Talk about a complete metamorphosis of Tucson’s downtown. Driving around down there the other day I couldn’t believe how many buildings have gone up and how few empty storefronts there are. It almost looks like, shudder, a real city down there.
We all have our own opinions about these things, but one thing is for sure: The progress appears to know no limit. I’ve been writing about food for the Tucson Weekly for close to four years now and it seems like every other week there’s some new bar or restaurant making a go if it downtown.
The newest tidbit I’ve picked up is what looks like the preliminary work for a new restaurant in spaces at 312 and 300 E. Congress Street, where those science exhibits have been for the past year or more. A liquor license has been applied for under the name Proper, and it’s a Series 12 license, which is for restaurants.
We’ll let you know more when we know more.
This article appears in Sep 20-26, 2012.
That’s exciting. A new streetcar and new businesses in Downtown! Can’t wait to check them out.
The development in the central downtown area of Tucson that is currently occurring will, in my opinion, accelerate even more after the streetcar is in service.
It’s nice to see the derelict appearances of Tucson downtown’s businesses starting to show a real revival. Fortunately, many of the older buildings, with some restoration have a character that simply isn’t found in new building construction (e.g. the new Hub Restaurant, etc.).
Proper, Diablo Burger, and Oak Bar all by the owners of Diablo up in Flagstaff have applied for liquor licences or transfers. Diablo is fancy burgers (think a beet-topped burger). I think it is a good sign that entrepreneurs from Flag are coming here to open second locations.
I wish they would bring more restaurants…not fast food, to the on growing Sahuarita area 🙂 It’s great that downtown Tucson is growing. I used to work at the old Penny’s store, there in the late 60’s, I really liked the hustle and bustle downtown feel, glad it is all coming back. The streetcar is a plus and hopefully it’s area will grow in the future.
Actually, Proper is a new restaurant from the owners of Brix Restaurant & Wine Bar and Criollo in Flagstaff. We will be opening Proper, and Diablo Burger will also be opening up their new location next to us! Going to be good!