10 Things to Never Say When Ordering Steak—And 10 Pro Tips to Sound Like a Foodie
Ordering steak can be a delicate art, especially if you want to sound like a true foodie. While everyone has their personal preferences, there are certain things you should avoid saying and some pro tips that can help you sound more knowledgeable and appreciative of this culinary delight. Here are 10 things you should never say when ordering steak, along with 10 pro tips to elevate your steak ordering experience.
1. Never Say: “I’ll take it well-done, just to be safe.”
Opting for a well-done steak might seem like a safe choice, but it can rob the meat of its natural juiciness and flavor. In truth, overcooking turns a tender steak into a tougher chew.
Instead, consider asking for a medium or medium-rare steak. These levels of doneness offer a balance between tenderness and taste.
If you’re worried about undercooked meat, rest assured that quality restaurants ensure food safety standards. Step into the world of flavor and trust the chef’s expertise—your taste buds will thank you!
2. Pro Tip: Ask for medium or medium-rare if you’re unsure.
When in doubt, medium or medium-rare is often a safe bet that allows you to savor both tenderness and flavor. This choice ensures a juicy steak that isn’t overcooked.
If you’re new to steak ordering, this middle ground can be a great starting point. Ordering medium-rare can be your passport to a tastier experience, showing that you appreciate the quality of the meat.
Embrace this pro tip and enjoy the rich, savory essence of a perfectly cooked steak. Your dining companions might just follow your lead!
3. Never Say: “I don’t care what cut—just give me the cheapest one.”
Choosing steak isn’t just about price; it’s about quality and flavor. Dismissing the choice of cut might save a few bucks but can lead to a less satisfying meal.
Different cuts offer varied textures and tastes, from the lean filet mignon to the marbled ribeye.
Instead of defaulting to the cheapest option, ask your server for a recommendation. They can guide you to a cut that fits your preferences and budget, opening up a world of culinary delight. Let curiosity lead your steak adventure!
4. Pro Tip: Ask your server, “What cut do you recommend for the most flavor?”
Being curious about steak cuts shows your eagerness to explore flavor profiles. By asking your server for flavorful recommendations, you engage with the dining experience.
Servers, often well-versed in the menu, can suggest cuts you might not try otherwise. Their insights can introduce you to a new favorite.
This question not only enhances your meal but also reflects a genuine interest in enjoying steak. Take this friendly tip to heart and watch how it transforms your dining outings into flavorful adventures!
5. Never Say: “Can I get ketchup with that?”
While ketchup may be a beloved condiment, asking for it with steak can raise eyebrows in refined dining settings. Steak is often seasoned and cooked to perfection, meant to be savored without overpowering sauces.
Instead, try enjoying the steak on its own first. If you feel it needs a boost, inquire about house-made sauces or some chimichurri.
These additions are crafted to complement the meat, not mask it. Elevate your dining etiquette by appreciating steak as the centerpiece it truly is.
6. Pro Tip: Try tasting the steak without sauce first, or ask if there’s a house-made steak sauce or chimichurri available.
To truly appreciate steak, try it without any sauce first. This allows you to savor the chef’s craft in seasoning and cooking the meat.
If you’re curious about adding flavors, ask about the house-made steak sauce or chimichurri. These are often crafted to enhance, not overshadow, the natural taste of the steak.
This approach reflects a respect for culinary artistry and a refined palate. Embark on a tasteful journey and discover how sauces can subtly elevate your steak experience!
7. Never Say: “Do you have steak that’s not too beefy?”
Requesting a steak that’s not too beefy might reveal a misunderstanding of what makes steak delightful. Embrace the savory richness that defines quality steak.
If you’re seeking a milder option, consider filet mignon. Known for its tenderness and subtle flavor, it’s less marbled than other cuts.
Choosing the right cut can make all the difference in your dining pleasure. Allow yourself to explore the flavors that define steak, and you might just find a new favorite.
8. Pro Tip: Prefer a leaner, milder flavor? Ask for a filet mignon.
Filet mignon is your go-to cut if you’re after a lean, tender steak with a milder beef flavor. This cut is known for its delicacy and is often considered a luxurious choice.
It’s a perfect option for those who prefer subtlety over richness in their meat. By ordering filet mignon, you not only enjoy its fine texture but also its esteemed reputation in culinary circles.
With this pro tip, you’ll sound like a true steak connoisseur, impressing both your palate and your dining companions.
9. Never Say: “Just cover it in sauce so I don’t taste it.”
Drowning steak in sauce implies that it’s not enjoyable on its own, potentially offending the chef. Quality steak is designed to be the star, with flavors and textures that need no disguise.
Instead, explore subtle enhancements like compound butter or a sprinkle of finishing salt. These options complement the meat’s natural flavors.
By savoring the steak itself, you acknowledge the skill behind its preparation. This approach not only respects the chef but also enriches your dining experience with genuine taste appreciation.
10. Pro Tip: A light drizzle of compound butter, herb oil, or a finishing salt adds flavor without masking the meat.
A little enhancement can go a long way in highlighting steak’s natural flavors. Compound butter, herb oil, or finishing salt are subtle options that add depth without overshadowing the meat.
