16 New York Steakhouses Every Steak Lover Must Try
New York City is home to some of the finest steakhouses in the world, where perfectly aged beef meets culinary artistry.
Whether you’re craving a classic porterhouse or something more adventurous, the city’s steakhouse scene offers unforgettable dining experiences at every turn.
From historic establishments that have been serving steak for over a century to modern spots reimagining the tradition, these restaurants represent the very best of what New York has to offer for serious carnivores.
1. Gallagher’s Steakhouse
Right in the heart of the Theater District at 228 West 52nd Street, this classic chophouse has been feeding hungry theatergoers since 1927.
The display window showcasing massive cuts of dry-aged beef is an iconic sight that stops pedestrians in their tracks.
Timing your dinner here before a Broadway show is practically a New York rite of passage.
Their New York strip is consistently excellent, with that perfect balance of marbling and tenderness that makes every bite memorable.
The old-school vibe includes checkered tablecloths and walls covered with Broadway memorabilia and celebrity photos.
Servers here move with practiced efficiency, getting you fed and out the door in time for curtain call without ever making you feel rushed.
Their hash browns are unexpectedly amazing and pair wonderfully with any steak you order.
2. Keens Steakhouse
Walking into this legendary spot feels like stepping back in time to when Teddy Roosevelt dined here regularly.
The ceiling is covered with thousands of clay pipes from the late 1800s, creating an atmosphere you simply won’t find anywhere else in the city.
Located at 72 West 36th Street in Midtown West, Keens has been serving extraordinary steaks since 1885.
Their mutton chop is famous for good reason—it’s massive, perfectly seasoned, and cooked to juicy perfection.
I always recommend starting with their thick-cut bacon appetizer before moving on to the main event.
The service here strikes the perfect balance between professional and welcoming, making you feel like part of the family.
Don’t skip dessert either; their key lime pie provides a refreshing finish after all that rich, savory goodness.
3. Peter Luger Steak House
Cash-only policies might seem outdated, but at this Brooklyn institution, it’s all part of the charm that has attracted steak lovers since 1887.
You’ll find this legendary spot at 178 Broadway in Williamsburg, right under the Williamsburg Bridge.
Their porterhouse for two is what dreams are made of—crusty on the outside, butter-tender inside, served sizzling on a heated plate.
The no-frills approach extends to the decor, which hasn’t changed much in decades, and honestly, nobody wants it to.
What really sets Peter Luger apart is their dry-aging process and the quality of beef they source.
Expect a bit of attitude from the servers, but it’s become part of the experience that regulars actually appreciate.
Make reservations well in advance because this place fills up fast.
4. Sparks Steak House
Famous for reasons both culinary and notorious, this Midtown East landmark at 210 East 46th Street has been serving exceptional steaks since 1966.
The wine collection here is absolutely mind-blowing, with over 1,000 selections lining the walls in a stunning display.
Their sirloin and filet mignon are cooked to absolute perfection, with that ideal char that only comes from seriously high-heat broiling.
Portions are generous without being wasteful, and the sides—especially the creamed spinach—are worth ordering.
The atmosphere leans formal but never feels stuffy, making it perfect for business dinners or special celebrations.
Service is attentive without hovering, and the staff really knows their cuts of meat.
If you’re a wine enthusiast, ask your server for recommendations because they’ve got some incredible bottles at various price points.
5. Smith & Wollensky
Perched along the East River at 797 Third Avenue in Midtown East, this green-and-white landmark offers stunning waterfront views alongside exceptional beef.
The two-story space manages to feel both grand and comfortable, perfect for everything from power lunches to romantic dinners.
Their dry-aged ribeye is a showstopper, arriving at your table with a gorgeous crust and that distinctive aged flavor that steak enthusiasts crave.
The upstairs dining room provides a slightly more intimate experience, while downstairs buzzes with energy.
What I appreciate most is their commitment to quality without pretension—you get world-class steak without unnecessary fuss.
The wollensky salad, with its blue cheese and bacon, is substantial enough to share.
If weather permits, try to snag a table on their outdoor terrace for unbeatable city views with your meal.
6. Delmonico’s
Claiming the title of America’s first fine dining restaurant, this Financial District institution at 56 Beaver Street has been operating since 1837.
The Delmonico steak was literally invented here, making this spot essential for any serious steak historian.
Their signature cut—a boneless ribeye—comes with a rich, buttery sauce that enhances rather than masks the beef’s natural flavor.
