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Health & Fitness

Local Foodie Double Downs on Temecula's Gambling Cowboy Chophouse & Saloon

A must read for steak and chophouse lovers!

When most people think of a high-end steaks and chop places, they typically think of the proverbial joints like Ruth’s Chris, Morton’s of Chicago, and fine establishments like Donovan’s.  All great choices, but what choices do we have around the Lake Elsinore & Wildomar areas?

Nestled up on the 3rd floor at Fifth and Front Streets in Old Town Temecula, The Gambling Cowboy Chophouse & Saloon is a delightful return to the vintage class and sophistication of the All-American Steakhouse.  I have lived in this area for 17 plus years, and never heard of this place until a friend of mine from San Diego recommended it. So being a carnivore at heart, I had to experience this place. 

Entering the elevator to the 3rd floor I kept thinking what kind of high-end chophouse could possibly be in an old office building?  When the elevator door opened, I was blown away!  The minute you look at the entrance of this place, you'll be sucked in.  The décor is rustic yet elegant.  The Gambling Cowboy has warm colors with soft lighting, a granite bar with a turn of the century, Victorian high class saloon decor of rich mahogany that creates a fine-dining feel.  High ceilings and plush high-back booths.  OK, but what about the beef??? 

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I didn’t waste anytime!  I always start with a top shelf martini, straight up; slightly dirty.  Based on the recommendation of my server, I started with the Raspberry Chipotle Brie.  Phyllo wrapped Brie over a Raspberry Chipotle sauce with Fresh Berries $13.00.  To die for!  I was thinking that this could possibly be the best brie appetizer I have ever had, up until the point I pulled out a long hair.  I called the server over, who was very apologetic.  Now, for those of us who have been in the food industry, we all know things like this are inevitable in this business.  It’s just the way it is.  This appetizer was so “done-right” (even with the hair), I ordered a replacement and it was absolutely superb.  This is a must have! 

Sipping on martini #2, it was time to get down to business.  It wasn’t easy to decide.  This joint has an excellent menu offering, from their signature steak “The Gambler” (24oz Ribeye) to Rosemary Braised Lamb Shank, a full selection of Seafood, and yes, Beef Wellington!  But I was there tonight for the slow roasted Prime Rib, medium rare of course! 

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Waiting for the beef, I jumped all over The Wedge.  Crisp Iceberg lettuce, chopped egg, tomato, bacon, Maytag Bleu cheese, and crispy onions, with their homemade bleu cheese dressing ($10).  One of the best wedge salads I have ever eaten, and I have eaten them all over the world!  

The time had come, my 16oz slow roasted Prime Rib ($32) had arrived.  It was time to go to work.  First bite was like butter.  Yes I know, how can beef be butter?  But it is, when it simply melts in your mouth.  I immediately tasted the fresh rosemary and spices cooked and crusted to perfection. Oh ya baby, these guys got it going on!  Make sure to order the “loaded” baked potato.  Simply the best loaded baked potato I have ever had! The Scampi style prawns were also very good. The dish was served with a side of their signature roasted corn.  Whatever you order, make sure you try the corn, it will pop in your mouth! 

OK, for those of you who have read my reviews in the past, you know it’s a must I have dessert.  I got the feeling the word was out that I was doing a review, because it’s not often the server shows up with not one, but two desserts to try.  Homemade Bread Pudding with Jack Daniel’s Caramel Sauce.  Simply stupid! A must order dessert!  I also got to try their cheesecake.  Pay special attention to the crust.  Simply divine! 

So next time you are up for a new fine dining experience, roll the dice at The Gambling Cowboy.  In fact, double-down on this joint, I know I will! 

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Cheers!

Fatt Jimmy

Fatt Jimmys Food Critics

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(951) 239 3100             

 

The Gambling Cowboy

42072 Fifth Street (3rd Floor) 
Temecula, CA 92590
Phone: 951.699.2895            

$1.50/ounce Prime Rib on Sundays

Open For Breakfast Sat & Sun 9AM-2PM

Live Music 7-11 PM Fri & Sat

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