Fun place! A bit hard to find as it's in the basement of a build that you have to enter through an alley. Once you get down there you are transported into another world. The decor is awesome. The bar looks really cool. They have a solid cocktail program with sophisticated ingredients. Some are reasonable and some are a bit spendy but nice. Their take on a smoked old fashioned is legit. However, venture off of the usual cocktails and try some of the others as they are very complex and tasty. For appetizers, we had the potatoes and artichokes. They were quite tasty and the more you ate and things mixed together the better it was. We split a caesar salad. It's pretty large. I didn't love it. It didn't have much of a dressing component but it was alright. Then we split a ribeye. It's 16 ounces so there is plenty to split. read more

The pasta was the best pasta I've ever had!!!! When the waitress said it's made with love...she really really really meant it. I'm from out of town and want to come back to visit just because of the pasta! The Goat Milk Panna Cotta was soooooo good too!!!!! Pork Chop was great. Plus I love a good theme! It was so neat! read more

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Sooo I came in a little hangry and without a reservation on a Friday (I just didn't think about it since we were there between 3 and 4) and the hostess was amazing, she got us in but also let us know there would be a time limit because there were reservations coming in, so super amazing she did that. Service was perfection even though I had a minor fit (hangry) about the things I wanted to order having tomatoes, not really a big deal I just was having a day and there were other things I wanted but because of a new medication I couldn't so it was a whole thing for me. My friend ordered the Rib eye though and i had a couple bites of that IT WAS AMAZING he couldn't stop talking about it all night lol His cocktails he said were great and I had one of the non alcoholic cocktails the lavender honey (yay Twisted Bees!!) one and it was truly amazing, I thoroughly enjoyed it as much as I do alcoholic cocktails. Major props to the staff for ignoring my personal issues and being very attentive and helpful. I left much happier then when I came in, it turned my whole night around. read more

came here to grab some drinks, and had a great experience! definitely on the pricier side, and i don't love that you can't substitute any ingredients on the drinks menu, but i did really enjoy the drinks that i tried. i think the ambiance inside the restaurant is nice, and we were able to walk in and get seated immediately on a thursday night. the service was great, and we had a very pleasant evening. i would come back to try some of the food for sure! read more

ambience was great! food was great! drinks were great! service was "meh" Server Pop was mediocre! did bare minimum and even when asked for another drink told us, "i'm off, you'll have to ask another server, can you cash out" upscale place yet service was "expected tip" We tipped $100.00 and it was the example of "tip expected" service! sad but need improvement regarding service.... read more

Good food can't make up for cold service We brought our out-of-town friends to celebrate their engagement. The space was beautiful, and the food was solid. The service left us all feeling like an afterthought. With only a couple other tables seated on a Wed eve, we hoped for a warm, welcoming experience. Instead, our server was dismissive, barely present, and visibly uninterested...right down to an eye roll when our friends shared their proposal video. What should've been a joyful, easy night felt uncomfortable and uninvited. And yes, after $400 dinner; they still charged us for dessert. You may not remember the words; you'll remember they way they made you feel. We don't expect a red carpet, but a little acknowledgment would've gone a long way. There are too many great places in Phoenix that know how to make a celebration feel like one. read more

What a cool place! Something different to experience. The ambiance is super cool , like stepping back in time. Very dark, rich and nostalgic. Amazing bar with crafty cocktails that were served back in the day. Service was excellent, and our server Heather was amazing. She was very fun and friendly. The food was spectacular. All the sides are big portioned and enough to share. I had a great time and will definitely be back. read more

Rough Rider - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I love the ambiance and decor of this restaurant. Once you go through the elevator, it's like being transported away to another time. Their cocktails are out of this world amazing. The chicken dish here is soo good. I still day dream about it. It's so juicy. Recently, got the duck which was also delicious. I have not had a single bad dish here! Service has always been super friendly and on top of it. Love this spot! You're definitely one of my top favorites in the neighborhood! read more

Rough Rider is a hidden speakeasy and one of my all-time favorite date night spots! As soon as you walk in the door it screams 'authentic' speakeasy with its traditional prohibition style and Teddy Roosevelt theme! The drinks are the highlight however their food is always delicious too! Service is always top-notch and totally keeps us coming back! read more

Very nice ambiance, wonderful and attentive service, and the food was phenomenal! We received a free birthday s'mores cake. read more

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Rough Rider's duck breast entree = best meal I've ever had in my life. Love the atmosphere of this place (though it can get a little noisy during happy hour). Friendly service, too. read more

