There’s a chain restaurant that my niece absolutely loves visiting, mainly because of its lush rainforest theme and animal decor. She’s a picky eater, so there’s not much on the menu that she enjoys---but it’s the atmosphere that always entices her to return. Theme restaurants are nothing new, but much like my niece’s experiences, they can be fun to visit once, twice, or even more often. Check out these 12 themed restaurants in Arizona that are completely unique. Arizona has no shortage of tons of fun things to do!
1. Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In, Seligman
This historic restaurant goes all out when it comes to themed restaurants. The kitsch factor is high and it can be difficult to figure out where to start in explaining this place to others. Let’s just say it’s exactly what you would expect from a Route 66 roadside eatery.
2. George and Dragon English Restaurant and Pub, Phoenix
If you’re a bit of an Anglophile like me, you’ll want to be sure to pay a visit to this restaurant and pub. The decor shows off their English pride and the menu has staples like bangers and mash.
3. Hula’s Modern Tiki, Phoenix
Tiki bars saw their most popular days in the years after World War II but you can still find them scattered around the US. Hula’s combines that retro vibe with a sleek, modern look.
4. MacAlpine’s Soda Fountain, Phoenix (temporarily closed)
It’s a rare treat to come across a traditional soda fountain these days and Arizona is home to at least one popular location that has been in service since the 1920s. Stop in for a delicious ice cream soda and a burger.
5. Organ Stop Pizza, Mesa
Even upon driving up to this restaurant, you can easily tell this its theme: the restaurant’s massive Wurlitzer pipe organ is visible through a glass window. It makes for a fun visit if you want to hear your favorite song played on a pipe organ. Location: 1149 East Southern Avenue, Mesa
6. Pinnacle Peak, Tucson
Located in the Dust Town attraction, this steakhouse has the Old West feel you would expect from an Arizona restaurant. Also, if you show up with a tie, be prepared to have it cut off!
7. Raceway Bar & Grill, Maricopa
Have a love for racing? You won’t want to miss this Maricopa restaurant which has both an eclectic style and menu.
8. Rawhide Steakhouse and Saloon, Chandler
Part of the Rawhide Western Town attraction, this steakhouse offers a heavy dose of Old West themes. Location: 5700 West North Loop Road, Chandler
9. Roadkill Cafe, Seligman
The roadside attraction does exist! While the "you kill it, we grill it" motto doesn’t apply (thanks in part to health codes) it does have the atmosphere you would expect from a restaurant with such a name.
10. Rustler’s Rooste, Phoenix
This steakhouse is one of the many Western themed restaurants you will find here in Arizona with an emphasis on the ranching and mining history. You won’t want to miss a trip down their slide and the live country music.
11. Space Age Restaurant, Gila Bend
I think most people tend to associate aliens with a couple of our neighboring states but here’s one place where your alien interests can be welcomed and celebrated. While the menu has typical diner fare, the decor appears out of this world.
12. Wild West Junction, Williams
Another place to experience a taste of the Old West, Wild West Junction has both a saloon and restaurant where you can get a glimpse into the past.
Have you enjoyed a meal at any of these unique restaurants? I’d like to hear your experiences and suggestions in the comments section below!
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