From a tepee motel to the mysterious “Thing,” there’s no denying the plethora of bizarre attractions here in Arizona. The weirdness doesn’t stop there – it extends to our restaurants as well. Without further ado, here are nine of the absolute wackiest dining establishments in the Grand Canyon State.
1. The Duce (Phoenix)
This eclectic bar can't decide what theme it's trying to convey. Decorated like a Prohibition-era speakeasy, the giant boxing ring seems just a tad bit out of place. Oh, and let's not forget about the clothing and home decor shop also inside the building! Despite undeniably peculiar surroundings, the food is anything but strange. Corned beef sliders and the creamiest mac 'n' cheese you've ever had deliver a hefty dose of good old-fashioned Southern comfort. You'll find The Duce at 525 S Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85004.
2. Organ Stop Pizza (Mesa)
Mighty Wurlitzer organs stopped being produced in 1943, but this Arizona restaurant still has an original model. Both classical pieces and tunes to keep the little ones entertained are played every night, sometimes accompanied by an enchanting light show. Somehow, the atmosphere doesn't overshadow Organ Stop's absolutely scrumptious pizza. Try a slice for yourself at 1149 E Southern Ave., Mesa, AZ 85204.
3. Culinary Dropout (Tempe)
Let your inner child come out and play at this backyard patio restaurant. Complete with a fire pit and games like ping-pong and corn hole, it's the perfect hangout spot for the big kid in all of us. Standard bar fare is given a gourmet makeover, and Happy Hour cocktails keep the fun going all day long. Culinary Dropout is located at 149 S. Farmer, Tempe, AZ 85281.
4. Rawhide Steakhouse & Saloon (Chandler)
Part of a replica Old West town, Rawhide Steakhouse and Saloon is an authentic representation of restaurants from that time period. Wagon wheels, spurs, hunting trophies, and other themed decor takes diners on a journey back to the days of outlaws and duels at high noon. Steak, bacon-wrapped meatloaf, and rattlesnake are just a few of the delicious menu options. The address is 5700 W North Loop Rd., Chandler, AZ 85226.
5. Rustler's Rooste (Phoenix)
For nearly 50 years, Rustler's Rooste has been a Phoenix institution. An authentic cowboy theme permeates every inch of this rustic steakhouse, with a live bull outside completing the vision. Even more bizarre than the atmosphere is the most popular menu item: deep-fried rattlesnake. Served with a side of chipotle ranch, your taste buds will be strangely satisfied. The restaurant is located at 8383 S 48th St., Phoenix, AZ 85044.
6. Islamorada Fish Company (Mesa)
If nautical nonsense be something you wish, then swim on over to this deep sea-themed restaurant inside Bass Pro Shop in Mesa. Immediately upon entrance, you'll be greeted by giant nets and ornamental fish mounted on the walls. In the main dining room, a massive 13,000-gallon aquarium features every tropical fish you could imagine. On the menu is, of course, a variety of seafood options Atlantic salmon, tilapia, and grouper, among others. You'll find the restaurant at 1133 N Dobson Rd., Mesa, AZ 85201.
7. Harold's Cave Creek Corral (Cave Creek)
Best known for the collection of boots hanging from the ceiling, Harold's is something of an icon here in Arizona. It's where locals come to catch up over a couple of ice-cold beers and, when night falls, two-step all their troubles away. The food is exactly what you'd expect at a cowboy bar: ginormous steaks and comforting side dishes with overflowing Southern hospitality in every bite. Put on your dancing shoes and head to 6895 E Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek, AZ 85331.
8. Black Bart's Steakhouse (Flagstaff)
A steakhouse in an RV park? Yep, you heard us right. And the weirdness doesn't stop there - you'll also be treated to musical performances by the talented waitstaff while dining at Black Bart's! You can't judge a book by its cover, and this unassuming gem of a restaurant exemplifies that principle perfectly. Black Bart's is located at 2760 E Butler Ave., Flagstaff, AZ 86004.
9. The Grotto at Grand Canyon Caverns (Peach Springs)
Perhaps the wackiest of them all, this subterranean restaurant is located IN the Grand Canyon! You'll descend nearly 200 feet below the surface and dine among ancient rock formations - plus, a tour of the caverns is included with your meal! This once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience can be had at AZ-66, Peach Springs, AZ 86434.
Have you ever eaten at any of these restaurants? What wacky restaurants in Arizona did we leave off the list?
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