Peter Luger Steakhouse

Peter Luger Steakhouse is one of the most well-known and highly rated steakhouses in the country. For 28 years in a row, the Zagat Survey named it the best steakhouse in New York City. Most meat-eating tourists on their trips to New York make a point to dine here, while New Yorkers themselves swear it is the best steak they've eaten. The locations in Brooklyn and Great Neck differ slightly in ambiance, but both guarantee an unforgettable meal. Brooklyn has a traditional, old-world feel, while Great Neck adds a tad more elegance, with white table cloths. 

Sliced Tomato and Onions with Luger's Own Sauce ia an amazing prelude to a hefty steak dinner, although few can resist Luger's Sizzling Bacon. A long, extra thick slice of juicy bacon covers an entire plate and is enough for two. However, I would recommend ordering your own; it is too delicious to share. The Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail's name does not lie; the massive pieces of shrimp are succulent and if you think you can handle it, order the extra large portion. 

Peter Luger's USDA Prime Beef Steak is available for one, two, three or four people. The steak comes on a sizzling plate, pre-cut and ready to be devoured. The quality of a Peter Luger steak is unparalleled by any other steakhouse. Hot, juicy, cooked to perfection and an impressive size, the steak is their signature meal and definitely worth the trip. 

One word to describe most dishes at Peter Luger, including the steak, is juicy. The Chopped Steak, smothered in onions, had juices flowing out of it after every bite. Even those who are not steak of hamburger lovers will delight in this meal. Lamb chops, Luger Burger and Broiled Chicken are also on the menu and Great Neck lists Lobster as an option, as well. When dining before 3:00 pm, Peter Luger has an impressive lunch special menu filled with Chopped Steak, Pot Roast, Filet of Sole, Corned Beef and Cabbage and more. 

A Peter Luger meal is not complete without their sides, served for two. The Creamed Spinach is a must; it is melt in your mouth delicious. The Baked Oversized Potato is another giant-sized menu option and nothing compliments a steak better than a baked potato, It does not matter what you choose to top off your meal, because each dessert comes with a side of Schlag, their homemade whipped cream. While the desserts are mediocre, the schlag - thick and creamy - is amazing, served in a huge, separate bowl and good enough to eat on its own. 

While the Peter Luger waiters have never been described as the friendliest crew, I ran into no issues with those who served me. They don't laugh with you or carry on conversation about why you are dining there that day, but they are efficient, professional and serve your food exactly how you order it. Peter Luger Steakhouse is a well-oiled machine and it's no wonder the Brooklyn location has been standing for 125 years. The Great Neck location reopened in 1986 after being destroyed by a fire. 

Peter Luger Steakhouse is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner and reservations are required far in advance. While traditionally being known for only accepting cash and their own Peter Luger credit card, they now take debit cards and checks with ID. There is a free, private parking lot at the Brooklyn location for Peter Luger customers only.