It had been a while since I've had a good hearty steak out at a restaurant because first of all, I haven't really been to a nice steakhouse as of the past few months, and in that situation; I'd rather cook my own steak at home than eat a bad quality one at a regular restaurant that doesn't specialize in it. However, I've heard good things about the Cleveland ChopHouse and their steaks and how they are a "a real steakhouse" that are at times mentioned along the same sentences as Mortons or Flemings (which I do enjoy once in a while), I decided to give this place a shot.
My first impression upon entering the chophouse was that; I really liked the decor. It wasn't overly modern, but looked well renovated, yet still retained an old school chophouse look (if that makes any sense at all). They had tall sturdy booths; and nice big tables and big large comfy chairs. I took my older sister out on this occasion as the two of us haven't really had some alone (brother-sister bond time) in a while. We were seated immediately upon arrival, and promptly served ice water while our server appeared upon our table within moments after settling down to take our drink orders. The service over all was very competent; nothing extra-ordinary; but simple and adequate. Water and drinks were refilled quickly and efficiently; and the server came to check on us twice during the meal and things went very smoothly.
On to the Food!! Overall, the food was...good! I enjoyed it quite well. It was exactly what you would expect from a decent/good steakhouse:
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| CORN BREAD |
Again, I don't normally mention the bread, or at least I won't post a picture of it; but their bread service was that of a freshly made corn bread still in its pan. It was different from your run of the mill french/italian bread offerings most places provide. In fact, I have to admit; the corn bread was really really good. It was a ample amount; more than the two of us could finish, nice and buttery and hot; but not overy greasy. And it came with a sweet whipped butter that really complemented it well. In fact; I enjoyed the corn bread so much that if they didn't provide this as their bread service; I would order it for the table next time I came. It was that good.
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| CAESAR SALAD with anchovies |
My steak meal came with a side Caesar salad. Interestingly, I was offered the option of having anchovies in it; which again was a little added touch I rather appreciated. I've had anchovies on my salad before, but didn't expect this chop house to have this offering. I definately appreciated it as the salad turned out rather well. Fresh greens, crunchy croutons, and a cheese; but not overly strong sauce mixed well with fresh Parmesan cheese slices. The anchovies went well with the salad giving it a sharp switch in gear to the creaminess the sauce provided. Paired with the already raved about corn bread; the salad was pretty good. Don't get me wrong, the salad isn't worth coming to the steak house itself; but it was a good salad that I enjoyed.
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| NY STRIP 16OZ - medium rare, with white cheddar mashed potatoes |
I got the 16oz, NY strip steak, done medium rare. Actually, I ordered it; "Chicago - medium rare" which means on the outside; medium rare in the inside. Our server was confused for 2 seconds and then piped up with "OH!, that's a pittsburg"! So, apparently, they're version of chicago (or charred outside) with the inside being more rare is known as the pittsburg. Good to know! Anyways, I would have been perfectly happy with just a regular medium rare done steak; but the fact they could do it this way; was an added bonus and a testament to not just a regular run in the mill restaurant doing steak; but that they take their steak seriously.
The quality of the meat was great. Choice quality; good marbling on the NY strip; and they really did give me a 16oz steak. Cooked to order. Charred outside; while the meat was still medium rare once I cut into it. Seasoned simply; but well enough that I could taste the quality and the dry aged steak flavor. I really enjoyed the steak; and was very satisfied. The potatoes were good. Nothing too special; just done well and flavorful. But the steak stole the show as it was good quality meat; and cooked very well.
Overall, I had a very good impression of my dining experience. The food was very well executed and just as you would expect from a decent to quality steakhouse. It is not your top of line Morton's steakhouse; but it is close enough without having to pay the high end price tag that comes with Morton's. In fact; ChopHouse was not too expensive; rather a very well priced; very well done meal. Service again, was adequate and efficient and overall I enjoyed my experience.
824 W Saint Clair Ave
Cleveland, OH 44113-1266
(216) 623-0909
http://www.chophouse.com/
