Ten Favorite Theme Restaurants in Arizona

Organ Stop Pizza

Because sometimes a great meal just doesn't cut it.

Think about it -- what if FnB had a giant slide in the middle of the dining room? Or if Pizzeria Bianco did dinner theater? Super-fun, right?

Okay, we love our upscale eateries exactly how they are (and we do not want them to change a thing), but that doesn't mean we can't appreciate a little mechanical bull riding with a giant steak every once in a while.

Here are our 10 favorite restaurants that serve up the food with a side of fun.

10. Rustler's Rooste, Phoenix -- This Western-themed eatery isn't your run-of-the-mill steakhouse. No, sir, this place has its very own giant slide and a real live steer that greets you at the door. Family-owed and -operated since 1971, Ruster's Rooste has been a go-to spot for family fun with a great view. The two-story restaurant and saloon is situated on a small mountain (maybe more of a hill) in the midst of the Arizona Grand resort. Adults can sip on Reposado margaritas while taking in a beautiful Western sunset, the kiddos can entertain the idea of eating rattlesnake and play on the big metal slide, and everyone will leave full and happy.

9. GameWorks, Tempe -- Sometimes we like to get down with a little video game action. But we aren't going to make the trip to Arizona Mills for just video games -- we're going to need a couple strong cocktails and a tangy pulled pork sandwich. This Tempe video game geek institution always has the best games and makes a great spot to bring a fun-loving date or let the kids play their video game-loving hearts out while you spend some quality time with your significant other over a better than expected dinner. Check out GameWorks' Facebook page for weekly dinner deals.

8. Black Bart's Steakhouse, Flagstaff -- We tend to throw the term "tucked away" around a little too much, but this cozy cabin-style restaurant is literally "tucked away" -- in an R.V. park. Black Bart's is hidden among the trees and the trailers of Flagstaff and employs a secret weapon of highly talented NAU students with an affinity for show tunes who like to bust out in song at various times during your meal. The perfect out-of-town spot to enjoy a well cooked steak and a well sung show tune or six, this place is worth the hunt. It's an experience every Arizonan should have at least once in his or her lifetime!

7. Studio Movie Grill, Scottsdale -- We have mixed views on dining while movie viewing but of all the new dine-in movie theaters out there, Studio Movie Grill serves up a top-notch experience. Start off with a refreshing cocktail from the extensive drink menu and then choose your meal from a whole bunch of classic dining options. Burger, chicken fingers, tacos, and salads are all made using fresh quality ingredients. Unlike a couple of the other dine-in chains, Studio Grill lets you order anytime during the movie and if things get too graphic on the screen, you can head out to their impressive lobby bar.
See also: Our discussion of the relative merits of movie theater dining.