Tucson Oddity: With no slope nearby, it's still called Hilltop

A lonely utility pole stands on the flat curb, with a wire stretching to the shop at 1843 W. Ajo Way. Attached to the pole is a pay phone casing that no longer has a phone inside. On a recent Thursday, an empty bottle of Kahlua Chocolate Latte rested inside.

The store's best advertising may be a saguaro that stands near the pole, its two arms extended toward the market, as if to beckon drivers.

Owner Steve Vo said he doesn't know how the store got its name and chose not to comment for the story or allow a photographer inside his store, although he did verify store hours were 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

A 2000 column by the Star's Bonnie Henry identified Hilltop Market as a teen makeout spot in the 1950s. But that's definitely no longer the case. These days, Hilltop is all business, with customers scooting in and out of the store or pausing at the drive-thru window. Service at Hilltop is remarkably quick, with most visits lasting no more than a minute.

When we stopped by, the store's customers were as tight-lipped as Vo. About a dozen customers agreed the store's name didn't seem to fit the store, but none would share their names for publication.

Steven Brooks, 18, was the only one who agreed to talk about the store. He reasoned that the name is merited for the way the driveway is slightly elevated from street level.

While too young to buy Hilltop's products, Brooks said he likes the store.

"I've been in it. It's kind of nice, Brooks said. "The owners are pretty cool."

Got an oddity?

Is there something you've noticed while driving through Tucson that has piqued your curiosity? Or is there some piece of Old Pueblo history you've wondered about? Drop us a line, and we'll look into it.

Contact the Star newsroom at oddity@azstarnet.com or 807-7776.

Contact reporter Phil Villarreal at 573-4130 or pvillarreal@azstarnet.com