This Historic Restaurant In Tempe, Arizona Serves The Southwest’s Most Unforgettable Prime Rib
There’s a quiet corner of Tempe where the past and the palate meet over a plate of prime rib that could easily become the stuff of legend. I walked in on a lazy Saturday afternoon, the hum of conversation blending with the clink of glasses and the distant whirr of an old ceiling fan.
The walls are lined with photographs of the city’s early days, and the aroma of slow‑roasted beef drifts from the kitchen like a comforting promise.
When the first bite lands on my fork-tender, buttery, edged with just the right hint of smoky char-I’m reminded why this historic eatery has earned its reputation as the Southwest’s most unforgettable steakhouse.
Join me as I explore what makes this modest yet magnificent spot a must‑visit for anyone craving a truly iconic meal. Arizona nostalgia hits the moment you step inside, and by the time the prime rib arrives, you understand why locals never stop coming back.
The Prime Rib That Started It All
Picture a thick, juicy slab of prime rib cooked exactly how you like it, with that perfect pink center that practically melts on your tongue.
Guests rave about how the kitchen nails the temperature every single time, whether you order it medium rare or even well done. One happy diner mentioned getting a well done steak butterflied for even cooking, and it still tasted incredible without drying out.
The prime rib comes with all the classic fixings you’d hope for, including creamy horseradish that adds just the right kick. Pair it with one of the signature sides, and you’ve got yourself a meal that feels both indulgent and totally worth every penny.
What really sets this prime rib apart is the attention to detail in every step of preparation, making sure each bite delivers that rich, beefy flavor people travel across town to experience.
The Keg Steakhouse at 23 S McClintock Dr in Tempe, Arizona knows how to treat a cut of beef right, slow roasting each piece until it reaches that sweet spot between tender and flavorful.
That Twice Baked Potato Everyone Talks About
Some side dishes are just forgettable afterthoughts, but not here. The twice baked potato at The Keg deserves its own standing ovation, loaded with creamy goodness and topped with all the right stuff.
I remember the first time I ordered one alongside my steak, thinking it would be just another potato. Boy, was I wrong.
The outside had this perfect slight crispness while the inside was whipped into fluffy, buttery heaven with cheese melted throughout.
Regular guests consistently mention this potato as a highlight of their meal, praising how it pairs beautifully with the prime rib without stealing the show. The kitchen clearly takes pride in getting the texture just right, making sure it’s neither too dry nor too heavy.
You can taste the quality in every forkful, from the real butter to the generous cheese portions mixed in. It’s comfort food elevated to steakhouse standards, the kind of side that makes you want to order two.
Honestly, some people come back just for this potato, and after trying it yourself, you’ll totally get why.
Fresh Bread Service That Sets The Mood
Walking into a restaurant and getting hit with the smell of fresh baked bread is one of life’s simple pleasures. The Keg understands this perfectly, bringing warm loaves to your table with whipped butter that spreads like a dream.
Multiple visitors have called out this bread service as something special, with one person admitting they could have easily eaten two more loaves by themselves. The bread arrives warm enough to melt the butter on contact, creating that perfect combination of soft interior and slightly crusty exterior.
What makes this detail so important is how it sets the tone for the entire meal, showing you right away that this place cares about every element of your dining experience. The whipped butter is light and airy, making it easy to slather on thick without feeling guilty.
Some steakhouses skip this old school touch or phone it in with mediocre rolls, but not here. The bread service alone has earned devoted fans who look forward to it as much as the main course, turning a simple appetizer into a memorable part of the evening.
Caesar Salads Worth Writing Home About
Caesar salads can be hit or miss at restaurants, often arriving as sad piles of wilted lettuce with bottled dressing. The Keg flips that script entirely, serving up Caesar salads that taste like someone actually cared about making them delicious.
Diners consistently praise these salads as the perfect way to start a meal, with crisp romaine, generous parmesan shavings, and dressing that has just the right amount of tang. The ingredients taste fresh and thoughtfully combined, never drowning in too much dressing or skimping on the good stuff.
During special events like Arizona Restaurant Week, the Caesar often appears as part of a three course meal, and it never disappoints as an opening act.
The portion size hits that sweet spot where you feel satisfied but not stuffed before your main course arrives.
One couple celebrating their anniversary specifically mentioned how delicious their Caesar salads were, setting a positive tone for the rest of their special evening. Sometimes the simplest dishes reveal the most about a restaurant’s standards, and these salads prove The Keg doesn’t phone anything in.
Bacon Wrapped Scallops That Steal Hearts
Seafood at a steakhouse might seem like a risky move, but The Keg knows how to make it work beautifully. The bacon wrapped scallops are proof that when you combine quality ingredients with skilled preparation, magic happens on the plate.
One first time scallop eater described trying them here as an experience that definitely did not disappoint, which speaks volumes about how approachable and delicious they make this dish. The bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that complements the tender, sweet scallop meat perfectly.
Each scallop gets wrapped with care and cooked just right, avoiding that rubbery texture that happens when seafood sits too long under heat. The presentation looks elegant without being fussy, making it a great choice whether you’re a seafood veteran or trying something new.
For people who usually stick to beef at steakhouses, these scallops offer a refreshing change of pace that still feels indulgent and special. The kitchen clearly sources quality seafood and treats it with the same respect they show their prime cuts of meat, creating a menu where everything shines.
Billy Miner Pie That Ends Things Right
Ending a big steak dinner with dessert might seem like overkill, but The Keg’s Billy Miner Pie makes a convincing argument for finding room. This mocha ice cream creation is described as a beast, perfect for sharing, and surprisingly not too rich or sweet despite its impressive size.
What’s remarkable is how even people who normally avoid anything coffee flavored find themselves enjoying this dessert, thanks to its balanced flavor profile. The pie combines chocolate and mocha in a way that feels indulgent without being overwhelming, making it an ideal finish after a hearty meal.
Multiple guests have mentioned this specific dessert by name in their reviews, which tells you it’s earned a special place in the hearts of regular visitors. The portion is generous enough that two people can comfortably share one slice, making it a smart choice for couples or friends dining together.
One birthday celebrant called it a mocha ice cream monster super happy slice, which pretty much sums up the joyful experience of digging into this dessert. It’s the kind of sweet ending that makes you leave the restaurant with a smile.
Atmosphere That Makes Every Meal Special
Great food only tells half the story of a memorable dining experience. The Keg creates an environment where you can actually relax and enjoy your meal without fighting against loud music, harsh lighting, or uncomfortable temperatures.
Guests consistently praise the thoughtful atmosphere, mentioning how the music stays at a pleasant low volume while the lighting creates a warm, intimate mood.
The temperature stays comfortable throughout the meal, which might seem like a small detail but makes a huge difference when you’re settling in for a leisurely dinner.
The lounge area offers a slightly different vibe for those who want a more casual experience, while the main dining room feels perfect for celebrations and special occasions. Staff members greet guests warmly and actually congratulate people on anniversaries and birthdays, making everyone feel welcome and valued.
Whether you snag a cozy booth or a regular table, the space feels both upscale and approachable, never stuffy or pretentious. The whole setup encourages you to slow down, savor your meal, and enjoy the company of whoever you brought along for the evening.
Tucked away on McClintock Drive in Tempe this is a steakhouse that knows how to make prime rib the way it should be made.