This little gem is hidden in the basement of an unassuming building. Signage was easy to follow and we took the elevator down into a time warp! The doors open into a antique-feeling speakeasy-like vibe. We had reservations and were sat immediately and greeted simultaneously by our server. The drinks were absolutely perfect and the appetizers of lamb chops were cooked perfectly. Dinner was equally as delicious with steaks cooked perfectly! For dessert we an amazing Smores Pie which was the exact right way to end the night. Overall this place a perfect place for a date or night out with friends who appreciate a good drink with good food and a fun unique atmosphere! read more

We have visited this fine "speakeasy" style restaurant on my occasion since they have opened and have always been happy with our experience. From the great wood grain basement dark ambience to to the raw, regular bar, and multiple sit-down options, we have tried it all. The allure of trying to find a place down in a basement where you have to find the right elevator was pretty bad ass. The hosts along with the waitresses and bar tenders are always welcoming and knowledgeable about their food and drink. I also think it is cool that you can get lockers to store your expensive liquor for return trips. We often come here for drinks and oysters, because my wife loves oysters and they have a wide range of options that aren't exactly cheap, but don't break the bank for freshness and taste. I only really mark down the rating because the menu has been stale over the years and they used to offer elk that is no longer available. Now call that pretentions or snooty, but I think they could use some unique options to keep the experience moving each time you come in. Also, I feel a restaurant of this caliber should be evolving to match their cool vibe and unique experience. I usually get the Wren house beer but feel the beer optiosn are limiting I also feel like some of their cocktails are overpriced, but they are unique compared to other places, so maybe I am just cheap. So really this rating should be more a 4.5. What really brings you back is the cool art on the wall with a Theodore Roosevelt slant and cool sitting areas like a sofa setting in what looks like it would be his old school library. Don't get me wrong everything I have eaten here has been good, but nothing hearkens back like that elk. This place makes for an amazing tinder date if you are willing to drop that cash and make that impression, come here then hop on over to Valley bar and she will think you are magician of illusive locations if she hasn't already been there. read more

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Food was pretty good, but a tad bit overpriced in my opinion. Yummy drink options--again, pricey. Really cool ambiance; it kind of reminds me of The Ostrich in Chandler, but more spread out and with a bit more light. Service was fantastic! Keep in mind that the restaurant is in the basement of the Dialog and Revolución Tacos building. You enter through the main entrance across from the parking garage, make a left toward the elevators, and go down to the basement. They also validate parking, which we appreciated! read more

Delicious entrees and fabulous historic ambiance I had no idea Theodore Roosevelt was such a prominent figure in Arizona. Very glad to have dined here and be enriched by the amazing staff. BANANA FOSTER IS WHATS FOR DESSERT. - barb and Jim read more

Rough Rider is such a fun speakeasy, drink spot. The food is nothing to miss, also. While a dark vibe, the drinks are lively and fun. My purple drink reminded me of a snowball. With great service, drink recommendations and delicious food, Rough Rider is the total package. A speakeasy is always like a little oasis escape and Rough Rider is no different! I can't wait to go back soon. read more

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Rough Rider felt delightfully off the beaten path in the best possible way. Stepping off the elevator was like being transported into a perfectly preserved speakeasy from another era. The space is warm, moody, and inviting--like a lighthearted Western brought to life--with candlelight and rich wooden accents creating an atmosphere that begs you to settle in and stay awhile. The drink menu was eclectic and thoughtfully curated, offering both trendy and classic cocktails alongside an impressive selection of spirits, beer, and wine. The bartenders were knowledgeable enough to suggest excellent off-menu creations and kept the drinks--including the water--flowing with effortless style and hospitality. The wedge salad was crisp and bright, elevated by thoughtful ingredients like jalapeño bacon and balsamic onions. The crab dip was a standout: packed generously with crab and complemented by just the right amount of cheese, finely chopped red onions, and crispy breadcrumbs. We ended the evening with St. George Absinthe, an absolute gem of an offering. Jake, Brad, and Stormy were kind, attentive, and full of great recommendations without ever feeling pushy or intrusive. We were able to truly enjoy each other's company while feeling genuinely cared for by the staff. Parking in the garage next door was graciously validated at the host stand. We left feeling full, impressed, and already looking forward to returning with family. read more

