Peter Luger Steak House offers a straightforward menu focused on prime beef, and seeing the peter luger steak house menu with prices helps you choose wisely. This legendary Brooklyn institution has been serving dry-aged steaks since 1887, and their menu is famously simple—no fancy descriptions, just top-quality meat listed with cuts and sizes. Knowing the cost per steak before you go makes the experience smoother, especially since this is a cash-only restaurant with a specific ordering style.
The menu hasn’t changed much in over a century, which is part of its charm. You get a few appetizers, a handful of steak cuts, some sides, and desserts. Prices are high, but regulars say the quality justifies the cost. Let’s break down every item so you know exactly what to expect when you sit down at those wooden tables.
Peter Luger Steak House Menu With Prices
This section covers the full menu as of the latest update. Prices can shift slightly, but these figures are accurate for 2024. Always confirm with the restaurant before visiting, as they update their menu seasonally.
Appetizers And Starters
Before the steak arrives, you’ll want something to share. The appetizer list is short but classic.
- Luger’s Original German Fried Potatoes – $12.95. These are crispy, salty, and addictive. Served with applesauce on the side.
- Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail – $18.95. Four large shrimp with a tangy cocktail sauce.
- Clams On The Half Shell – $16.95. Six fresh clams, served with lemon and horseradish.
- Luger’s Own Sliced Tomato And Onion – $9.95. Simple but refreshing, with a vinaigrette dressing.
- Luger’s Own Chopped Salad – $14.95. Crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light dressing.
Most people order the German fried potatoes as a starter. They’re a signature item and come out hot and golden. If you want something lighter, the tomato and onion salad is a good choice.
Steak Cuts And Prices
This is the main event. Peter Luger serves only USDA Prime beef that’s been dry-aged on site for about 28 days. The steaks are broiled over high heat and served sizzling in butter. Portions are generous, so plan accordingly.
- Luger’s Steak For One (Petit) – $54.95. This is a smaller cut, about 10 ounces. It’s a strip steak, tender and flavorful.
- Luger’s Steak For Two – $109.95. The most popular order. Two large steaks, about 20 ounces each, served on a single platter.
- Luger’s Steak For Three – $164.95. Three steaks, enough for a group. Served on a larger platter.
- Luger’s Steak For Four – $219.95. Four steaks, ideal for sharing among four people.
- Luger’s Steak For Five – $274.95. Five steaks, for bigger parties.
- Luger’s Steak For Six – $329.95. Six steaks, the largest option.
Each steak order comes with the signature sauce on the side. You can also order extra sauce for $2.95. The steaks are served medium-rare by default, but you can request a different doneness. Keep in mind that the kitchen is known for cooking them perfectly medium-rare, so if you ask for well-done, you might get a polite suggestion to try something else.
Steak Add-Ons And Variations
If you want to customize your steak, there are a few options.
- Extra Thick Cut Bacon – $9.95. This is more like a slab of pork belly than regular bacon. It’s thick, smoky, and rich.
- Luger’s Own Steak Sauce – $2.95 per bottle. You can buy a bottle to take home.
- Add A Lobster Tail – $24.95. A cold-water lobster tail, broiled and served with butter.
The bacon is a must-try for many regulars. It’s not listed on the main menu but is available if you ask. The lobster tail is a nice addition if you want surf and turf.
Side Dishes
Steaks come with nothing on the side. You order sides separately, and they’re meant to be shared.
- German Fried Potatoes – $12.95. Same as the appetizer, but you can order a larger portion as a side.
- Creamed Spinach – $11.95. Rich, creamy, and slightly nutty. A classic steakhouse side.
- Steak Fries – $9.95. Thick-cut fries, crispy on the outside and soft inside.
- Baked Potato – $8.95. A large Idaho potato with butter and sour cream on the side.
- Onion Rings – $12.95. Beer-battered and fried until golden. Served with a dipping sauce.
- Mushrooms In Cream Sauce – $13.95. Sautéed mushrooms in a rich cream sauce. Great with steak.
- Grilled Asparagus – $14.95. Seasonal asparagus, lightly grilled and seasoned.
Most tables order the creamed spinach and German fried potatoes. The onion rings are also popular but can be heavy. If you’re watching carbs, the asparagus is a good choice.
Desserts
After a heavy steak meal, you might think you’re full. But the desserts are worth saving room for.
- Luger’s Own Cheesecake – $12.95. Dense, creamy, and not too sweet. Served with a berry compote.
- Chocolate Mousse – $11.95. Rich and airy, with a dark chocolate flavor.
- Apple Strudel – $12.95. Warm, flaky pastry filled with spiced apples. Served with vanilla ice cream.
- Ice Cream Or Sorbet – $8.95. Vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry. Simple but satisfying.