The dining room exudes old-world elegance with its columns, chandeliers, and portraits of notable past diners.
Beyond steak, their menu reflects centuries of culinary innovation, including dishes like Lobster Newberg that also originated within these walls.
The lunch crowd tends toward business professionals, while dinner attracts a mix of tourists and locals celebrating special occasions.
Don’t miss their oysters Rockefeller, another dish they claim to have invented, as a starter before your steak arrives.
7. Old Homestead Steakhouse
Standing proud in the Meatpacking District since 1868, this spot at 56 Ninth Avenue holds the distinction of being New York’s oldest steakhouse.
The neon sign outside has become an iconic landmark in a neighborhood that has transformed dramatically over the decades.
Their Japanese Kobe beef is legendary, though it comes with a price tag that reflects its extreme rarity and quality.
For something more accessible but equally delicious, their dry-aged porterhouse delivers incredible flavor and tenderness.
The interior blends vintage steakhouse charm with just enough modern updates to keep things comfortable.
Family-owned for generations, you can feel the pride they take in every aspect of the dining experience.
Their gotham steak—a massive 60-ounce ribeye—is perfect for sharing if you’re feeling particularly hungry.
The staff treats regulars like old friends while making first-timers feel equally welcome.
8. Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse
Soaring ceilings and a stunning two-story wine tower create an impressive first impression at this Midtown location at 1221 Avenue of the Americas.
Everything here operates on a grand scale, from the portions to the atmosphere to the level of service.
Their bone-in ribeye is a masterclass in steak preparation, with perfect marbling and a char that adds incredible depth of flavor.
The lemon cake dessert has achieved cult status among regulars and provides a bright, sweet finish to a rich meal.
This is the kind of place where celebrations feel even more special and business deals seem destined to close successfully.
The bar area buzzes with energy during happy hour, offering a more casual way to experience their menu.
If you’re entertaining clients or marking a milestone, the private dining rooms offer an extra layer of sophistication and privacy.
9. Quality Meats
Housed in a former industrial space at 57 West 58th Street in Midtown, this modern steakhouse brings a fresh perspective to traditional chophouse dining.
The butcher shop aesthetic, complete with marble counters and hanging meat hooks, creates a unique ambiance that feels both rustic and refined.
Their quality bacon appetizer is dangerously addictive—thick-cut, perfectly crispy, and served with a maple glaze that balances sweet and savory beautifully.
When it comes to steaks, the dry-aged bone-in sirloin showcases their commitment to premium beef.
The menu ventures beyond standard steakhouse fare with creative sides and seafood options that reflect contemporary tastes.
Service strikes that sweet spot between knowledgeable and friendly without any stuffiness.
Their lunch menu offers surprising value for the quality you receive, making it popular with the business lunch crowd.
The lighting is dim enough for romance but bright enough to actually see your food.
10. Strip House
Red velvet walls and vintage burlesque photos create a sultry, theatrical atmosphere at this Midtown spot located at 13 East 12th Street.
The decor alone makes this steakhouse memorable, but the beef is what keeps people coming back.
Their New York strip (naturally) is perfectly seasoned and cooked, arriving with a gorgeous crust that seals in all those delicious juices.
The truffle creamed spinach has achieved legendary status and might just be the best version of this classic side dish in the entire city.
Portions are generous, so come hungry or be prepared to take home a doggy bag.
The chocolate cake dessert is absurdly rich and easily serves four people despite being listed as a single portion.
This spot works equally well for date nights and group celebrations, with a vibe that encourages lingering over wine and conversation.
Their downtown location offers a slightly different vibe from typical Midtown steakhouses.
11. Bowery Meat Company
Exposed brick walls and an open kitchen create an energetic, contemporary vibe at this East Village gem located at 9 East 1st Street.
Unlike traditional steakhouses that can feel formal and hushed, this spot buzzes with downtown energy and attracts a younger, hipper crowd.
Their dry-aged prime ribeye is exceptional, but what really sets them apart is the creative preparation of lesser-known cuts that showcase the chef’s skill.
The roasted bone marrow appetizer is rich, indulgent, and perfect for spreading on their house-made bread.
Cocktails here deserve special mention—the bar program rivals the kitchen in terms of creativity and execution.
The space can get loud when full, which adds to the lively atmosphere but might not suit those seeking intimate conversation.
Weekend brunch offers a completely different experience, with steak and eggs done to perfection.
Their location makes it perfect for continuing the night in the East Village after dinner.