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Amazing drinks complimented with an amazing meal. I cannot wait to return to this place as I enjoyed it very much. read more

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Friends!!! Great place for a large party!!! We celebrated our friend's 40th Birthday and Rough Rider did NOT disappoint!!! The food was FANTASTIC, see my pictures!! The ambiance was hands down a special experience with the restaurant being underground!!! The atmosphere was sexy and upscale. The service team from entry to exit was amazing and so very attentive to our large group! If you're in the mood for something different, upscale, sexy, and just plain different....try Rough Rider. My grade, and this is hands down an honest review: A++++ read more

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This place was SO fun for me and my ladies. We went here for my birthday and it was so fun. I made a reservation on open table which I HIGHLY recommend. We had a party of 10 and it was so fun. We all had drinks a some people ordered food. Due to party size there was auto gratuity and only 4 cards max. The bar is in the basement of the hotel. When we got there though it wasnt very clear that it was there. We got there a little early but the accommodated us nicely. Originally there was going to be 9 people but I asked day of event if I could bring another person and they said yes. The drinks were so good. Th divine feminine tasted like Jamaica drink with the hibiscus. Then I had the happy birthday Mr. President. Oh. My. God. It didn't even taste like alcohol it tasted like vanilla ice cream I'm so serious. It was delicious. Then I had the siren drink. That one wasn't bad at all. We all had a great time and shared laughs and everything. I love the setting of it though. It's a bit dark so we had to use phone lights to see the menu. But it feels like stepping into a whole new world once you enter. I think it's perfect for hanging out. Date night. Anniversary dinner. All of it. Our server was nice. Very friendly. I think he could use a little more on his hospitality just because sometimes I feel like he didn't know what to say exactly. A little disappointed that there wasn't really anything special for a birthday though. Not even a little card on the table that said happy birthday. Just a thought. Other fine dining establishments I've been in did. read more

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Rough Rider has been through some changes that I find disappointing. When we were seated, I asked our server if they still have happy hour and he said he wasn't sure if we were still within the happy hour window - it was 3:30 PM. He then confirmed we were still within the happy hour window and offered to bring us a menu. They used to have an extensive happy hour menu featuring several drinks and food items and now their "happy hour menu" consists of a cheeseburger for $22. Not sure that that really constitutes as a happy hour menu... I asked him why they changed the menu and he put up his hands as if to say he's not to blame and said he doesn't have anything to do with those decisions. He said that "management decided to make a few substitutions but they're pretty good" and didn't provide any further elaboration. I ordered the appetizer lamb lollipops which had four small pieces for $25. My friend decided to try the "happy hour" cheeseburger and he said it was good but it did appear a bit overpriced for an average burger with a pretty hefty serving of french fries. I really wasn't impressed by the quality of the food, the portion size, the price, or the service. Unfortunately, I'll be taking Rough Rider off my list of regular places i frequent and restaurants I recommend to others. read more

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I love this place. The atmosphere is so cool and literally cool inside especially great on a hot summer day. lol. The bartenders really know their stuff. We had the happy birthday Mr. President, s little too sweet for me, tasted better when we added the champagne sidecar. my favorite dish on the menu are the potatoes. read more

Rough Rider - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Once we figured out where this restaurant was, parking was easy in the garage next door and it's even validated for you. Our server was responsive, and very proactive. The drinks were fantastic. A little pricey, but very good. Loved the overall ambiance of the place. Comments are kind of mixed on the food. The burger was the best she ever had. The pork chop was flavorful and well prepared. The venison was ok. The veggies served with it were fantastic. So 4 stars overall. I will be back, but I'll do the burger. read more

Sitting at the bar this time was such a treat! It's a beautiful spot with an interesting theme and a genuinely upscale atmosphere. We tried the crab dip, which was delicious and made for the perfect late-night bite. The service was top-notch--super friendly and knowledgeable. It was a wonderful place to stop by on the 4th of July! read more