We came for the -$1 off oysters and happy hour! I wasn't a big fan of the sauce the mussels came with i thought it was pretty bland but the oysters were fantastic! They have an Apple vinaigrette that was super tasty and fresh. The potatoes and artichoke were very filling and the cocktails were great! Service was also excellent and the ambiance was nice for a date night. There was no restroom in the restaurant which i thought was strange but other than that it was a great happy hour experience. read more

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Fine dining prices with mediocre service at best. The food was OK. The saving grace of the experience. We had a party of 6 with a reserved table. Drinks were $20, entrées were $50-$100. We waited about 45 minutes from when ready before being able to order an appetizer and get a second round of drinks. Throughout the meal, routine requests took 20-30 minutes despite being simple. The server was at-least knowledgeable despite the faked hospitality. It seemed to me the chef in the back was able to pump out dishes very quickly, only minutes after an order came in. It's just unfortunate that our server was pacing so poorly. As the meal continued my mood progressively got worse. An undisclosed automatic gratuity was added, which made the poor service especially frustrating. I had a theory our server simply didn't care to service our table because she already knew she would collect an automatic gratuity. read more

Ambiance and food was great! Very cozy speak easy vibe. Unfortunately the service was a bit slow of our liking however it did seem there was only one waitress working the tables. read more

Rough Rider - Salmon and Pork - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Wow! I love this place - and it lives up to its instagrammable fame! The lighting is amazing and dim and the menu so beautifully curated to match that Bully of a president Theodore Roosevelt! bsolutely come here before 5pm for their happy hour as there is a mega house salad for $10 that is sure to satiate - They are a land locked state but actually have fresh seafood flown in - Alaskan King Crab is on the menu and at market price its still good to share! There are amazing seafood tower options both large and small. Ryan was a phenomenal host to the city for me giving me a ton of insite on where to go and on certain days during my stay here in Phoenix - thank you so much, sir Ill def be back to try as many cocktails are on the menu! Great work everyone Teddy Roosevelt would be proud! read more

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I'm guessing it was a bad day to begin with when my gal and I went out to eat at the Rough Rider. It was a very cool day and down right cold in the restaurant and way too dark. I ordered Duck and I'm not sure if it was duck I was eating, didn't taste like it and I couldn't see it. I'm not going to go on because I really can't say anything good except the service was fair. I don't like writing bad reviews, so I've said enough . read more

Absolutely a 5-star experience. This is a great place to celebrate any occasion or just for a sumptuous meal. We decided to order a couple of appetizers, cauliflower and crab dip, which were wonderful. Our waitperson, Nicole, was very efficient and did a great job for the whole meal. I ordered the elk chop, cooked rare, and it was absolutely perfect. The flavor oozed out of every bite. I had a cocktail and a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon. Parking is available but I was a passenger so didn't pay much attention. Street parking is always an option. The whole restaurant, which is downstairs has a hunting lodge/Club vibe. There are some great leather armchairs to relax in. This is not a cheap place to eat but there are more expensive restaurants in the vicinity. It's worth every penny. read more

Rough Rider - Crab dip - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Wow wow wow! Our friends took us here and it was an amazing experience! Love the basement speakeasy vibe-super classy ambiance also... the drinks were incredible and the food was delicious. We also had outstanding service with great menu recommendations. My favorite thing was my cactus cocktail and the fried cauliflower was out of this world. Highly recommend and we will absolutely return! I would say the only downer is they sat us at a table by the sushi bar. My friends who had visited before (and had a reservation) were very disappointed with our table location. That area lacks life compared to the other sections of the restaurant. They had no other place to put us, which was upsetting since they'd made a reservation days in advance. I think this space needs work. Plus it was freezing cold! I'm assuming next to a freezer? read more

Rough Rider - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Well, friends, (as our waitress called us all evening), this place is definitely a hit. Although my view wasn't very exciting (looking into a wall that didn't have a lot to admire), the food was incredible. When the friendly waitress says that every table gets the fried cauliflower, just go with it and order it. You won't be sorry. And that crab dip is also highly recommended. I'd ordered the boysenberry sour. My friend the waitress didn't have any, but she brought a lime sour to try. I appreciated the opportunity to taste it, as I had no idea that I'd hate it. So, bring on the Prosecco instead! As for my main entree, I had the Mexican sea bass, which was soooo tasty! The flavors were very yummy. I did want to lick my plate. If you haven't had the opportunity to eat here yet, just do it. read more

Rough Rider - Sea bass - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Went here for a special occasion during the evening and we were not let down, great music and mood lights! The server was super nice and friendly. Dessert was super yummy! read more

Rough Rider - The seafood was fantastic! And the sides were delicious and satisfying! - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Been wanting to go for a while and RR did. It disappoint ! Drinks, appetizers and main courses did not disappoint . Our server was great and enjoyed the ambiance ! read more

