My wife and I went out to the Line Camp Steakhouse (or Roughlock) tonight. If you have never been there, it is really a treat! We have been there before, but in case you have never been there, let me tell you about it. It is a hidden jewel for Monticello. It is about 16 miles north of Monticello. As you start down Peter's Hill, off to the right you will see a little yellow lit sign pointing up a road into the woods. About 50 yards up that road, you will find yourself back in time in the old west. The steakhouse fits the motif of the old west. When you go in, you will be greeted warmly by Bob Musselman or one of his friendly staff.

The place is always decked out with nice tablecloths and silverware and an old style lamp in the middle of the table that Bob usually comes out personally to light himself. You will quickly find that Bob is not only the cook, but the evening's entertainment. He displays a wit and open friendliness that I have missed. My wife and I ordered shrimp cocktail for the appetizer, and we ordered the rib eye steaks. I like mine Medium rare, and she likes hers well done, or as Bob says...jerkey. By the way, if you order well done, you will get a ribbing from the chef.

Without hardly any wait at all, Tamra, their waitress, first brought our drinks of strawberry lemonade. All the glasses are of the kind that you would find in your best china closet. The plates are a bit more rustic, to fit the atmosphere. Just imagine eating in Walnut Grove or in a restaurant in the 1800's and you get the idea. The shrimp cocktail was followed by the freshest salads. They make their own dressing, and you can tell that they take pride in their salad as it is presented with crutons, fresh lettuce, a quarter of tomato, a ring of purple onion, bell pepper, black olives, a deviled egg, carrots, a cucumber slice and all topped off with a sprinkiling of pine nuts. Before you finish your salad, you are usually presented with fresh buttered garlic bread and western style beans in a nifty little bowl. You never have to double duty the silverware as you always have enough silverware for each item, and even the right spoon for the beans.

The main course comes out and you are presented with a steak that is still simmering and juicy. Leave the A1 at home, because you will not need it, and besides, it would insult the cook. Coming from Texas, this is the best steak I have tasted, and that is saying something. It is also presented with garnished potatoes and a stick of asparagus. The potatoes and steak are seasoned to perfection and the steak will just melt in your mouth. He claims to use only the best beef, and he backs it up.

If you want a special night on the town with loved ones, friends or family, this is the place to go. You will not be dissapointed. I have heard from time to time concerns about the price. You get what you pay for, and then some. With the service, atmosphere and great food, you will not be dissapointed. Besides, we have yet to eat our whole meals, and usually have half left over, so if you consider you are getting two meals for one, then you are getting a steal!