The Cheese Crisp Was Invented Here In Arizona, And You Can Grab One From El Minuto Cafe In Tucson
By Katie Lawrence|Updated on May 16, 2024(Originally published July 25, 2022)
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
If you’ve lived in Arizona for any significant amount of time, you’re probably familiar with cheese crisps. To anyone from out of state, the idea of melting cheese on top of a tortilla and calling it an appetizer (or even a meal) is a bit strange, but we know better. Some of the best cheese crisps in Tucson can be found at Tucson’s El Minuto Cafe, a local hotspot for nearly 100 years. Their menu boasts 10 different kinds of this Arizona delicacy, ensuring nobody leaves the table hungry.
If you ask a Tucsonan where to get the best cheese crisp in town, there's a good chance El Minuto Cafe will come up in the conversation.
A local institution since 1936, this family-owned eatery nestled in a historic barrio turns out traditional, Sonoran-style cuisine that patrons can't get enough of - including some of the best cheese crisps you'll ever eat.
The atmosphere is brimming with Southwestern charm, and everyone who walks through the door gets treated like family.
The Bandera has tomatoes, onions, and green chiles, while The Minuto is loaded with house-dried Carne Seca, tomatoes, onion, green chiles, and guacamole.
During Happy Hour, which takes place from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Tuesday-Saturday, El Minuto even offers mini cheese crisps - how cute!
Luckily, the cafe has a full menu of delicious entrees, including tacos, enchiladas, burros, combination plates, and more.
Visit the El Minuto Cafe website for more information, including current hours and a full menu.
Have you ever been to El Minuto Cafe? If so, do you agree they have some of the best cheese crisps in Arizona? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! And if you need a place to stay while you’re in the area, check out these unique vacation rentals in Tucson.