Rusty Spur — Review by Brennen Taylor

The Dishes

The meal kicked off with jalapeno shrimp poppers that exceeded expectations. The reviewers anticipated cream cheese-filled jalapeños but instead received whole shrimp wrapped in diced jalapeños and covered in melted cheese, then deep fried to a satisfying crunch. While they wished for more jalapeño flavor, the combination of crispy batter, creamy cheese, and plump shrimp proved surprisingly delicious and not overpowering in heat.

The eight ounce sirloin steak arrived cooked to a perfect medium rare with a nice pink center and a good crispy crust on the exterior. However, the meat had clearly been soaked in an A1 sauce marinade overnight, giving it a sweet and slightly smoky flavor that masked the natural beef taste. The steak was juicy and well-seasoned, but this heavy marinade approach divided opinion at the table, with one reviewer appreciating the moisture while the other preferred tasting pure meat without sauce additions.

The double burger, ordered as Double Trouble, was absolutely massive, containing two six ounce patties each for a total twelve ounce burger that exceeded even a Double-Double from In-N-Out. The burger featured barbecue sauce and western bacon, tasting excellent with good flavor and moisture. The accompanying crinkle fries were not extensively discussed but appeared adequate.

Sides included mashed potatoes with gravy and corn on the cob. The mashed potatoes appeared to come from a boxed mix rather than being made fresh, which the reviewer noted as a step down for a steakhouse. The corn was boiled in butter rather than grilled, and one mishap involved the corn dropping into melted butter on the table, though this was more comedic than a reflection on the restaurant.

The Experience

The Rusty Spur exuded genuine charm with its log cabin aesthetic both inside and out. The rustic interior matched the exterior perfectly, featuring wood throughout and western decor that complemented the restaurant's name. A prominent LED neon sign advertising the establishment sat out front alongside a large cowboy boot.

Service was exceptionally friendly and personable. The server, a local Pulaski native with a genuine thick country accent, was sweet, attentive, and patient as the customers asked questions about menu items and the town itself. She brought extra napkins proactively and checked on water and beverage needs throughout the meal. The atmosphere felt genuinely cozy despite the country-style presentation.

Value and Pricing

While specific prices were not mentioned in detail, the meal portions were generous. The double burger with twelve ounces of meat and substantial sides, combined with the jalapeno shrimp poppers and eight ounce steak with two sides, suggested reasonable value. The presentation and overall experience felt appropriate for a family-operated steakhouse in a small Tennessee town.

Notable Moments

I mean, the inside definitely matches the outside. It's giving you inside a log cabin vibe. A lot of that western type of look going with the name of the place and the big cowboy boot up front.

I was expecting a lot more jalapeno, but it seems like it's just a diced up jalapeno stuffed inside with another piece of shrimp and covered in cheese. Honestly, actually tastes pretty dang good if I'm being honest.

That burger looks absolutely insane. It honestly looks a little too big for my liking. I mean, that thing is massisimo.

The Verdict

The Rusty Spur delivers a solid casual dining experience with memorable appetizers and an impressive burger, backed by genuinely warm hospitality. However, as a steakhouse, it falls slightly short due to the heavy marinade on the steak and the use of convenience items like boxed potatoes. Best for families and casual diners seeking authentic small-town Tennessee hospitality and generous portions rather than high-end steakhouse preparation. The restaurant succeeds in creating a welcoming atmosphere where visitors feel genuinely cared for, even if the food execution could be refined to match steakhouse claims.