38 College Towns with Food Scenes So Good, You'll Want To Extend Your Stay

21. Tucson, Arizona — Where Mexican Cuisine Takes Center Stage

Tucson is one of the best places in the U.S. to experience authentic Mexican cuisine, and the food scene here is as hot as the desert sun. The city is even designated as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, thanks to its unique blend of indigenous and Mexican flavors. El Charro Café is said to be the birthplace of the chimichanga, and their mesquite-grilled carne seca is unforgettable. For a true local favorite, Tumerico, a vegetarian Mexican café, is known for its incredibly flavorful jackfruit carnitas. And if you want late-night Sonoran hot dogs, head to a local street vendor for one of the most legendary bites in the Southwest.