13 Florida Steakhouses People Gladly Wait In Line For
Florida’s steak scene might surprise you. Beyond the beaches and theme parks, the state is packed with steakhouses so good people willingly wait their turn just for a table.
From old-school chophouses that haven’t changed their ways in decades to lively Brazilian churrascarias carving meat straight from the grill, these spots have built serious reputations through perfectly cooked beef and loyal fans. Each visit feels like an event, and these are the steakhouses I keep coming back to whenever a great steak is non-negotiable.
1. Bern’s Steak House
Walking into this Tampa institution feels like stepping back into a glamorous era of fine dining. Since 1956, this legendary spot has been aging its own beef in special temperature-controlled rooms, creating flavors that keep steak lovers coming back generation after generation.
The wait can stretch over an hour on weekends, but nobody seems to mind.
You’ll find this treasure at 1208 South Howard Avenue in Tampa, where the building itself tells stories of decades past. The menu features cuts you won’t see elsewhere, dry-aged to perfection for up to eight weeks.
What really sets this place apart is the famous wine cellar holding over half a million bottles.
After your meal, head upstairs to the dessert room for an experience that’s practically mandatory. The chocolate soufflé alone justifies any wait time.
Reservations are strongly recommended, though walk-ins with patience usually get seated eventually.
2. Charley’s Steak House
Orlando locals have sworn by this family-owned gem since 1983, and visitors quickly understand why. The signature cooking method involves searing steaks at incredibly high temperatures, locking in juices that burst with every bite.
Lines form early, especially during tourist season, but the staff moves things along efficiently.
Located at 6107 South Orange Blossom Trail in Orlando, this spot doesn’t try to be fancy or trendy. Instead, it focuses on what matters most: perfectly cooked meat and generous portions.
The filet mignon practically melts on your tongue, while the New York strip delivers that satisfying chew steak fans crave.
Prices remain surprisingly reasonable compared to other high-quality steakhouses in the area. The loaded baked potato could serve as a meal itself.
Service feels warm and genuine, like dining at a friend’s house where that friend happens to be an exceptional cook with access to prime beef.
3. STK Steakhouse
Miami Beach brings its signature style to the steakhouse scene with this ultra-modern spot that feels more nightclub than traditional chophouse. A DJ spins tunes while you cut into your ribeye, creating an atmosphere that’s become wildly popular with younger crowds and celebrities alike.
Weekend waits regularly exceed ninety minutes.
Situated at 2305 Collins Avenue in Miami Beach, this location pulses with energy from the moment doors open. The vibe skews contemporary and energetic, a refreshing change from stuffy steakhouse traditions.
Don’t let the party atmosphere fool you though—the kitchen takes its beef seriously.
Every steak arrives perfectly seasoned and cooked exactly as ordered. The truffle fries deserve their own fan club, crispy and addictive.
Yes, you’ll pay premium prices, but the experience combines excellent food with entertainment. Dress code leans upscale casual, so save the flip-flops for the beach just blocks away.
4. Da Silva Steakhouse
Brazilian churrascaria style dining reaches new heights at this Port Saint Lucie favorite where servers parade endless skewers of meat past your table. The concept is simple: flip your card to green, and they’ll keep bringing beautifully seasoned cuts until you surrender.
Weekends see families waiting patiently for their turn at this meat feast.
You’ll discover this carnivore paradise at 1951 Southwest Gatlin Boulevard in Port Saint Lucie, where the aroma of grilling meat welcomes you from the parking lot. The salad bar alone could satisfy most appetites, stocked with fresh vegetables, cheeses, and traditional Brazilian sides.
But saving room for the main event is essential.
Picanha, the prized Brazilian sirloin cut, arrives juicy and flavorful, sliced right at your table. Garlic-rubbed steaks, lamb chops, and bacon-wrapped chicken follow in delicious succession.
The fixed price includes everything, making it easier to justify that second helping of filet mignon wrapped in bacon.
5. Chima Steakhouse Orlando
Authentic Brazilian hospitality meets premium beef at this Orlando establishment that’s perfected the rodizio experience. Gauchos in traditional attire circulate continuously, offering fifteen different cuts prepared over an open flame.
