Philadelphia has long been considered one of the country’s premier dining destinations. As the home to world-famous, celebrity restaurateurs such as Stephen Starr and Georges Perrier, Philadelphia has become a culinary powerhouse, leaving an indelible mark on domestic and international cuisine. Even in the midst of a recession, many new and classic Philadelphia restaurants are thriving.
And, with so much activity in our local “food world” at any one time, it’s tough for one type of cuisine, or style of restaurant, to dominate the culinary conversation. But that’s precisely what has happened over the past year as Philadelphia experienced an explosion of contemporary, high-end steakhouses.
The number, quality and scale of new steak joints, like Del Frisco’s and Butcher & Singer, deepened an already-thriving sector of our restaurant universe, defined by long-standing staples The Capital Grille and The Prime Rib. Every local media outlet took note — ranking, reviewing and comparing the winners and losers in Philadelphia’s “Steak Wars.” As someone who believes strongly that there is no substitute for a well-prepped steak dinner, it’s high time I add my two cents to this debate. So without further ado, here are my top picks.
Favorite steak dish: Although Starr’s Buddakan isn’t a steak restaurant, the pan-seared filet mignon is undoubtedly my favorite steak dish in the entire city. Prepared with black-pepper ponzu and wasabi crème fraîche, this dish is full-flavored, balanced, innovative and consistently amazing. I’ve recommended the wasabi filet to countless friends, family and colleagues over the years, and it never fails to impress. When combined with some of Buddakan’s decadent pan-Asian appetizers and sides, the wasabi filet will satisfy the hungriest appetites, and silence the staunchest critics. Visit buddakan.com, or call (215) 574-9440 to make a reservation.
Favorite steak space (design, décor and atmosphere): Philadelphia is not short on breathtaking architecture, and many of our best restaurants occupy historic spaces that have served an array of functions. For my money, no steak restaurant has done a better job with its design and décor than Del Frisco’s, at 15th and Chestnut streets in the historic Philadelphia Grande Building. The menu is excellent as well, but with vaulted ceilings, rich colors, an impeccable dining room and spacious bars on every floor, Del Frisco’s has single-handedly raised the game. I could go on and on about individual elements of the design that I find captivating, but this is a space you have to see to believe. Stop by and check it out at 1426 Chestnut St.
Favorite steak experience: In Philly, we’re lucky to have some restaurants that offer an innovative take on the traditional dining experience, providing a true dining “event” for customers. My favorite of these is Fogo de Chao, 1337 Chestnut St. Located in the historic Caldwell’s Jewelry Building, Fogo de Chao is an authentic Brazilian steakhouse with several locations throughout the country, providing a price-fixed menu available for lunch ($32.50) and dinner ($49.50). Diners have access to arguably the most comprehensive and delicious salad bar ever assembled. Additionally, guests can enjoy as much steak as they like — every cut is made to order, giving customers the opportunity to experiment with a variety of different preparations in one sitting. Fogo de Chao also has an incredible wine selection and top-notch customer service. It’s a great location to celebrate birthdays, business milestones and other special events with groups. Make your reservation by calling (215) 636-9700.
Favorite new steakhouse: Starr’s new restaurant, Butcher & Singer, 1500 Walnut St., is my pick. With a menu that’s equal-parts traditional and progressive, Butcher & Singer captures the imagination and satisfies the taste buds. Though the dining room feels intimate and personal, there is plenty of space for special events and large groups. The design and décor are reminiscent of classic, club-style restaurants (think AMC’s hit show “Mad Men”). The space supports a wonderful menu — from the raw bar through dessert. At the end of the day, Butcher & Singer’s combination of quality and authenticity puts it head and shoulders above the other new Philly steakhouses. Check it out at butcherandsinger.com.
Favorite classic steakhouse: Though Butcher & Singer is the best of Philly’s new guard, my favorite classic steakhouse is The Capital Grille. Situated in the shadow of City Hall at 1338 Chestnut St., every weekday lunch at The Capital Grille is a virtual “who’s who” of Philadelphia powerbrokers. From politicians to reporters, lobbyists to corporate executives, more deals are reportedly closed at The Capital Grille than at City Hall. When its “cool factor” is combined with a consistent, traditional menu and some of the city’s best cuts of steak, you have the recipe for a winner. Visit thecapitalgrille.com for more information.
Favorite overall steakhouse: I’ve picked several favorites in various categories here, but when you consider the entire package — menu, food quality, service, décor, consistency, location — regardless of whether they’re old or new, there is one local steakhouse that takes the cake (or the steak, as it were): The Prime Rib. Located just off Rittenhouse Square at 1701 Locust St., The Prime Rib is an institution in the City of Brotherly Love. Not only does it host the best happy hour for after-work cocktails and snacks, but also features lunch and dinner menus that are comprehensive without being overwhelming. The signature prime rib is grain-fed and roasted in special ovens to ensure perfect preparation of every cut. With the recession, The Prime Rib illustrated a commitment to its customers by diversifying the menu and providing a number of cost-effective options. All in all, you won’t find anything better. Visit theprimerib.com or call (215) 772-1701 to make a reservation.
So that’s it for this week. I’d love to hear your picks and pans of Philly’s steakhouses: Please send your thoughts to [email protected], and I’ll feature your submission on Nightlifegay.com. ’Til next time, get offline and see what your community has to offer!