This underground restaurant provides relief from the sun with its dark but inviting aesthetic. The pictures on the walls and the menu itself create an environment that sends you back in time to Teddy Roosevelt's rough rider roots. In early October, the restaurant did a great job decorating for Halloween! There are little bats on the lights throughout the space and fake cobwebs. The aesthetic is very festive and also works well with the restaurant's subterranean character. The bar at Rough Rider is so cool with old barrels on the wall and a classic look that makes you think of Roosevelt's presidency. The cocktails are slightly pricey around $17-20ish but they pack a punch. Each cocktail I've had is well worth the price. I particularly like the "True American" with Old Forester, Fernet, and orange juice! I'm a sucker for Fernet so this drink didn't disappoint and offered a neat spin on my go-to mixing alcohol. You won't be disappointed if you stop in just for a drink before going somewhere else for dinner but you should stay for a bite if you can! I've been several times and the menu has just gotten better and better. They offer great fish and oysters if you are looking for something from the sea. Rough Rider also has great meat options. I really enjoyed the ribeye. It was so rich and paired so well with my cocktail. Rough Rider is conveniently situated on the corner of Central and Roosevelt. It is very easy to walk to from most of downtown Phoenix and the streetcar stop just across the road. Driving isn't too hard for downtown with a large parking garage next door. read more

Rough Rider - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Loved the speakeasy style and I loved the food and drinks. Lots of great choices and very knowledgeable servers made for a great night. I made a reservation late so I was seated at the raw bar.. I would want to sit somewhere else next time but again it's about the food and drink and rough rider has this down pat. The seafood tower alone is worth returning for. Go back in time for the evening! read more

Rough Rider - Seafood tower - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I highly recommend coming to rough rider!! I was visiting Phoenix for a conference and came across this online and thought to try it out. It's a very cool underground speakeasy bar/restaurant with amazing decor and vibes. The food was amazing and the drinks were even better. The service was great and the bartender was very nice. read more

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Teddy Roosevelt would be proud. Seriously one of my fave underground (quite literally) places in Phoenix! If you're looking for a dark academia/ American war hero kind of vibe, plus prohibition era cocktails and delicious apps then you HAVE to check this place out. Came here with some ladies for a Bach party bar crawl stop and absolutely LOVED it! We ordered several drinks including Through The Looking Glass, Truly, Madly, Deeply, Potion Seller, and a Tapiz Malbec. Everything was incredible (and incredibly effective at adding to our Bach night out). Returning with my history buff in-laws soon! read more

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It's first Friday and the area was picking up. We decided to stop in for food and drinks. We were told it's an hour wait for seats at a table and bar. Less than 10 minutes, they sat us at the bar. It was a good start but it didn't last. Not all the bartenders were busy so there were no reasons for the lack of service. My partner wanted to leave. I wanted to give them a chance. We finally ordered carpaccio and drinks and asked for the check. The carpaccio wasn't the best. It was bland. The sauerkraut, dressing and crumbs didn't help, so we pushed it aside. As for the drinks, they weren't anything unique. No one behind the bar ask how we were doing, so we left. read more

Rough Rider - 09.06.24 Carpaccio was ok. - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Ambiance: We appreciated the overall atmosphere and setting of the restaurant. Food: The flavors were new and memorable, suggesting a positive and unexpected culinary experience. Service: The staff provided attentive and high-quality service, enhancing your overall dining experience. read more

Appetizer: Mussels 5/5 Entree: Pork Chop 5/5 Dessert: Smores Cake & pavlova 5/5 Service was phenomenal and attentive. Ambiance was sexy and dim lit Tyler the bartender provided exceptional service, suggestions and conversation! His req did not miss! read more

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Always happy to support a queer friendly business with great service! While it's definitely on the pricier end, the food and cocktails were great. It's nice to see some non-alcoholic options that aren't just soda or straight juice. A great option for a nice night out or a fancy cocktail. read more

Rough Rider - Don't harsh my mallow - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

The food here was AMAZING!! We got the duck confit and the pasta and both were super delicious. The atmosphere was really cool, they really go all in on the theme which is really fun. The only thing that didn't really match the vibe was the maybe the music, although it was good music. The drinks were also really good with some pretty unique choices on the menu and our server was super friendly and always there when we needed her. We let them know we were in for my husband's birthday and they gave us a free dessert! read more

Rough Rider - Cobbler cocktails - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

