30 Restaurants in 30 Days: Kevin Rathbun Steak
Fine dining may be on life support in Atlanta, but steak houses are thriving like never before. Why, during this recession, are people choosing to spend their money on high-end steaks but not other kinds of equally expensive dining?
To explore this question, I’ve decided to visit three influential steak houses and look at what they serve and what this says about the state of dining in Atlanta today.
Today, I’ll look at the first one: Kevin Rathbun Steak — a local eatery that seems to redefine what people look for in a cow palace. Tomorrow I’ll visit BLT Steak, a local branch of a high-end New York chain that has been peddling an interesting mash-up of French bistro cookery with great American grain-fed beef and other ingredients. I’ll end this mini-series with a trip to Bone’s — the Atlanta classic that has tinkered little with its formula during three decades on the scene.
As I’ve been an abiding fan of chef Kevin Rathbun’s first namesake restaurant, Rathbun’s, I always figured that Kevin Rathbun Steak would be just the chophouse for me. The long, eclectic menu here lists all kinds of hot and cold appetizers, non-steak options and creative side dishes. One could, for instance, start with oysters on the half shell and a chopped salad, and then go on a porterhouse steak and an elbow macaroni and cheese tart for a slightly updated steak house menu.
Then again, one could totally ignore convention and make a meal of lobster fritters, tuna sashimi, a bowl of butternut squash soup and a plate of seared diver scallops with farro stew.
Barbecued pork shoulder, a shellfish tamale, a bowl of groovy grits, a beet salad with goat cheese and candied pecans. It’s all there. You can eat small plate, big plates, huge plates, massive hunks of cow for two — yours for the taking.
And this all should be like crack for me, not being a meat-and-potatoes guy. Seriously. Real meat-and-potatoes guys could mop me up with their french fries. While they’re pounding down their New York strips and martinis, I’d be the one sniffing a shellfish tamale and scouring the wine list for an appropriate chardonnay.
But no. I assume the title of honorary steak-and-potatoes guy in a steak house, and I’m not sure Kevin Rathbun Steak quite delivers that experience I’m looking for. This restaurant offers myriad pleasures, but is it a steak house?
I take the most carnivorous of my three daughters one evening, and we are shown to a table in the quiet downstairs “library” (i.e., a cozy room with some bookshelves along one wall). We sit under this portrait of Rathbun wearing latex gloves and a sniffing a chunk of meat. I guess it’s nice to know the chef has personally smelled your food.
First we look over the long menu, then we hear all about the daily specials, which include a whole fish, a scallop sashimi with persimmon vinaigrette and a roasted red pepper soup.
After much discussion of options, we decide what we really came for was a steak, pure and simple, and we want to save both our appetite and attention for it. So we make a first course of the bread and butter — a strange assortment of dried fruit and nut bread, onion rolls and lavender butter.
Our steak is a beauty — a 22-ounce dry-aged ribeye ($54) that’s a perfect example of form. It has a large and well-defined “eye,” a thin layer of fat opposite the bone and a thick, well defined cap beyond the fat.
I ask to have the steak whole so I can give my daughter a yummy anatomy lesson. I carve off the ribeye cap — a distinct muscle that’s properly called the spinalis dorsi — the flavor is funkier and the texture juicy with broad, stripey grains. It it a piece of meat to stop you in your tracks, to make you pause and appreciate the sensation of eating.
But it’s just a bite. Next comes the ribeye proper, which I carve into fat ribbons. To me, the most noticeable benefit of dry aging is that the meat absorbs its juices during its lockdown, so the texture is both firmer and more tender than wet aged beef, and the steak doesn’t bleed when cut. The beefy flavor seems to stay in the meat.
We really like our steak, though it comes out a little too rare for our taste (we order medium rare, but find the center too red, cool and floppy). So after carving off half, we send it back for another spin on the broiler. Excellent: fresh, hot steak for round two.
We’re a little less thrilled with our sides. There’s no basic baked potato (Chorizo-stuffed twice baked potatoes? No thanks.). So we order herbed steak fries with blue cheese fondue — thick, house-fried sticks that turn soft and floppy after a few minutes. But a special side dish – brussels sprouts with chestnuts, bacon and parmesan cheese — is very nice.
