Silver Saddle Steakhouse

The first thing that stands out at Silver Saddle Steakhouse is the smell of mesquite smoke drifting from the grill. The restaurant at 310 E Benson Highway has fed Tucson since the early 1980s (sources date it between 1980 and 1984), in a building that began life as the Pickwick Inn, and the Alva family has chosen to keep the original character of the place.

Steaks over mesquite

Mesquite wood gives the steaks a smoky flavor, and the kitchen is known for not seasoning the meat unless you ask. The menu is built around big cuts: a 24 oz Porter House and prime rib in several sizes, a specialty that arrived when the Alva family took over. Smaller appetites can choose a six-ounce top sirloin, and the menu also includes mesquite-grilled chicken, lobster tail and crab legs.

Rooms and atmosphere

The Tapadera Lounge has a bar built from mesquite wood framed in African hardwood, and the wood grain is part of the decor. It is a family-friendly place, with a children's menu that offers miniature versions of adult dishes and a Bronco Burger for people who prefer a sandwich.

The restaurant's story includes some hard years. Construction to widen Interstate 10 started a few years after opening and dragged on for more than a year, making the restaurant hard to reach, and it has kept going through that and other changes.

Common Questions

What cuts does Silver Saddle serve?
The menu includes a 24 oz Porter House, prime rib in various sizes and a six-ounce top sirloin.

Are steaks seasoned?
Reportedly not unless you request it, so ask your server if you want seasoning.

Is there a kids' menu?
Yes, including smaller versions of adult dishes and a Bronco Burger.

What are the hours?
Call (520) 622-6253 or check thesilversaddlesteakhouse.com for current hours.

What was the building before?
It was the Pickwick Inn before becoming a steakhouse.