For Over 80 Years, This Oregon Steakhouse Has Preserved the Essence of the Old Wild West

by | Mar 22, 2024 | Food & Drink, Restaurants

As the oldest city in Central Oregon, Prineville has a lot of history and culture to offer both residents and out-of-town guests. There are several places across town to get a taste of Prineville, but one of the best is Club Pioneer, opened way back in 1942! Located on the east end of town and in constant operation for over 80 years, Club Pioneer has certainly seen a lot in its days. In the restaurant’s own words, it was once a “rough and tumble saloon with a brawl most weekends,” but now it’s a family-friendly steakhouse where generations of Central Oregonians have been coming to connect with loved ones and embrace the traditions of the area. 

filet
filet, Club Pioneer facebook

Club Pioneer looks like an old saloon and inside you’ll find it decorated to honor the logging history of the region. Throughout the dining room there’s detailed woodwork done by local craftsmen including live edge juniper doors, and the walls are adorned with photos of old Prineville. The waiters are always friendly and knowledgeable, and you’ll be blown away by the level of service you receive. 

salad
salad, Sasha Bloom Google Local

Since Club Pioneer is a steakhouse, you better believe they’ve got good meat! All their USDA Prime steaks come from the Double R Ranch in Washington state, which supports local ranchers and the ranching way of life while also being responsible stewards of the land. No matter what cut of meat you order or how you like it cooked, you’re gonna love it. Regulars can’t get enough of the prime rib that you can order as either an 8, 10, or 12 ounce, the 12 ounce Ribeye Steak, or the always popular Wagon Wheels, which are two bacon-wrapped shoulder filets with whiskey-bacon pepper demi-glace. All steaks come with your choice of side and a soup or salad.

prime rib
Prime Rib, Jeff Orr Google Local

But steak’s not all they do! They playfully write on their menu, “real cowboys eat pasta too” and their pasta dishes are exceptional. Try the Chicken Alfredo, Mean Green Mac & Cheese made with chicken, bacon, basil pesto, and cheddar and parmesan cheeses tossed with cavatappi pasta, or the Angels in the Ochocos with pan seared scallops, garlic, onion, bacon and fresh spinach in a rich cream sauce served over angel hair pasta. They also have great burger and sandwich options like the OMG Chicken Sandwich, and customers love the hearty Pioneer Steak Salad that comes with crisp romaine hearts topped with slices of charbroiled steak, avocado, bleu cheese crumbles, tomatoes, tumbleweed onion straws and house-made herb vinaigrette and balsamic reduction.

steak and prawns
steak and prawns, Michael Sylvestre Google Local

To drink, try one of their signature “cowboy” cocktails like their One Great Margarita or the Pendleton Tea, or you can order wine by the glass, or pints from local craft breweries. There’s also the Club Pioneer's Loyalty Program where regulars can earn points to get future discounts on meals, happy hour BOGO ½ off deals, or an invitation to “Wine Down Wednesday” with half price bottles of wine!

fun decor
fun decor, Club Pioneer Google Local

If you love a good steakhouse with fantastic options for seafood, pasta, and handcrafted cocktails, Club Pioneer is your spot. Reservations aren’t required, but you may want to call ahead if you have a larger party, are dining out on a weekend, or are celebrating a special occasion. You can also pop in for happy hour Monday through Friday from 3:00pm to 5:00pm, and Saturday from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. 

Hours: 

  • Monday - Thursday, 11:00am - 9:00pm
  • Saturday, 4:00pm - 9:30pm
  • Closed Sunday

Address: 1851 Northeast 3rd Street, Prineville, Oregon

Phone: 541-447-6177

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Written By Diana Flowers

Diana is a writer living in Portland with her delightful son and crotchety cat. Growing up in the area, family vacations were often to nearby destinations reachable by car. She has since expanded that love of local road trips and has been all over the great state of Oregon and throughout the Pacific Northwest, frequently pairing backpacking trips with exploring new towns and regions.

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