Rough Rider - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Oh wow this place is so good! I love a clarified cocktail and the one of the month is a version of a pina colada. This is definitely a full of speakeasy vibe as it is in the basement. They validate parking as well, which is always a huge plus. Great spot I've already been twice this month. read more

Rough Rider - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chris our Server is super nice and on top of his game, very cordial, knowledgeable and very accommodating. Love the ambiance, cocktails are Spot On, Food is fantastic and Service was phenomenal. We had the crab dip/marvelous-bread was to die for, Mussels-Excellent-broth very tasty, Salmon-fantastic- done perfectly with crispy skin, Pasta-very, very good. One of our favorite restaurants in Phoenix. Make Reservation, Parking Garage on East Side of Building is usually available. We will be back! read more

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Saint of Santiago and Potion Seller for dessert were both winning cocktails IMO. Both were very well balanced. I ordered the hamachi crudo and it was delicious. I just wished I had more! Cuts were nice and thick and all the flavors blended well together. This place is like a secret but it's not. The vibe is fun and rustic at the same time. Bar tenders were all attentive and nice. The only thing I thought was a bit off was not having a specific bar tender which made it a little confusing sometimes. For themselves. One would take my order and the next would ask what I wanted. Or when I asked for the check and then another would ask me what I'm drinking next. Would definitely come back here at some point! read more

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Absolutely outstanding, delicious and what a cool experience! First it's a little hard to find but once you find the elevators, head down to the basement for a culinary delight! We loved all the food we had, but the POTATOES are out of this world delicious!! The Brussels were a big hit with us and the pasta dish. I am not normally a chicken fan but I tried it and I must say it was cooked to perfection. But again, those amazing potatoes, YUM YUM! They do charge an auto gratuity for parties of 6 or more and it is a little pricey but worth it. It is a darker restaurant so if you are like me and cannot see that well, bring your readers and a night light! Make sure you ask for Heather S for your server, she was outstanding. read more

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In town for Valentine's Day and tried out this spot for a little date night. The vibes were immaculate and the service was amazing. Everyone was very attentive and nice and knowledgeable about the food and drink options. We got a few of the happy hour items and the crab dip. Everything we had (crab dip, oysters, jumbo shrimp, fried cauliflower, drinks) was so good. Highly recommend getting a "bartenders choice" drink. My fiancé ordered one and it was incredible. They also validated our parking from the parking ramp inside so that was very appreciated! read more

Rough Rider - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

My buddy and I came to Rough Rider for pre-drinks before the Phoenix Suns game and this speakeasy restaurant is the perfect place to grabs amazing cocktails and solid food for a bar. We split a Ribeye between the 2 of us which was great. Highly recommend this place if you want great service with a speakeasy vibes style of place with some of the best mixed cocktails in downtown PHX! read more

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Very cool hidden underground bar with an upscale ambiance. Honestly quite spacious and easy to accommodate large groups like mine. Drinks were nicely presented and I really enjoyed my mezcal cocktail. We also tried the dessert - the sorbet was very refreshing and the brownie was decadent. Great place for a nightcap. read more

Rough Rider - Saint of Santiago - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This restaurant can be difficult to find if you don't know it's a speak easy in the basement of a high-rise building in downtown. The server was very attentive even with a group of 10+ people. Food was flavorful and presentation was beautiful on every single dish. Some drinks even came with a piece of candy as a garnish! It can be difficult to go to the restroom as they are upstairs and you have to take the elevator which can interrupt your meal. It would be nice if they had one downstairs where the restaurant is located. If you go I would recommend ride share! Although there is a parking lot in front of the high-rise it can be difficult to get in and out of especially at night! read more

