North Tucson's Tohono Chul Park provides one of the most stunning desert botanical spectacles in all of the Southwest and, within the park, this quaint tearoom offers a memorable dining-in-the-desert experience. Set amidst the lushness of centuries-old cactus and succulents, the brick building houses a slightly feminine looking (it is a tea room, after all) but not frou-frou cafe. You can also dine out in the splendid natural surroundings on a courtyard patio. The menu can't begin to compete with the setting, but it includes a good selection of breakfast items, quiches, salads, soups, sandwiches and a few hot entree specials. Desserts and afternoon tea are also a relaxing respite from your stroll through the park. Items are priced from $5-10. A word of caution: there's almost always a fairly long wait for a table; advance reservations can be made for groups of six or more.
• Hours: 8a-5p M-Su