It is also typical of Kevin Rathbun Steak. American steak houses first came of age by offering simplicity. They served as a rejoinder to the fussiness of Continental cuisine by bringing the attention squarely to fine American ingredients. This place, like other modern steak houses, is all about indulgence.
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79 comments Add your comment
DinnerGood
November 11th, 2009
8:41 am
So when did BLT take the place of Chop’s in Atlanta?
AJ
November 11th, 2009
8:52 am
DinnerGood – I think, and obviously John will correct if I’m wrong, John is trying to go to 3 steak places that have some differences. I would put Chops in the same category as Bones – classic steak house. BLT Steak is not your typical old school steak house. Just a guess…
phar71
November 11th, 2009
9:42 am
I have been 3 times, first time was a couple of years ago and was fantasitc, ever since I have been dissappointed, went with my entire family for my Birthday last year, Steaks came out cold, and half way through the meal, a smell of rotten fish permeated the entire place.
Kris 10
November 11th, 2009
10:21 am
Went to Rathbun steak a year or so ago – will never go back after such a disappointing experience. Horrendous, actually, considering the chef and the prices. I had the surf-and-turf, which included a grilled lobster that smelled horrible on its arrival and was predictably inedible. Can’t wait to hear about Bone’s – have yet to find a steakhouse here that can come close.
Beebee
November 11th, 2009
10:48 am
I think what sets Kevin’s steakhouse apart is that anyone can go there and find a great meal. Even a vegetarian. They source most of their produce from local organic farmers and it’s always used creatively. The seafood is always fresh and prepared thoughtfully. Also they have a new Chef de Cuisine that has been there for a little less than a year who was previously Chef de Cuisine at Woodfire Grill under Micheal Touhy. So if you have not been there lately, try it again. You can get a great piece of dry aged prime beef there but, there is also something for everyone. It’s a foodies’ steakhouse really.
NativeAtlantan
November 11th, 2009
11:04 am
Been to Rathbun’s Steak twice — the first time, several years ago was fantastic. The second time last year was absolutely horrible. Even after complaining to the wait staff about the meal, nothing was done to correct any of the problems. A lot of money for a terrible, terrible meal. Will certainly not be back.
A.S.
November 11th, 2009
11:08 am
BLT over Chops? From what I’ve heard BLT is not nearly as good as the joint in NY; and how do you pass on Chops? One of the oldest steakhouses in the city…Also one of the top 100 grossing restaurants in the COUNTRY!
http://www.rimag.com/article/CA6554059.html
Rob Vinson
November 11th, 2009
11:18 am
I’ve been to Rathbuns Steak and Chops and Bones, several times each, and I think as far as steak houses go, Bones wins hands down. They keep it simple and sometimes simple is better. They’ve stood the test of time since the 70’s in this town, so they must be doing something right. Hals is a good place for a steak too.
Captain
November 11th, 2009
11:19 am
Very hard to beat Hal’s on old Ivy for a great steak, fish or lamb. Very fine bar area with live piano and appetizers with a Cajun flair. I prefer it over Chops, Bone’s or Rathbun.
Reba
November 11th, 2009
11:40 am
I have been to Rathbuns Steak twice, but will never go again. I have never understood all the “hype” about this place. Okay, so it was the “in” place to be and be seen, but if you are looking for steak, go directly to Bones, or a second choice, Chops. Both meals I had at Rathbuns left me tasting butter in my mouth, even to the next day. I cannot imagine how much butter they use for each dish. A steak should not leave an aftertaste of butter. Period.
Laverne
November 11th, 2009
11:46 am
Bones is it, no “bones” about it – My Man eats bones and all !!!
Dead Dog
November 11th, 2009
11:50 am
Rathbuns is a B-. Its overpriced. Jalapeno Cream corn as a side was awesome though
samwise
November 11th, 2009
11:51 am
Every time I have been to Rathbun Steak it has been excellent. Ask for George, get the Porterhouse for two, and indulge. I don’t go there for the regular Sizzler experience, I go for lobster stuff baked potatoes and monster steaks an boutique wines. I certainly would not bring children or those who only like what they can get at Longhorn. Love it!
