling Dusk Find
2024 Concert
Sunday, Nov 10th
12:30-5:30pm James D Kriegh Park Oro Valley
Live Music Featuring The Lexington Lab Band and Tucson’s own Mark Miller Band!
MUSICIAN SPOTLIGHT - LIZ CRACCHIOLO
A STAR IS BORN!
Liz is a proud University of Arizona Wildcat alum (in a family full of them!) and she started college planning on a business degree, but her musical theatre ambitions kept singing in her ear. Through a fateful series of events, she found herself in a freshman musical theatre class designed for majors –– even though she hadn’t auditioned into the program. Intrigued by her story, the professor gave Liz 24 hours to pull together a song and earn her spot. In a break from tradition, she chose a song written for a male character (a taboo at the time, but a highlight of things to come), impressed her professor, and took her rightful place in the program. She eventually earned her BFA in Musical Theatre from the U of A.
Never one to take a conventional path, Liz now frames her career as singer/actor/blogger/coach, and she has always relished a good challenge. She points to her acclaimed 2021 portrayal of Diana Goodman in Next to Normal as the high point to date of her musical theatre career and how it exemplifies her ability to meet any obstacle head on. The show solidified her bond with her vocal coach, Broadway star Ellyn Marsh. It challenged her vocally, technically, physically, and mentally. It engrained in her a sense of responsibility to be true to the subject matter and to deliver an honest performance. It bonded her to her fellow actors in a way that no other show had done. And it terrified her.
She’s clearly not that scared anymore because
MEET TUCSON PERFORMING ARTIST LIZ CRACCHIOLO
"If I'm not doing something that terrifies me, it's not worth it."
Whether it’s headlining her first solo cabaret in New York City, crushing every conceivable fitness goal, baking a perfect batch of cranberry-white chocolate biscotti, or being the foremost authority of true crime podcasts, Liz Cracchiolo lives and breathes this mantra.
this firecracker has burst into the Tucson musical scene with a vengeance. Musical Theatre roles include Madame Thenardier in Les Miserables, Ulla in The Producers, Donna in Mamma Mia!, and Yitzhak in Hedwig and the Angry Inch, for which she won a Best Supporting Actor in a Musical award.
“Musical Theatre is my first love, but through collaborating on concerts and cabarets, I have really learned that my passion lies in just being ME on stage. Being vulnerable and sharing my love for music is so powerful and I hope inspires others to do the same.”
She has headlined a number of full-scale concert productions, including Classics Rock and Broadway, Baby! in collaboration with Tucson legend Khris Dodge. She also co-produced Fever: The Peggy Lee Songbook and The Most Wonderful Time of the Year with Tucson Jazz staple Pete Swan. She has created several cabaret shows since 2005, including two she premiered in New York City in 2022 and 2023.
“Collaborating with artists I admire has taught me that surrounding yourself with others that make you rise to the occasion is at the heart of how you grow as an artist.”
In her self-developed production titled “I Do Men,” Liz reimagined songs traditionally associated with the male voice or made famous by male singers, while reliving her journey through life as a woman. From Elton John and Billy Joel to Meatloaf, Liz gives the guys a run
for their money. She will be touring “I Do Men” starting in 2025.
Don’t miss your chance to hear this performer’s unique take on classical jazz, pop and theater tunes as well as a few modern hits. She’ll be performing live jazz on November 7th at Juniper. The full-service bar and lounge specializes in gin-based cocktails. It’s downtown at 222 E Congress Street.
And on Thursday, December 19th Liz with swing into the holidays with the Cool Yule Trio at The Hotel Congress’ Century Room. The trio includes Cynthia Hilts, Scott Black, and Pete Swan. The Century Room features a beautiful and acoustically engineered stage, delicious food, and a robust craft cocktail program. This super vibin’ room is run by a legendary performer in his own right, Arthur Vint who recently returned to Tucson from NYC, and has hosted Liz for several years. Don’t miss her holiday set there, and her premiere of “I’m in the Mood For Love, a Tribute to Julie London”, in February 2025.
You can keep up to date with Liz here: lizcracchiolo.com
Upcoming EVENTS
November
1st FRI
Night of the Living Shred
191 E Toole Ave
7pm - $15 - Heavy Metal
Frightfully Fun Friday with The AmoSphere!
The Hut
305 N 4th Ave
6pm - Free –Rock/Funk/Blues
Gregg Turner - Cat Mountain - Gem Show
Wooden Tooth Records
108 E Congress St
7pm - $12 cover - Rock/Alternative
Legion of Mario
The Hut
305 N 4th Ave
4pm - Grateful Dead Tribute
november 2 nd SAT
Anthony Fung Trio
Hotel Congress - Century Room
311 E Congress St
7pm - $20 - Jazz
Alligators in the SewerThe Distortionists
220 E Broadway Blvd
Brick Box Brewery
8pm - Hard Rock
Halloween with AB Sanchez
6622 E Tanque Verde Rd
The Maverick - King of Clubs
8pm - Country
Mad Caddies - Authority Zero - Mercy Music
The Rock
136 N Park Ave
7pm - $27 - Reggae/Rock
Dia De Los Muertos - Latin Night with Xplosion
Whiskey Roads
2290 W Ina Rd
8pm - Latin/Tejano/Country
Funky Bonz Halloween
Rachel & Marian - Aztral Folk - Ruta Verbena
The Lost Barrio Gallery
208 S Park Ave
6pm - $15 coverLatin/Tejano/Alternative
Schubert’s Cello Quintet
Tucson Symphony Center 2175 N 6th Ave
7pm - Tix $25 - Classical
Stephen E Lee and Aurelia
Bawker Bawker Cider House
400 N 4th Ave
6pm - Originals - Folk/Rock Duo
Upcoming EVENTS
November
November 8th FRI
Salsa Sundays with Zona Libre
278 E Congress St
Playground Bar
5pm - $7 cover - Latin
Heather 'Lil Mama' Hardy Band
5954 E Speedway Blvd
Chicago Bar
6pm - $7 cover - Blues/Rock
Oracle Jayne's Station and
november 9th SAT
november 15th fri
Desert Music Project
267 S Stone Ave The Sound Post - Tucson
Center
4pm - Instrumental
80s Big Hair Ladies Night with Hair Razer
4915 E Speedway Blvd House of Bards
191 E Toole Ave
Toole 8pm - $25 - Blues/Rock Latin Night
7pm - $10 cover - Ladies 1/2 off cover/drinks Neon Prophet 5954 E Speedway Blvd
Bar
9pm - $7 cover - Reggae
Igor and Red Elvises
311 E Congress St Hotel Congress - Club
7pm - $15 - Alternative/Rock
november 22 ND fri
Willi Carlisle 311 E Congress St Hotel Congress - Club
7pm - $20 - Country
november 29th fri
Lizzie - EP Release Show
311 E Congress St Hotel Congress - Club
6pm - $15 - Folk/Rock
Iris Cafe and Lounge
with Zona Libre
Arizona early voting starts Wed, Oct 9. Election Day is Tues, Nov 5, 2024. There will be record high voter turnout this year.
