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
Taco Bell Just Brought Its Volcano Era Back With A New Quesarito
Taco Bell is officially bringing the Volcano era back, and it’s leading with a new heavy hitter. Starting January 8, the chain is launching the…
,
CultureEating Out
McDonald’s Is Bringing Pokémon Cards Back To Happy Meals In 2026
Pokémon’s long-running relationship with McDonald’s appears to be continuing into 2026. According to multiple reports across the gaming community, McDonald’s is preparing another Happy Meal…
,
Eating OutProducts
Did Panda Express Change Its Orange Chicken? Customers Say The Flavor Isn’t The Same
According to a Redditor, who claims to be a Panda Express employee, the company has begun using a new ready-to-use sauce for its orange chicken,…
,
Burger
We Deliver!

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