Ramona Clef
November 11th, 2009
11:52 am
That picture is creepy.
Harold
November 11th, 2009
11:56 am
Any one have an opinion on Morton’s Steakhouse, particularly the one by Lennox mall?
Thanx in advance.
John Kessler
November 11th, 2009
12:02 pm
I did spend a lot of time debating Chops or Bone’s but went with Bone’s since I had been to Chops more recently for another story. I am certainly not saying these are three best, but rather they are three of the most influential. Samwise seems the ideal target customer: he goes to indulge. Beebee also points out that KRS joins in the local farm-totable conversation, which is admirable in a steak house.
NativeAtlantan
November 11th, 2009
12:02 pm
Sam — shouldn’t have to ask for a specific waiter and I’m not part of the Sizzler or Longhorn crowd. I went specifically to indulge….unfortunately….I’m afraid Kevin is indulging on the massive amount of money I spent for a 2-person dinner.
Linda B
November 11th, 2009
12:11 pm
Hal’s is fine if you like smoke instead of steak. I will never return to inhale all that smoke again.
mmm...meat
November 11th, 2009
12:28 pm
I go to Steak every few weeks and enjoy it each time. I thoroughly enjoy the steaks but do consider them no better than chops, bones, mckendrick’s. The appetizers and sides are what I think separate Steak from the others, different and fantastic.
Mary Lynn
November 11th, 2009
12:41 pm
I am surprised that no one mentioned New York Prime! Never had a bad steak there..
DawgPhan
November 11th, 2009
12:44 pm
Going tomorrow night for my birthday…but you I can’t get down with reviewers that turn their nose up at chorizo twice baked potatoes…looking forward to it since I love Rathbun’s.
CW
November 11th, 2009
1:04 pm
dead dog I agree. That jalepeno cream corn may be the best side I’ve ever put in my mouth. Been to RS twice and would certainly go back. Sounds like some of you folks should just go eat at Longhorn
Footballandsteaks
November 11th, 2009
1:08 pm
If you have a choice of paying your mortgage or go out to eat and you choose to eat go to Bone’s. If you want to eat and pay the mortgage, choose Stoney River in Duluth. Great service and food. Get the Cowboy. Its killer. Oscar the steak is a great idea too, its just lump crab and bernaise.
Foode
November 11th, 2009
1:13 pm
Rathbun’s was one of the worst, most overpriced experiences I have ever had. We waited over 45′ to be seated for our 8:00 reservation. Once seated, It was another 20′ before anyone even said “Hello” to us. The first round drink order took another 10′ to get to the table. If I hadn’t physically stopped the indifferent waiter has he walked by, I think I’d still be sitting there waiting to order! So, just to be clear: With an 8:00 reservation, we didn’t get our first drink until 9:15, couldn’t place our dinner order until 9:45, and finally got our entree at 10:15! By then I was so ticked off that I found it difficult to enjoy the average tasting piece of beef that was in front of me. You couldn’t pay me to go back there.
If I want to be ignored, I can do that for free at home
Next time I want a great steak, I’m going to Bone’s.
Mike
November 11th, 2009
1:19 pm
Absolutely LOVED it the first two times that I went. Last time, it was a big disapointment. The food was just so-so and everything was way over salted. Perhaps the sea salt got the best of the chef working the kitchen that night?
Yankee Fan
November 11th, 2009
1:19 pm
I have been going to Rathbun’s and Kevin Rathbun’s Steak since they have opened and have never been disappointed. Food is always wonderful, atmosphere is inviting, wait staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and wine selection is great. If you are looking for an affordable and delicious meal, Rathbun’s and Kevin Rathbun’s Steak is the place to go.
Rathbun Fan
November 11th, 2009
1:23 pm
I have been to Kevin Rathbun’s Steak many times and think it is an excellent restaurant. Somedays the service can be a bit lacking but, the food has never been disappointing. I would go back there in a heartbeat. Rathbun’s Steak and Hals are my favorites for Atlanta. Give KRS another try and get the Bone-In Filet with the jalapeno cream corn…deeelicious!
