Chop house menu and prices emphasize premium cuts of beef, cooked to order, served with classic sides. If you are looking for a hearty meal that centers on high-quality steak, a chop house is your go-to spot. Understanding what to expect from the menu and how much it costs helps you plan a great dining experience.
This guide breaks down typical chop house offerings, from appetizers to desserts. We will cover price ranges for different cuts and sides. You will learn how to navigate the menu like a pro.
Chop House Menu And Prices
A chop house menu is built around thick-cut steaks and chops. The prices reflect the quality of the meat and the preparation method. Most places offer a range of options to fit different budgets.
Appetizers And Starters
Starters set the tone for your meal. They are often sharable and range from light to hearty. Expect classic options with a steakhouse twist.
- Shrimp Cocktail – $12 to $18
- Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes – $16 to $24
- Bacon-Wrapped Scallops – $14 to $20
- French Onion Soup – $8 to $12
- Caesar Salad – $10 to $14
- Steak Tartare – $15 to $22
Prices vary by location and ingredient quality. Some chop houses offer a smaller portion of steak as a starter. This is a good way to sample the meat without a full entree.
Premium Steak Cuts
The main event is the steak. Chop houses specialize in dry-aged and wet-aged beef. Each cut has a distinct flavor and texture.
Filet Mignon
This is the most tender cut. It comes from the tenderloin and has a mild flavor. A 8-ounce filet costs between $35 and $55. A 10-ounce portion can go up to $65.
Ribeye
Ribeye is known for its marbling and rich taste. A 14-ounce bone-in ribeye runs $45 to $70. A 16-ounce cut might cost $55 to $80.
New York Strip
This cut is leaner than ribeye but still flavorful. A 12-ounce New York strip is usually $40 to $60. A 16-ounce portion can be $55 to $75.
Porterhouse
The porterhouse includes both a filet and a strip steak. It is a large cut meant for sharing. A 24-ounce porterhouse costs $60 to $90. A 32-ounce cut can exceed $100.
Tomahawk
This is a bone-in ribeye with a long bone. It is impressive and often served for two. Prices range from $80 to $130 for a 36-ounce steak.
Chops And Other Proteins
Not everyone wants beef. Chop houses also serve pork, lamb, and chicken. These options are often more affordable.
- Pork Chop – 12 ounces, $25 to $35
- Lamb Chops – 4 chops, $30 to $45
- Grilled Chicken Breast – 8 ounces, $20 to $28
- Salmon Fillet – 8 ounces, $28 to $38
- Lobster Tail – 6 ounces, $35 to $50
These dishes are cooked with the same care as the steaks. They come with similar sides and sauces.
Classic Sides
Sides are a big part of the chop house experience. They are usually served family-style. You can order one or two to share.
- Baked Potato – $6 to $10, with butter, sour cream, and chives
- Creamed Spinach – $8 to $12, rich and creamy
- Mashed Potatoes – $7 to $11, often with gravy
- Grilled Asparagus – $8 to $12, with hollandaise
- Mac and Cheese – $9 to $14, with a crispy top
- Truffle Fries – $10 to $15, with parmesan
Some places offer a side combo for a fixed price. This can save you money if you want multiple sides.
Sauces And Toppings
Many chop houses let you add a sauce or topping to your steak. These enhance the flavor but add to the cost.
- Bearnaise Sauce – $3 to $5
- Peppercorn Sauce – $3 to $5
- Red Wine Demi-Glace – $4 to $6
- Blue Cheese Crust – $4 to $7
- Truffle Butter – $5 to $8
- Sauteed Mushrooms – $4 to $6
- Caramelized Onions – $3 to $5
You can also order a compound butter. This is a simple way to add richness without a heavy sauce.
Desserts
Desserts at a chop house are often classic and decadent. They are meant to finish the meal on a sweet note.
- New York Cheesecake – $9 to $13
- Chocolate Lava Cake – $10 to $15
- Crème Brûlée – $8 to $12
- Key Lime Pie – $8 to $11
- Bread Pudding – $9 to $14
Some places offer a dessert sampler. This lets you try a few small portions for a fixed price.
Beverages
Drinks can add significantly to your bill. Chop houses have extensive wine lists and craft cocktails.
Wine
Wine by the glass costs $10 to $20. Bottles range from $40 to over $200. Many restaurants have a sommelier to help you pair wine with your steak.
Cocktails
Classic cocktails like Old Fashioneds and Manhattans are $12 to $18. Signature cocktails can be $14 to $22.
Beer
Draft beer is $6 to $10. Bottled craft beer is $7 to $12. Some places offer a beer flight for $12 to $16.
