One Of The Most Haunted Restaurants In Arizona Also Has Some Of The Best Food You'll Ever Eat
By Katie Lawrence|Published February 23, 2023
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
When it comes to haunted places in Arizona, what spots come to mind first? Perhaps the infamous Jerome Grand Hotel, or maybe the Orpheum Theatre… but what about Big Nose Kate’s Saloon in Tombstone? This iconic bar and restaurant is an alleged hub for paranormal activity – and it also happens to serve some truly mouthwatering food.
Located on historic Allen Street in Tombstone (the very same street as the O.K. Corral!) Big Nose Kate's Saloon was originally a high-end hotel that first opened its doors in 1880.
After hosting numerous prominent guests, the hotel was ravaged by fire just two years after its grand debut. Its adobe walls were all that remained, and they were used to construct a new building that housed three businesses. Unfortunately, that building would also succumb to a fire in 1924.
In the 1970s, the building became Big Nose Kate's Saloon; its namesake was Doc Holliday's on-again, off-again girlfriend, a prostitute known for her particularly large nose.
Upon stepping inside, visitors find themselves transported back to the Wild West (minus the lawlessness and duels at high noon).
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The saloon is covered in Western-themed décor and old photographs of Tombstone, the original adobe walls, charred wood beams, and arches remain standing, and the bar is well-stocked with tequila, draft beer, and other beverages.
Oh, and did we mention the place is crawling with ghosts? Both patrons and employees have experienced paranormal activity here, from feeling phantom touches to seeing full-blown apparitions. Legend has it the specters include cowboys who met untimely deaths and a fellow known as "The Swamper," who was a handyman for the Grand Hotel.
There are 10 different burgers on the menu, with toppings ranging from the classic lettuce, tomato, and onion combo to BBQ brisket and fried eggs. Lettuce-wrapped and plant-based burgers are also available.
Nothing screams "Wild West" quite like a bowl of chili, and Big Nose Kate's serves up some of the best you'll ever eat.
Have you ever visited Big Nose Kate’s Saloon? If so, did you experience any paranormal activity? Do you think it’s one of the best restaurants in Tombstone? Tell us all about your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for a thrilling and chilling ghost trolley tour of Tombstone that will leave you shaking in your boots.
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