NativeAtlantan
November 11th, 2009
1:46 pm
Sounds like Rathbun’s staff is now commenting on this blog…
Kris 10
November 11th, 2009
2:57 pm
I most definitely agree, Native Atlantan @1:46. If one of you Rathbun’s lovers is willing to spot me $200, I’ll gladly try the place again. Even though the restaurant has “Steak” in its name, perhaps diners fare better with just the farm-to-table sides. I’m not a member of the Sizzler/Longhorn crowd and I have no problem dropping some cash on a great meal, but I refuse to go back to a place helmed by a chef with a pedigree like his, who was in the kitchen the night I dined (hard to miss), and had no problem sending me a lobster that had been “grilled” to resemble a peice of charcoal in a shell and tasted like it looked.
Pat
November 11th, 2009
3:18 pm
Stoney River all the way. Service, food, and atmosphere is the best. Never disappointed, and if you are, they’ll correct it in a moment’s notice. Best one is on States Bridge Road in Duluth.
Phillyfan
November 11th, 2009
3:49 pm
I have to agree…Stoney River in Duluth has incredible , juicy steaks…good service, and excellent food.
JW
November 11th, 2009
4:01 pm
To me the true test of a steakhouse these days is the Porterhouse. Some of the most famous steakhouses such as Berns in Tampa and Peter Luger in NY consider the porterhouse the flagship steak (Peter Luger’s didn’t even offer us a menu at first assuming we’d get the porterhouse for 2).
In my opinion Rathbun Steak serves one of the best porterhouses in the country, and I’ve eaten there several times. In other categories I give best filet to Hal’s on Old Ivy and best Ribeye to NY Prime. Bone’s and Chops are classic Atlanta restaurants and obviously have great steaks, but to me they are more about the prestige, overall experience, history, and atmosphere.
Mike
November 11th, 2009
4:21 pm
To follow-up on my comment above — for me, the service has always been top notch at Rathbun Steak. My wife won’t let me go back to Bones, on the other hand, because, the last time we were there, the Maître d’ asked her if she was expecting twins (she was expecting, but only one). After years of frequenting Bones (and loving it), that comment moved Bones over to the blacklist. I’m still searching for my new favorite Atlanta steakhouse.
DDDAWG
November 11th, 2009
4:21 pm
Stoney River in Duluth is the best. conversation closed.
An Observer
November 11th, 2009
4:43 pm
Something isn’t right here……too many people having absolutely horrible experiences, then the next few say it is the greatest place on earth. Perhaps friends and employees doing a little posting?
I probably won’t go anyway, so it is a moot point to me. Call me simple, I’ll take the filet at Petite Auberge any time. Yes, I’ve been to Bones, as well as Smith & Wallenski (sp), & Ben Benson’s in NYC, so I’m not exactly a Western Sizzler kinda guy. The worst I ever had was Ruth’s Chris in Buckhead…tasted like burned butter.
Wine Diva
November 11th, 2009
4:50 pm
Bones #1, Chops, BLT then Stoney River. Love’em all.
An Observer
November 11th, 2009
4:51 pm
Mike @ 4:21 I had a similar experience at Bones……two mature couples on the way to a Governor’s Innaugrial Ball, dressed for the black tie event, and the snooty waiter asked if we were going to our Junior Senior Prom.
Never went back, as there are too many places to spend my money and not get attitude.
Sr.Atlanta
November 11th, 2009
5:02 pm
Rathbun’s Steak leaves much to be desired. Too expensive for what it serves. Bones is my first choice for steak. I am a huge fan of Rathbun’s restaurant however. Great menu and fantasic desserts.
Scott
November 11th, 2009
5:08 pm
Go to the Capital Grille. You won’t be disappointed. It is great in all aspects.