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Huge thanks to a fellow customer sitting next to me at a bar top while in Sedona, who recommended we come here! Arriving for their opening, we were fortunate to find free parallel parking within a couple of blocks. Now, this is a speakeasy: no loud signs informing one of their location; having to take a specific (middle) elevator to go down to the basement; once the elevator doors open, to enter a dimly lit host station. The atmosphere is rich, elegant, and inviting from the start. Requesting to sit at the main (lively) bar top, we were fortunate and privileged to be served -- and entertained -- by Brad (and later, Brandon) -- both approachable, professional, knowledgeable, and comfortably attentive, making one feel valued. The impressive and positive teamwork is visible among the entire staff. Watching the cocktails being made by our talented bartenders was quite a show. Impressively, we noticed the use of large, clear, and stamped ice cubes in some of their cocktails -- such details truly elevate the experience. Hubby enjoyed his Legend Manhattan ($30) and Game Theory ($19); I thoroughly enjoy the presentation, scents, and flavors of my Signature Smoke ($35), followed by the Game Theory. For food, we enjoyed off their Happy Hour menu: Roasted Potatoes & Artichokes ($14). Off the regular menu, we shared their tender and well-prepared Ribeye ($80), with a finale of their delicious S'more Cake ($11) and French Press Coffee ($6). Happy Hour: Tuesday - Sunday, 3-5 P.M. What surprised us (and took a little away from this fine experience) is -- being such an elegant venue -- this is not 21-&-over until 9 PM (when the kitchen closes). Thankfully, the babies/children present weren't crying, loud, or running around. Fabulous experience and one we'd want to visit, again, when in the area. read more

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What a cool spot! My wife and I spent our anniversary here. Cool vibes, great food and I'd definitely recommend the smoked old fashion. Perfect last minute find. Go down the elevator and it transports you back in time. Really cool spot we will definitely come back to again. read more

Rough Rider - Smoked old fashion - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Happy Valentine's Day, my fellow Yelpers! My husband and I chose Rough Rider for Valentine's Day this year, and if you're looking for a spot that commits to a vibe, this is it. The space makes industrial look sophisticated, with a strong Old World energy that feels equal parts historic speak easy and modern cocktail den. You can tell they take their concept seriously and they execute it beautifully. We started with the baked crab dip (lump crab, cheese, celery, breadcrumbs), which was rich, indulgent, and absolutely delicious. It came with four small slices artisanal bread (think Texas toast). Emphasis on small. We asked for two additional slices and were surprised to see we were charged for an extra side. Not a dealbreaker, but at these prices, a little bread generosity would go a long way. For our entrées, I had the pasta (Sonoran pappardelle with braised pork ragu) and it was fantastic. I'd describe it as hearty and subtly spicy. My husband ordered the filet, which was tender and beautifully prepared. Truly, every bite we had was excellent. That said, Rough Rider definitely knows it's good and it prices accordingly. We skipped dessert and alcohol and still walked out nearly $200 lighter. For two people. Without question, the quality is there, but the pricing feels higher than it needs to be. We love supporting local businesses and don't mind splurging. Rough Rider is very much a "special occasion" destination rather than a casual night out for us. All in all, the food was delicious, the ambiance is distinctive, and it's a great spot to celebrate. Would we go back? Yes. Would we brace ourselves for the bill? Also, yes. read more

The vibes are what make this place so amazing! I did try their food and everything is on the pricier side. I will say this is a spot you get drinks to start the night. Feels very speakeasy vibes in here! read more

It was good but not overly great. The potato and artichoke appetizer is amazing! I had the duck and hubby had the pork chop. The duck was amazing, smaller portion, but the pork chop was good, the slaw side was just meh, but there's so much of it and that's all you get with it. We ordered smore cake for dessert, I wanted to love it so much and what we could eat we did. The problem is we got an edge piece of the cake (think edge of brownie pan) and it was so hard it was almost uneditable. It's luck of the drawl but try and get a middle piece. It was a fun date night out, but I don't know if we will return. Lots of other options to try. read more

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Really intimate and cool speakeasy restaurant. We had the smoky old fashioned speciality drinks and let me tell you they did not disappoint. They were on the pricey side but boy were they tasty and smooth! We only shared some of the appetizer dishes not a huge meal. We enjoyed the muscles, oysters, and crab dip dish. Service was also top notch! If you have a hot date I think this is a good spot to consider! Enjoy! read more