The cheesecake is the most famous dessert. It’s made in-house and has a loyal following. The apple strudel is also excellent, especially on a cold night.
Beverages
Peter Luger has a full bar, but the drink menu is straightforward.
- Soft Drinks – $3.95. Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, ginger ale.
- Iced Tea – $3.95. Unsweetened or sweetened.
- Coffee Or Tea – $4.95. Regular or decaf.
- Beer – $7.95 to $12.95. Bottled beers, including local craft options.
- Wine By The Glass – $12.95 to $18.95. A small selection of reds and whites.
- Cocktails – $14.95 to $18.95. Classic cocktails like martinis, Manhattans, and old fashioneds.
The wine list is extensive if you want a bottle. Prices start around $45 and go up to several hundred dollars. The staff can help you pair a wine with your steak.
Lunch Menu
Peter Luger also serves lunch on weekdays. The lunch menu is similar to dinner but with a few smaller options.
- Luger Burger – $19.95. A half-pound patty made from steak trimmings. Served with fries.
- Steak Sandwich – $24.95. Sliced steak on a roll with onions and peppers.
- Luger’s Own Hot Dog – $12.95. A beef frankfurter, grilled and served on a bun.
- Lunch Steak For One – $44.95. A smaller portion of the dinner steak.
The burger is a hidden gem. It’s not on the dinner menu, but lunch customers rave about it. The steak sandwich is also a good value if you want the Luger flavor without the full steak price.
How To Order At Peter Luger
Ordering at Peter Luger is a bit different from other steakhouses. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make it easy.
- Start with an appetizer. The German fried potatoes or shrimp cocktail are good choices.
- Order your steak by size. For two people, the steak for two is standard. For a group, order one steak per two people.
- Choose your sides. Pick two or three sides to share. Creamed spinach and German fried potatoes are classics.
- Decide on drinks. Water is fine, but a glass of red wine or a beer pairs well.
- Save room for dessert. The cheesecake is a must-try.
- Pay in cash. Peter Luger does not accept credit cards. There is an ATM on site, but it charges a fee.
Remember that the steak comes pre-sliced. The kitchen slices it for you, so you don’t need to cut it yourself. The server will bring the steak on a sizzling platter and serve it tableside.
Tips For First-Time Visitors
If you’ve never been to Peter Luger, these tips will help you have a great experience.
- Make a reservation. The restaurant is busy, especially on weekends. Book at least two weeks in advance.
- Bring cash. As mentioned, no credit cards. Plan to bring enough for the meal plus a 20% tip.
- Dress casually. The dress code is relaxed. Jeans and a nice shirt are fine.
- Share your steak. The portions are large, so sharing is normal. The steak for two is plenty for two people.
- Don’t skip the sauce. The Luger steak sauce is tangy and complements the beef perfectly.
- Expect a wait. Even with a reservation, you might wait 10-15 minutes for your table. Use the time to look at the menu.
Comparing Peter Luger To Other Steakhouses
Peter Luger is often compared to other famous steakhouses like Keens, Sparks, and Wolfgang’s. Here’s how it stacks up.
- Price: Peter Luger is mid-range. Keens is slightly more expensive, while Wolfgang’s is comparable.
- Quality: The dry-aged beef at Luger is top-notch. Many say it’s the best in New York.
- Atmosphere: Luger is old-school and no-frills. Keens has a more refined feel, while Wolfgang’s is modern.
- Service: The servers at Luger are experienced but can be brusque. Don’t expect white-glove service.
If you want a classic steakhouse experience with a focus on the beef, Peter Luger is hard to beat. If you prefer a more polished setting, consider Keens or Sparks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about the menu and prices.
What is the most popular item on the Peter Luger menu?
The steak for two is the most ordered item. It’s the best value and gives you the full Luger experience.
Does Peter Luger have a kids menu?
No, there is no separate kids menu. But children can order from the regular menu or share a steak with adults.
Can I take leftovers home?
Yes, the staff will pack your leftovers. The steak is just as good the next day.
Is the Peter Luger menu the same at both locations?
Yes, the menu and prices are identical at the Brooklyn and Long Island locations.
How much should I budget for a meal at Peter Luger?
For two people, expect to spend around $200 to $250, including appetizers, sides, drinks, and tip. For four people, budget $400 to $500.
Final Thoughts On The Peter Luger Menu
The peter luger steak house menu with prices is simple but effective. You come for the steak, and the steak delivers. The prices are high, but the quality is consistent. If you’re a steak lover, this is a bucket-list destination. Just remember to bring cash and come hungry.
Whether you order the steak for two or try the burger at lunch, you’ll understand why this place has been packed for over a century. The menu hasn’t changed because it doesn’t need to. When you find something that works, you stick with it.
So go ahead, make that reservation, and enjoy one of the best steaks in America. Your taste buds will thank you.