photo: David Olsen
Among Tucson's many creatively-monikered neighborhoods, perhaps none is so intriguingly titled as midtown's Poets' Square. Streets here bear the names of lauded American scribes Whitman, Holmes and Poe. Residents enjoy an enviable win-win scenario: access to countless amenities adjacent to their peaceful remove from downtown's hubbub, yet with Fourth Avenue's wild watering holes and the University of Arizona's libraries and museums only a short drive away.
Poets' Square lies between 5th Street and Broadway Boulevard and is bordered by Swan and Columbus to the east and west. The infamous Polynesian-themed Kon Tiki Restaurant & Lounge is but one of the many fine establishments found therein. Firmly planted at 4625 E. Broadway Blvd. since 1963, Kon Tiki's signature beverage The Scorpion is powerful enough to warrant a two-drink limit. Many locals consider a visit a mandatory element of any weekend on the town. See an elaborate menu of concoctions at KonTikiTucson.com or call 323-7193 for hours.
In an inspiring display of Tucsonans' feisty entrepreneurial spirit, independently owned and operated businesses abound in the Poets' Square area. Comics and games shop Heroes & Villains, 4533 E. Broadway Blvd., carries the latest printed exploits of Marvel characters from Alpha Flight to the X-Men. 'Nuff said! The Hungry Fox Restaurant & Country Store at 4637 E. Broadway Blvd. welcomes empty stomachs with open arms. The new banquet room can hold 80-100 people for any special event; call 326-2835 to make a reservation. Specialists Dr. Wayne and Dr. Heaton treat all patients at Tucson Chiropractic Center, 570 N. Columbus Blvd., with compassion and respect. Their holistic perspective associates spinal health with overall wellness.
Legendary chicken and fish eatery Lucky Wishbone's #2 location, with its new building and plentiful supply of Lucky Burgers, lies within striking distance of Poets' Square at 4701 E. Broadway Blvd. Hachenberg & Sons Piano Co., 4333 E. Broadway Blvd., has tuned, serviced, repaired and rented Steinways for generations. And whether for a wedding, quinceañera, office party or other occasion, Nadine's Bakery at 4553 E. Broadway Blvd. makes the best fully kosher cakes for miles around.
Post-war boom era 1940s and 50s bungalow and ranch-style houses in Poets' Square are occupied by families and individuals from all walks of life. Age, race and class matter less than community pride and neighborly relations. In their diversity, many here have found unity.
