Susan H.
Yelp
One day, during our recent visit to AZ, our son-in-law asked if we had ever been to Rustler's Rooste. Not only had we never been there but we never even heard of it. He then told us how he ate there as a kid and wanted to go back. So...we told him to go and make a reservation, which he did.
Rustler's Rooste was established in 1971. It got its name because it sits atop a butte in the foothills of South Mountain. That butte, in the past, was a hideout for cattle rustlers. It is in a nice spot that overlooks Phoenix.
Upon arrival, we drove up a narrow road that brought us right to the restaurant. Son-in-law told us that during the weekend it's so busy that people sometimes have to park in a lot at the bottom of the hill.
Once we entered, we had to go up, then down a series of wooden ramps. One of the ramps had a slide next to it for those who wanted to use it to get to the next level. While adults can use it, it's very popular with little kids.
We were seated at a large booth that easily held the 6 of us. Since we were near the door to the outside seating area, I was able to go out there and get a couple of photos. It was one of those times I wished I had a better camera because my photos really don't do the view any justice.
Our waiter was friendly and efficient. We all started with soft drinks except the grandson who always just drinks water when going out to eat. The root beer comes to you in a bottle and it was a tasty drink
Three of us ordered the "Tenderfoot Filet" which consists of an 8 oz. filet. We all got ours medium rare. Each entree comes with sliced cooked carrots and a small corn on the cob. Plus, a family-sized bowl of their house salad is brought to the table. Also, a basket with biscuits and rolls comes to the table. It has 2 types of butter with it ---cinnamon butter, which was mildly flavored and plain butter.
Our son-in-law had wanted to try the rattlesnake appetizer but they were all out. I wasn't heartbroken about that! He got "Rustler's cut top sirloin" which was 10 ozs.
One grandson ordered "The vaquero" which consists of: " 10 ozs. of certified USDA prime sirloin with 2 enchiladas"
Another grandson got "The sheriff" which is a 12 oz. piece of prime rib.
As for the food---those of us who got the tenderfoot filet all liked it. It was very, well... "tender" and properly prepared. Our son-in-law liked his sirloin steak. The grandson who got "the vaquero" found himself getting full due to the big portion.
The big disappointment and thus, the reason I can't go to 4 stars --- The prime rib. Not only was it tough, it was very fatty and very difficult to cut. So...my suggestion is to give this dish a pass if you go there.
Otherwise, we all enjoyed the corn on the cob. It was very sweet and lightly seasoned. The carrots also were good as they were cooked just right---not too hard, not too mushy.
We did enjoy the live music which was a trio doing country songs. It wasn't overly loud which we appreciated. In the end, we're glad we gave them a try. It's worth a visit but...once again...give the prime rib a pass.