Lutes Casino — Restaurant in Yuma

Absolute WORST experience we’ve ever had at a restaurant. We came in with a large party on Sunday. We are all servers we are always understanding, but the server was extremely rude and slow as if she wasn’t even trying. We were her only table. When we asked for bar drinks she told us we had to go to the bar and order them ourselves. The bartender, with only TWO tables of 3 was also extremely rude and when I asked her to make me a Sex on the Beach she basically just threw a bunch of juices and some melon liquor in it. She was “busy” so I drank it. The second time I came back to the bar she saw me and was annoyed so asked the other bartender to make it but then walks away mid instruction so now that lady doesn’t know what to do. I am also I bartender and that is the most basic cocktail so I tell her what’s in it and how to make it. The first lady sees this happening and comes back and starts another one making it herself (lots of wasted alcohol she could’ve just make it in the first place) so I tell her a Sex on the Beach does not have pineapple juice or melon liquor. She snaps back “Yes it does Babe, I’ve been doing this for 20 years I went to school for it.” If what’s she’s saying is true she needs to go back to school because why can she not make the most basic cocktail and why is she going down with only 2 tables. She didn’t charge for most of our drinks and shots just because she was to “busy” to ring them in. Then comes time to pay. We were waiting there for a while after checks got dropped off, no one came which is fine we payed cash so we left it on the table. We leave through the back were almost to the parking lot and the server chases us out and with an attitude says we never paid. I told him did you check the table the money is on there. He never even did the minimum to go look to see if the money was left on the table and literally ran after us outside. This is the worst experience we’ve ever had and we were basically the only people in the restaurant. I don’t recommend coming here unless you want bad and...

Context: I went here with four other adults and one toddler (who mostly slept during the meal).

We went here for an opportunity for a standard dinner on a random Monday night. My wife and daughter are visiting the area but we met up with three locals.

Firstly, the food:

We all ordered sandwiches. I got the Lute’s Special burger. It was advertised as a burger with a hotdog on top. What it was… was a burger with a hot dog on top. I would have given this a 3 because the food was exactly what it said it was at a step above Five Guys quality, but the salsa at the table was very tasty and a lovely addition to be able to add it as I saw fit. Also those in my group had glowing reviews.

Secondly, the ambiance:

This place has random crap all over the walls. It’s like a mix between a Chotskie’s and an old school garbage Atlantic City casino. I don’t want that to be taken poorly - this atmosphere worked very well and caused us to have a fantastic experience. It was unique in a way that was charming.

Lastly, the service:

Our server was named Tyrone M (according to the receipt). He was SPOT ON the best server I have ever had. I neither mean that facetiously nor do I mean it in terms of a niche engagement. Tyrone had it FIGURED OUT. He got our orders taken in efficient order, returned in efficient order, was consistently interacting with us for what we needed, ensured we never had gaps in our night, and was accommodating when we asked to move tables and get an extra food item due to the toddler. Absolutely amazing.

Overall - great experience. I...

I'd like to think that every community has that one niche restaurant. Just a stone throws away from the California/Arizona border is the City of Yuma's Historic Downtown District.

On Main Street you'll find a restaurant called Lute's Casino. Now, don't let the name fool you, there are no slot machines or blackjack tables. But, it's no gamble that you'll fall in love with the place.

The walls are filled with relics of the past, both cinematic and local history can be found. The bar is perfect for those looking for a beer or a root beer float.

This place has pool tables, arcade games, and dart boards to keep you entertained. And they're menu has something f9r everyone, from classic burgers to their signature dish the "Especial" which is the marriage of a hot dog and a burger.

On this trip, I was craving the Lute's Casino Chili Cheese Dog, and before you way it, that other place with the long name has nothing on this monster. We're talking a polish sausage laid nice and hot on top of an open bun blanketed with American cheese and then doused in their signature chili and onions.

I'm not ashamed to admit it that it took me two days to finish that beast. But, it was well worth it. Their prices are reasonable and the food is well worth the drive.

If you like memorable dishes, then I recommend taking Interstate 8 south to Yuma County and visiting...