There are lots of award-winning restaurants in Arizona, but few have received the most prestigious culinary honor of all: the James Beard Award. El Güero Canelo Restaurant in Tucson is one of them, and it's their signature Sonoran dog that won the critics over.
Coming from humble beginnings as a Sonoran hot dog stand, El Güero Canelo has been a Tucson institution since 1993.
Today, owner Daniel Contreras operates three restaurants, a meat market in Tucson, and a bakery and tortilla factory in Magdalena, Sonora.
Upon your arrival at the unassuming, counter-serve joint, you'll immediately notice the sign advertising "the Most Famous Sonoran Hotdogs."
The restaurant won a James Beard Award - the highest culinary accolade possible - for the dish in 2018. Let the anticipation build as you stand in line and wait to try one for yourself - you won't be disappointed.
Sonoran dogs typically feature a bacon-wrapped frank, beans, grilled & fresh onion, tomato, mayo, mustard, and jalapeño sauce.
Paying homage to tradition, the ones at El Güero Canelo come piled high with all of these toppings and are served with fresh vegetables and salsa for dipping.
Make it a full meal by adding chips and guacamole and a drink - all for under $15.
On Wednesdays, you can get two Sonoran dogs and your choice of beverage for just $9.99! That's an incredible deal for such an esteemed restaurant.
El Güero Canelo is also known for its tacos - specifically the carne asada.
Other menu items include tortas, burros, quesadillas, and several other Mexican staples. You really can't go wrong!
Address: 5802 E 22nd St, Tucson, AZ 85711.
Hours are 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. on Tuesday-Thursday, 10 a.m. until 11 p.m. on Friday-Saturday, and 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. on Sunday.
Visit the restaurant's website or Facebook page for more information.
Have you ever tried a Sonoran dog from El Güero Canelo Restaurant? If so, we'd love to hear what you thought of it. Tell us in the comments! Don't forget to check out our previous article for more mouthwatering Sonoran dogs to try in Arizona!
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