12. St. Anselm
Bucking steakhouse traditions, this Williamsburg spot at 355 Metropolitan Avenue focuses on wood-fired cooking that adds incredible smoky depth to everything they serve.
The casual, neighborhood vibe makes it feel more like a local favorite than a destination restaurant, though it’s definitely worth traveling for.
Their hanger steak showcases how proper cooking technique can make a less expensive cut taste absolutely extraordinary.
Everything comes off the grill with beautiful char marks and that unmistakable wood-smoke flavor.
Prices are notably more reasonable than Manhattan steakhouses, making it easier to try multiple dishes without breaking the bank.
The menu changes based on what’s available and fresh, reflecting a farm-to-table philosophy that’s rare in the steakhouse world.
Don’t expect white tablecloths or formal service—this is Brooklyn dining at its most authentic and delicious.
Their oyster selection is always fresh and thoughtfully curated, making for a perfect start to your meal.
13. COTE Korean Steakhouse
Blending Korean barbecue traditions with American steakhouse luxury, this Flatiron spot at 16 West 22nd Street has revolutionized how New Yorkers think about steak.
The built-in grills at each table mean you get to participate in the cooking process, making dinner feel like an interactive experience.
Their butcher’s feast tasting menu takes you through various cuts and preparations, from tender short ribs to perfectly marbled ribeye.
The banchan (Korean side dishes) that accompany everything add layers of flavor and texture you won’t find at traditional steakhouses.
Reservations are notoriously difficult to snag, so plan well ahead or try for a walk-in bar seat.
The space itself is gorgeous, with modern design elements that feel both sophisticated and welcoming.
Their cocktail program incorporates Korean ingredients in creative ways that complement the meat beautifully.
This is hands-down one of the most exciting steakhouse concepts to emerge in recent years.
14. 677 Prime
Venturing upstate to Albany’s downtown at 677 Broadway, this elegant steakhouse proves that world-class beef isn’t exclusive to New York City.
The sophisticated atmosphere rivals anything you’ll find in Manhattan, with attentive service that makes every diner feel valued.
Their prime aged steaks are sourced from top purveyors and prepared with the same care and precision as the city’s best establishments.
The wine list is extensive and thoughtfully curated, with selections that pair beautifully with their menu.
Local politicians and business leaders frequent this spot, giving it a power-dining atmosphere without any pretension.
The seafood options are surprisingly excellent, making it perfect for groups with mixed preferences.
Their martinis are perfectly balanced and generously poured.
If you’re exploring New York’s capital region, this steakhouse absolutely deserves a spot on your itinerary.
The prices are more reasonable than comparable Manhattan restaurants while maintaining exceptional quality.
15. Russell’s Steaks, Chops, & More
Located at 6675 Transit Road in Williamsville near Buffalo, this upstate gem delivers exceptional steaks in a warm, welcoming environment.
The family-friendly atmosphere makes it perfect for everything from casual dinners to special celebrations without any stuffiness.
Their hand-cut steaks are consistently excellent, with proper seasoning and cooking that lets the quality of the beef shine through.
The menu lives up to its name by offering outstanding pork chops and other options alongside the stellar steak selection.
Western New York hospitality is on full display here, with servers who genuinely care about your dining experience.
The portions are generous, reflecting the region’s no-nonsense approach to good food.
Their sides, especially the loaded baked potatoes, are substantial enough to share.
The bar area provides a comfortable spot for drinks and appetizers if you’re waiting for a table.
This is the kind of place where locals bring out-of-town guests to showcase Buffalo’s dining scene.
16. The Western Door Steakhouse
Situated inside the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino at 310 Fourth Street in Niagara Falls, this upscale steakhouse combines Native American hospitality with world-class cuisine.
The elegant dining room offers a refined escape from the casino floor’s excitement.
Their premium cuts of beef are prepared with meticulous attention to detail, resulting in steaks that rival any top-tier establishment.
The menu incorporates some regional ingredients and preparations that reflect the Seneca Nation’s culinary traditions alongside classic steakhouse offerings.
Floor-to-ceiling windows provide stunning views that complement the exceptional food, especially if you time your reservation near sunset.
The wine list is surprisingly extensive for a casino restaurant, with knowledgeable sommeliers available to guide your selection.
Service maintains a professional polish that elevates the entire experience.
If you’re visiting Niagara Falls, this steakhouse offers a memorable dining experience that extends well beyond typical tourist fare.
The desserts are creative and beautifully presented, providing a sweet finale to an excellent meal.