Diego
November 11th, 2009
5:32 pm
Been to Rathbun’s Steak at least 3 times. Definitely recommend the Porterhouse for 2. Last time a year or so ago our Porterhouse was overcooked and we mentioned this to waiter who replaced it with a new one, no problem. Service attentativeness was fine; overcooked steak was surprising, but I think result of it cooking on plate prior to our not real timely delivery–but nonetheless should not have happened. So I too am concerned that Rathbun’s has dipped. Sides are sides, steak lovers basically are mainly concerned with steak. My comment re. Rathbun’s sides is that they are small compared to the other steakhouses.
I like Rathbun’s ambiance; a bit disappointed at Chop’s ambiance and service the last time there.
I don’t think Rathbun’s Steak is more expensive than Chop’s, Ruth’s Chris, Morton’s, BLT, Pacci, Bones or NY Prime.
Went to NY Prime recently and loved it. Pacci is nice too.
Morton’s downtown waiter seemed snooty–and I don’t need that. Bones a dozen years ago gave me serious food poisoning on a nice steak dinner, which experience didn’t win me over–although the service was great.
Diego
November 11th, 2009
5:33 pm
Actually, in my comment I meant Capital Grille, not NY Prime.
McSteak
November 11th, 2009
5:35 pm
I have been to many of them for years. The best are
#1 Bones
#2 Hals
#3 Chops
Mortons
Firewater Chophouse in Cumming is about a year old and is pretty good.
McSteak
November 11th, 2009
5:40 pm
JK – as much as you wine and dine it is your fault it was too rare as you know they are going to cook steaks to the rarer side of your desire. Quit complaining so much. I don’t think you are capable of being please too often.
Jack G.
November 11th, 2009
6:16 pm
I miss Dale’s Cellar
Muddy River
November 11th, 2009
6:37 pm
Stoney River is terrible. Everything tastes like boullion cubes.
J-Bird
November 11th, 2009
6:39 pm
Hal’s, Chops Lobster Bar, Bones, McKendricks, BLT Steak, and NY Prime. In that order.
Business Man
November 11th, 2009
6:51 pm
The bottom line: There is no great steak place in Atlanta. If you are going, Bone’s and Hal’s are by far the best. If you take someone
to Rathbun’s for a business dinner, don’t expect to keep their business and don’t take your wife there unless you want a divorce. Clear enough?
RGW
November 11th, 2009
7:09 pm
interesting to hear that John experienced the same thing we did the last time we went to KRS – we ordered med-rare and it was too rare. Unfortunately we didn’t send it back but should have. Been there 2 x – appx 1 year apart. First time rocked; second time left us wanting more…will go back to Rathbun’s before KRS. As for Bone’s or Chops, no thanks, neither cut the mustard for me. Would much prefer to hit Whole Foods and have a nice steak from my home grill that drop the $.
DH
November 11th, 2009
7:30 pm
There’s Bone’s and then there’s everyone else!!!
Business Man
November 11th, 2009
7:50 pm
@RGW: If you are going to do it yourself, it is worth a trip to Fergeson’s Market on GA. HWY. 369. They have one of the best meat selections in the state. Take 400 to 369 and go west about 3 miles.
It’s a long way to go but well worth it.
JR
November 11th, 2009
8:24 pm
I too have been to Kevin Rathbun steak. Steak under cooked, too dark of a dining room, not my idea of a traditional great staekhouse. I will never go back.
My rule of thumb: NY Strip = Bones, Rib Eye = NY Prime, Filet = Hal’s. Chains also don’t won’t work for me i.e Palm, Morton’s, etc, although the “originals in NYC of the Palm, Smith and Wollensky’s are the best of the best for “traditional staek houses.
steaklover
November 11th, 2009
8:59 pm
interesting notes -
Sweet
November 11th, 2009
10:10 pm
Been to Rathbun Steak 2 months ago with a large group (9 people). Great variety/choices. Perfectly cooked meat. Everybody left happy if a little poorer!!
