Barrio Bread — Restaurant in Tucson

Barrio Bread is a James Beard winner; best baker in the U. S. All of the bakery's products are sold in a small shop near the intersection of Broadway & Country Club. There's no inside seating, just a counter a few feet inside the front door. The door opens at 9 am Tuesday through Saturday and closes at 1 pm or when the bread sells out. Go early for the best choice; the line gets long by 8:45.

There are more than a baker's dozen types to pick from plus pizza and bread mixes for home baking, all made from locally grown heirloom grains. My favorite is the pan rustico that reminds me of my favorite CA sourdough bread. It is one of the daily breads available but there are special breads baked each day.

If it's a hot day, grab one of the big umbrellas near the front door and a glass of ice water before getting in line. If it's a cold winter day bring a coat/sweater if you are early because the low sun angle and large tree across the street block the warming sun from reaching the sidewalk where...

I am always a bit reluctant to write reviews about Tucson's gems and best finds if only because it means I may have to stand in line longer to enjoy the products.

That said no one should miss Barrio Bread. I have been enjoying Don's glorious bread since he opened the store. There is not one of his many styles of bread that is not magnificent. This is due not only to Don's skill as a baker but also that he uses grains he grows in Arizona. How more local can you get?

I recommend you not only buy bread but get a bag of flour, or grain if you have a grinder, and try your own hand making bread. They will give you free starter if you ask. There is also great how to video on his website on pizza dough, which allows you to make incredible pizza at home.

If you can't get to the store before they sell out, check out the other locations or if you live in midtown you can now get this fantastic...

OK, this some of THE BEST breads around from a world-renowned baker!!! The bozos that left low stars are most ridiculous and some not even related to the product, but to other issues such as design, hours, etc., but IF they read, they would know that the hours are only until 1 and/or until sold out, which happens frequently, which is why it is suggested to order online for either a Wednesday or Friday pick-up. Yes, there's not much parking available and yes the line can be long, but it is well worth it for some of the best breads available for which we drive over 2 hours for; our favorites are the Pan au Levain and the Apricot/Cranberry. People need to be more reasonable and understanding when leaving any review(s); you wait in line for a movie, you wait in line at grocery for checkout, give me a break and be a little more kinder and gentler in these...