El Mercado Shops & Restaurants, Tucson

This unique mercado, or market, is one of the east side's main shopping venues. A Mexican restaurant with a large patio serves to underline the distinctly South-of-the-Border appeal of the place, adding a certain charm that is lacking in most of the big malls. The stores are all one-of-a-kind, offering mostly gift and souvenir items such as jewelry, fashion, flowers and stationery. All businesses accept major credit cards; hours may vary by merchant.