{openx:1}Don and Charlie’s Steakhouse Restaurant in Scottsdale, AZ bills itself as having the largest collection of museum quality sports memorabilia. Frankly, that’s about the only reason to go there. The food is marginal, at best, and because it tends to be very crowded during peak times and during baseball spring training, service is also marginal.

According to the menu, one of the owners spent time in a California spa where he picked up the idea for his low cal vinaigrette salad dressing recipe. Frankly, he should have stayed home, because I was totally disappointed. I couldn’t even finish the salad because the dressing seemed bitter and left an unpleasant after taste. For the entree, I ordered the parmesan crusted steak medium rare and a baked potato. I got a well done steak and the server promptly disappeared for the rest of meal, so I was unable to demand a properly cooked steak. The only good thing was the baked potato, and honestly, it is pretty hard to screw that up.

Don and Charlie’s certainly didn’t offer a comforting atmosphere. Tables are less than private and the noise level is enough to make you deaf … certainly not conducive to visiting with friends.

I recommend you visit during off hours, take time to view the sports memorabilia, order a snack or soda if you must, but find another spot for a real meal. Try Village Tavern if you want outstanding food, great atmosphere and a cheaper bill than Don and Charlie’s Steakhouse.