Big E Steakhouse & Saloon
Experience a step back in time at this Western-themed steakhouse, complete with rustic decor, live entertainment, and hearty American cuisine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Big E Steakhouse & Saloon
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience a step back in time at this Western-themed steakhouse, complete with rustic decor, live entertainment, and hearty American cuisine.
"Step into an Old Western movie set with delicious food and unforgettable ambiance!"
Visit Off-Peak Hours
Expect longer wait times during busy periods; try visiting during off-peak hours for quicker service.
Saloon Signature Cocktails
Experience the Old West fully by trying their signature cocktails at the saloon.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American Steakhouse
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Old Western Ambiance
Step into a movie set with rustic decor, cowboy memorabilia, and vintage saloon vibes.
Fall-Off-The-Bone Tender Ribs
Savor flavorful, tender ribs that are a true highlight of the menu, packed with smoky goodness.
Live Entertainment & Saloon Experience
Enjoy a complete Western experience with magicians, live music, and signature cocktails at the bar.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit Off-Peak Hours
Expect longer wait times during busy periods; try visiting during off-peak hours for quicker service.
Saloon Signature Cocktails
Experience the Old West fully by trying their signature cocktails at the saloon.
Book Ahead for Tables
Consider making reservations, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your table.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit Off-Peak Hours
Expect longer wait times during busy periods; try visiting during off-peak hours for quicker service.
Saloon Signature Cocktails
Experience the Old West fully by trying their signature cocktails at the saloon.
Book Ahead for Tables
Consider making reservations, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your table.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Big E Steakhouse & Saloon offers a unique Old Western ambiance and is praised for its flavorful ribs and generous portions. While many enjoy the steaks and the lively atmosphere with entertainment, some find the prices to be on the higher side for the quality and portion size. Service is generally noted as friendly and accommodating, making it a memorable dining experience near the Grand Canyon.
"A Perfect Old Western Dining Experience
If you’ve ever wanted to step into an Old Western movie while enjoying an unforgettable meal, this restaurant is the place to be. From the moment you walk in, the creative decor transports you straight to the Wild West, with rustic wooden furniture, vintage cowboy memorabilia, and dim lantern lighting that adds to the charm. It’s like dining in a saloon from another era!
But the atmosphere is just the beginning—let’s talk about the food. The ribs were outstanding—fall-off-the-bone tender, smoky, and packed with flavor. The onion soup was rich and comforting, with the perfect balance of savory broth and melted cheese. And for dessert, the strawberry shortcake was simply divine, with fresh berries and fluffy whipped cream on a perfectly baked biscuit.
The service was just as impressive. Our server, Javier, was friendly, attentive, and made sure we had everything we needed. It’s rare to find a restaurant that excels in atmosphere, food, and service all at once, but this place delivers on every level. Not only was everything delicious, but the restaurant was also clean, well-organized, and service was fast—a true gem.
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience that offers amazing food, an incredible setting, and top-notch service, look no further. Highly recommended!"
Jessica Teeters
"This steakhouse is outstanding! The steaks were cooked to absolute perfection—tender, juicy, and full of flavor. You can really tell they use high-quality cuts and know exactly how to prepare them. The sides were just as impressive, with generous portions and just the right balance of flavor to complement the meal. From start to finish, everything was top-notch. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a true steakhouse experience! Bonus: a great wildlife encounter from our table :)"
Kayla Bergman
"The food was really good, just a bit higher priced than it should have been. The service was fabulous! I ordered the Chicken Cobb salad and added steak to it. It was super yummy after a long day of hiking the Grand Canyon."
Traveling wvcouple
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The restaurant boasts a unique Old Western movie setting with rustic wooden furniture, vintage cowboy memorabilia, and saloon-style decor. It aims to transport diners to the Wild West.
The ribs are frequently praised for being fall-off-the-bone tender and flavorful. Many also enjoy the steaks and burgers. Consider the signature cocktails from the saloon.
