A visit to the chop house starts with reviewing the menu to find the perfect steak cut. You want to know what you are paying for before you sit down, and the chop house menu with prices is your first guide to a great meal. Whether you are planning a special dinner or just curious about costs, this article breaks down everything you need to know.
Chop houses are known for thick, high-quality steaks and a classic atmosphere. But prices can vary a lot depending on the cut, the sides, and the location. Let’s walk through what you can expect to see on a typical chop house menu and how to make the best choice for your budget.
Chop House Menu With Prices
When you open a chop house menu, the first thing you notice is the steak section. These are the main event, and prices reflect the quality of the beef. You will see cuts like ribeye, filet mignon, New York strip, and sometimes porterhouse or T-bone. Each cut has a different price point, usually based on tenderness and flavor.
For example, a standard 12-ounce ribeye might cost between $35 and $55. A filet mignon, which is very tender, often runs $45 to $70 for an 8-ounce portion. New York strip steaks are usually in the $30 to $50 range for a 12-ounce cut. Porterhouse steaks, which are larger and include both a strip and a filet, can go from $60 to $100 or more.
Prices also depend on the grade of beef. USDA Prime is the highest grade and costs more. Choice grade is still good but cheaper. Some chop houses also offer dry-aged steaks, which have a stronger flavor and a higher price tag—often $10 to $20 more per steak.
Here is a quick breakdown of common steak cuts and their typical price ranges:
- Ribeye (12 oz): $35 – $55
- Filet Mignon (8 oz): $45 – $70
- New York Strip (12 oz): $30 – $50
- Porterhouse (24 oz): $60 – $100
- T-Bone (16 oz): $40 – $65
- Dry-Aged Ribeye (14 oz): $55 – $80
These prices are averages and can change based on the restaurant and city. A chop house in New York City will charge more than one in a smaller town. Always check the menu for the exact price before ordering.
Appetizers And Starters
Before the steak, you might want an appetizer. Chop houses offer classic starters like shrimp cocktail, crab cakes, oysters, and salads. These are not cheap, but they set the tone for the meal.
Shrimp cocktail usually costs $15 to $25 for a half dozen large shrimp. Crab cakes are often $18 to $30 for two cakes. Oysters on the half shell run $3 to $5 each, or $20 to $40 for a dozen. Salads like Caesar or wedge salad are $10 to $18.
Some chop houses also have soups, like French onion or lobster bisque. These are typically $8 to $15 per bowl. If you want to share a few appetizers, expect to spend $30 to $60 before the main course.
Sides And Accompaniments
Steaks usually come alone, and sides are ordered separately. This is common at chop houses. Sides are meant to be shared, so you might order two or three for the table.
Popular sides include:
- Baked Potato: $8 – $14
- Mashed Potatoes: $10 – $16
- Grilled Asparagus: $12 – $18
- Creamed Spinach: $10 – $15
- Mac and Cheese: $12 – $18
- Sauteed Mushrooms: $10 – $14
- Onion Rings: $10 – $16
If you order two sides for two people, add $20 to $35 to your total. Some chop houses offer a “steak dinner” that includes a side, but this is less common. Most of the time, you pay for each side separately.
Beverages And Drinks
Drinks can add a lot to your bill. Chop houses have full bars with wine, beer, and cocktails. Wine is a popular choice with steak, and a glass of red wine costs $12 to $25. A bottle can be $40 to $200 or more, depending on the label.
Cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan are $14 to $22 each. Beer, including craft options, is $8 to $15 per bottle or pint. Soft drinks and iced tea are usually $4 to $6.
If you are watching your budget, stick with water or a soft drink. But if you want the full experience, a glass of wine or a cocktail is a nice addition.
Desserts And Final Course
After the steak, you might have room for dessert. Chop house desserts are rich and classic. Options include cheesecake, chocolate lava cake, creme brulee, and ice cream.
Desserts cost $10 to $18 each. A slice of cheesecake is usually $12 to $16. Chocolate lava cake is often $14 to $18. If you share one dessert, you save money but still get a sweet finish.
How To Save Money At A Chop House
Eating at a chop house can be expensive, but there are ways to keep the cost down. Here are some practical tips:
- Go for lunch instead of dinner. Lunch menus are often cheaper. A steak sandwich or burger might be $20 to $30, while the same steak at dinner is $40 or more.
- Skip the appetizer. Start with a simple salad or soup, which costs less than shrimp or crab cakes.
- Share a steak. Many chop houses serve large steaks. A 16-ounce steak can feed two people if you add a side or two.
- Order a cheaper cut. The sirloin or flat iron steak is usually less expensive than ribeye or filet. It is still good, just not as tender.
- Drink water. Alcohol and soft drinks add up fast. Stick with tap water to save $10 to $20.
- Check for specials. Some chop houses have early bird specials or prix fixe menus. These offer a fixed price for a multi-course meal.
Using these tips, you can enjoy a chop house meal for $50 to $80 per person instead of $100 or more.
What To Look For On The Menu
When you read a chop house menu, pay attention to a few key details. First, look for the grade of beef. USDA Prime is the best, but Choice is also good. Some menus list the aging process, like dry-aged or wet-aged. Dry-aged steaks have a deeper flavor but cost more.