The popularity means arriving early or facing substantial wait times, particularly during convention weeks.
Located at 7960 Via Dellagio Way in Orlando, near the tourist corridor but worth the trip from anywhere in Central Florida. The space feels refined without being pretentious, with warm woods and comfortable seating that encourages lingering.
That two-sided card system gives you complete control over pacing.
Start with the gourmet salad bar featuring hearts of palm, imported cheeses, and fresh seafood options. Then prepare yourself for wave after wave of perfectly seasoned meats.
The grilled pineapple that servers offer between savory courses provides a sweet palate cleanser. Lunch prices offer better value, though dinner service brings the full spectacular experience most people remember.
6. Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse
Fort Lauderdale’s power lunch and celebration dinner destination delivers old-school steakhouse excellence with modern polish. This national chain proves that sometimes corporate can still mean quality, with USDA Prime beef aged in-house and cooked to absolute perfection.
Reservations disappear quickly, and walk-in waits stretch long during peak hours.
Find this impressive establishment at 3232 Northeast 1st Avenue in Fort Lauderdale, where the building commands attention from the street. Inside, soaring ceilings and contemporary artwork create an atmosphere that feels both grand and welcoming.
The wine list runs dozens of pages deep, with knowledgeable sommeliers ready to guide your selection.
Bone-in ribeyes arrive at your table still sizzling, crusted beautifully on the outside while maintaining that perfect pink center. Sides come family-style and easily feed multiple people.
The lobster mac and cheese has achieved legendary status among regulars. Service remains attentive without hovering, striking that difficult balance perfectly.
7. Okeechobee Steak House
West Palm Beach history lives on at this no-frills institution that’s been serving honest steaks since 1947. Nothing here tries to impress with fancy presentations or trendy techniques.
Instead, quality beef gets cooked properly over an open grill, just like your grandfather would have enjoyed. Lines form because people recognize authentic value.
The address is 2854 South Okeechobee Boulevard in West Palm Beach, in a building that looks exactly like what it is—a beloved local landmark. Décor hasn’t changed much over the decades, and that’s precisely how regulars prefer it.
Red vinyl booths, dim lighting, and the smell of charcoal smoke set the scene.
Order the sirloin or T-bone and watch as it arrives simply prepared, letting the meat quality speak for itself. Prices remain shockingly reasonable compared to fancier competitors.
The baked beans and coleslaw taste homemade because they are. This isn’t a place for impressing a first date, but it’s perfect for satisfying a serious steak craving without breaking the bank.
8. The District Bistro
Jacksonville’s Riverside neighborhood boasts this chef-driven restaurant where steakhouse classics get elevated with creative touches. While technically a bistro, the beef program here rivals dedicated steakhouses across the state.
Popularity has grown steadily, turning weekend dinners into events requiring advance planning or patient waiting.
You’ll spot it at 1008 Park Street in Jacksonville, tucked into a charming historic building with character to spare. The atmosphere balances casual comfort with culinary ambition, attracting everyone from date night couples to groups celebrating special occasions.
An impressive craft cocktail program complements the food perfectly.
Their dry-aged New York strip comes topped with herb butter that slowly melts into every crevice of the perfectly charred exterior. Side dishes venture beyond standard steakhouse fare, with seasonal vegetables prepared in interesting ways.
The chef clearly respects traditional techniques while not being afraid to experiment. Portions justify the prices, and the overall experience feels special without any stuffiness or pretension.
9. Texas Cattle Company
Lakeland brings a taste of the Old West to Central Florida with this family-friendly spot that’s perfected the art of casual steakhouse dining. The Western theme runs throughout, from cowboy memorabilia on the walls to peanut shells crunching underfoot.
Families pack this place nightly, creating waits that test patience but deliver rewards.
Located at 3945 South Florida Avenue in Lakeland, this restaurant has become a local tradition for celebrations and regular family dinners alike. The atmosphere stays lively and fun, with friendly servers who genuinely seem to enjoy their jobs.
Kids receive special attention, making this an ideal choice for multi-generational gatherings.
Steaks arrive generously sized and properly seasoned, with that satisfying char from high-heat grilling. The salad bar offers unlimited trips, featuring fresh options that help balance all that protein.