Some reviewers note that the prices are a bit higher than expected for the food quality or portion size, though others find it reasonable for the location and experience.
Yes, the restaurant often features entertainment such as magicians and live music, enhancing the Western experience.
It is recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure you get a table.
Portion sizes are generally described as generous, particularly for the main entrees like steaks and ribs.
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10 Best Restaurants in the Grand Canyon + MAP
Big E Steakhouse & Saloon, bearing the name of its founder Elling “Big E” Halvorson, is a testament to the enduring charm of the old Southwest and one of the best restaurants near the Grand Canyon South Rim, in Tusayan. Arriving in the Grand Canyon area in 1963 to work on the construction of a monumental pipeline, Halvorson became captivated by the region’s beauty and decided to make it his permanent home. Today, his establishment is renowned for its generous portions and authentic Western ambiance.
Big E Steakhouse & Saloon - Tusayan Restaurant
Twin statues of cowboys-on-horseback flank the entrance to this wood-and-stone, lodge-like dining hall. As if the spectacular scenery just outside the front door could ever let you forget, the décor inside reminds you that you are dining in the heart of the old Southwest. The dining room is warmly lit by rustic chandeliers, while the walls are designed to resemble saloon storefronts of the Wild West yesteryears.
The 10 Best Places to Eat Near the Grand Canyon
The Big E Steakhouse and Saloon is an excellent place to eat if you’re looking for a hearty meal served in large portions. It’s a steakhouse that offers an extensive menu with several entree options and side dishes to choose from. Also, there is a saloon attached to enjoy a few drinks of your favorite beer or cocktails after dinner.
Top Restaurants in Tusayan, AZ: Dining Near Grand Canyon
There is nothing like a good, old-fashioned steakhouse and saloon. After a full day of taking in breathtaking scenery, marveling at the beauty of the Grand Canyon, and experiencing jaw-dropping vistas, Big E Steakhouse is the perfect way to end the day. Start with a signature cocktail in the saloon.
°GRAND CANYON PLAZA HOTEL TUSAYAN, AZ 3* (United States) - from £ 81
The rooms at this Tusayan property include blackout curtains and air conditioning. Some of them comprise a balcony and a terrace, furnished with a cupboard and a sofa. Along with a coffeemaker, they also have free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen television to keep you entertained.
Dining in Grand Canyon National Park
Enjoy the best steaks and saloon-style eats in Grand Canyon National Park at the Big E Steakhouse & Saloon. Their menu features juicy steaks, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more. Don't forget to try their signature Cowboy Cut Ribeye steak for an unforgettable experience.
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The charming mountain town of Flagstaff is only one-and-a-half hours from Grand Canyon Visitor Center on the South Rim. Find our detailed descriptions of top lodging in Flagstaff in our Ultimate Flagstaff Travel Guide.
Discover Top Restaurants in Grand Canyon
Big E Steakhouse & Saloon in Tusayan is a haven for meat lovers. This restaurant is known for its hearty steaks, ribs, and prime ribs, all cooked to perfection. They are also served in generous portions.
Tusayan (Purple) Route Shuttle Bus — Park & Ride
Day use and overnight visitors can park anywhere in Tusayan to take the bus, including the Grand Hotel, Big E Steakhouse, IMAX/R.P.'s Stage Stop, and the park-and-ride lot on the north end of town.
Visiting Grand Canyon National Park? Don’t Go Hungry, Check Out These Top Places to Grab Some Grub
Big E Steakhouse & Saloon, 3.8 on Google Reviews, Western-style steakhouse “pairing its meats with drinks & entertainment including a magician & music.
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Experience the essence of American cuisine with hearty steaks and a charming atmosphere at Big E Steakhouse & Saloon in Grand Canyon Village.
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Big E was pretty disappointing, though the service was good. Plaza Bonita was actually quite good. We ordered fajitas and sat at the bar.
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