Peter Luger’s steakhouse menu with prices features their porterhouse for two, three, or four. This legendary Brooklyn steakhouse has been serving dry-aged beef since 1887, and their pricing structure is as iconic as the steaks themselves. You’ll find that the menu is refreshingly simple, focusing on what they do best: prime cuts of beef, classic sides, and timeless desserts.
When you first sit down at Peter Luger, the waiter doesn’t hand you a massive menu. Instead, you get a small card with the basics. The star of the show is always the porterhouse, and the prices vary based on how many people you’re feeding. For two people, expect to pay around $120 to $140. For three, it jumps to about $180 to $200. For four, you’re looking at $240 to $260. These prices can shift slightly depending on market conditions, so always confirm with your server.
Let’s break down exactly what you’ll find on that menu and what each item will cost you. We’ll cover steaks, appetizers, sides, desserts, and drinks. By the end, you’ll know exactly how much to budget for your visit.
Peter Luger Steakhouse Menu With Prices
The menu at Peter Luger is famously short, but every item is a classic. Here’s the full rundown of what you can order, with the prices you can expect to see in 2024 and 2025. Remember, these are approximate and can change, but they give you a solid ballpark.
Steaks And Their Current Prices
The porterhouse is the reason people travel from all over the world. It’s dry-aged on-site for about four weeks, giving it that distinctive nutty, beefy flavor. The prices below are for the steak itself, which comes with their famous steak sauce on the side.
- Porterhouse for Two: $124.95
- Porterhouse for Three: $189.95
- Porterhouse for Four: $249.95
- Steak for One (Petite Filet Mignon): $62.95
- Steak for One (Sirloin): $59.95
- Lamb Chops (Double Cut, Two Chops): $69.95
- Pork Chop (Double Cut): $49.95
- Hamburger (Lunch Only): $19.95
Notice that the porterhouse for two is actually the best value per person. You get a massive cut that includes both the filet mignon and the strip steak. The steak for one options are smaller but still excellent if you’re dining alone or want a lighter meal.
Appetizers To Start Your Meal
Before the steak arrives, you’ll want to order something to whet your appetite. Peter Luger’s appetizers are simple but satisfying. They don’t try to be fancy; they just taste great.
- Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail (4 pieces): $24.95
- Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail (6 pieces): $34.95
- Lump Crabmeat Cocktail: $29.95
- Clams on the Half Shell (6 pieces): $19.95
- Clams on the Half Shell (12 pieces): $34.95
- Chopped Salad: $14.95
- Tomato and Onion Salad: $12.95
- Bacon (Thick-Cut, 4 slices): $12.95
The bacon is a must-try. It’s thick, smoky, and almost like a pork chop. Many regulars order it as an appetizer to share. The shrimp cocktail is also huge, with jumbo shrimp that are perfectly cooked.
Sides To Complement Your Steak
Steakhouse sides are almost as important as the steak itself. Peter Luger’s sides are served family-style, so order one or two for the table. They’re generous portions.
- German Fried Potatoes: $12.95
- Baked Potato: $9.95
- Creamed Spinach: $11.95
- Steakhouse Fries: $10.95
- Onion Rings: $12.95
- Mushrooms (Sautéed): $12.95
- Grilled Asparagus: $14.95
- Mac and Cheese: $14.95
The creamed spinach is a classic choice. It’s rich, creamy, and pairs perfectly with the beef. The German fried potatoes are another favorite, crispy on the outside and soft inside. If you’re feeling indulgent, get the onion rings—they’re massive and golden.
Desserts To End On A Sweet Note
After all that steak, you might think you’re full. But Peter Luger’s desserts are worth saving room for. They’re old-school and satisfying.
- Cheesecake (New York Style): $11.95
- Chocolate Mousse: $11.95
- Ice Cream (Vanilla or Chocolate): $8.95
- Apple Strudel: $11.95
- Hot Fudge Sundae: $12.95
The cheesecake is dense and creamy, exactly what you expect from a New York institution. The chocolate mousse is light but rich. If you want something warm, the apple strudel comes with vanilla ice cream.
Drinks And Beverages
Peter Luger has a full bar, but their drink menu is also straightforward. You’ll find beer, wine, and classic cocktails. Here are the typical prices.
- Beer (Domestic, Bottle): $8.95
- Beer (Import, Bottle): $10.95
- Wine by the Glass: $14.95 to $22.95
- Wine by the Bottle: Starts at $45.00
- Cocktails (Classic, like Martini or Old Fashioned): $16.95
- Soft Drinks (Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite): $4.95
- Coffee or Tea: $5.95
Their wine list is extensive, with many options from California and Europe. If you’re not sure what to pair with your steak, ask your server. They know the menu inside and out.
