Mining Camp was an annual tradition growing up in Apache Junction. Though I live in Los Angeles now, I try to make it back to Mining Camp once every year or two.\n\nAs far as I can tell, the main all-you-can-eat family-style meal is exactly the same as it was when I first ate there 25+ years ago. The beef ribs are excellent. They're the kind of ribs that are slathered in barbecue sauce, so if you're looking for more of a Texas-style smoked rib, you won't find it here. The sauce is delicious, though, and the ribs are perfectly moist and tasty. Other meats include chicken with gravy and stuffing, and ham with a pineapple glaze. Both are good, but the real attraction for me is the ribs.\n\nSides offered with the meal are abundant: potato wedges, green beans, baked beans, rolls and raisin bread. All are good, but my favorites are the giant fluffy rolls and the baked beans. The meal used to include drinks-- I think it was just tea, lemonade, water and coffee. The last time I went, though, drinks were an extra $2.50, and they also offered soda and alcohol. I'm guessing this is thanks to the recent opening of Dutchman's Hideout next door, where they have a full bar.\n\nThey also offer steaks, a couple seafood options and even a veggie plate as alternatives to the classic family-style meal. These are not offered all the time, so be sure to check ahead with the restaurant if you plan on ordering one of those. For a while, I would order a steak when I came here, and they were pretty good, but I think from now on, I'll be back to the ribs, etc.\n\nAll I've been talking about so far is the food, but another major draw of the restaurant is its ambiance. Situated in the foothills of the majestic Superstition Mountains and featuring a fun theme and occasional live music, the restaurant is perfect for everyone: young, old, couples, families. Locals, tourists and winter visitors all frequent the place, and have been keeping it in business for 50-odd years.\n\nBe aware that the restaurant is seasonal, closing for the hot summer months. Make sure it's open before you go!