The Prime Rib At El Corral In Arizona Has Been Delighting Taste Buds Since The 1920s
Nothing hits the spot quite like a tender, juicy prime rib, especially when the recipe has stood the test of time. El Corral is an almost century-old Tucson institution that serves up one of the best prime ribs you’ll ever eat. Make sure to get a side of tamale pie!
El Corral, one of the most iconic steakhouses in Tucson, is located in a building that dates to 1926. Although ownership has changed several times over the years, the same long-standing traditions established nearly a century ago are still in place today.
Current dine-in hours are 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. daily, and reservations are strongly encouraged.
Upon stepping inside, you'll find yourself whisked back to the era when cowboys ruled the vast Arizona desert landscape. Authentic Western memorabilia is plastered all over the walls, with everything from cowhide chairs to a real hat and boots worn by Chill Wills setting the scene.
One doesn't simply come to El Corral for a meal, but rather a full-blown dining experience.
Front-and-center on the menu is the famous El Corral prime rib, its popularity resulting from over 50 years of experience. In order from smallest to largest, there are three cuts to choose from: the signature El Corral, Arizona, and Catalina.
No matter your appetite level, rest-assured nobody leaves the table hungry.
The prime rib is slow-roasted and served with au jus sauce and uncut horseradish. For maximum flavor and tenderness, the restaurant highly recommends ordering it medium rare.
A side of tamale pie makes for a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs meal that your taste buds won't soon forget.
Here's a close-up shot of the tamale pie. An El Corral specialty since 1975, this corn and chile casserole is topped with tons of melty cheddar cheese. It has a slight kick, but the heat adds a depth-of-flavor that'll have you swooning after just one bite.
Just don't accidentally mistake it for butter, and you should be fine.
Other entrees include mesquite-grilled steaks, baby back ribs, chicken, salmon, pasta, and salads. You'll also see a variety of appetizers in addition to sides like baked potatoes, mac 'n cheese, and fresh vegetables.
Try your best to save room for dessert! The decadent Adobe Mud Pie, which consists of coffee ice cream and chocolate sauce layered atop an Oreo crust, is known all across Tucson.
After your meal, grab a seat at the bar and peruse the extensive beverage list. From fine wine to handcrafted cocktails to spiked coffee, there's a little bit of everything.
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.
