7 Best Steakhouse Chains, Ranked by Real Customers
America has lots of steakhouse chains, from budget-friendly and casual to bougie, upscale, and expensive options. Not all of them are worth dining at. I’ve been to the majority of chain steakhouses, and can honestly say that I’ve had great steaks at some of the less expensive brands, and not-very-impressive ones that cost five times as much. Which are the best, according to customers? Here are the 7 best steakhouse chains, ranked by real customers.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse offers high-end steaks comparable to more expensive steakhouses for a more affordable price. It is a great option for families that want a good steak with great service but don’t want to pay Ruth’s Chris or Capital Grille prices. “Fleming’s is my go to” one Redditor says.
Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse, the Aussie-themed meatery and home of the famous Bloomin’ Onion, offers great value for the price. The restaurant prides itself on serving fresh, never-frozen USDA Choice beef, aged to perfection. Some diners complain about inconsistency in terms of food and service, which is why it ranks lower than some of its main competitors like LongHorn and Texas Roadhouse. “Outback used to be the gold standard chain steak house (growing up, it was Steak and Ale). Now it’s not bad for a work lunch but not worth going to for a ‘good steak,'” one person said.
Fogo de Chão
Fogo de Chão is a Brazilian-style steakhouse that specializes in all-you-can-eat churrasco-style cooking. If you have a hearty appetite, the all-you-can-eat restaurant offers unparalleled value: various types of fresh, never-frozen meat grilled over an open flame and carved tableside, unlimited sides, a salad bar, and a hot buffet.
Texas Roadhouse
Diners say that, of all the chains, Texas Roadhouse is one of the best places to go for a budget-friendly steak. The steaks are tasty, the portions are huge, and the service is fantastic. “Our local Roadhouse is extremely well managed. It’s shows from the service to the food,” one person said. Another said it is “pretty good for the price,” adding they “really recommend going there.”
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Ruth’s Chris is another example of “you get what you pay for.” The steakhouse has been an institution since it opened in New Orleans in 1965, largely because it offers high-quality steaks. While steaks aren’t cheap, the restaurant serves only USDA Prime and higher, using a wet-aging process to ensure tenderness and flavor without resorting to freezing. The brand earns the top spot for several reasons, including its commitment to high-quality beef, consistency, and high-class service.
Longhorn Steakhouse
Longhorn Steakhouse is my favorite budget-friendly chain for a good cut of meat at an affordable price. There is a Longhorn right down the street from my house, and the kids and I are regular customers. I always joke that while it isn’t the best steak I’ve ever had, I’ve definitely paid twice as much for steak that isn’t nearly as good. For example, the 6-ounce filet, which comes with two sides, is under $25. One manager from The Capital Grille pointed out that because LongHorn is in the Darden family, the steaks come from the same places as theirs, so you are guaranteed good cuts. “I got the 20 oz outlaw ribeye at Longhorn and was shocked at the quality and how well it was prepared,” one Redditor wrote. “Huge baked potato and great Caesar salad all for $32. Big fan!” It is also super consistent in terms of quality. “My local longhorn nails it every time,” another says.
The Capital Grille
The Capital Grille isn’t cheap, but it’s the best chain to go for a great steak paired with unparalleled service. I’ve never had a bad steak at this fine-dining restaurant, and even when a steak isn’t cooked to my liking, they correct it immediately because the chain has the best customer service. “Best steak I’ve ever had,” writes one Redditor. The sides and desserts are also fantastic, and the portion sizes are generous enough for two or three people to share.