California is home to some of the most renowned steakhouses in the country, where tradition, quality, and flavor converge to create culinary legends. From historic grill rooms to chic modern taverns, these classic restaurants serve steaks that steak lovers dream about. Here are 12 iconic California steak spots where the steaks are truly unforgettable.
1. The Hitching Post I and II – Casmalia/Buellton
Known for its Old West charm and red oak wood grilling, The Hitching Post is a classic with deep roots in California’s steak scene. Famous for hand-cut steaks and a wine list as revered as their beef, this spot offers generous portions at reasonable prices. Both locations emphasize quality and tradition, making it a must-visit destination for steak aficionados.
2. Selanne Steak Tavern – Laguna Beach
Owned by hockey legend Teemu Selanne, this steak tavern combines a comfortable yet chic atmosphere with a menu featuring domestic and Australian wagyu. Known for perfectly cooked ribeyes and filets, it feels like dining at a friend’s upscale home, complete with five distinct seating areas and a seasonal menu that keeps returning guests intrigued.
3. Fort Oak – Mission Hills
A relatively new player in the scene, Fort Oak is quickly earning its reputation for dry-aged steaks and seafood. Their 40-day dry-aged ribeye and inventive small plates make it a hotspot for those who appreciate innovation coupled with tradition, while Oyster Mondays highlight their dedication to fresh seafood and good times.
4. Gwen – Los Angeles
Gwen blends a butcher shop and dining experience into one elegant setting, allowing diners to witness dry-aging processes firsthand. Known for meticulous sourcing and premium cuts like dry-aged ribeyes and wagyu, it’s a Michelin-starred experience where steak lovers can indulge in exquisite flavors with an artisanal touch.
5. Cowboy Star – San Diego
Cowboy Star embraces regional and seasonal ingredients with a menu featuring dry-aged and wagyu steaks, along with creative sauces from brandy peppercorn to chimichurri. Praised for its dynamic menu and exceptional ribeye and wagyu cuts, it’s a place where steak meets culinary artistry.
6. Musso & Frank Grill – Hollywood
Serving iconic steaks since 1919, Musso & Frank Grill offers a historic ambiance alongside perfectly cooked filets and ribeyes. This Hollywood landmark combines timeless tradition with consistent quality, offering more affordable pricing compared to its peers without compromising on the classic steak dinner experience.
7. Carlitos Gardel Argentine Steakhouse – Los Angeles
Known for its romantic atmosphere and extensive wine list, Carlitos Gardel serves prime beef with a South American flair. Its filet mignon and ribeye cap with chimichurri have earned rave reviews, and live music adds to the dining allure in this Michelin Guide-recognized steakhouse.
8. Fia Steak – Santa Monica
Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Brendan Collins, Fia Steak offers prime steaks and luxurious starters like caviar and oysters. Its elegant setting and knowledgeable staff make it perfect for special occasions where high-end steak dining is the focus.
9. Morton’s The Steakhouse – Multiple Locations
Morton’s has built a reputation for delivering premium USDA Prime steaks with consistent excellence across its California locations. Known for classic steakhouse ambiance and expertly prepared cuts, it remains a staple for those seeking a traditional steakhouse experience.
10. Lawry’s The Prime Rib – Beverly Hills
Famous for prime rib carved tableside, Lawry’s offers an elegant dining experience steeped in tradition. Its carefully seasoned and slow-roasted beef has made it a go-to for classic steak lovers in Southern California.
11. Steak 48 – Beverly Hills
For those who desire top-tier steaks paired with fresh seafood, Steak 48 delivers USDA Prime steaks alongside Japanese A5 Wagyu. The contemporary ambiance combined with top service creates a refined space for steak indulgence.
12. Redwood Steakhouse – California Hotel & Casino
Located in Las Vegas but worth mentioning for Californians, Redwood Steakhouse stands out for its superb cuts and welcoming atmosphere, drawing steak lovers seeking an outstanding dining experience from the West Coast.
From the rustic charm of The Hitching Post to the modern sophistication of Gwen, California’s steak scene offers a variety of experiences where the steaks are nothing short of legendary. Whether you crave dry-aged perfection, wagyu tenderness, or classic prime rib, these 12 restaurants represent the pinnacle of what classic Californian steak dining can be.
Sources
[1] https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=best+steak&find_loc=San+Francisco%2C+CA
[2] https://www.worldbeststeaks.com/the-list
[3] https://www.tripadvisor.in/Restaurants-g32655-c37-Los_Angeles_California.html
[4] https://www.tripadvisor.in/Restaurants-g41035-c37-California_Maryland.html
[5] https://www.tastingtable.com/1866786/best-steakhouses-california-local/
