Quote: This family-owned, regional chain serves a good steak dinner at a reasonable price. The Old West atmosphere is family-friendly, and so is the staff. Our waitress was very attentive--I had the distinct impression that no matter how rude a customer may be, she would just smile and say, "Yes, sir. How can I make it better?"

The chain was started by a real Arizona cattle rancher and his son in the 1960s, and they continue the tradition of a quality meal at a reasonable price to this day. Dinners run from $12 to $30, with a great dinner for two priced at $54. We each had a sirloin with all the fixings and a drink for $50 with tip.

The menu is basic steakhouse fare and features Harris Ranch beef. All meals include cowboy beans and your choice of potato, with a green salad and warm, fresh bread. We weren't rushed through our meal, as some places do, but allowed to actually finish our salads before the entree arrived, something I appreciate very much.

Cattlemen's specific gimmick is that they age and cut their beef on the premises. The meat is definitely better quality than your average chain steakhouse fare, and cooked correctly for a refreshing change. You can peruse the whole story at their website, BestSteakintheWest.com.

Cattlemen's is conveniently located next to the La Quinta Hotel on Hilltop Drive. If you normally look for Applebee's, Red Lobster, or similar big-box eateries, you will find Cattlemen's to be a nice diversion from the usual I-5 offerings. They also have properties in the Sacramento and Santa Rosa areas, as well as one in Carson City, NV.

From journals Redding, CA--Two Days on the Road