Seattle may be famous for its coffee culture and fresh seafood, but the Emerald City also boasts an impressive selection of steakhouses that cater to all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re craving a luxurious dining experience or a more casual bite, Seattle has the perfect spot to satisfy your steak cravings. In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best steakhouse restaurants in Seattle, highlighting the different types of steaks offered, cooking styles, and the overall dining experience at each location. Let’s dig in!
The 10 Best Steakhouses in Seattle
1. Canlis
- Steak Offered: Dry-Aged Ribeye, Wagyu Filet Mignon
- Cooking Style: Charcoal-Grilled
- Dining Experience: Upscale, Romantic, Scenic
- Price Range: $$$$
Canlis is not just a restaurant; it’s a Seattle institution. Perched on a hillside overlooking Lake Union, Canlis offers a fine dining experience that’s perfect for special occasions. The steaks here are expertly cooked over charcoal, giving them a distinct smoky flavor. The dry-aged ribeye and Wagyu filet mignon are the stars of the menu, tender and bursting with flavor. The elegant atmosphere, complete with live piano music and stunning views, makes Canlis a must-visit for steak lovers.
2. The Metropolitan Grill
- Steak Offered: Prime New York Strip, Bone-In Ribeye
- Cooking Style: Charcoal-Broiled
- Dining Experience: Classic, Elegant, High-End
- Price Range: $$$
The Metropolitan Grill is synonymous with steak in Seattle. Known for its classic steakhouse ambiance, complete with dark wood interiors and white tablecloths, this is the place to indulge in a perfectly cooked Prime New York Strip or a succulent bone-in ribeye. The steaks are charcoal-broiled to perfection, ensuring a flavorful crust and juicy interior. With an extensive wine list and top-notch service, The Met is a great choice for a refined steak dinner.
3. Bateau
- Steak Offered: Grass-Fed Bavette, Dry-Aged T-Bone
- Cooking Style: Grilled, Sous-Vide Finish
- Dining Experience: Modern, Innovative, Farm-to-Table
- Price Range: $$$
Bateau takes a modern, farm-to-table approach to the steakhouse concept. The restaurant emphasizes sustainability, offering cuts of grass-fed beef sourced from local farms. The menu changes frequently based on availability, but you can expect to find unique offerings like the Bavette or the dry-aged T-bone. The steaks are first grilled and then finished sous-vide, resulting in a perfectly tender and flavorful experience. The minimalist decor and open kitchen add to the contemporary vibe.
4. El Gaucho
- Steak Offered: Chateaubriand, Center Cut Filet Mignon
- Cooking Style: Open-Flame Grilled
- Dining Experience: Luxurious, Vintage, Theatrical
- Price Range: $$$$
El Gaucho is where old-world steakhouse charm meets modern luxury. The dark, sultry atmosphere is perfect for a romantic night out or a celebratory dinner. El Gaucho is known for its tableside service, particularly the Chateaubriand, which is carved and served right in front of you. The center cut filet mignon is another standout, grilled over an open flame for a perfect sear. The dramatic setting and exceptional service make El Gaucho a memorable dining experience.
5. Ruth’s Chris Steak House
- Steak Offered: Filet, New York Strip, Ribeye
- Cooking Style: Broiled at 1,800 Degrees
- Dining Experience: Traditional, Elegant, Comfortable
- Price Range: $$$
A name that needs no introduction, Ruth’s Chris Steak House delivers consistently excellent steaks across the board. The signature style here involves broiling steaks at a scorching 1,800 degrees, then serving them on a sizzling plate with butter. This method locks in the juices and ensures a steak that’s both tender and flavorful. Whether you choose the filet, New York strip, or ribeye, you’re in for a classic steakhouse experience with all the trimmings.
