Unique Eggs Benedict
You'll find unique takes on eggs Benedict and other American-fusion dishes at the new Izzi's Café in Oro Valley. Owner Alex Izzard says the eggs Benedict with corned beef and polenta has gotten the most praise, but there are other versions to choose from, too. We hear the French toast stuffed with cream cheese and strawberry compote is worthy as well. The family owned café at 12985 N. Oracle Road has been busy since opening just more than two months ago, and Izzard says he's considering adding dinner hours before long. For the time being: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Saturday; and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sunday; 818-9391.
Bella D'Auria
A flashy Las Vegas feel and food straight out of Naples, Italy, is what they're working on at the under-construction Bella D'Auria at 4445 E. Broadway Blvd. A venture by the former owners of Café D'Auria, the new eatery will feature an LED-lit glass bar and a menu of upscale Italian fare when it opens later this summer. A spokesman said the restaurant is designed to handle specific dietary needs, such as those of vegans and the gluten-intolerant. Live classical music, college nights and a full menu offered late will keep the place hopping after dark, and properly made Italian espresso and ultra-affordable breakfast fare will wake it up in the morning.
Frosty Jake's Is Open
Load up the car, and head down to Frosty Jake's Frozen Custard, which has finally opened at 3102 E. Grant Road. The locally owned store taunted Tucsonans with an "opening soon" banner for months, but came out swinging last weekend with cones, shakes, floats and concretes—a mix of ultra-creamy super-custard and chunks of candy, cookies and other additives. Custard flavors include raspberry, orange, caramel, pineapple, butterscotch, strawberry, banana, coffee, peach, vanilla and chocolate.
Open: Mercado San Agustin
A taqueria, a snow-cone shop, a cake store and a bakery officially opened last weekend when the new Mercado San Agustin at 100 S. Avenida del Convento held its grand opening. Casa Marita Restaurante Argentino will not be opening there after all, but another restaurant group is taking over the space. The mercado is a great destination if you want to grab a bite and do a bit of shopping; visit www.mercadosanagustin.com for more information.
