El Charro Café Downtown

Established in 1922 by our beloved Tia Monica Flin, El Charro Café of Tucson, Arizona is The Nations Oldest Mexican Restaurant in continuous operation by the same family. Our Tia Monica, a true entrepreneur and burgeoning chef, came to Tucson via France in the 1800s when her father Jules, a famous stone-mason, was commissioned to build the citys pristine St. Augustine Cathedral. Jules, whose signature work can be seen throughout Tucsons Historic District, also built the families residence in 1896. This same building is now home to the Original Downtown El Charro Café location on Court Avenue. Beginning in 1922 and spanning three generations, the story of El Charro is a story of Tucson. By Cheyenne Reed If youre hungry for an experience thats not only rich in flavor, but also in historical heritage… 8 Under-the-Radar Food Destinations in the Southwest U.S. The Sonoran Desert is one of only a handful of places in the world where Carne Seca is made. The sun-dried shredded beef is dependent on the unique climate for proper preparation. Try it at the oldest family-owned Mexican restaurant in the U.S., El Charro Café. The original El Charro, founded in 1922, is the oldest Mexican restaurant in Tucson; the original owner, Monica Flin, is said to have invented the chimichanga. The restaurant also claims the impressive title of oldest Mexican food restaurant in the country continually operated by the same family. That heritage remains strong today with a commitment to fresh, authentic Sonoran cuisine and Tucson-style Mexican food.