Second, check the portion size. Steaks are sold by weight, usually in ounces. A 6-ounce filet is smaller than a 12-ounce ribeye. Know how much you want to eat before you order.
Third, see if the steak comes with anything. Some chop houses include a side like a baked potato or salad. Others charge for everything separately. Read the fine print to avoid surprises.
Finally, look for add-ons like sauces or toppings. Bearnaise sauce, blue cheese crust, or truffle butter might cost an extra $5 to $10. These can enhance the flavor but also increase the bill.
Understanding Steak Doneness
When you order a steak, the server will ask how you want it cooked. The standard levels are rare, medium-rare, medium, medium-well, and well-done. Medium-rare is the most popular for chop house steaks because it keeps the meat juicy and tender.
If you order well-done, the steak will be cooked through and may be drier. Some chop houses charge the same price regardless of doneness, but the quality of the experience changes. Stick with medium-rare or medium for the best flavor.
Dietary Options And Substitutions
Chop houses are meat-focused, but they often have options for people with dietary needs. You can ask for a salad without cheese or croutons. Some places offer grilled fish or chicken as alternatives to steak.
If you are vegetarian, the sides might be your main meal. A baked potato with toppings, creamed spinach, and a salad can make a filling dinner. Call ahead to check if the restaurant can accommodate special requests.
Popular Chop House Chains And Their Prices
Not all chop houses are independent. Some are part of national chains. Here are a few well-known ones and what you can expect to pay:
- Ruth’s Chris Steak House: A 12-ounce ribeye is about $55. Sides are $12 to $18. Appetizers start at $15.
- Morton’s The Steakhouse: A 12-ounce New York strip is around $50. Filet mignon is $60 for 8 ounces. Sides are $10 to $16.
- Capital Grille: A 14-ounce dry-aged sirloin is $45. Ribeye is $55. Sides are $12 to $18.
- Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse: A 12-ounce ribeye is $52. Filet is $58. Sides are $10 to $15.
- Outback Steakhouse: This is a more casual option. A 12-ounce ribeye is $25. Sides are included. Appetizers are $8 to $14.
These prices are approximate and can vary by location. Always check the restaurant’s website for the most current menu.
What Is Included In The Price
When you see a price on a chop house menu, it usually includes the steak only. Sides, sauces, and drinks are extra. Some restaurants add a service charge for large parties, usually 18% to 20% of the total bill.
Tax is also added to the final amount. In some cities, there is an additional tax on prepared food. Be prepared for the total to be 10% to 15% higher than the menu prices.
Tips are not included in the menu price. Standard tipping is 15% to 20% of the pre-tax total. If you have a large group, the service charge might cover the tip, but check your bill.
How To Read A Chop House Menu Like A Pro
Reading a chop house menu is easy once you know what to look for. Start with the steak section. Decide how much you want to spend and what cut you prefer. Then look at the sides and decide if you want to share.
If you are on a budget, choose a smaller cut or a cheaper grade. If you want the best experience, go for USDA Prime and add a nice side. Remember that the menu is a guide, and you can always ask the server for recommendations.
Here is a step-by-step process:
- Look at the steak prices first. Pick a cut that fits your budget.
- Check if the steak comes with anything. If not, plan to order sides.
- Decide on appetizers or drinks. Keep the total in mind.
- Ask about specials. Sometimes there are off-menu items that are cheaper.
- Read the fine print for service charges or minimums.
By following these steps, you can order with confidence and avoid overspending.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average price of a steak at a chop house?
The average price for a 12-ounce steak at a chop house is $40 to $60. Filet mignon and ribeye are on the higher end, while sirloin and strip are lower. Prices vary by location and beef grade.
Are sides included in the chop house menu prices?
Usually no. Most chop houses sell steaks alone, and sides are ordered separately. Each side costs $10 to $18. Some restaurants offer a “complete dinner” that includes a side, but this is less common.
How can I find a chop house menu with prices online?
Most chop houses post their menus on their websites. You can also use review sites like Yelp or TripAdvisor, where users sometimes upload photos of menus. Call the restaurant if you cannot find prices online.
What is the cheapest cut of steak at a chop house?
The sirloin or flat iron steak is usually the cheapest. These cuts are less tender but still flavorful. Prices start around $25 to $35 for a 10-ounce portion.
Do chop houses have lunch menus with lower prices?
Yes, many chop houses offer lunch menus with lower prices. Lunch steaks are often smaller or from cheaper cuts. You might pay $20 to $35 for a lunch steak compared to $40 to $60 at dinner.
Final Thoughts On The Chop House Menu
Knowing the chop house menu with prices helps you plan a meal that fits your budget and tastes. Whether you want a classic ribeye or a tender filet, you can find options at different price points. Remember to check for sides, drinks, and extras that add to the total.
Take your time when reading the menu. Ask questions if you are unsure about a cut or price. The server is there to help you have a good experience. With a little planning, you can enjoy a great steak dinner without any surprises on the bill.
So next time you visit a chop house, you will know exactly what to look for. The menu is your friend, and the prices are there to guide you. Enjoy your meal and the experience of a well-cooked steak.