Steven Josovitz
November 12th, 2009
12:40 am
WOW…. Now this is what a blog should be. Lots of opinions and everyone getting along even though so many disagree. John your AJC Blog is so much fun too read. Funny when you mention the Steak House Craze lately. Some friends got a $20.00 Off Coupon for Stoney River but a 70 minute or longer made us leave. I suggested the next nearest BURB Steakhouse and headed to Ray’s Killer Creek. Dropped my name as a friend of Ray’s and was promised a table would be waiting . It was and the place was packed. No 70 minute wait like Stoney River but it was packed. I will say it was a really enjoyable evening. Service was excellent and steaks were delicious. Mike and I had a really flavorful with a side of in house made Vidallia Steak Sauce. Our Wives each had the Sea Bass and Crab Cake special and thought it was the best they ever had ( Although the one we had recently at Anitco Posta was incredible)…. Now about Rathburn’s I love Kevin and have been a fan since he took on NAVA… Our family had a great meal there and excellent service. The sides were yummy and the Porterhouse for two was delicious. I forgot about Hal’s and must say that Hal Nowak is the King of Cool… I dig Hal. He is from another period of time. A time of class and elegance. Simple classic menu, hi quality and big portions in a clubby VIP atmosphere. Looking forward to your BLT Steak review. Almost has our Sons 21th dinner there but he requested BBQ Beef Ribs at home instead.
Steven Josovitz
November 12th, 2009
12:43 am
Just read my comment above and saw something missing. The steaks we had at Killer Creek were Rib Eyes…..
James Hatcher
November 12th, 2009
1:10 am
I can remember this well because I visited during the Hawks’ playoff run in ‘08. I went to Rathbun Steak with a friend before the game. Maybe I was expecting too much because of the many accolades I’d read about the place in ATLANTA and other magazines. I was thoroughly disappointed. The cut of steak that I got was nothing short of a charred knot. Searing is one thing but burning is another. Presentation and ambience never substitute for well prepared food.Too much price and too little value. I e-mailed the restaurnat about my experience but never received a reply.
I was also happy to read in one of the above comments that the dining room is “too dark”. Glad to know that it was not just my trifocals.
cstewart79
November 12th, 2009
1:35 am
I have been going to Kevin Rathbun Steak since it has opened, and I have never had a better meal at a steakhouse. I have to completely disagree with John Kessler and say that not having your run-of-the-mill sides and “requirements” for a steakhouse are what set KRS apart from all the others. Yes, if you want your traditional chopped salad appitizer, ribeye entree, and baked potato side, go to Bones or Chops. But if you want something outside the “norm”, KRS is the place to go. The food is always excellent, fresh, creative, and most importantly, not like your same, typical steakhouse.
Kris 10
November 12th, 2009
9:59 am
My husband and I were raised in Dallas/Fort Worth, so we know steak and we take it VERY seriously. What we need in Atlanta is a Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse…STAT! I mean, Charlotte has one, for Chrissakes! I have been to many of this country’s top rated steakhouses, and NOTHING compares to Del Frisco’s in terms of the quality of meat, preparation, service, and atmosphere. Whether it was a power lunch/dinner, a dressy night out or a casual family celebration, Del Frisco’s has never let us down in any category. I miss it terribly.
Linda
November 12th, 2009
11:32 am
I have been wanting to try Hal’s so I appreciate the comment about the smoke-filled room. That is a real turn-off. Bones is wonderful. I am enjoying this blog.
Rachel
November 12th, 2009
12:02 pm
My favorite steakhouse is definitely Stoney River. We live in the city, so driving all the way to Duluth is like a roadtrip, but well worth it!!!!!!!!! We try to go at least once a month for date night. Filet oscar…delicious!
JIMBOB
November 12th, 2009
12:03 pm
haven’t been to Kev’s steak house. I can get five or six dollar flatiron at Kroger that will rival anything these places make. It has a little more connective tissue and is best taken to around 135-140 degrees (it’s not all dried out or all-grey at those temps). Mmmm!
The sides at my house aren’t as good, unless my wife has fixed some vidalia casserole or Alton Brown mac and cheese.
