Seeing Tucson the Rachael Ray Way

I spent last weekend in Tucson, Arizona, visiting family who understand that I am a huge Rachael Ray fan. So, they were willing to indulge my dream of visiting at least one of the places listed in Rachael Ray's $40 a Day and featured on the show of the same name. We had some free time for breakfast, so I decided on the Cup Cafe, located in the historic Hotel Congress.

Let me begin by saying what a cute restaurant it is, but in a hip and funky way. We walked in through the Hotel Congress lobby and spotted the little red neon Cup Cafe sign in one corner. The walls are decorated with fun and stylish art, but do not look busy. Quick and friendly service was provided, with constant coffee refills (and the coffee was good, too). The menu is full of fun names for the dishes, such as the Deposition, Eggs and Gunpowder, Mole in the Hole, and Fruitopia. I went for the Eggs and Gunpowder: "A bowl filled with our roasted red potatoes, topped with two eggs, & crowned with turkey chorizo and jack cheese." Wowzers was it ever good, and only cost $6.95. I would definitely go back, mostly because there are so many things on the menu I would like to try.

Here is a little description of the Cup Cafe from their website so you can plan your trip there:

The Cup cafe was created in 1990 and has earned a reputation for delicious and creative fare.

Garnering numerous "Best of Tucson" awards the Cup, as the Arizona Daily Star says, ".... explores the food of India, Thailand, Mexico, Japan down-home America and the length and breadth of the Mediterranean... it is not only lively and a lot of fun, but alive with a lot of flavor."

The Cup also proudly features baker Bill Roberts, and his award-winning homemade desserts.

The Cup is open until 10 p.m. on weekdays, 11 p.m. on weekends and opens at 7 a.m. every day for the most popular breakfast in town.

Reservations can be made at 520.798.1618.