Brian Nagele
Tucson is one of the fastest-growing cities in America, and the only thing growing faster than the city itself are the bars and restaurants that call Tucson their home. From mountain-high burgers to sushi that was swimming in the Pacific ocean mere hours before it made it to your table, Tucson is a foodie’s paradise.
Tucson has also become a leading destination for people searching for a nice, juicy steak. There are well over a dozen steakhouses in Tucson, and they’re serving up everything from Michelin Star-worthy dry-aged cuts to a quick steak and a beer at the bar. While all these amazing restaurants virtually guarantee that you can find an amazing meal in Tucson, it also makes it a bit more challenging to narrow down the list to find where to get steak. When you’re in the mood for a steak, it’s especially important to make sure you’re selecting the perfect place. Steak night can be expensive, and choosing the wrong restaurant is like a double whammy; you’re stuck with a mediocre steak and the bill at the end of the night, too. I’m here for you. Instead of guessing which of Tucson’s steakhouses is worth a trip, I distilled them all into a master list with all the intel you need to pick the perfect place for your next steak night.
Silver Saddle Steakhouse
310 E Benson Hwy, Tucson, AZ 85713
Phone: 520-622-6253
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Located on Benson Highway in the heart of Tucson, Silver Saddle is the perfect place for anyone who misses the classic old west-style steakhouse. When cowboys were still roaming the west, a big porterhouse over an open fire fed by mesquite wood was the way you enjoyed a steak. Silver Saddle is keeping the spirit alive. Before you get to the main attraction, you’ll want to try some of their famous fried mushrooms as an appetizer. Be sure not to spoil your appetite on appetizers because the porterhouse and prime rib here are both incredible.
Pinnacle Peak
6541 E Tanque Verde Rd, Tucson, AZ 85715
Phone: 520-296-0911
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If you’re looking for a family-friendly steak night after a fun-filled day at Golf N’ Stuff next door, Pinnacle Peak is the place for you. As you walk into the restaurant, you’re transported back to the days of the wild west, long before the Tucson we know today. Pinnacle Peak has been serving up the finest cowboy-style steaks in the city for over 50 years. At Pinnacle Peak, you’ll find a classic menu of cowboy steaks, ribeyes, filet mignon, and much more. Every steak includes a salad, fresh bread, and their famous Ranch Beans, so you’re sure to get a great deal to go with your delicious steak. Be sure to pair your steak with a Cowboy Cocktail if you plan on slamming a few back; you can’t go wrong!
Daisy Mae’s Steak House
2735 W Anklam Rd, Tucson, AZ 85745
Phone: 123-456-7890
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Since 1990, Daisy Mae’s has been the best-of-both-worlds steakhouse of Tucson, conveniently located next to Pima Community College. At Daisy’s, you’ll enjoy the classic cowboy-style steaks that Tucson is famous for. But, there’s a little something extra to Daisy Mae’s. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but the steaks here seem to be a cut above most of the competition. Daisy Mae’s is famous for its beautifully marbled ribeyes, but there’s plenty more to love besides this classic steak. From whopping porterhouses to ribs that fall off the bone, there’s something for everyone here. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled at the table, as the Arizona Diamondbacks seem to love Daisy Mae’s as much as the rest of Tucson does.