These additions are crafted to complement the steak’s intrinsic qualities, bringing out nuances you might miss otherwise.
Discover the art of balancing flavors and textures, and elevate your steak to new culinary heights. With this tip, your dining etiquette will shine as brightly as the flavors you enjoy!
11. Never Say: “I’ll have the ribeye. That’s the one with the bone, right?”
Assuming all ribeyes come with a bone is a common mistake. While ribeyes can be bone-in, they’re also available boneless.
The bone-in version, often called a cowboy or tomahawk steak, offers a distinct presentation and flavor. When ordering, it’s best to specify your preference to ensure you receive the experience you desire.
Embrace the variety within steak cuts, understand their unique characteristics, and you’ll find ordering steak both enjoyable and enlightening.
12. Pro Tip: Want a bone-in steak? Ask for a tomahawk (extra large) or cowboy ribeye (bone-in, trimmed).
For those who love a bone-in steak, the tomahawk or cowboy ribeye is the way to go. The tomahawk, with its long bone, is visually impressive and perfect for sharing.
The cowboy ribeye, trimmed and manageable, offers rich, beefy flavors. These cuts provide a unique and memorable dining experience.
By knowing specific terms for bone-in steaks, you display steak-savvy confidence. Treat yourself to these cuts and relish the bold flavors they bring to your table. It’s steak dining, elevated!
13. Never Say: “Just throw it on the grill and burn it.”
Joking about burning steak can suggest a lack of appreciation for the culinary craft. Steak preparation involves skill and precision to achieve the perfect balance of texture and taste.
Instead, if you prefer a crust, say “I like a good char on the outside.” This conveys your preference without dismissing the chef’s expertise.
Respect the culinary process and enjoy a steak cooked with care. Your palate and the chef will undoubtedly appreciate the thoughtful approach!
14. Pro Tip: Say “I prefer a good char on the outside” if you like a crust, while still ordering a proper doneness inside.
Expressing your desire for a charred exterior shows you know the importance of both texture and flavor in a steak. A proper char can enhance the meat’s appeal, offering delightful contrast with the juicy interior.
Whether you enjoy it rare or medium, specifying a charred crust allows you to enjoy both worlds.
This tip reflects a nuanced understanding of steak preparation, making your order as sophisticated as your taste. Take control of your dining experience and savor every flavorful bite!
15. Never Say: “Is it OK if I use A1?”
Requesting A1 sauce at a fine steakhouse might seem like an affront to the chef’s crafted flavors. Before reaching for familiar condiments, consider the care put into seasoning your steak.
Instead, taste the steak as presented. If you desire an extra kick, inquire about any available house sauces.
This shows respect for the culinary artistry and an openness to new flavors. Embrace the chef’s expertise and discover the delightful nuances of a well-prepared steak!
16. Pro Tip: Ask if the chef offers a house steak sauce or finishing glaze—it shows curiosity and respect for the kitchen.
Showing interest in house-made sauces reflects both curiosity and respect for culinary craftsmanship. These sauces are designed to complement the steak’s flavor profile.
By asking, you demonstrate an appreciation for the chef’s skill and a willingness to explore new tastes.
Such inquiries can lead to delightful discoveries, enhancing your overall dining experience. It’s a simple question that speaks volumes about your culinary interests and enriches your steak enjoyment with new flavors.
17. Never Say: “Does it come with fries and ketchup?”
Pairing steak with fries and ketchup can make your order sound more fitting for fast food than fine dining. Steakhouses often showcase more sophisticated sides that complement the main dish.
Consider asking about roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a chef’s seasonal choice. These options enhance the steak’s flavors and add variety to your meal.
Embrace the opportunity to try something new and elevate your steak dining experience. You might just discover a new favorite pairing!
18. Pro Tip: Ask about sides like roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a chef’s seasonal accompaniment.
Sides can transform your steak meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables offer a hearty, flavorful balance to the steak’s richness.
Inquiring about the chef’s seasonal accompaniment reveals a willingness to explore and appreciate culinary creativity. These sides are crafted to enhance, not overshadow, the main dish.
By embracing diverse flavors and textures, you create a delicious and memorable dining experience. Use this tip to navigate side options and enjoy a steak meal that’s both satisfying and refined.
19. Never Say: “Just give me the biggest thing you’ve got.”
Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to steak. Each cut offers unique flavors and levels of richness. Asking for the largest steak without considering these factors might lead to an overwhelming meal.
Instead, inquire about cuts known for their marbling and depth of flavor. This approach ensures a satisfying dining experience that prioritizes quality over quantity.
Let your steak choice reflect a culinary curiosity, and you’ll enjoy a more nuanced and enjoyable meal.
20. Pro Tip: Ask, “What cut would you recommend for a well-marbled, rich flavor?” to get expert guidance.
Seeking a steak with rich, well-marbled flavor demonstrates your interest in quality dining. By asking this question, you invite the server’s expertise to guide your choice.
Well-marbled cuts, like ribeye or New York strip, offer sumptuous flavors that satisfy the palate. This approach turns your meal into a culinary adventure, exploring textures and tastes.
Rely on the restaurant’s knowledge and enjoy a steak that delights and surprises. With this pro tip, discover how nuanced flavors can elevate a simple steak into a gourmet experience.