As a long-term Yelper, choosing a birthday dining spot is no easy task. I had a lot of factors: food, drinks, ambiance, and novelty. This year, Rough Rider won out from roughly two dozen possibilities. It did not disapoint. I'll start with the ambiance... sophisticated western (which could describe Roosevelt himself). Leather, woods, and bourbon led me to my first drink: Legend Old Fashioned. I've had a lot of Old Fashions and this is easily in the top ten. I would typically balk at the price, but I would pay for this again. I didn't order a second. Instead, I ordered its bourbon straight up. We opted for half a dozen oysters to start (East coast); three different sauces, all excellent. I went for the Bone in Pork Chop and my date the Ribeye. Both were excellent and cooked perfectly. The sauces were phenomenal, and this can easily make or break a dish. All the while, outstanding service (it was a Sunday evening, so perhaps quieter than some other nights). We finished sharing the Goat Milk Panna Cotta, rich, not too sweet, delicious. We will return. What I appreciate most: the menu is limited... which tells me they do better on what they offer. RR is not to be missed. read more

Rough Rider - Bone in Pork in the foreground, Ribeye for the Mrs. - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This place is a Gem!! Is in DTPHX, so great if you are nearby. Cocktails are in the pricier side but worth it. They also have really good food which is usually atypical for these type of places. read more

Pretty good food and drinks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The food is absolutely amazing! The ambience and customer service is excellent. I will definitely be back!

We went to Rough Rider for the basement speakeasy vibe and kitschy Teddy Roosevelt concept, but ended up loving the food and drink as well. Portions are large, hearty, and extremely flavorful, and the tag team service of multiple waitstaff is attentive and cheerful. We particularly loved the spicy, layered tastes of the white bean dish. The potatoes and artichokes dish also was a rich, perfectly cooked delight. My favorite drink was the Martini of Honor, which was essentially the most delicious and perfectly balanced Vesper ever, with gin, vodka, a housemade vermouth blend, and orange bitters. I need to go back for another! While pricey, the quality and portions warrant the cost -- especially since everything is pricey these days. read more

Rough Rider - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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If you know...you know! RoughRider is the perfect place to go and while away your time with a nice cocktail. Really friendly genuine staff that actually want to chat. They are very knowledgeable and will even mix up a custom drink for you. The decor is both moody and cozy, take the middle elevator down and you arrive at the place you've always wanted to go to. Warm wood and horsey details great you, the staff are really kind and friendly. Its quite spacious and cozy with arm chair areas, tables and a most gracious bar, truly one of the loveliest bars I've seen in a while. The decor draws the eye in and the people watching is fun. The drinks are innovative, creative and something different than all the other bars offer. If you cannot decide the bartenders are gracious and may even mix you your own concoction based on your likes. I will certainly go again and again!! read more

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This place never disappoints. The lighting the vibes are always perfect! Our waitress was phenomenal and helped me pick the perfect the martini! 100% will come back again read more

We had the most incredible dining experience at Rough Rider this evening. Our waitress, Olivia was attentive and extremely knowledgeable! She provided recommendations for us when we were unsure what to order and successfully guided us to heaven and back. The cocktails were unique and out of this world delicious. I am a huge mezcal fan, and the Twisted Nectar was to die for. We started with the oysters- the best mignonette we have ever had and the oysters were extremely fresh. We then had the crab dip which was like a mouth hug with delicious bread. Next for our main, we ordered the ribeye steak prepared medium rare and the cauliflower for a side. The cauliflower was the best thing we ate all night- truly a showstopper. The steak was cooked to perfection melt in your mouth good on a bed of the most decedent and delicious mashed potatoes. We then finished with the s'mores dessert which was the perfect ending to the perfect meal. 10/10 we cannot wait to go back and visit Olivia. She even brought us a little surprise when we told her that we are getting married soon! read more

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Only came in here for drinks so this is a drinks only review. Really unique speakeasy! Have to take an elevator to get to it. Made reservations through Open Table and was seated right away. My wife ordered the "Twisted Nectar" while I ordered "The Belefonte (Non Alcoholic)." My wife wasn't a fan of her drink, if I remember correctly she said it tasted like a fruity cough syrup. The Belefonte had a good mix of cherry lime/coconut flavor combo to it. It was good, but not sure if I would order it again. They do have a Happy Hour from 3pm-5pm Tuesday-Sunday. Not sure if I would come back, but I would take someone here if they never been since it's really nice inside. read more

Rough Rider - Left: Twisted Nectar Right: The Belefonte (NA) - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

A speakeasy from an elevator below, great design, great vibe bartenders, super friendly, and the food was actually amazing. I only had the muscles which were fantastic and the Crudo, which was fresh and delicious. They are fresh squeeze juices to go with your cocktails. Highly recommend this place. read more

Rough Rider - New American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona