Meat Your Match: The Ultimate Guide to Steakhouse Etiquette

Looking for a delicious and satisfying meal to cap off a long week? Look no further than a steakhouse! If you’re in the Roy, Washington area, Roy General Store is the perfect spot to indulge in a mouth-watering steak dinner. But before you dig in, check out our blog post for eight essential tips to make the most of your steakhouse dining experience. Keep reading to learn more!

Sizing Up Your Steak Portion

When it comes to enjoying a delicious steak at a restaurant, portion size can make a big difference. While many steakhouses offer cuts that are larger than the recommended serving size of three ounces, it’s important to keep portion control in mind to avoid consuming excess calories and fat.

To ensure you get the perfect portion, don’t be afraid to ask your waiter to cut your steak to your desired size. This will help you avoid overeating and keep your calorie intake in check. Remember, a serving size that’s around the size of your palm is a good rule of thumb to follow.

Order a Rib-eye Steak 

If you’re a steak lover, you know how important it is to choose the right cut. And when it comes to flavor and tenderness, the rib eye steak is hard to beat. Cut from the rib cage of the cow and often served with the rib bone attached, rib-eye steaks are known for their marbling, tenderness, and rich, beefy flavor.

To get the most out of your rib-eye steak, it’s important to know how it’s best prepared. While grilling is a popular method, the high heat can cause flare-ups and dry out the meat. Instead, try pan-searing your steak for a slower cooking process that allows the fat to break down and create a tender, juicy texture.

Keep in mind that rib eye steaks tend to have a higher fat content, which means they are calorically dense. If you’re watching your calorie intake, consider asking the waiter to cut your steak into smaller portion sizes or splitting it with a dining companion.

But if you’re looking for a flavorful and indulgent dining experience, the rib-eye steak is the way to go. So next time you’re at a steakhouse, give it a try and savor every delicious bite.

Pair Your Steak With a Bold Red Wine

When it comes to wine, pairing red wine with steak is a classic choice. But why does red wine go so well with steak? It’s because red wine has high levels of tannins, which are found in grape skin. Tannins have a bitter taste that complements the protein and fat content of the steak. Plus, tannins help soften the fat in the steak, making it more tender and flavorful.

So, what type of red wine should you choose? A bold Cabernet Sauvignon is an excellent choice for pairing with steak. This wine has high levels of tannin and alcohol content that further helps soften the meat’s fat. Its bold flavor won’t be overpowered by the rich flavors of the steak.

When you’re dining at a steakhouse, be sure to order a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon with your steak. The combination will elevate your dining experience to a whole new level.

Pair Your Steak with Whiskey

If you’re not a fan of red wine, you can still enjoy a delicious steak with a glass of whiskey. Whiskey has rich caramel notes that won’t be easily overpowered by the steak’s flavor, and its smooth and hearty taste complements the best qualities of a steak.

When choosing a whiskey to pair with your steak, consider the cut of the steak, how it’s prepared, and any other flavors used, such as marinades or sauces. Bourbon and rye are great options, while scotch is perfect for grilled steak because of its smoky flavor that pairs well with the charred taste of the meat.

Whether you prefer your whiskey neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, it will bring out the true flavors of the whiskey and complement the delicious taste of the steak.

Pair Your Steak With Delicious Potatoes

When dining at a steakhouse, potatoes make the perfect side dish to complement your steak. Whether they are baked, fried, roasted, scalloped, or mashed, potatoes are versatile and delicious. If you’re looking for the perfect side dish to accompany your steak, mashed potatoes are a great option. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes pairs well with the bold flavor of a juicy steak.

In addition to being a tasty side dish, studies have shown that eating steak with potatoes can actually have health benefits. Consuming too much red meat can be damaging to human cells, but starchy foods like potatoes have been shown to reverse some of these harmful effects. So not only will you be enjoying a delicious meal, but you’ll also be taking care of your health.

Skip the Sauces: Let the Flavor of Your Steak Shine

While butter, barbecue, or steak sauce can enhance the flavor of your steak, they can also add a significant amount of calories. Instead of relying on these sauces, try savoring the natural taste of your steak.

If you prefer a bit of extra flavor, ask the waiter if the restaurant offers any wine-based sauces that complement the taste of the steak without adding too many calories. This way, you can enjoy your steak without compromising on your health goals.

Balance Your Meal With Vegetables

While a steak is a satisfying main dish, it’s important to balance your meal with vegetables for added nutrients and fiber. Eating a variety of vegetables can help you achieve a well-rounded and healthy meal.

At a steakhouse, you can often find vegetable sides such as grilled asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a mixed green salad. These dishes can add a refreshing and flavorful touch to your meal while also providing important vitamins and minerals.

Don’t forget to pay attention to portion sizes, as too much of any food can lead to overeating. Aim for a balanced plate with a small portion of steak (around 3 ounces) and plenty of colorful vegetables for a satisfying and healthy dining experience.

Avoid Ordering a Well-Done Steak

It’s not recommended to order a well-done steak as it can greatly affect its taste and texture. Overcooking a steak can cause it to lose its moisture and natural juices, resulting in a dry and tough texture. A steakhouse usually offers high-quality steak cuts that are expertly prepared by the chef. When ordering a well-done steak, it can lose its flavor and turn out to be a less enjoyable experience.

The ideal preparation for a steak is medium-rare, as it produces tender and juicy meat with delicious marbling fat that gives it a rich and buttery flavor in every bite. If you prefer your steak cooked to a higher temperature, you can order it medium, but it’s best to avoid ordering it well-done. By enjoying your steak at the ideal preparation, you can truly savor the flavors and quality of the steak cut.