Winner, winner, chicken dinner! Not in the mood? How about a juicy burger, a scrumptious (and healthy) plate of grilled salmon, an order of marinated sirloin kabobs or one of Lou’s signature gourmet sandwiches?
Whatever fits your mood, you’re not likely to go wrong.
Lucky Lou’s American Grill, tucked away just west of Ray Road on the Price/101 Freeway, promises a winning hand, no matter where the spirit of culinary adventure takes you. In other words, no gambling here.
Since October 2009, neighborhood-friendly Lucky Lou’s has been drawing a growing crowd of enthusiasts. The Chandler location joins an original one in Mesa, which has been up and running for seven years.
But this Chandler site turned out to be more spacious, and so far is perfectly positioned to accommodate the growth that co-owner Dr. Scott Campbell sees as inevitable.
Campbell and Louis Lukens (hence the name Lucky Lou’s) have been in partnership since the Mesa location opened in 2004. Campbell, possessing a knack for finance, joined forces with Lukens, whose 30-plus years of experience in the restaurant industry led to this successful venture.
Although the signage at the Ray Road location could have been a bit more visible, the surprises you’ll find inside make it worth the trip. With great variety on the menu, just as every American grill should be able to claim, Lucky Lou’s meals offer something for practically anyone, plus the added advantage of being nicely portioned and, best of all, just plain tasty.
Although the bar attracted a following soon after the place opened, Campbell said he wants Lucky Lou’s to be seen as a restaurant first and a bar second. There’s a dinner special every night of the week, including Wednesday’s (and my) favorite, baby back ribs. Lou’s also has unbeatable lunch specials that offer the same great food with affordable options.
During my visit to Lucky Lou’s, I rolled the dice on the California Chicken Wrap, which came recommended by one of the sociable bartenders. While watching the Australian Open on one of Lucky Lou’s many HD TVs, I was able to enjoy a nicely prepared and quickly delivered creation that was a tribute to Chef Lou’s years of servitude in the kitchen.
On a scale of 1 to 10, I rated it about an 8. But for the surprisingly miniscule $7.99 menu price that included a side of homemade pasta salad, a bottomless fountain drink and a cheery, efficient server who even remembered my name, it was the best deal I’ve found in my travels for a lunch that’s both good and affordable.
As if food, service and price weren’t incentive enough to warrant a repeat visit, I liked the fact that Scott and Lou consider part of their business strategy the ongoing support of a number of local athletic teams, another factor on which I gave them high marks.
“They are the ones who support us, so we support them,” Campbell said.
Lucky Lou’s is open until 2 a.m. every day of the week and prides itself and having a fun and friendly family atmosphere. However, after the kids are gone, the music turns up a little and a touch of the Vegas spirit starts to shine.
Check out Lucky Lou’s at www.Luckylousaz.com to see all the lunch, dinner, drink and happy hour specials.
Information: 480-814-1400.
Like eating lunch or dinner with a client sitting at the bar with his ass showing
I have pictures if you would like to see them not a good experience in your bar