5 Places to Steak Your Claim and Dig In

We have so many options for dining throughout our country. Thousands of cultural dishes along with fusions of these cuisines affords one endless options when it comes to dining. With so many variations what about the foodie purist who loves to keep it big and beefy, simple yet upscale? High-end steakhouses are my choice when it comes to keeping the menu simple and loaded with flavor. These denizens for carnivores have been around the U.S. since the mid-1800’s, originating in London in the 1690s. Back then they were known as “chophouses." Steakhouses can be formal or casual with most menus following the same rule of thumb, big cuts featuring big flavor. This week take a look at 5 places where I have “steaked” out and dug in … along with travel tips:

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5. In Las Vegas, we have numerous choices when it comes to upscale steakhouses Vic & Anthony’s, Andiamo, and The Capital Grille to name a few. But about 90 miles south of Vegas is Laughlin. Laughlin makes for a nice change of scenery and an affordable short vacay. We enjoy staying at Harrah’s on the Colorado River. The Range Steakhouse is the finest restaurant in town. The steaks are juicy, the seafood is succulent, and the appetizers and sides are delicious. The 20 oz. porterhouse is my cut of choice grilled medium rare and served with a large salt crusted baked potato. The lamb chops are also a terrific choice, topped with a tangy pomegranate sauce. The resort has the finest beach on the river with plenty of water activities. Take the short drive east and visit Oatman, Arizona, where the mules sometimes outnumber the tourists.

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4. My wife and I are huge fans of Disney theme parks and The Napa Rose restaurant at The Grand Californian Resort. But there's a close rival. Steakhouse 55 at the Disneyland Hotel has many tempting classic cuts of meat and fresh seafood. The atmosphere is reminiscent of old Hollywood and rich with Disney history. Walt Disney’s favorite restaurant is adorned with vintage pictures of Walt throughout the room. The bone-in dry aged rib-eye is tops on my list every time. The 18 oz. behemoth is so juicy and full of flavor due to the bone being attached. The Brussel sprouts are a perfect compliment, topped with pomegranate molasses and goat cheese. Disneyland and California Adventure parks are the best. When the thrill seeker in us needs fulfilling we’re off to Knott's Berry Farm for some intense rides. Always before dinner … never after.

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3. When it comes to NFL coaches Don Shula is a legend. During Shula's 25 year tenure coaching the Miami Dolphins he led them to two super bowl victories and the only undefeated season in the history of the sport. After football, Shula became a legend in restaurants opening Shula’s Steakhouse at The Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort. While coaching, Shula’s motto was, “select the best talent to succeed." The motto holds true even at the restaurant. Prime Black Angus beef is all they serve, the grade and breed are some of the best in the world. The 20 oz. Kansas City strip steak is melt in your mouth delectable due to the incredible marbling. No need for a side, a hearty Cabernet is all you need. The Disney parks are just outside your door.  Also, Gatorland is nearby. Take a short drive and mingle with some razor-toothed reptiles.

2. Chicago is known for many foods including deep dish pizza and Chicago Dogs. The city at one time was the terminus for most steer. They were broken down into smaller cuts then distributed across the country. Keeping that beefy tradition alive is a fantastic steakhouse known as Kinzie Chophouse. Owner Susan Frasca purchased the dilapidated structure in 1998 and was delighted to find what a gem she had after its renovation. On our visit, we started off with the tempting deviled eggs, made with cream cheese, and topped with smoked salmon. I prefer dry-aging over wet-aging, so the 16 oz. Del Monico was my claim for the evening. Of course, a Cubs game is a must. We found the Chicago River cruise to be spectacular with Chicago’s architecture on full display.

1. I have been to Seattle several times driving straight through Tacoma. A few years ago we stayed in Tacoma for a convention. We asked the concierge for some dining tips, and he replied, “You have to try El Gaucho, it’s Legendary." He booked us a table and later that evening we were off to our dining destination. It was very unassuming on the outside. Upon entry, wow, you are immediately transferred to the speakeasy era. Shimmering candles, soothing music from a grand piano, plus rich furniture and décor. Before ordering we were presented with the Diablo Beef Tips, compliments of our concierge: beef tips in a spicy Cajun cream sauce. My main was classic, the flaming sword brochette including tenderloin, New York, and chicken sausage. From one classic to another, check out Le May-Americas Car Museum in Seattle and take a tour of the Boeing factory.

Originally most steakhouses in the U.S. were found mainly in New York City and Chicago due primarily to their proximity to the Meatpacking District and the Union Stockyards. Their popularity has spread to all points north, south, east, and west. They are also enjoyed worldwide. In Florence, they are called bistecas where massive portions of beef from the region are served. Brazil enjoys churrascarias, where numerous meats are paraded through the dining area perched on large skewers and carved at your table. Japan’s beer-guzzling wagyu is the most tender in the world. No matter how you slice it I agree with Sam Elliott’s quote, “beef, it’s what’s for dinner." Dig in!