The Daily Pennsylvanian is a student-run nonprofit.

Please support us by disabling your ad blocker on our site.

[Anna Grafton/The Daily Pennsylvanian]

"The Civilized Steakhouse." That's the way The Prime Rib describes itself on its menus, and the nickname couldn't be more appropriate.

The ritzy chain steakhouse is not for the casual diner -- it reeks of high society, from its throwback decor (black and white, with mirrors all throughout) to its jacket-required policy.

But The Prime Rib is a place that Sinatra and Martin would have called home, a steakhouse for people who enjoy a cocktail or two and a massive slab of beef cooked to a perfect red hue. Modeled after a 1940s Manhattan supper club, it's a true throwback, with live jazz music and leather highback chairs that make you feel as if you belong among the city's elite.

The Prime Rib 1701 Locust Street (215) 772-1701 Fare: Steakhouse Over $20 Zagat-rated No. 1 steakhouse in Philly features first-class service in an art-deco setting.

The menu is fit for red meat lovers, with a host of cuts for people of all appetites. There is a strong enough variety, however, to satisfy those who prefer fresh seafood to a fine steak. And the lengthy wine list offers choices to complement both types of entrees.

The appetizers include both cold and hot seafood options, but for those not seeking selections from the oyster bar, try the potato skins ($6.95), a house specialty that does not disappoint. The skins are crisp and flavorful, and there's enough to feed an entire family -- just make sure to ask for extra sour cream. There is also a large selection of salads and soups, and the house salad ($6.50) is a good choice for two people to split.

When it comes to the entrees, it's best to stick with the house specialties. The jumbo lump crab cakes ($29.95) are a safe choice, and they do not disappoint. The bernaise sauce adds just the right amount of flavor to make it one of the restaurant's most popular dishes.

But the real gem is the prime rib itself ($32.95), a cut of steak that would challenge even the hungriest eater to a war of attrition. It's over a foot long and several inches thick, and were it not inconsiderate in such a fine dining room, you'd be tempted to lift it up by the bone and eat it Middle Age-style.

The most impressive part, though, is that despite its enormous size, the prime rib is cooked to an even temperature and color throughout. Our waiter recommended ordering it medium rare to medium, and you'd be wise to do the same if you want to enjoy the most scrumtrilescent cut of meat in the city. It's not a bad idea to have some buttery mashed potatoes ($5) or the classic creamed spinach ($5.50) to round out the meal.

It's tempting to call it a night after doing battle with the steak. But saving room for dessert is a must, even if it means taking the second half of your steak home. There are many choices, including the Mudd pie ($7), but the real gem is the chocolate mousse pie ($6.50), which melts on your tongue. Coated in a vanilla sauce and decorated with fresh strawberries, it's the perfect way to finish off a fine dining experience.

Comments powered by Disqus

Please note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.