Americans love beef. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, the average American consumes more than 60 pounds of beef per year. To cater to this obsession, numerous steak chain restaurants across the United States serve customers in a variety of atmospheres and price points. Several of these chains are known nationwide, so it doesn't matter if you are in Tulsa or New York City, you can find a steak restaurant to fit your desires.
Australian-themed chain, Outback Steakhouse, started in Tampa, Florida in 1988 and has grown to more than 700 locations nationwide. In 2009 and 2010, Zagat Survey rated it No.1 for steak in national full service chains. Guests of Outback have several options for steak, including ribeye, filet and T-bone. All meat is USDA choice or prime beef, and exceeds humane handling requirements. As of October 2010, steak entrees range in price from $10 to $21 and can vary based on location and cut of meat. Other menu items include chicken, seafood and pork entrees along with the signature blooming onion appetizer.
Founded in 1981 in Atlanta, Georgia, LongHorn Steakhouse has grown to more than 300 restaurants across the United States. Each restaurant is designed to resemble a Western rancher's home and is decorated with paintings of the West and bronze statues of ranch life. LongHorn offers steaks, chicken, seafood and ribs grilled in the style of the American West. While traditional steakhouse fare such as filets and ribeyes are always available, the menu changes to reflect regional and seasonal availability. Prices for steak selections range from $12 to $27, as of October 2010. LongHorn specialties include seven-pepper sirloin salad, Flo's filet and chocolate stampede dessert.
With 26 locations in the United States and Puerto Rico, The Palm is known for the caricatures of famous diners that adorn the walls of each restaurant. Established in 1926 in New York City, The Palm didn't have steak on the menu in its early years. After repeated requests for steak --- and numerous trips to a nearby butcher shop to honor those requests --- the owners finally added it as a regular menu item. Diners can choose from a number USDA prime beef cuts. Prices as of October 2010 range from $42 to $47, with a 32-oz. New York Strip designed for two people for $92. Seafood selections are also available in addition to Italian specialties honoring the heritage of the restaurant's founders. The Palm chain is still owned by members of the Bozzi and Ganzi families.
In 1965, divorced mom Ruth Fertel purchased a steak restaurant on Broad Street in New Orleans, Louisiana. The success of the original Ruth's Chris led to the first franchise in 1976. Today there are more than 120 restaurants in the United States. Steaks at Ruth's Chris come to the table with a New Orleans flavor and are "sizzling" when they arrive. While USDA corn-fed prime beef is the specialty, Ruth's Chris Steakhouse also offers fresh seafood dishes including lobster, shrimp and a daily selection of fresh fish. The menu is rounded out with salads, vegetable and potato side options and desserts including an apple crumb tart and bread budding with whiskey sauce. As of October 2010, steaks range from $33 to $44.
Established in 1978, Chicago-based Morton's The Steakhouse has more than 70 restaurants in the United States. The chain focuses on service and the quality of its steak selection, which is entirely USDA prime. Cuts of beef include filet, porterhouse and T-bone. Prices as of October 2010 range from $39 to $98, depending on cut and location. In addition to steaks, Morton's also offers fresh seafood selections including lobster, shrimp and oysters. The menu includes a variety of side dishes, salads and desserts, including Morton's special hot chocolate cake.
