Tucson City of Gastronomy Certifications
TCoG Certified Businesses are uniquely local, responsible, and delicious!
Tucson City of Gastronomy (TCoG) is accepting NEW applications for TCoG Certification of locally owned restaurants, artisans, caterers, and local foods retailers in Tucson and Southern Arizona that are setting positive examples for the local culinary economy and food system. Previous certifications for 2021 are extended through 2022 (no need to re-apply until 2023 cycle). New certifications will be for two years (2022-2023).
PROGRAM GOALS
Moving the local culinary sector and food system in positive directions by:
Increasing sales for locally owned food businesses
Recognizing exemplary food businesses
Strengthening the local food value chain
Supporting our creative food cultures
Guiding locals and visitors to locally owned food businesses setting positive examples and working with heritage ingredients and regional flavors.
CATEGORIES
Restaurants -- All cuisines, all types of food service
Caterers (NEW) -- On-premise and off-premise food service for events
Artisans -- Food or beverage producers using local or heritage ingredients and craft methods
Retailers (NEW) -- Direct to consumers bricks-and-mortar businesses, online stores, and CSAs selling local ingredients and food products
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Locally Owned and Independent
Scratch Recipes
Consumer Facing
Certificate Displayed
Participation in Annual Event
BENEFITS
Association with the internationally visible TCoG brand
Increased visibility to visitors and locals--positively impacting sales--via promotion by TCoG, Visit Tucson, and Pima County Heritage and Visitors Center
Being showcased in a national marketing campaign and international annual event starting in 2022
Recognition of your business for uniquely local food and leadership in responsible business practices
Growth in customers seeking to patronize responsible, locally owned businesses
Increased media coverage of your business
Increased ability to attract and retain skilled employees
Opportunities to participate in international exchanges and special events
MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES
Display the “Tucson City of Gastronomy Certified” logo on your business door, website, social media, and marketing materials.
Promote your business as a TCoG Certified business in your digital, print, and event marketing.
Special promotions by TCoG, Visit Tucson, and Pima County to residents and visitors.
INTERESTED IN APPLYING?
Applications due April 8, 2022
Questions: Contact Jonathan Mabry at jmabry@cityofgastronomy.org
Apply now by clicking a button below in your category