Tucson is full of flavor, culture, and community—and nowhere is that more evident than in its food scene. For those of us on a budget (students, parents, and nine-to-fivers alike), finding a delicious lunch that doesn’t empty your wallet is a local art form. Whether you're grabbing a bite between classes at the University of Arizona or taking a midday break with coworkers, affordable lunch options are essential.

This guide highlights some of the top lunch spots where you can eat well and spend less. And topping that list, once again, is Tucson's longtime local favorite: Mandarin Grill.

Mandarin Grill – Best Lunch Specials in Tucson

Mandarin Grill’s lunch specials in Tucson are practically a rite of passage for students and locals alike. Tucked conveniently at 505 E Grant Rd, just minutes from campus, it’s the kind of place where groups of students, professors, and even full families come in for lunch.

What keeps people coming back? Value. The lunch special includes your choice of entrée (Sweet & Sour Chicken, Kung Pao, Vegetable Lo Mein, and more), a side (egg roll or crab puff), rice, and a drink. Portions are generous, flavors are bold, and the price is hard to beat.

If you're searching online for lunch specials Tucson or Chinese lunch specials near me, Mandarin Grill consistently ranks among the top results—and for good reason. The food is fast, flavorful, and satisfying. The restaurant also accommodates dietary needs with vegetarian options, mild spice levels for kids, and a relaxed, family-friendly dining area.

Why It’s Student-Approved

One former U of A student recently told us: “When I was broke and had 20 minutes between classes, I knew I could count on Mandarin Grill. It was affordable, filling, and just felt like home.”

Whether you’re studying on a tight budget or just want a fast, sit-down meal that won’t disappoint, Mandarin Grill is Tucson’s lunchtime MVP.

Bonus: You can order online via ChowNow, Grubhub, or DoorDash.

Other Affordable Lunch Gems in Tucson

Time Market

Located just west of campus, Time Market is a hybrid grocery-cafe serving artisan pizzas, fresh sandwiches, and rotating daily specials. While it's more on the trendy side, their lunch portions are hearty and often enough for two.

Boca Tacos y Tequila

If you’re craving something bold and uniquely Tucson, Boca offers flavorful tacos and rotating daily specials. Chef Maria Mazon was a Top Chef finalist, and it shows. Tacos average $3–4, making it a solid lunch option.

Sushi Garden

For those with a sushi craving, Sushi Garden’s lunch bento boxes and combo specials offer a surprisingly affordable entry into Japanese cuisine. You can often get miso soup, tempura, rolls, and salad for under $13.

Tumerico

Plant-based eaters, rejoice. Tumerico offers Latin-inspired vegan and vegetarian lunch options. With pay-what-you-can pricing on certain items and house-made salsas, it’s both nutritious and affordable.

Taqueria Pico de Gallo

One of Tucson’s best-kept secrets, this taqueria serves authentic Sonoran-style tacos and burritos. Grab three tacos and a soda for under $10 and call it a day.

What Makes a Great Lunch Spot in Tucson?

• Fast service for on-the-go lifestyles


• Affordable pricing for students, families, and professionals


• Cultural authenticity, reflecting Tucson’s rich culinary scene


• Location, especially proximity to campus and workplaces

Mandarin Grill checks all of these boxes—plus a few more.

Ordering Made Easy

For students and working professionals, convenience is everything. Mandarin Grill offers dine-in, phone-in, and online ordering with fast turnaround. Their system through ChowNow makes it easy to place your order ahead of time and grab it between meetings or classes.

Final Thoughts: The Lunch Crowd Has Spoken

Tucson may be filled with delicious options, but few strike the perfect balance of price, portion, and flavor quite like Mandarin Grill. It’s one of those rare places where you feel like you’re getting more than what you paid for—and you actually leave full.

Whether you're hunting for the best lunch specials Tucson has to offer, or just want a reliable, welcoming spot to refuel in the middle of your day, you can count on Mandarin Grill to deliver.

Visit Mandarin Grill at 505 E Grant Rd or order online today.