Prices remain family-friendly, a rarity among quality steakhouses. The warm rolls they bring to your table prove dangerously addictive.
Yes, it gets loud during peak hours, but that energy adds to the overall experience.
10. Bascom’s Chop House
Sarasota’s culinary scene shines at this upscale chophouse where attention to detail extends from the kitchen to every aspect of service. The commitment to sourcing exceptional ingredients shows in every bite, with beef programs that rival anywhere in the country.
Reservations book weeks ahead during season, while walk-ins face lengthy waits year-round.
Find this gem at 1174 North Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, where the elegant interior matches the sophisticated menu. The wine cellar holds treasures that pair beautifully with their dry-aged offerings.
Knowledgeable staff guide diners through choices without ever seeming condescending or pushy.
Their bone-in ribeye, aged forty-five days, delivers complexity and depth that standard steaks simply cannot match. The crust achieves perfection, while the interior remains tender and juicy.
Seafood options provide excellent alternatives for non-beef eaters in your party. Side dishes deserve equal attention, prepared with the same care as entrees.
The overall experience justifies the premium pricing, creating memories that outlast the meal itself.
11. 1200 Chophouse
Winter Park’s sophisticated dining destination combines classic steakhouse traditions with contemporary flair and innovation. The sleek, modern space attracts Orlando’s discerning diners who appreciate quality without stuffiness.
Weekend reservations disappear quickly, and the bar area fills with well-dressed crowds happy to wait for tables.
Situated at 1200 South Orlando Avenue in Maitland, just north of Winter Park proper, this restaurant occupies a beautiful space with floor-to-ceiling windows. The open kitchen lets you watch skilled chefs work their magic.
The overall vibe feels current and energetic rather than traditional and stodgy.
Every steak on the menu represents carefully sourced, properly aged beef cooked with precision. The Japanese A5 Wagyu, while pricey, offers an experience worth trying at least once.
Standard cuts like filet mignon and New York strip receive equal care and attention. Creative appetizers and sides showcase seasonal ingredients.
The craft cocktail program rivals the food in quality and creativity, making the bar an excellent spot for pre-dinner drinks.
12. Leña Churrascaria Steakhouse
Boca Raton’s answer to Brazilian steakhouse excellence brings authentic churrascaria experience to South Florida with style and substance. The endless parade of meat starts the moment you flip your card to green, with skilled gauchos carving premium cuts tableside.
Popularity means planning ahead or accepting potentially long waits, especially on weekends.
Located at 6436 North Federal Highway in Boca Raton, this restaurant creates an atmosphere that feels festive and welcoming. The spacious dining room accommodates large groups comfortably, making it popular for celebrations and corporate events.
The salad bar stretches impressively long, stocked with traditional Brazilian offerings and fresh salads.
Picanha leads the meat parade, followed by lamb, pork ribs, and various chicken preparations. The garlic-rubbed top sirloin arrives perfectly seasoned and impossibly tender.
Pacing yourself proves difficult when everything tastes so good. The fixed price includes unlimited trips to both the salad bar and meat service.
Brazilian sides like fried polenta and cheese bread round out the experience beautifully.
13. Sunny’s Steakhouse
Delray Beach locals have embraced this neighborhood favorite that proves great steakhouses don’t require fancy locations or sky-high prices. The focus stays firmly on quality beef cooked properly, served by people who genuinely care about your experience.
Word-of-mouth recommendations keep this place busy, with regulars and newcomers alike willing to wait for tables.
You’ll find it at 3401 South Federal Highway in Delray Beach, in an unassuming building that lets the food do the talking. The casual atmosphere welcomes everyone from couples on date night to families grabbing dinner.
Nothing here tries too hard or puts on airs.
Steaks arrive cooked exactly as requested, seasoned simply to let the beef quality shine through. The porterhouse offers excellent value, providing both strip and tenderloin in one generous cut.
Fresh seafood options give non-beef eaters solid choices. Sides taste homemade and comforting.
Service remains friendly and efficient, striking that perfect balance between attentive and overbearing. The overall experience feels satisfying and honest, exactly what a good steakhouse should deliver.