I went to Peter Luger's for the first time Monday with some friends. I've heard only good things about the place, usually along the lines of "best steak I've ever had," etc. A nearby building has an ad painted on it with newspaper review blurbs (4 stars from the NY Times, "Best Steak in NYC," etc.). Needless to say, I was expecting great things. Their signature steak is an aged porterhouse for 2, 3 or 4 people. It was very good but not nearly as good as I thought would be. I also thought they charred the outside too much. Everyone's looked charred so I'm sure that's their thing. My first thought after a few bites was, "over-rated." Like I said it's good, probably even top-ten, but I was expecting so much more. Then the bill came... They charged me $10 for a mug (10-12oz) of Brooklyn Lager. I had two! That takes a lot of nerve. I'll never go back. Has anyone else been there?
Seconds until eric d comes in to tell Frieslander he went to the wrong Peter Luger's.... 7...6....5....4....3....
Well, I've only been to the one in Great Neck a bunch of times since it's close to my house. I've heard the Brooklyn one is better since it's the original, but I must say that I love the one in Great Neck. Maybe it's the hype that caused you to think it was overrated. I absolutely love their steak and I enjoy it being a bit charred. Maybe it all depends on taste. Did you have the german fried potatos or the giant tomato and onion slices with the Peter Luger sauce? Hell, those alone make it a great place to eat. Yeah, it's damn expensive, but when you're considered one of the best steak houses in New York, I guess you gotta expect a hefty bill.
I had the potatoes which were fine. Didn't get the tomato and onion but I have heard that's good. I was expecting it to be expensive but $10 for a beer???
PL's is very expensive, but that's the price you pay for eating there. You're paying for the name. Gallaghers is better anyways, and a touch cheaper as well.
I really like their side dishes. Most of em are amazing. Well, at least it wasn't $10 for a mug of Bud or something.
I have been there once and I too found it highly overated. The service was mediocre and they play up the "tough guy act" a bit much.. When the food was delivered I happened to reach and touch one of the plates and scorched my hand on the plate. The waiter then said "Oh yeah... dont touch the plates, they are hot..." and walked away.. bastard could have at least offered some ice, etc... anyway.. The food itself was decent but I have no idea how they have won all the "best of zagats" for 10+ years in a row for steakhouses.. It convinces me the award is fixed...
Sorry, my head exploded. Paul, next time I will take you there. To the gentlemen that scorched his hand on the plate, either you were drunk or too stupid to realize that the plates where being carried by waiters with thick towels and the entire plate was sizzling when it was set down at the table. Whoever told you PL was not expensive was pulling your leg. And who gives a ****************** about the service. Did you ask for a menu also?
Been to both, and can you believe the GN place is NOT as good as the one in Brooklyn. Save the Peter Luger sauce for the onion rolls- use the horseraddish on the tomato and onions. Never use the sauce on the meat.
wasnt drunk. plate wasnt sizzling. still overated, I recommend it to tourists or goodfella' wannabee's.. much better options out there.