About
When you need a hearty and healthy breakfast before sightseeing, head to Prep & Pastry! With two Tucson locations and one in Scottsdale, this modern American spot has redefined breakfast and brunch in Southern Arizona.
Nathan Ares, a restaurateur passionate about raising the bar on breakfast, founded the restaurant. He opened the first location in January 2014, serving beautiful, flavorful dishes in a homey atmosphere.
Ares brought in skilled chefs and bakers so every dish, from the flakiest pastry to the heartiest main, would be on point.
From the moment doors opened, the city responded. Diners lined up, drawn by high standards and fresh, high-quality ingredients. The buzz around Prep & Pastry showed just how ready Tucson was for a new take on breakfast.
With the first location a big hit, the team opened a second spot on East Grant Road in 2016. Up next was Scottsdale, adding a new location up north while continuing to call Tucson home.
Most noteworthy is that the eatery has helped Tucson earn its UNESCO City of Gastronomy title. Prep & Pastry sources local ingredients whenever possible, helping nearby farmers and suppliers thrive. You’ll taste the freshness with every bite!
While Prep & Pastry has grown quickly, it has been with purpose. They still have their eye on the end goal: breakfast should look great, taste even better, and become part of a memorable day.
Vibe
At the Tucson Central location, tall windows line the front, filling the place with sunlight, while the bold, clean signage blends into the neighborhood.
The interior is warm and inviting, with rustic touches blended into a modern, industrial layout. The dining room shows off plenty of reclaimed wood and custom details, giving the space a cozy, textured look. Lush plants and greenery bring a bit of life to each corner.
Soft, stylish lighting fills the space without overpowering it. Books line some of the shelves, and thoughtful accents add a personal, lived-in finish.
Prep & Pastry offers a range of dining spaces to fit any group or occasion. Cozy booths give just the right amount of privacy for smaller parties, while the big communal tables bring people together and spark conversation. High-tops by the bar are perfect for a quick meal, while the patio lets guests dine al fresco during Tucson’s beautiful spring and fall weather.
No matter when you dine, the atmosphere is comfortable and makes for a memorable choice on an Arizona vacation.
Prep & Pastry: Menu & Drinks
The kitchen reimagines morning favorites with quality ingredients and technique. Diners often talk about the Cast Iron Duck Confit with tender duck, braised potatoes, fresh spinach, and a tangy cherry relish. Add the over-easy eggs and creamy goat cheese mousse, and you have a savory first meal of the day.
Prep’s Breakfast Sammy is another dish that’s always getting talked about. This handheld comes loaded with house-made sausage, sharp white cheddar, and a perfectly fried egg on a fresh-baked fermented English muffin.
The Monte Cristo will appeal to diners craving something sweet. It layers ham, Swiss cheese, and pineapple-jalapeño mascarpone between brioche French toast slices. Add the house preserves, and this dish really nails that mix of savory, sweet, and just a little bit of spice.
Prep & Pastry’s drink selection goes hand in hand with everything on the menu. The House Mimosa has a big following and is more than the classic mix of sparkling wine and orange juice. The bar rotates in new mimosa flavors all the time, using fresh, seasonal juices.
Those who love coffee will notice the care that goes into every cup. Prep & Pastry works with local roasters, serving coffee that matches the quality you’d find at top cafes around town. The baristas prepare specialty lattes using house-made syrups in flavors like vanilla and lavender, giving each drink a personal touch.
Every culinary detail is thoughtfully handled at Prep & Pastry, making it a must-visit in Tucson!
Local Tips
- Join Yelp’s waitlist to minimize wait times.
- Arrive before 9:00 AM on weekends to secure a table without a significant delay.
- Order online to speed up your sightseeing schedule.
- The new lunch menu adds yet another layer to this hotspot!
