"My vision is global – to serve excellent cuisine with world-class standard hospitality. We’re training our chefs to be the best culinary professionals anywhere in the world."
Master Chef Bill Sy
Culinary Arts Academic Director
The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Tucson
Ai Bistro is a unique student-run restaurant inspired by culinary cuisines in America and around the world. A part of the school’s culinary program, Ai Bistro is a fusion of cuisine preparation and education in a real-world setting. Before students can graduate, they are required to apply their skills in all the facets of running a restaurant during their final academic quarter at The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Tucson.
The affordable three-course menu changes weekly and highlights the cuisines and disciplines taught at The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Tucson. Ai Bistro guests will experience quality service and flavorful entrées created by our students.
“They will receive a gracious welcome and a feeling that their business is appreciated,” said Chef Baskerville. “We want them to feel like they’re a part of the educational process, while enjoying good food prepared with quality ingredients.”
Ai Bistro accommodates 36 guests in a quaint, casual atmosphere within The Art Institute of Tucson campus on the northwest corner of Grant and Rosemont. The restaurant features comfy seating, natural light and a large viewing window into the fully-equipped, professional exhibition kitchens where guests can see culinary students at work. Reservations are required due to a limited number of seatings each day.
Master Chef Bill Sy heads the school’s Culinary Arts program, and the bistro is under the direction of two professional chef instructors. Chef Odell Baskerville, former executive chef of the Arizona Inn oversees the Back-of-house operations including menu selection and preparation. Chef Jenny MacArthur manages the dining room and oversees Front-of-house service.
Ai Bistro is open for lunch Tuesday through Thursday during the academic quarter. Please call 520-318-2726 or email aitucsonbistro@aii.edu for reservations and the most current information regarding hours of operation and menu selections.
Ai Bistro Reservations and Information: 520-318-2726 or aitucsonbistro@aii.edu.
Ai Bistro is located inside the Art Institute of Tucson at 5099 East Grant Road, 520-318-2700.To learn more about The International Culinary Schools at The Art Institutes, visit www.artinstitutes.edu/pr.aspx?ID=cjp002 or www.exploreculinary.com.
Download a sample menu.