Best Bar Food (Entrees) '96

Best Bar Food

Bob Dobbs'
2501 E. Sixth St.

READERS' PICK: Sure, our personal trainer has warned us to steer clear of this stuff. But who can resist such chow, especially after a pint or two? There are the generous deli sandwiches, including the best turkey pastrami in town, always fresh and filling with that zesty dill pickle spear on the side. There are the nightly specials, from barbecued chicken to spaghetti to ribs. There's the quiche of the day and the chili-cheese dog, second only to Pat's. And there's the mother of all patties, the redolent Bob Burger. To hell with the diet--and if the PT asks, could you tell him we ordered the Bob Dobbs' specialty veggie plate?

READERS' POLL RUNNER-UP: Famous Sam's, nine locations.

STAFF PICK: If you think only of pretzels and Buffalo Wings when you ponder the possibilities of bar food, you've never had the pleasure of sipping cocktails at The Third Stone, 500 N. Fourth Ave., where the food far and away exceeds your expectations. For a light appetizer, try the lightly toasted tortilla covered with goat cheese, basil, garlic and tomatoes; or satisfy a more substantial drop in blood sugar levels with one of The Third Stone's monster spiced burgers, delicate Chinese chicken salads or creamy vegetable risotto dishes. This food is as good or better than that of some of the so-called "best" restaurants in Tucson. Musical acts--mostly rock and blues--are also featured at The Third Stone; but for our money, it's the food (which accompanies a great selection of on-tap brews) that keeps us coming back every night around Happy Hour. So kiss those nasty pickled eggs goodbye once and for all--The Third Stone has elevated bar food to an unprecedented level.

1998 Winner: Famous Sam's
1997 Winner: Bob Dobbs'