New: Bistro 44
In the former home of Trattoria Giuseppe now resides Bistro 44, owned by Rick and Sara Siegler, who are new to the restaurant business. The concept: an American cuisine and grill, featuring dry-aged steaks cut to order, pastas, salads and appetizers. Take advantage of happy hour daily from 3 to 7 p.m., with $3 off appetizers and $1 off all drinks on the patio and in the bar at 6761 E. Tanque Verde Road; 298-2233.
New: Luxor Café
Aladdin closed last fall, but in its place resides the Luxor Café. Aside from the restaurant, the newly renovated space includes a hookah lounge, which is open until 4 a.m. on weekends. Traditional Middle Eastern fare is served for lunch and dinner, along with appetizers and wraps until 1 a.m., at 3699 N. Campbell Ave.; 325-3771.
Hookah Up
Not to be confused with a hooker, a hookah, according to about.com, is a large water pipe that utilizes water and indirect heat for people to smoke flavored tobacco. Hookah is a social activity that is gaining popularity all over the world. Typical hookah sessions last about 45 minutes and can be smoked by one person or shared by many.
Prime Pubs Coming
Prime Pubs of America Inc., a division of the Toronto, Canada-based $400 million multi-concept operator Prime Restaurants, signed a multi-unit development deal with Mike Dizinno of Tucson. Dizinno, a seasoned entrepreneur and former United Parcel Service executive, bought the rights to develop the entire state. The first pub is scheduled to open in Tucson at the end of 2007.
