In 1983, an additional 24 rooms were added to the motel property. Originally known as the “Alamo” the building has a Mexican Adobe look to it.  The rooms were remodeled in 2003 and now feature cedar furniture and “rough-out” walls.  Now referred to as the “Bunkhouse,” visitors enjoy the western-amenities and the modern conveniences that include free Wi-Fi and cable TV.  The front desk is staffed 24 hours a day and hot coffee is always available for late or early drop-ins.
 

Bob Lee died Feb. 4, 1990, leaving behind his wife, Mary Ann, and eight children.  The restaurant’s ownership and operation became their responsibility.
 

The Big Texan Cowboy Palace opened its doors in the summer of 1999.  The 400-seat facility provides a perfect venue for everything from wedding receptions to wrestling matches.  Michael Martin Murphey and his band have graced the stage along with astronauts, comedians, notable authors and amateur performers.  Dinner Dances are held in the Palace during the summer months.  Family members of all ages enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, where it’s a common occurrence to see the youngsters learning to dance by standing on the boots of their parents or grandparents.
 

Although many features of the Big Texan Steak Ranch have grown and changed over the years, some things remain the same. Members of the Lee family still own and operate the company. The three eldest Lee children – Bobby, Danny and Diana – bought out their siblings’ interest in the Big Texan Steak Ranch and motel in 2003.  That event marked a new beginning and a turning point for the company’s growth, as they stepped forward with a renewed commitment to maintaining the Texas experience of food, entertainment, hospitality, lodging and shopping for new generations of visitors.
 

In early 2004, the main lobby of the Big Texan was completely remodeled.  The old shooting gallery was replaced with a much larger one, equipped with more guns and modern electronically powered targets. A 20-stall Horse Hotel opened in May of 2004.  A fleet of “Cowboy” Cadillac Limos quickly followed.  The cars, outfitted with Big Texan signage and a set of Longhorns on the front hoods, have quickly established their place in the Big Texan family.  Drivers dressed as cowboys pick guests up at lodging facilities along the I-40 and I-27 corridors and ferry them to the Big Texan in high-style. In 2005 the Big Texan Bar was completely rebuilt to better serve guests.  The summer of 2006 will see the opening of a “Sweet Shoppe” featuring freshly baked desserts, ice cream and soft drinks.

More dynamic then ever before, the Big Texan feeds almost half a million people each year at the restaurant in Amarillo.  Visitors to the restaurant often remark that they’ve seen the Big Texan featured on the Food Network or the Travel Channel.  Good Morning America, Today and the CBS Early Show have all featured the Big Texan.  Jay Leno, David Letterman and Donny and Marie Osmond have all featured the 72-oz. steak.  Countless movies and sit-coms have featured or parodied the World Famous FREE 72-oz. steak dinner (if eaten in 1 hour!). It has been featured in newspapers and magazines throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and Australia.
 

The Big Texan has been offering its steaks by mail order on a small scale since 2002.  In 2006, the Lee brothers decided to expand that operation to offer their private reserve steaks to individuals who’ve been to the Big Texan as well as those who’ve only dreamed of it.  In addition to tender, flavorful Texas steaks, the package includes cooking instructions, special Big Texan seasoning and a few extra “goodies” to turn an ordinary meal into an unforgettable experience.  The restaurant’s most popular steaks, aged carefully under the direct supervision of company President Danny Lee, are available through ilovesteaks.com or by calling 888-841-7272.  FREE standard shipping is "on us" with each order, but if you're craving won't allow you to wait, we can expedite your order for a small shipping charge.