El Corral
2201 E River Rd, Tucson, AZ 85718
Phone: 520-299-6092
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For more than 80 years, El Corral has been carrying the torch of cowboy cooking in the foothills of the Catalina Mountains. You’ll find all the classics here and plenty of specialties you’ll only find at El Corral. You’ll also discover plenty of classics behind the bar too, like the famous El Corral Manhattan. Whatever you order, be sure to try a side of their famous tamale pie, which has been a staple on the menu since the 70s. A true slice of Tucson, pair this with any of the signature steaks or prime rib cuts on the menu, and you’re in for one awesome meal at one of Arizona’s most historic steakhouses.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
6360 N Campbell Ave Suite 180, Tucson, AZ 85718
Phone: 520-529-5017
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While few things can top a cowboy steak at one of Tucson’s classic spots, sometimes you need the refinement and service that only a prime steakhouse can provide. Fleming’s is the perfect destination for a night on the town or a special celebration when no ordinary steak will do, and with locations in 25 states, you’re never far from Fleming’s. Fleming’s Tucson location is just north of Arizona State, and it employs the gorgeous Catalina Mountains as a backdrop for the dining room. The menu is every bit the prime steak experience, with plenty of steaks and chops and a fairly large selection of chicken, pork, and seafood items. Celebrating something special? Throw a truffle-poached lobster tail next to the steak of your choice.
BOB’S STEAK & CHOP HOUSE
2727 W Club Dr, Tucson, AZ 85742
Phone: 520-877-2377
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Next to the Omni Tucson, you’ll find the perfect place to cap off a day at Tucson National Golf Course. Bob’s Steak & Chop House is known throughout the better part of the nation for its excellent steaks and award-winning wine list. The service and execution here are every bit the white glove treatment you’d expect at a prime steakhouse, but it’s a bit less fussy and proper. Bob’s offers a classic menu of generously cut steaks, chops, and seafood items and classic family-style sides. From the launch of their first location, their mantra has always been simple preparations, letting the quality of the ingredients shine through. Try one of the ribeyes, which come in three sizes, and you’re likely to become a believer yourself.
Sullivan’s Steakhouse
1785 E River Rd, Tucson, AZ 85718
Phone: 520-299-4275
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In the mood for something a bit different? Sullivan’s borrows the expert preparation and service of the best steakhouses and updates it with a style and flair that’s unlike any other spot in Tucson. The dining room and service are classic all the way. Everything else is a bit different. Live jazz is a regular feature, the menu offers a few prized cuts you rarely find in other restaurants, and there’s an awesome happy hour Monday through Thursday. In fact, the cocktail menu may be the star of the show at Sullivan’s, with an inventive drink to suit anyone’s taste. Another great feature of Sullivan’s is they have something for everyone. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion with a Wagyu bone-in strip or looking for a steak at the bar, Sullivan’s makes you feel at home without ever losing the feeling that you’re out somewhere special.
Firebird’s Wood Fired Grill
2985 E Skyline Dr, Tucson, AZ 85718
Phone: 520-577-0747
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Whether you’re celebrating with family and friends or looking to grab a casual meal with the family, Firebird’s has you covered. You’ll find this location across from Fleming’s, another one of the excellent steak restaurants in Tucson at the corner of Skyline Drive and Campbell Avenue. Beyond a choice selection of steaks, their menu has everything from pasta to seafood to vegetarian dishes, so anyone can enjoy Firebirds. The bar is another awesome feature of Firebird’s, with a menu of delicious bites and a surprisingly excellent cocktail menu and wine list.
CHARRO STEAK
188 E Broadway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85701
Phone: 520-485-1922
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Tucson is home to the oldest family-operated Mexican restaurant in America, and CHARRO STEAK is the family’s latest venture. Classic steaks in the rich mesquite tradition, a uniquely Mexican take on delicious seafood dishes, and a trendy and casual atmosphere make CHARRO STEAK a spot you’ll want to dine at again and again. If you’re in the mood for prime rib, Charro’s 22-day dry-aged version is to die for. The menu also features a rotating chef’s cut, so you’ll see some excellent specials on most days, like a monster tomahawk or Kobe strip.
Little Mexico Steakhouse
2851 W Valencia Rd, Tucson, AZ 85746
Phone: 520-578-8852
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Tucson has a rich Mexican heritage that permeates the culture and food, and Little Mexico Steakhouse next to the Walmart shopping center on Valencia Road is one of the best examples. This humble restaurant has been family-owned and operated for nearly two decades, and its menu offers everything from classic Mexican dishes to delicious steaks, seafood, and much more. The menu offers something for everyone, but the Little Mexico 24-ounce T-bone steak steals the show. Or, if you’re in the mood for some Mexican flavor, try the green chile stuffed sirloin.