This was the last stop on our trip to Arizona and by far it was the best one all trip and there were a lot of great ones. We got some recommendations from another bartender in Scottsdale and boy did they come through. We found parking right outside and we knew it was a speakeasy but will not like it took us a few minutes to find the exact elevator that took us to the restaurant/bar. We finally found the elevator and went directly to the front desk. We were quickly greeted and taken to the bar. We were greeted by the bartender who was very nice and knowledgeable and great us awesome recommendations. We did not have much time for food so we just stayed for a few drinks. I went with an Old Fashioned and the Legend Old Fashioned. I enjoyed them both but the Legend topped the cake. I absolutely loved the feel and the ambiance, it had a very prohibition like decor but the drinks paired and matched well with the ambiance. Will definitely be back! read more

This is Hubby's favorite restaurant, so we come here relatively often. It's in the basement of a large office building on Roosevelt Row. There's not really a sign alerting you to the location, unless you count the huge smiling Teddy Roosevelt on the side of the building. This place is Teddy Roosevelt themed, At the decor really does bring you back in today 1910s. It's dark with lots of gorgeous carved wood. There are pictures of Teddy Roosevelt and because it is Teddy Roosevelt themed, you'll also find bits of Americana. There's a raw bar on one side, and on the other side there is a long bar, a lounge area with fireplace, and a dining room. There's also a little room with a sofa and some comfy chairs off to the side - - perhaps you can rent it privately? I do know that some people came in before us without a reservation and they were banished to the little room because there were no seats available at the bar or in the dining room. Every time we've come here we have had the most attentive servers. The cocktal menu offers a little something for everyone, although I don't think they have a large beer menu. They have wonderful cobbler drinks. Hubby had the Martini of Honor and I had a yummy mezcal drink topped with bee pollen called Twisted Nectar. We started with the the smoked salmon dip, which was delish! For dinner, we both had the pork chop with apple slaw, which is what I always order. Soooo good! Its a good idea to have a reservation on the weekend. And allow time for parking. They do validate! read more

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First impression. Love the vibe, greeted by the hostess immediately and seated at our reserved table. Celebrating our wedding anniversary with a complimentary champagne, a nice touch. Our server was Pop, he did a great job explaining the menu and drinks recommendations. Love everything we ordered and for the price, it was pretty good. If you need a restroom, you'll have to go upstairs, only the negative side. Be careful it's yummy certified. read more

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I brought some friends from out of town to Rough Rider, as I had so many people recommend this place to me. This underground speakeasy is located in the basement of the Ten-One building in downtown Phoenix. There is parking nearby in the garage; the restaurant will validate your parking, which rocks. When you walk in, you are instantly transported to a pre-Prohibition era. The ambiance is *chef's kiss*. I highly recommend making a reservation as this is a popular spot. I personally loved all the different and unique seating options throughout the restaurant, not a single bad spot. Our server was friendly and did a great job answering our questions about the cocktails and punches on the menu. Our favorite drinks of the night were the Bull Moose Sour (for the Bourbon lovers), the Roses by the Elevator (for the gin lovers), and the Happy Birthday Mr. President (for the Vodka lovers). We also munched on the Brussel Sprouts and the Baked Crab Dip, the dip is hands-down the best appetizer on the menu. read more

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Words do not do this place justice! I wish ya'll could feel the atmosphere, taste the food, and sip on these yummy drinks through these photos. Every single thing we ordered was PHENOMENAL! For starters the drinks, nice pours and lots of choices. We described the kind of shot we wanted, and boy did they deliver. Then moving onto the food...these photos will never compare to actually tasting it. It's been a while since I've like any restaurant's Brussel sprouts, but rough rider has you covered. To the hamachi Crudo tasting so FRESH. Also kudos to the chef for making the seasonal hamachi Crudo, such a unique twist, I loved it. The best combo is ordering both and alternating. Pasta was delicious and the sauce for the mussels was mouthwatering. Now for the final star the DUCK! I'm still thinking about this duck and it's been a week later (just now making time for a review). The staff was so knowledgeable, you tell them what you want and they point you in the perfect direction. I want to go back so badly for the overall experience! read more

