Founded in 1977 in California, Claim Jumper has grown to 37 locations, mostly in the Western US. With a decor resembling a rustic hunting lodge, and a menu that offers virtually “something for everyone”, the chain maintains its popularity because of quality food, large portions, and friendly, prompt service.
The seating capacity at the outlet we visited was 550, according to the occupancy sign at the door, and since we had to wait (very briefly) for a table, one would guess the joint was full up.
Service was prompt, regardless. We started with the pretzel stick appetizer (choice of butter and salt coating, or parmesan / garlic), which comes with your choice of a cheese or mustard dipping sauce. These aren’t your standard pretzel bits, but rather a half dozen nearly foot long soft rods, warm, chewy, and flavorful.
Mrs. Burgerdogboy went for the chopped Cobb salad, with an add on of chopped tenderloin steak; the salad was artfully arranged on the plate, and the beef was flavorful and very tender.
I opted for the “light” portion of country fried steak, which came with mash and white gravy. The steak coating was crispy, and the meat was tender. A lot of prep of CFS use a less than premium cut of beef, but I can’t say that was the case here. It’s a good piece of beef.
My entree is not for the feint of heart or carb counters, however. With a single plate topping 2000 calories and nearly 200 carbs, that’s a lot of “nutrition.”
We passed on dessert, tho we have had their chocolate mother-lode cake before, six layers, and 11 bucks worth of a slice of cake that can feed an entire table.
I don’t know where Claim Jumper fits in the restaurant hierarchy. It’s a few notches above what I would call “fast casual”, but a few notches below “fine dining.”
The bill for an appetizer, two entrees, 1 cocktail, 1 coffee came in at $52 including tip.
Claim Jumper is a great place for good food, prepared well, and parties of diners with diverse palates. With virtually every food category offered on the menu, from grills, to salads, to pasta, to sandwiches, no one in your party will go away hungry.