The Indianapolis Steak Showdown: A Quest for Carnivorous Glory (and Delicious Meat)
Ah, Indianapolis. City of Indy 500 dreams, cultural gems, and...a battle royale of epic proportions. But hold on, this brawl isn't IndyCar drivers throwing punches (though with all that racing, maybe there's some pent-up aggression). No, this fight is for a different kind of checkered flag: the title of Indianapolis's Best Steakhouse.
The Contenders
Indy's got a sizzling steak scene, with restaurants vying for your carnivorous crown. We've got the old guard, like the historic St. Elmo Steak House, where gangsters probably used to cut deals over sizzling ribeyes (allegedly). Then there are the national chains, like Ruth's Chris Steak House, bringing their butter-caressed beef expertise. And let's not forget the new blood, like Tony's of Indianapolis, boasting USDA Prime cuts that could make your taste buds do a happy dance.
How to Choose Your Champion
Picking a champion is a weighty decision (pun intended). Here's a cheat sheet to navigate the battlefield:
- Classic vs. Modern: Do you crave a clubby atmosphere with piano music and waiters in tuxes (think St. Elmo's), or a more sleek, contemporary vibe (think Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse)?
- Price Point: Be prepared to loosen your belt buckle at most steakhouses. Fine dining comes at a premium, but there are a few options, like Sullivan's Steakhouse, that offer a happy medium.
- Sides and Service: A great steak is only half the battle. Consider the supporting cast – are the sides creative and delicious? Is the service attentive without being overbearing?
The Verdict: It's a Delicious Draw
Truth be told, there's no single victor in this steak showdown. The best choice depends on your mood and your wallet. Here's a quick rundown:
- For the history buff with a fat wallet: St. Elmo's Steak House
- For the modern steak purist: Tony's of Indianapolis
- For the classic steakhouse experience: The Capital Grille
- For a lighter option (and lighter wallet): Sullivan's Steakhouse
Bonus Round: How to Survive an Indianapolis Steakhouse Experience
- How to Pace Yourself: Those portions are Texas-sized. Pace yourself, grasshopper. You wouldn't want that delicious steak to be your Waterloo.
- How to Speak "Steak" Don't worry, you don't need to know the difference between a flank and a hanger steak. Just ask your server for recommendations based on your preferences (e.g., lean vs. marbled).
- How to Deal with Knife Envy: If you see someone with a steak knife that looks like it could double as a samurai sword, just politely admire it. There's no need for a cutlery duel.
- How to Avoid Becoming a Napkin Bib: Steak can get messy. But resist the urge to turn your napkin into a bib. Elegance is key, people!
- How to Handle Leftovers: Chances are, you won't be able to finish that whole steak. Embrace the doggy bag. Leftover steak sandwiches are the champions of the next day's lunch.