Rusty Bull Roadhouse offers good times, great meals in Apple Valley

The Rusty Bull Roadhouse opened in 2016, describing itself as “a traditional American roadhouse with Western décor and atmosphere.”

Oxford Languages defines “roadhouse” as a tavern, inn, or club on a country road.” The term is further defined as “an inn … providing liquor, meals, and dancing … ."

Co-owners Brad Avery and Renee Vicary know the secret of success for their roadhouse business venture rests on two main factors: Comfort food “scratch-made” plus a wide selection of beverages for all ages and an enjoyable experience for the entire family.

In addition, the service is unbeatable; many call the service “excellent.”

Either way, when you stop in, expect a wonderful meal and a fabulous time at the Rusty Bull.

The key is 'people first'

Whether you want a family night out or seek a venue for a larger group, Rusty Bull Roadhouse can fill the bill. They have two banquet rooms — one for up to 40 people, the other holding up to 70. The rooms are free; Rusty Bull just charges for the food.

There is also a dance floor and a larger “out the door” patio available for rent for a perfect evening celebration for a wedding reception, retirement party, birthday, anniversary, reunion or another occasion.

Rusty Bull can handle parties from “big to giant; and when it comes to their food, beverages, and service, that will seal the deal.

Famous burgers

Their steaks come from Harris Ranch, famous for grading their meats higher than USDA. Rusty Bull steaks are hand cut and cooked to your order. The best cuts are available, including ribeye, New York, filet mignon, porterhouse, top sirloin, and flat iron. But there is so much more — every Wednesday is Prime Rib day.

While steaks take top billing at Rusty Bull Roadhouse, the restaurant is also known for its giant burgers. Vicary refers to them as “steak burgers” because bits of steak from the hand-cutting is tossed into the grinder and incorporated with the ground beef. Their burgers sound intriguing: TheCowboy, The Cowgirl, The Ol’ Bleu Burger, and more.

More on the menu

If you’re a seafood fan or crave nothing more than a fantastic salad, Rusty Bull Roadhouse won’t disappoint. Their complete menu is available on their website, and you can get a jumpstart on selecting your meal before you leave the home.

Starters, plates — steak plates with two sides (and sauteed mushrooms or grilled onions available for an additional charge) as well as chicken and waffles, country fried steaks, and baskets — huge steak burgers;  wings, salads, and super desserts make for tough choices if you have lots of favorites, but Rusty Bull wants everyone to come back again and again, so you try everything at least once. Who knows? You may add more favorites to your list.

And don’t forget to check their sides: 2x4 plank fries, chili, coleslaw, mac and cheese, to name just a few.

Drafts, crafts and bottled beer, full bar

Beverages to compliment the meal are a specialty at Rusty Bull, too, with bottled beer and seltzer options as well as craft beer, draft beer, and impressive whiskey choices. Bottled wines include Canyon Road and Dark Horse labels

Community conscious

An active participant in Apple Valley Village events — because the location was “chosen to help revive one of the greatest areas of the town that has been lost over time” — Rusty Bull Roadhouse believes in giving back to the community. If your club or organization is looking for a meeting place, talk to the Rusty Bull about setting up to accommodate your meeting or event.

Kids and seniors friendly

Kids eat free every Tuesday, and they can enjoy the video game area as well. Seniors receive a discount on their meals every day. Portions are large, and the “split plate” option is available for diners who wish to share.

When you go

Rusty Bull Roadhouse, 13685 John Glenn Road, Apple Valley. Open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Website is therustybull.com. Telephone is 760-961-7979.

Join the VIP Email Club on their website to receive special offers and a chance to win prizes. Follow @rustybullroadhouse on Instagram and on Facebook @therustybull. Dine in, take out or delivery from DoorDash and Grubhub. 

Dining Around

If you would like your restaurant profiled in Dining Around or want to tell readers about your favorite eatery, please contact Kathy Young at the Daily Press by text, 760-953-8682, or by email at kyoung3@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Rusty Bull Roadhouse makes a name for itself for good food and service