Red meat has recovered to a certain extent from its image problem. Even so, many still limit consumption of what was likely a staple of their childhood. At any rate, even the strictest of health nuts splurges on a steak every now and then – and when that time comes, who doesn’t want to do it up right? We’ve compiled a list of splurge-worthy spots for steaks.
Take a look at the list below and pick which restaurant suits your fancy for the next time you’ve got a hankering for a steak.
121 artisan bistro
121 Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive, Lake Charles | (337) 310-7499
If you’re looking for the place to go in Lake Charles, try 121 Artisan Bistro, especially on Wednesday nights when the restaurant hosts after hours special. That’s where and when you’ll find many of Lake Charles’ movers and shakers.
Patsy Manuel, of Frame House and Gallery, right around the corner from 121 Artisan Bistro, makes a habit of eating there often.
The restaurant is known for its delicious steaks, but Manuel says the wonderful food goes far beyond steaks.
“It’s delicious – just wonderful. I go to a nutritionist, but they have things I can eat. Not only are there healthy options, but more than that, the food is fantastic. They have delicious steaks and the best salads, the best bisque and tomato basil – and fish taco.”
Manuel prefers the filet.
“That’s probably my favorite,” she says. “The atmosphere is very, very nice. I really like it.”
With so many people in the restaurant, Manuel says that it’s a little noisy, but that adds to the festive atmosphere.
“It’s my favorite place! Everyone loves it. It’s packed to the gills.”
Cafe Dominique
8013 Main St., Houma | (985) 223-7540
Café Dominique serves a diverse menu and aims to be a cut above from what most people expect in Houma. They serve free-range meats and seafood from local waters. The food is served in a variety of styles including French Country, Creole, Mediterranean and Asian.
The restaurant itself has an enviable location along the banks of Bayou Terrebonne, with tables along the bayou patio, with upscale Louisiana ambience, featuring gas lanterns on brick columns. The restaurant also houses its own bakery that bakes fresh bread, desserts and pastries daily.
Charley G’s
3809 Ambassador Caffery Pkwy., Lafayette | (337) 981-0108
Charley G’s has been an Acadiana favorite for decades. Charley G’s faithful patrons walk through the doors and take a deep breath of the just-right amount of wood-smoke. The restaurant’s staff provides excellent service and knows the ins and outs of making guests feel comfortable. The menu is varied, but the steaks are some of the best anywhere – especially if you prefer the steak done in the Pittsburgh style, perfectly charred on the outside and red in the middle. No one does that style of steak better than Charley G’s.
Another perk is that Charley G’s features a talented live piano player. Every Thursday night, Grammy-nominated David Egan plays his heart out. Due to its menu and staff, the restaurant has earned a loyal following.
“Charley G’s is by far the best restaurant in Acadiana,” says Kathy Abshire, a frequent Charley G’s guest. “It’s perfect for a romantic dinner for two (request a booth), or for a larger group.”
Like other Charley G’s fans, Abshire mentions the lighting, the scent of the hardwood grill, the acoustics and the impeccable service.
When it comes to steaks, Abshire is a fan.
“The filet is seasoned and cooked to order and comes with an extra taste touch from the hardwood grill. The fresh lump crabmeat topping option is always a good choice,” she adds.
Mr. Lester’s Steakhouse
Cypress Bayou Casino | 832 Martin Luther King Road, Charenton | (337) 923-7408
Making the trip to Mr. Lester’s is an Acadiana tradition for many.
“Lester’s gives you the distinct impression that you’re the most important patron in the place without the pretension of many steak houses,” says Amanda Bedgood, a Broussard resident who enjoys going to Mr. Lester’s to celebrate special occasions with her husband. “You could easily fill up on rich sides and a bread basket with flavored butters that’s a meal in and of itself. I am forever torn between the hearty ribeye or the tender filet and find it impossible to not order a side of béarnaise sauce –the best I’ve had anywhere.”
With entrées that range from $26 to $42 per person, Mr. Lester’s is usually reserved for special occasions, but get your reservations in early, because it fills up fast.
Ruth’s Chris steak house
620 W. Pinhook Road, Lafayette | (337) 237-6123
Nearly 50 years ago the Ruth’s Chris Steak House legacy began when Ruth Fertel mortgaged her home and purchased a restaurant called “Chris Steak House” in New Orleans. In 1976, when the original restaurant experienced a devastating fire, Fertel reopened in a nearby location. This move marked the official name change to Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Now, the company expects more than 140 Ruth’s Chris Steak Houses to be in operation around the world. The Ruth’s Chris Steak House menu features a broad selection of high-quality USDA Prime grade steaks and other premium offerings, served in the Ruth’s Chris Steak House “sizzling” signature fashion, topped with seasoned butter.