Robert
November 12th, 2009
12:06 pm
I’ve been to Rathbun’s Steak several times. About one in four visits is disappointing. The other three are typically great. Unfortunately, the staff doesn’t seem capable of realizing the disappointing experience while it’s happening and trying to make amends. And as a final comment, the wine list is mediocre. Great steak places should have great wine lists.
atlfunlvr
November 12th, 2009
12:21 pm
After reading a few of these I must say nothing has changed – your writing style remains creepy.
kt
November 12th, 2009
12:26 pm
John, Did they have a heads up that your were coming or did you arrive unannounced?
amuch
November 12th, 2009
12:40 pm
As circumstances would have it, my (generally)well-behaved family and I were at the table in the “basement” next to you. Although I would have preferred the surroundings of the main dining room, the space was fine. More importantly, the service was great, which is one of the things I enjoy about the restaurant. I’m not sure I think their food rivals Chops or Bones, I find it significantly less intimidating and more fun as a place to go for a meal other than an expense account lunch or dinner. Also, believe it or not, they had a fantastic kid’s menu, with a petite steak for my 9 year-old carnivore and mac and cheese for my 3 year-old. With all of the great veggies and salads, we were able to split the steak for two for three adults and still had plenty of cow to go around. We also had an outrageously good dessert of mint chocolate chip baked alaska, which is a must-get if you enjoy that sort of thing. All in all, we had a great experience for a family event, and hopefully didn’t distract your meal!
SteakLover
November 12th, 2009
12:54 pm
Morton’s is the best steak house ever!!! But if you want to be able to pay your mortgage and still have a great steak, go to Stoney River. Both of these places are first choices for my husband and I when we want fantastic steaks and great service whether we are at home or traveling around the country. We’ve been to serveral Morton’s around the country and all of them are excellent. We’ve been to Stoney River in Georgia and Tennessee and both were excellent as well. JMO …
Dave
November 12th, 2009
1:02 pm
Obviouly, the AJC should send a steak guy to evaluate a steak place. I’ve been to KRS regulary over the past several years and have never been disappointed. The Allen Bros. meat is remarkably good and Rathbun’s gets the temperature consistent all throughout the piece of meat. The sides (creamed corn, steak fries and blue cheese fondue, truffled mac and cheese) are like crack. Desserts can be a little underwhelming but who goes to a steak place for dessert? Rathbun’s is one of the best in Atlanta and all around.
Joel six pack
November 12th, 2009
1:40 pm
Went to Mortons at Lenox a couple of times and loved it. Aged steak, perfectly prepared, adequate wine list (i’m no connoisseur – just love giant cabs), solid service. The bartender even knew exactly how to make a sidecar for my wife.
Lisa S
November 12th, 2009
2:15 pm
I went for my birthday and it was so delicious, we went back again a week later. Get that giant porterhouse and split it and share some sides and you actually get a reasonably priced meal. The steak was perfect. The lobster fritters to start with are sensational and don’t miss the creamed corn.
John Kessler
November 12th, 2009
2:18 pm
Wow..interesting discussion.
For the record: this post was a little hard to write, based on one meal. I think if I were formally reviewing KRS, I’d take a more global perspective and judge the food on a hit:miss ratio. Bet there would be more hits than misses. But as an impression of one meal, it didn’t feel focused in the way I wanted. The service is great, which I should have noted.
A few other notes: I have eaten the porterhouse for two here, and it is an epic piece of meat. I wasn’t as wild about the jalapeno creamed corn as some of you. The time I had it the cream wasn’t well reduced and it left a cottony, coating texture. I do find the sides a little smaller in portion than at some other steak houses.
A few answers to questions:
KT: I don’t like to draw attention to myself when I arrive but, yes, the reservation was made on Opentable in my name. I got the feeling the hostess had no idea I was a writer, but someone else on staff soon recognized me.
amuch: I remember your table! Your kids were so cute and well behaved. I actually liked it downstairs…it was easier to talk in a normal voice.
