La Chingada Cocina Mexicana: Mexican Dining in Downtown Tucson

La Chingada was a fun, relaxed dinner stop during our time in downtown Tucson. I enjoyed the fajitas and loved the churro cheesecake, although the higher price made me more critical of the portions and salsa.

We paid for our meal. This was not a hosted restaurant visit.

We had been photographing Mount Lemmon and wanted to experience a different side of Tucson, so we headed downtown. After parking in a garage, we noticed La Chingada right nearby, almost tucked into the corner beneath it. The place looked inviting and had good reviews, so we decided to try it.

What’s on the menu?

Our order included the Fajitas Plate and Chimichanga Ahogada. The fajitas were very good, but I would not call them the best I have had. I have enjoyed better fajitas at more affordable places, and the salsa here was okay rather than a standout.

The portions felt a little small to me, although the meal was still filling. At this price point, I expected something exceptional. I liked the restaurant overall, especially the atmosphere, but that distinction matters: a very good meal is not necessarily the same thing as great value.

If you want to try something different, browse La Chingada’s menu for more options.

Leave room for dessert

The churro cheesecake, with churros on top, was a highlight. I really enjoyed it, and it is the dessert I remember from the meal. Check La Chingada's current menu if you are hoping to order it, since the choices can change.

Where is La Chingada in Tucson?

La Chingada is at 110 E Pennington Street in downtown Tucson. We enjoyed it as a late-night dinner stop, and the fun, relaxed atmosphere was a big part of the experience. If you are spending an evening downtown, take a look at the menu as you make your plans.

Make time for downtown Tucson

After dinner, we walked around downtown photographing neon signs and the bars along the streets. That was part of why we had come down from the mountains: I wanted to see what downtown felt like at night, not just stop for a meal and leave.

For your own outing, the Congress Street district brings together shops, galleries, theaters and live music venues. Historic Hotel Congress is another place to check for upcoming music and events.

For local history, head to the Presidio District, where a Spanish military fort was established in 1775. The Presidio Museum is a starting point for the Turquoise Trail, a 2.5-mile walking loop connecting historic sites around downtown. Follow the turquoise line along the sidewalks, or use the route map to choose a shorter walk before dinner. These are options for building out your own visit, alongside a meal at La Chingada.

Planning a Tucson trip

If you are staying longer, there is more to Tucson than downtown. Our Saguaro National Park article and Mount Lemmon outing cover other parts of our travels in the area. Give those outings their own place in your plans, then leave an evening for downtown and a good meal.