How To Order At Peter Luger
Ordering at Peter Luger is a bit different than at other steakhouses. The waiters are experienced and sometimes a little gruff, but they know their stuff. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make your meal go smoothly.
Step 1: Start With Appetizers
Order one or two appetizers for the table. The bacon is a great choice if you’re sharing. If you want something lighter, go for the chopped salad or the tomato and onion salad. Don’t order too much—you need room for the steak.
Step 2: Choose Your Steak
This is the most important decision. If you’re with a group, the porterhouse is the way to go. For two people, order the porterhouse for two. For three or four, order accordingly. If you’re alone or want a smaller portion, get the steak for one. The filet mignon is tender, while the sirloin has more flavor.
Step 3: Pick Your Sides
Order one or two sides per person. The creamed spinach and German fried potatoes are classics. If you want something lighter, get the grilled asparagus. The mac and cheese is also popular, especially with kids.
Step 4: Save Room For Dessert
After the steak, you’ll probably be full. But if you can manage it, share a dessert. The cheesecake and chocolate mousse are both excellent. If you want something cold, get the hot fudge sundae.
Step 5: Don’t Forget The Sauce
Peter Luger’s steak sauce is famous. It comes on the side, and it’s a tangy, slightly sweet condiment that complements the beef perfectly. Some people prefer their steak without sauce, but it’s worth trying at least once.
Tips For Saving Money At Peter Luger
Peter Luger is not cheap, but there are ways to make your meal more affordable. Here are some practical tips.
- Go for lunch: Lunch prices are slightly lower than dinner. The hamburger is only available at lunch and is a great deal at $19.95.
- Share everything: The portions are huge. Order one appetizer for the table, one steak for two people, and one or two sides. You’ll leave full without overspending.
- Skip the drinks: Alcoholic beverages add up fast. Stick with water or a soft drink to keep your bill down.
- Visit on a weekday: Weekends are busier and sometimes have higher demand pricing. A Tuesday or Wednesday dinner can be more relaxed.
- Bring cash: Peter Luger is cash only. They have an ATM on-site, but it charges a fee. Bring cash to avoid the extra cost.
What Makes Peter Luger’s Steak Special
The steak at Peter Luger is different from what you get at other steakhouses. It’s all about the dry-aging process. The beef is aged in a temperature-controlled room for about four weeks. This concentrates the flavor and makes the meat more tender. The result is a steak that’s intensely beefy with a nutty, almost cheesy undertone.
The cooking method is also unique. They use a broiler that gets incredibly hot, searing the outside while keeping the inside juicy. The steak comes out sizzling on a platter, with butter and juices pooling around it. It’s served medium-rare unless you specify otherwise.
Another thing that sets Peter Luger apart is their commitment to quality. They only use USDA Prime beef, which is the highest grade. They also have their own butchers on staff, so they control every step of the process. This attention to detail is why people have been coming here for over 130 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Peter Luger cash only?
Yes, Peter Luger is cash only. They do not accept credit cards. There is an ATM inside the restaurant, but it charges a fee. Bring cash to avoid the surcharge.
Can I make a reservation at Peter Luger?
Yes, you can make reservations online or by phone. They book up quickly, especially on weekends. Reserve at least a few weeks in advance for prime times.
What is the dress code at Peter Luger?
There is no strict dress code, but most people dress smart-casual. Jackets are not required, but you’ll see some diners wearing them. Avoid shorts and flip-flops.
Does Peter Luger have a dress code for kids?
Kids are welcome, and there’s no specific dress code for them. Just make sure they’re dressed neatly. The restaurant can be loud, so it’s fine for families.
Can I order takeout from Peter Luger?
Yes, you can order takeout. They have a separate takeout menu with similar prices. Call ahead to place your order, as it can take 20-30 minutes to prepare.
Final Thoughts On The Menu And Prices
Peter Luger’s steakhouse menu with prices is straightforward, but the experience is anything but ordinary. You’re paying for top-quality beef, expert preparation, and a piece of New York history. The prices are high, but they reflect the quality you’re getting. A porterhouse for two at $124.95 is a splurge, but it’s a meal you’ll remember for years.
If you’re on a budget, focus on the lunch menu or share dishes with your group. The steak for one options are also more affordable. And don’t forget to save room for dessert—the cheesecake is worth every penny.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, the menu at Peter Luger is designed to satisfy. The prices are clear, the portions are generous, and the quality is unmatched. Now you know exactly what to expect, so you can plan your meal with confidence.
One last thing: the service can be brisk, but it’s part of the charm. The waiters have been doing this for decades, and they know how to handle a busy dining room. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or make special requests. They’re there to help you have a great meal.
So go ahead, order that porterhouse for two, share some creamed spinach, and finish with a slice of cheesecake. You’ll understand why Peter Luger has been a New York institution for so long. The prices might be high, but the experience is priceless.