Li’l Abner’s Steakhouse
8501 N Silverbell Rd, Tucson, AZ 85743
Phone: 520-744-2800
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In the shadow of Saguaro State Park, you’ll find Li’l Abner’s Steakhouse, a neighborhood staple since the 1940s. This no-fuss joint is the perfect place when you’re in the mood for a big steak or some delicious barbecue, and it offers a laid-back atmosphere and a staff that makes you feel like you’re at your favorite local spot. A monster 32-ounce porterhouse looms over the small menu, which offers some choice steaks, beef and pork ribs, and a few options if you’re looking for something lighter. Whatever you do, save room for one of the homemade desserts.
Cattletown Steakhouse & Saloon
3141 E Drexel Rd, Tucson, AZ 85706
Phone: 520-295-1141
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Just north of Tucson International Airport in the heart of the city, you’ll find a throwback to the days of the wild west. Cattletown might not be the place for a refined atmosphere and an award-winning wine list. But, it sure seems like the perfect place for anything else. Cattletown is famous for their chicken-fried steak, and they offer plenty of choice cuts as well. Seafood lovers are also sure to love the menu at Cattletown, which offers everything from all-you-can-eat fish and chips to a trio of lobster tails.
Churrasco de Brasil Brazilian Steakhouse
150 W Wetmore Rd, Tucson, AZ 85705
Phone: 520-293-7991
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If your appetite for steak is best described as bottomless, then you’re sure to agree that this is one of the best steakhouses in Tucson. A true churrasco experience, dinner is only over on your say-so, and the staff will continue to bring you everything from ribeye and filet to ribs, chicken, and lamb chops until you’re satisfied. Beyond the parade of beautiful meats, there’s also a full buffet of Brazilian-style sides for you to enjoy.
JONATHAN’S CORK
6320 E Tanque Verde Rd, Tucson, AZ 85715
Phone: 520-296-1631
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If your definition of red meat goes beyond the steer, Jonathan’s Cork is a must-try spot for you. This unique gem is easy to miss if you don’t know where you’re looking, as it’s nestled behind Mama’s BBQ and Jimmy John’s set back off the road. Once you find the place, you’ll be treated to a memorable meal. Jonathan’s Cork offers a solid selection of quality steaks and chops, as well as some more exotic items, like bison, venison, ostrich, and barbecued duck.
Cadillac Chaparral Steakhouse
47621 E Ballesta Rd, Tucson, AZ 85739
Phone: 520-825-9677
On the outskirts of Tucson off Pinal Pioneer Highway in the middle of nowhere, you’ll find the best-kept secret in Tucson. Cadillac Chaparral is the steakhouse you come to after a long day on the ranch, and you won’t need much more than some pocket change to enjoy a porterhouse and a few drinks at this humble establishment. The menu itself is fairly short, with a few steaks and burgers as well as a seafood and chicken option. The Chaparral also offers a laundry list of rotating specials, so there’s always something new for you to try. If the specials don’t catch your eye, you can’t go wrong with a burger, which is about as simple and delicious as it gets.
LongHorn Steakhouse
5725 E Broadway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85711
Phone: 520-745-0391
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When a freak snowstorm paralyzed the highways through Atlanta in 1982, the legend of LongHorn Steakhouse was born. Today, it lives on in over 500 locations nationwide. LongHorn is known for its cowboy-cut steaks, lively bar, and affordable eats, and you’ll find one in the heart of Tucson across from Broadway Shopping Center. You can’t go wrong with any of the steaks here, and you’ll also find a large array of seafood, chicken, and pork dishes if you’re in the mood for something beyond the ranch.
