The Everyday Epicure

Because Food Should Not be an Acquired Taste...

16 Jackson's, Fort Lauderdale, FL

"We're going to Jackson...so go and comb your hair..." Oh sorry there. Got a little carried away with June Carter. If you found yourself strolling down Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale- well this would be my top recommendation. The lion statues and palm trees are certainly an inviting atmosphere and the steaks themselves are perhaps top 10. Disappointing enough, Jackson's has recently closed it's doors. To the Delorean! 

17 Delmonico's, New York, NY

If I'm being honest, Delmonico's did not garner the 17 slot through sheer carnivorous consummation. Delmonico's is perhaps the most legendary steakhouse on this list. As the grandfather of restaurants in the US, Delmonico's has kept it's 19th century appeal and done a beautiful job of marketing itself. While you are here, expect good steaks, beautiful views, and a top 5 lobster bisque. 

18 Ocean Prime, Boston, MA

In the heart of Boston's seaport district lies this newly created gem. Ocean Prime brings together everyone's favorites from steak to seafood in an elegant manner. Featuring live jazz music on the weekends and a lively middle-aged bar crowd, Ocean Prime delivers very good dishes and a good atmosphere all around. If you're familiar with Truluck's, think of this as Truluck's light. 

19 Sunset Grille, Oranjestad, Aruba

The Hilton Aruba delivers spectacular views as well as a very good steakhouse. While its more of your everyday good steakhouse (Morton's, Hillstone-esque) the scenery certainly gives this one a boost! The menu features all the classics and a very good lobster bisque that I recommend trying. When in paradise, dine sumptuously. 

20 Benjamin's, New York, NY

Maybe it's because its a Luger's descendant or maybe it's because it's quite literally outside my front door at work, but Benjamin's was a disappointment. Nice interior but rather boring and congested. Much like what you expect from Peter Luger's, the steak is the main show. The sides weren't poor but they were far from spectacular. This is a man's type of place and a 24 ounce ribeye or porterhouse is where this icon gets its lure. For us sirloin and filet people- keep it moving. 

21 Cedar's Mashantucket, CT

Typically commended as one of the top restaurants in the state, Cedar's does so with its own unique creative flair with chicken fried ribs and garlic bread. The oxymoron of Cedar's casual menu and outside is staunchly met with opposition from its expensive, tender cut filets. For a bit of a conundrum ( much like that guy who hit 30 5's and could never roll a 6), stop by Cedar's. 

22 Spencer's, San Jose, CA

Apparently the Hilton knows how to do steak! The succulent steaks at Spencer's are certainly worth the trek out to San Jose and while the ambience is admittedly basic, it has a soft, whimsical appeal to it. To be quite honest, this is a place that I think warrants another visit and perhaps a bump in the rankings. 

23 Oak Room, Boston, MA

While Delmonico's may have a few historical items on the Oak Room, no one outclassed the Oak Room. Not even La Pergola and its three michelin stars in Rome could compare to the exorbitant opulence of this palatial restaurant. Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful restaurants around, the Oak Room was a classic American Steakhouse that featured all the items we know and love. While nothing particularly stood out to me, the food delivered consistently well. For those who caught the "was" the Oak Room closed down 5 years ago. Apparently some classics do die. 

24 Christy's, Coral Gables, FL

Stepping inside Christy's is like being transported to a northern city steakhouse staple. The dimly-lit cozy spot and its elegant polished wood scream  "Winter Saturday Night in the North." The food is very good and while the steak could be juicier the eclectic menu serves much like a Del Frisco's Grille- offering something to everyone.  Go on Friday's for live jazz! 

25 Daniel's Broiler, Seattle, WA

Widely regarded as one of the best steakhouses in the US, this meat lovers sanctuary features a rooftop view of Seattle. I have it here at 25 so it does not muddy my rankings being that I went here once nearly 15 years ago, but it deserves to be featured on this list! When in Seattle, go here. 

For the next salivating section of steakhouses