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The ambiance is pretty cool. See the pictures. It is a bit warm for a basement though. The service was very good with one exception. We were asked if we liked our food once. When we got our appetizers. Which was excellent. The mascarpone potatoes are a must. The shrimp cocktail was very good as well. My wife had a cocktail that she liked very much as well. But the entrees. The ribeye was a good cut and very tender but totally un seasoned. The potato's it was sitting on were excellent. The chicken breast. Over cooked and very dry. The sauce and the celery root puree, very good. We were very disappointed at the entrees after the excellent appetizers and cocktail. The ambiance was top notch as well. read more

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First time here. We chose this location to celebrate our anniversary and we are so happy we did. From the hostess, to the waitress, to the server, and bartender--all wished us a "happy anniversary" and even before we got started we were welcomed with celebratory champagne. Hilary our waitress was absolutely PHENOMENAL. Amazing service and great recommendations. She made our time here that much more awesome. Every cocktail we ordered was fantastic. We started with the roasted potatoes and artichokes--HIGHLY recommend. It is a large portion. I ordered the seasonal fish which happened to be salmon--it was good. My only slight complaint is the sauce was salty. If you read the review below mine--several others complained about the salty salmon as well. I was able to eat my dish but it was very salty. My boyfriend ordered the ribeye and he said it was one of the best steaks he has had and the mashed potatoes were equally amazing. The ambiance and vibe is amazing especially for date night or celebrating. Come check this place out! read more

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Came here after work with a few friends to catch up on life. I've had this place book marked for some time now, so glad I checked it out! The ambience and vibes here are amazing! Low light, detailed woodwork throughout and speakeasy feels everywhere! It's usually busy so make sure to get a reservation beforehand. Unfortunately, the non-alcoholic options are basically tea....so I just went with water. We ordered some oysters, and while I'm not a huge fan of them, they were good. We also got the fried cauliflower appetizer that was pretty tasty. On a scale of 1 - 10, I'd come back just for the atmosphere alone, BUT, it kinda sucks that they don't have a few other non-alcoholic beers or drinks available. read more

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Our server was amazing and very patient with us. He recommended some amazing dishes and was super helpful! The food and drinks were amazing. Our favorite was the potatoes because they were so crispy and the flavors were amazing! read more

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Great speakeasy bar and restaurant. Wonderful hand crafted drink and a great selection of appetizers and entrees as well as desserts.

Rough Rider was an amazing and delicious experience for dinner! The restaurant is located in the basement and gives off a dark, lodge, hip vibe. Paid parking is available in the parking garage to the east. Main building interior isn't labeled very obvious so find the elevators just past the lobby on the left. Restrooms are on the first floor. Once you get downstairs a small host booth sits to the right against the decorated wall. A large portrait of President Teddy faces you. There is varying seating options and bar seating too. We had really great service! Our water was always filled, we were checked on regularly and were provided recommendations on drinks and food. She explained everything thoroughly. Really appreciated her providing the details on the drink profiles. The food was delicious! We started out with crab dip and muscles. I had the Mr. President drink off the menu to start and it was so yummy for a sweeter side cocktail drink. The seafood menu items, not ordered, are served chilled. We shared the ribeye which was at market price, and cooked as ordered. A table next to us had ordered the potatoes and we were told by our server they were good but we opted out this time. The s'more dessert was just the right amount to finish off dinner. Highly recommend!! And make reservations. read more

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Went here to have a little Mini after party for Friend's birthday. It was an impromptu visit but we were still able to get in. It is hidden in the basement of the building below a lively Mexican spot. The hostess was very friendly and helped us decide on the best place for us to sit. We ended up choosing a lounge area with a couch, two chairs and a table in the middle. It was a great little casual spot right by the bar. I ordered the reelection martini. It was on the pricey end at $30 but definitely worth it. It had a smooth salty bite to it with a little tang. The blue cheese olives that came with were to die for. I could eat a bowl of those. Something about the cheese and it's smoothness was so delicious. My friend got the smoke show which he enjoyed. I love the theater of drinks. Browsing over the menu I definitely will be back to try more drinks, and some food, but this is definitely a great spot. Will update when I come back for a longer visit. read more

Rough Rider - Oysters - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

One of my fav higher end restaurants! The food is great and the drinks are on the stronger side! The staff has always been amazing! It's located down a few floors and the attention to detail is insane! read more