6. Daniel’s Broiler
- Steak Offered: USDA Prime Porterhouse, Filet Mignon
- Cooking Style: Broiled
- Dining Experience: Sophisticated, Scenic, Upscale
- Price Range: $$$
With multiple locations around Seattle, Daniel’s Broiler is a local favorite for steak lovers. The USDA Prime steaks are broiled to perfection and served in a sophisticated setting with sweeping views of Lake Washington or South Lake Union. The Porterhouse is particularly popular, offering the best of both worlds with a strip and tenderloin in one cut. Pair your steak with a glass of wine from their extensive list for a truly indulgent experience.
7. Jak’s Grill
- Steak Offered: Top Sirloin, Filet Mignon
- Cooking Style: Grilled
- Dining Experience: Casual, Cozy, Neighborhood Vibe
- Price Range: $$
For those looking for a more casual steakhouse experience without sacrificing quality, Jak’s Grill is the place to be. This neighborhood favorite offers a warm, inviting atmosphere and a menu that focuses on high-quality cuts like the top sirloin and filet mignon. The steaks are simply grilled, letting the natural flavors shine through. With reasonable prices and generous portions, Jak’s is a great spot for a laid-back steak dinner.
8. The Butcher’s Table
- Steak Offered: Mishima Reserve Wagyu, Tomahawk Ribeye
- Cooking Style: Wood-Fired
- Dining Experience: Chic, Industrial, Trendy
- Price Range: $$$$
The Butcher’s Table is a carnivore’s dream, offering some of the finest beef in Seattle, including the exclusive Mishima Reserve Wagyu. The wood-fired cooking method imparts a rich, smoky flavor to the steaks, particularly the impressive Tomahawk ribeye. The restaurant’s chic, industrial decor and trendy vibe make it a popular spot for foodies and steak aficionados alike. Don’t miss the opportunity to try their house-made beef butter.
9. The Capital Grille
- Steak Offered: Dry-Aged Sirloin, Bone-In Kona Crusted Dry-Aged NY Strip
- Cooking Style: Grilled
- Dining Experience: Refined, Classic, Professional
- Price Range: $$$
The Capital Grille is a national chain, but its Seattle location delivers a consistently high-quality dining experience. The dry-aged sirloin and bone-in Kona crusted dry-aged New York strip are particular highlights, offering robust flavors and perfect grilling. The refined atmosphere, complete with leather booths and attentive service, makes The Capital Grille a solid choice for a business dinner or special occasion.
10. John Howie Steak
- Steak Offered: Wagyu Filet, Prime Delmonico
- Cooking Style: Hardwood-Grilled
- Dining Experience: Modern, Luxurious, Spacious
- Price Range: $$$$
Located in Bellevue, just a short drive from Seattle, John Howie Steak is worth the trip for its exceptional selection of steaks. The Wagyu filet and Prime Delmonico are standout options, grilled over hardwood to enhance their natural flavors. The restaurant’s modern, luxurious setting, complete with high ceilings and elegant decor, provides the perfect backdrop for a special night out.
Conclusion
Seattle’s steakhouse scene offers a diverse array of experiences, from the elegant and refined to the modern and inventive. Whether you’re seeking a classic steakhouse experience or looking to explore something new, the city has something to satisfy every palate. For first-time visitors, Canlis and The Metropolitan Grill are highly recommended for their iconic status and exceptional dining experiences. No matter where you choose to dine, Seattle’s steakhouses promise a meal to remember.
FAQs About Steakhouses in Seattle
What is the average price range for a steak dinner?
The average price for a steak dinner in Seattle can range from $50 to $150 per person, depending on the restaurant and the cut of steak.
Do steakhouses offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, many Seattle steakhouses offer vegetarian or vegan options, often featuring creative dishes that highlight local produce.
Are reservations recommended?
Reservations are highly recommended, especially at popular or upscale steakhouses, to ensure you secure a table at your desired time.
What is the dress code?
The dress code varies by restaurant. Upscale steakhouses like Canlis and The Metropolitan Grill may require business casual or formal attire, while more casual establishments like Jak’s Grill have a relaxed dress code.
