What if you could enjoy a juicy steak at a restaurant that’s been serving hungry customers since 1947?
For nearly 80 years, this legendary spot has been bringing people together over hearty meals, Western charm, and a dining experience that feels like a trip back in time.
But here’s something you might not expect: its story actually began decades before the first customers walked through its doors.
From its longtime traditions to the stories behind its walls, here’s what makes this historic Arizona steakhouse worth visiting.
Where Is It?
The Stockyards Steakhouse is located at 5009 East Washington Street in Phoenix.
It’s near the intersection of Washington Street and 48th Street, just a 5-minute drive from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and 10 minutes from the popular Arcadia neighborhood.
It’s also about a 15-minute drive from downtown and Old Town Scottsdale, making it a convenient stop while exploring the area.
About
The Stockyards Steakhouse is one of Phoenix’s most famous restaurants, known for its classic Western atmosphere and old-school fine dining experience.
Often called Arizona’s Original Steakhouse, the restaurant embraces its cowboy roots with dark wood paneling, leather booths, Western artwork, and cattle-themed decorations.
Unlike modern steakhouses with trendy interiors and experimental menus, it sticks to what it does best: quality cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and generous portions.
If there’s one dish you should try, it’s the house-specialty prime rib, slow-roasted to bring out its rich flavor, hand-cut, and served with creamed horseradish.
You can also choose from a variety of steaks, including tender filet mignon, juicy ribeye, hearty bone-in Delmonico, New York strip, and a 24-ounce bone-in ribeye.
If you’re dining with someone special, try the Chateaubriand for Two, a 16-ounce center-cut beef tenderloin served with parmesan potatoes and sautéed mushrooms.
Beyond its classic steaks, the restaurant also serves wild-game dishes that reflect Arizona’s Western heritage and give you a chance to try something unique.
Some standout choices include grilled elk medallions with rosemary demi-glace, American bison meatloaf with mushroom gravy, and calf’s liver topped with smoked bacon.
For a taste of Southwestern tradition, order the Paloma Ranch Calf Fries, a classic cowboy appetizer made from breaded calf testicles served with cocktail sauce.
Yep, you read that right!
Of course, you don’t have to be an adventurous eater to enjoy a meal here, as the menu also features seafood, chicken, and traditional American entrees.
To finish your meal on a sweet note, try the Steakhouse Bread Pudding with bourbon caramel sauce, or treat yourself to strawberry shortcake or chocolate mousse.
After satisfying your appetite, head to The Stockyards’ historic Saloon for another glimpse into Arizona’s cowboy past.
With its carved wooden bar, antique-style furnishings, and Western murals, it’s a fun spot to grab a drink.
The bar offers everything from premium whiskeys and local craft beers to signature cocktails like the Flight 1947, Desert Fig Martini, That Dang Mule, and Sonoran Sunset.
History
The story of The Stockyards Steakhouse goes all the way back to 1919, when Phoenix was still a major center for Arizona’s cattle industry.
That year, Edward A. Tovrea, known as the “Cattle Baron,” opened a meatpacking facility near 48th Street and Van Buren Street to support his growing beef business.
His operation eventually grew into what the restaurant describes as the world’s largest feedlot, with about 40,000 cattle spread across 200 acres of pens.
And with so much cattle business happening in the area, it wasn’t long before a restaurant became part of the scene.
In 1947, The Stockyards Restaurant officially opened and quickly became a favorite gathering place for cattlemen, bankers, and politicians looking for a good meal.
Things were going well until 1953, when a fire destroyed the building and forced it to close temporarily.
Luckily, it made a comeback in 1954, reopening with a fresh look designed and decorated by Helen Tovrea.
As Phoenix grew throughout the late 1950s, the cattle pens gradually disappeared, but The Stockyards continued welcoming diners despite the changing surroundings.
Fast forward to 2004, when The Stockyards underwent a major restoration that gave the building a fresh look while preserving the Western charm that had defined it for decades.
Because of that rich history, The Stockyards also earned a place on the City of Phoenix Historic Property Register, recognizing its ties to Arizona’s cattle industry.
Today, nearly 80 years after opening its doors, The Stockyards continues serving hearty meals while keeping a piece of Phoenix’s cowboy history alive.
Know Before You Go
Hours
If you’re planning a visit to The Stockyards Steakhouse, especially for a special occasion, a little preparation can help make your experience even better.
The restaurant follows these opening hours, but be sure to check the official website for any holiday or schedule changes:
- Lunch: Monday to Friday, 11 AM to 2 PM
- Dinner: Monday to Friday, 5 PM to 9 PM; Saturday, 4 PM to 9 PM; Sunday, 4 PM to 8 PM
You can also enjoy happy hour in the Saloon every weekday from 4 PM to 6 PM.
Reservations and Best Time to Visit
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for Friday and Saturday evenings, holidays, and special occasions like Valentine’s Day.
Book a table in advance through the restaurant’s website or call (602) 273-7378.
To make your visit even more enjoyable, consider booking a weekday lunch or an earlier dinner if you’d rather avoid the busiest dining hours.
Prices
Since The Stockyards offers an upscale dining experience, expect prices to be a little higher than those at your typical casual restaurant.
Appetizers range from $17 to $28, while main dishes typically cost between $30 and $60, depending on your choice.
If you’re craving steak or prime rib, expect to pay between $40 and $85, while special dishes for two, like the Chateaubriand, cost $130.
Dress Code
You don’t have to wear anything fancy, but business casual or smart casual clothing fits the restaurant’s upscale atmosphere.
You can leave the beach flip-flops and gym clothes at home for this one!
Dietary Restrictions
Finally, if you have dietary restrictions or food allergies, it’s worth calling ahead to discuss your options.
The menu focuses heavily on meat and traditional steakhouse dishes, so checking what’s available before arriving can save you some guesswork.
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