McSteak: I’m fascinated. Do you really go out expecting your meat to be prepared more underdone that you requested? I honestly don’t think steak houses hit the temperature as often as they would like, but I have no issue asking for a little more heat.
atlfunlvr: I’m sorry you find my writing creepy. if you have any de-creeping tips, I’m all ears.
top chef fanatic
November 12th, 2009
3:00 pm
well mr. Kessler …..steaks is a topic for me anyday of the week! Im sorry you didnt enjoy your dinner with your daughter, And from reading these comments im gonna have to say RS has made as slide down hill for the worse. I dined there only 1 time and had the porterhouse for 2 and enjoyed it.and just basically got some wine and au gratin potatoes . So it wasnt hard to mess up . What i did enjoy was his steaksauce it was amazing ! I told him myself . And lets look at it from perspective the guy is from texas so he knows his steaks. Would i go back again ? not really im a big fan of other steakhouses in the ATL , I wont rate them like a scorecard i just know my steakhouses all across the country. So mr. Kessler get ready for BLT and the best popovers in ATL and a big tip …try the seasalt on them Its a real plus.
thanks and have a blessed day:)
Hef
November 12th, 2009
3:59 pm
Never been to Rathbuns,have been to Hal’s,Stoney River,& Bones. For my money minus the smoke is Hal’s,Excellent food. Service was great after a long wait for reserved seats.
stalinescu
November 12th, 2009
4:08 pm
Capital Grill is one of the best, Bones is up there too. Stoney River was very good. BUT the best bang for the money, not that it matters, is Carraba’s Fillet. Conclusion..all it matters is the atmosphere that you want to have. I could go on and on about other chain restaurants and their great steakes but I’m running out of time, I’m kind of getting hungry talking about steaks, so if I have to eat somewhere with my wife tonight on a thursday night on our date night without the kids I would take her to Strip at Atlantic Station. Enjoy
j
November 12th, 2009
5:21 pm
This blog is making me hungry.
The Best of the Best
November 12th, 2009
6:59 pm
A great under the radar spot in Decatur……..Cafe Lily’s is always exceptional. Their specials are always unbelievable. From steaks to lamb to seafood.
big bad bob
November 12th, 2009
7:13 pm
I have never had a bad meal at KRS, and I’ve never had a good one at Chops. Every time I have been to Chops the steak was stringy and undercooked.
For my money, the best is KRS, and I love their inventive side dishes…but as far as value goes the Highland Tap’s Filet mignon is the best, and they are renowned for their martinis.
Sandy
November 14th, 2009
5:14 pm
I had trouble finding the restaurant and I had even asked his highness himself (Kevin Rathbun) how to get there. He told me and my girlfriend (I’m a guy) to go by way of a fire escape and then jump down to the street. I thought he was kidding until I turned the corner and there actually was a moveable fire escape that didn’t go alll the way to the ground and you had to jump. Needless to say I went back the way we came. So we walked to his steak restaurant and then we couldn’t find the entrance so we used a intercom system to speak to the front desk who wouldn’t let us in the door. I was so mad I felt like leaving without eating. Later, in the restaurant I ran into Mr. Rathbun who apologized for sending us the fire escape route. He came to our table and offered us a free side dish for his transgression. I just assumed the guy was a sadist and wanted to have some sick fun with two customers. If he wasn’t so big and famous I would have kicked him in the balls. The best thing about the meal was the cigar I ordered after dinner and smoked outside on their patio. The porterhouse steak for 2 was the worst steak I ever tasted. It was served tepid, undercooked, and already SLICED! How could I send it back even? I also heard that if they knew who I was they were going to throw me out of the restaurant. All of this is true by the way.
not a critic
December 8th, 2009
9:40 am
The food was pretty good, pricey, but good. However, it was a birthday celebration dinner and they forgot the complimentary “birthday brownie/cake” that should have come at the end of the meal. I even called them back the day before to specify this was a birthday dinner and let them know who’s birthday it was. It was even mentioned to the server during the course of the meal that it was a birthday dinner and still nothing came. That was disappointing. I appreciated their follow-up call the next week. I stated, in a very polite and friendly manner, that the birthday dessert was overlooked and they apologized but didn’t offer anything to make up for it. It’s hard to say who’s at fault. Maybe the server didn’t get the message from whom ever took my call, or maybe the server forgot themselves, even though it was mentioned to the server during the course of the meal. No big deal really, still had a good time, but you know what they say about the small things…..
really??
December 19th, 2009
12:22 am
Mr Kessler.How did you make. A reservation on open table for KRS?? The company does not even have that option???And there are only 2 steak joints in ATL…KRS and NY Prime.