It’s not often that a restaurant alone is enough to pull me off the hiking trail, but when you spot a giant pie sign beckoning from the roadside, well, some exceptions simply must be made. The Rock Springs Café is more than just a café; it’s a destination in itself. Famous for its mouthwatering pies, the true charm of Rock Springs Cafe lies in its rich history, a story etched into the very walls of this Arizona landmark.
Stepping Back in Time: The History of Rock Springs Cafe
An old covered wagon in front of the Rock Springs Cafe.
Rock Springs Café isn’t just a place to grab a bite; it’s a journey back in time. Imagine this spot in the 1800s – a bustling Yavapai Indian encampment, a temporary military camp, and a vital water stop for weary miners, cattle drivers, and travelers navigating the rugged Arizona terrain. This rich tapestry of history, as detailed on their website’s history page, sets the stage for the unique experience that awaits.
Fast forward to 1918, when Ben Warner recognized the needs of these travelers and built the first store here, catering to those transitioning from stagecoaches to the newly popular automobiles. By 1924, his vision expanded to include a hotel and general store, officially opening the doors to what would become the Rock Springs Cafe we know today.
The interior of the Rock Springs Cafe with wood tables and a giant stone fireplace in the far wall.
For eight decades, “The Rock,” as it affectionately became known, was a beloved haven for travelers. Today, its legacy continues. While the hotel is no longer in operation, the complex still encompasses several buildings, including a spacious patio area perfect for events.
The Store fronts outside the Rock Springs Cafe.
The side area of the Rock Springs that has an outdoor event space with another old carriage.
The stream behind the Rock Springs Cafe.
The history permeates every corner of this old building. If you’re eager to delve deeper into the captivating story of this Arizona landmark, you can explore more on their history page.
Fueling Your Adventures: Breakfast at Rock Springs Cafe
While pie might be the headliner at Rock Springs Café (more on that tempting subject later), my visit started bright and early with a hearty breakfast. The “Big Sky Combo” caught my eye – a satisfying spread of 2 pancakes (or French toast), 2 eggs, and a generous serving of 4 slices of bacon.
Scrambled eggs, 2 pancakes, and bacon from the Rock Springs Cafe.
And let me tell you, breakfast was a winner. The eggs were cooked just right, and the pancakes had that delightful, slightly crispy edge that comes from a cast iron griddle, fluffy on the inside. But the bacon? The bacon was in a league of its own. Truly some of the best bacon I’ve had in ages. Adding an extra kick to the meal were the homemade hot sauces available – a flavorful bonus.
a bottle of Jalepeno and Verde pepper hot sauces at the Rock Springs Cafe.
I’m not sure what I loved more about these sauces – the taste or the adorable cowboy hats topping the bottles! It’s those little details that add to the unique charm of Rock Springs Cafe.
Pie Heaven: Indulging in Rock Springs Cafe’s Famous Pie
A trip to Rock Springs Café simply isn’t complete without experiencing their legendary pie. Even at seven in the morning, pie is always a good idea, right? I opted for a slice of the JD Pecan Pie, a choice steeped in its own quirky history. The story goes that “Uncle JD,” in a moment of kitchen chaos involving Mary, accidentally spilled some bourbon into the pie filling, and thus, the JD Pecan Pie was born!
The Pecan Pie at the Rock Springs Cafe.
Now, I’ll confess, I’m not a die-hard pie enthusiast, usually only indulging around Thanksgiving. But this pie… this pie was exceptional. The filling was luxuriously rich with a subtle bourbon warmth that wasn’t overpowering. The crust was perfectly buttery and flaky. My only regret? Not ordering a second slice! Rock Springs boasts a tempting array of pie options, and you can even order whole pies to take home and savor later.
More Than Just a Meal: The Rock Springs Cafe Experience
My friend Allison’s recommendation to visit Rock Springs Cafe was spot on, and I’m incredibly grateful she steered me this way. The restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it’s an experience, brimming with history and character. It’s easy to imagine travelers in the early 1900s, journeying through the Arizona desert without air conditioning, and how incredibly refreshing and satisfying a stop at Rock Springs Cafe, and a slice of pie, would have been.
I also want to give a special shout-out to Gaylan, who made my breakfast experience even better. She generously shared fascinating stories about the area’s history, Mr. Warner, and the café itself. Chatting with her at the bar over breakfast about this amazing place was a true highlight. If you find yourself anywhere near Phoenix, a detour to Rock Springs Café is an absolute must.
Planning Your Visit to Rock Springs Cafe
Rock Springs Café is conveniently located at 35900 South Old Black Canyon Highway in Rock Springs, Arizona. If you’ve ever driven on Interstate 17 north of Phoenix, you’ve likely already spotted the iconic building with the giant pie sign perched on top. It’s hard to miss!
To help you plan your culinary adventures, I’ve added Rock Springs Cafe and other restaurants I’ve visited to my interactive map. If you have any restaurant suggestions or comments, feel free to reach out via email at [email protected] or connect with me on social media. Bon appétit!
Supporting Local Gems
Unlike some bloggers, I believe in supporting the businesses I feature and never request free meals. It’s crucial to support local restaurants and small business owners, especially now. If you appreciate content like this and are willing to help me continue exploring and sharing these gems, you can make a donation below. Your support is greatly appreciated and allows me to keep bringing you the content you enjoy!
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