Non-Alcoholic
Soft drinks, iced tea, and coffee are $3 to $5. Specialty sodas or mocktails are $6 to $10.
Price Factors
Several things affect the prices on a chop house menu. Location is a big one. Restaurants in big cities or tourist areas charge more.
The quality of the beef matters. Dry-aged beef costs more than wet-aged. Prime grade beef is more expensive than choice grade.
Portion size also affects price. Larger cuts cost more per ounce. A 16-ounce steak is not always twice the price of an 8-ounce one.
Time of day can matter. Lunch menus are often cheaper than dinner. Some places have early bird specials or happy hour deals.
How To Save Money
You can enjoy a chop house meal without overspending. Here are some tips.
- Go for lunch instead of dinner. Lunch portions are smaller and prices are lower.
- Share a steak. Many cuts are large enough for two people.
- Skip the appetizer and dessert. Focus on the main course.
- Order water instead of a drink. Beverages add up fast.
- Look for prix fixe menus. These offer a full meal at a set price.
- Check for happy hour specials on appetizers and drinks.
Some chop houses have a “steak and side” combo. This is often cheaper than ordering separately.
What To Expect At A Chop House
The atmosphere is usually upscale but relaxed. You will see white tablecloths and dim lighting. Service is attentive but not pushy.
Most chop houses have a dress code. Smart casual is common. Some require jackets for men.
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. Walk-ins are possible but you may wait.
The menu is often printed daily. This ensures freshness and allows for seasonal changes.
How To Read The Menu
Chop house menus are straightforward. Steaks are listed by cut and weight. Prices are per steak, not per ounce.
Sides are listed separately. You order them a la carte. Some places offer a “sides for two” option.
Specialty dishes may have a description. This tells you about the preparation or sauce.
Ask your server for recommendations. They know which cuts are best that day.
Common Mistakes
Newcomers to chop houses sometimes make errors. Here are a few to avoid.
- Ordering a well-done steak. This ruins the texture and flavor.
- Not asking about the cut. Some steaks have different names.
- Ignoring the sides. They are a big part of the meal.
- Over-ordering. Portions are generous.
- Forgetting to tip. Service is included in some places.
If you are unsure, ask for help. The staff is trained to guide you.
Seasonal And Special Menus
Some chop houses change their menu with the seasons. Spring might feature lighter sides like grilled vegetables. Fall could have heartier dishes like braised short ribs.
Holiday specials are common. Valentine’s Day and New Year’s Eve often have prix fixe menus. These can be more expensive but offer a curated experience.
Some places have a “chef’s tasting menu.” This is a multi-course meal that showcases the best dishes. Prices range from $75 to $150 per person.
Dietary Options
Chop houses can accommodate some dietary needs. Gluten-free options are often available. Many steaks are naturally gluten-free.
Vegetarian options are limited. You might find a portobello mushroom steak or a vegetable plate. Vegan choices are rare.
Ask your server about modifications. Most places will adjust sides or sauces.
Loyalty Programs And Gift Cards
Many chop houses have loyalty programs. You earn points for each visit. These can be redeemed for discounts or free items.
Gift cards are a popular option. They make good presents for steak lovers. Some places offer bonus cards when you buy a certain amount.
Check the restaurant’s website for details. Signing up for emails can get you special offers.
Comparing Chop Houses
Not all chop houses are the same. Some focus on dry-aged beef. Others offer a wider variety of proteins.
Price ranges vary. A budget-friendly chop house might have steaks starting at $25. A high-end one could start at $50.
Read reviews before you go. Look for comments on food quality, service, and value.
Call ahead to confirm prices. Menus change, and online information may be outdated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Average Price For A Steak At A Chop House?
Most steaks range from $35 to $70 for a standard cut. Larger or premium cuts can cost over $100.
Are Sides Included In The Steak Price?
No, sides are usually ordered separately. They cost between $6 and $15 each.
Can I Get A Cheaper Meal At A Chop House?
Yes, go for lunch or order a smaller cut. Sharing a steak and skipping extras helps too.
Do Chop Houses Offer Vegetarian Options?
Some do, but choices are limited. You might find a vegetable plate or a salad.
How Much Should I Tip At A Chop House?
Standard tipping is 15% to 20% of the total bill. Some places include gratuity for large parties.
Understanding chop house menu and prices helps you make smart choices. You can enjoy a high-quality steak meal without surprises. Focus on the cuts you like, pair them with a good side, and watch your budget.
Remember that prices vary by location and quality. Always check the menu before you go. With this guide, you are ready to order like a regular.
Enjoy your next chop house dinner. The experience is worth it when you know what to expect.