Tucson Gastro Park: A Culinary Journey
Tucson's food scene serves as a vibrant bridge between the past, present, and future, inviting both Tucsonans and visitors to experience its rich tapestry of flavors and traditions. As North America’s first UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Tucson is not only a culinary destination but also a living testament to the role of food in social justice, sustainability, and economic empowerment. In this spirit, we are thrilled to introduce the Tucson Gastronomy Park, a new culinary and community hub set to open in spring 2026.
A Historic Foundation
Tucson joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) in 2015, marking a significant milestone in its culinary journey. This designation celebrates Tucson's food heritage through world-class culinary offerings and innovative initiatives. The Tucson Gastronomy Collective is a direct response to this recognition, created to enhance local food culture and foster community engagement.
Rio Nuevo’s preservation of seven historic bungalows along Broadway's Sunshine Mile paved the way for this innovative project. These bungalows, rescued from demolition during the Broadway widening construction, will be transformed into a lively space for culinary exploration.
Culinary Offerings
The Tucson Gastro Park will house diverse food and beverage experiences, showcasing the city’s rich culinary landscape to celebrate what makes us a UNESCO City of Gastronomy
The Tucson Gastronomy Collective will also feature outdoor spaces that encourage community interaction. A podcast and media center will host live music, while a spoken word series, “Food Stories,” will invite Tucsonans to share their personal narratives about food and family. This initiative aims to preserve oral history and deepen connections within the community. Additionally, we are working with Mission Gardens to create largely edible landscaping, enhancing the project’s focus on regional foods and sustainability.
A Vision for the Future
Peter Anadranistakis is honored to lead the Tucson Gastronomy Collective, a space that embodies the essence of why we are a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. This project aims to not only serve the Tucson community but also to elevate the region within the global culinary landscape. By celebrating Tucson's rich culinary heritage and fostering innovation, we hope to create an experience that resonates with all who visit.
As we prepare for our first activation in spring 2026, we invite you to follow us on this culinary adventure. The Tucson Gastronomy Collective will be a gateway to downtown, bridging the city’s vibrant past with its exciting future. We look forward to welcoming you to a space where food, community, and culture intertwine, creating unforgettable experiences for all.
Peter Anadranistakis
peter@circlestonecapital.com
480-490-7590