Five Romantic Restaurants in Tucson, Arizona

Tucsonans are fortunate to have a wide variety of romantic restaurants from which to choose. Anyone from the couple on a budget to the money-is-no-object pair is sure to find something appropriate for that special date. Following is a sampling of romantic restaurants throughout Tucson.

The first offering is newer on the Tucson scene. Nonetheless, The Melting Pot, located at 7401 North La Cholla Blvd., has fast become a favorite for romantic dates. A delicious four-course dinner with a fondue course prepared tableside, and entree choices such as lobster tail, filet mignon, and Portobello mushroom-stuffed ravioli. The Melting Pot also boasts an extensive wine list as well as a choice of "to die for" chocolate fondue desserts. Call 520.575.6358 for reservations.

Located in Tucson's picturesque Santa Catalina Foothills, Anthony's in the Catalinas is known for its romantic atmosphere and gourmet dishes. Treat your date to the special dinner for two, which is surprisingly affordable. This special includes appetizers, soup or salad, elegant entrees like roast duckling au poivre or medallions of beef with wild mushrooms, spectacular desserts and even a half bottle of wine. Anthony's in the Catalinas is at 6440 North Campbell Ave. Call ahead to 520.299.1771 as reservations are recommended.

If your idea of romantic includes spicy Asian-American flair, look no further than Firecracker Bistro. Fire-burning torches and palm frond fans will have your date feeling as though you have both been whisked away to an exotic location. The exhibition kitchen provides lively entertainment, if you can keep your eyes off one another. Out of the ordinary entrees include wasabi cream-stuffed chicken breasts and macadamia nut-crusted mahi mahi. Although you may feel worlds away, Firecracker is conveniently located at 2990 North Swan in Palomino Plaza. Reservations are suggested, so call 520.318.1118 to make yours now.

Also centrally located is the unpretentiously elegant McMahon's Prime Steakhouse. A complimentary valet starts your evening off on a highly romantic note. Enjoy aphrodisiacal oysters on the half shell as you await one of the restaurant's numerous famed steaks. Top the night off with a decadent brandy Alexander while you and your date feed each other spoonfuls of luscious crème brulee or sensual champagne fried strawberries. Call 520.327.7463 for reservations at McMahon's, which is located at 2959 North Swan Rd.

If your desire is to give your date an over-the-top romantic evening, then you'll want to splurge at Leows Vantana Canyon Resort's Ventana Room. This four diamond, five star restaurant offers three-, four-, and five-course gastronomic delights. Choose from entrees such as pheasant breast, Dover sole wrapped in potato ravioli, or whole roasted pigeon. Impress your date by requesting a seat at the Chef's Table, a private table in the heart of the kitchen. Don't even think about showing up without a reservation! Call 520.615.5494 to reserve your romantic night at the Ventana Room, which is at 7000 North Resort Drive.