Phoenix Restaurant Serves Up Fried Rattlesnake With A Side Of Vertebrae

fried rattlesnake

Rustler’s Rooste in Phoenix, Arizona, is known for some top-notch steaks, a country-themed vibe, and a fun indoor slide. It makes for a great dining experience on just that alone, but there’s one other thing they feature that you shouldn’t forget about: the deep-fried rattlesnake.

fried rattlesnakePhoto: Foodbeast

The critter is a common eat in the region, but Rustler’s is one of the most famous places to serve it up. Their specialty’s reputation is partially because of the quality and flavor of their fried rattlesnake bites, but also can be attributed to the fact that it comes with a side of fried snake vertebrae. That’s how you know they’re breaking down the snakes in house.

Ordering Rustler’s Rooste’s fried rattlesnake means you’ll get a hefty portion alongside prickly pear cactus fries and a side of chipotle ranch for dipping. Foodbeasts Evan Lancaster and Analiese Trimber went to try the item, and were astonished at the texture and flavor of the rattlesnake.

“I was surprised it didn’t taste more gamey,” Lancaster commented, noting that they “kind of tasted like pieces of popcorn chicken.” Trimber agreed with that description, saying that they were “super crispy and tender.”

Rattlesnake may not seem like the most appealing meat option, especially when served with its skeleton on the side, but if you’re looking to dive in Fear Factor-style and try it for yourself, you can rest assured knowing that Rustler’s is THE locals’ spot to get it.

Rattlesnake photo in video thumbnails courtesy of Gary M. Stolz of the US Fish and Wildlife Service.

More content

Eating Out
Dunkin’ Is Testing A 48-Ounce Drink Bucket That Has The Internet Buzzing
Could ginormous drinking cups come back in style? Who knows. But if you remember the ridiculous-sized plastic cups that fast food chains and gas stations…
,
Eating Out
KFC Just Brought Back The Twister
KFC is leaning into two very specific moods right now: the solo wrap run and the “what are we eating tonight?” group text spiral. First…
,
CultureEating Out
Taco Bell’s 2026 Menu Reveal Is Basically A Star-Studded Award Show Now
Taco Bell is officially bringing back Live Más LIVE and this year it’s less key note address and more award show energy. On March 10,…
,
Burger
We Deliver!

Enter your email address below and we'll deliver our top stories straight to your inbox