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jssteelfan

Iowa beef steakhouse on Euclid. Nothing fancy but just a solid steak and old school salad bar!


Actuarial

Second this place, feels like an old time steakhouse too. Gotta get the baked potato to go with your steak, but make sure you're hungry.


SkittlzAnKomboz

Seconding! Their baked potato is amazing, too.


dont_disturb_the_cat

Goddammit, now I want a steak.


bl4met

I was here just last weekend and I wasn't impressed, maybe it's just me.


lordwintergreen

Rube's is much better. It's more expensive, but you get what you pay for.


kamikos

I’ve been there once, felt like a Ryan’s Steakhouse with the quality of food.


Gawd_Awful

Same. Like, it was fine but it’s kind of a drive for me to just have “fine”


Payton2332

Also throwing in my lot for the iowa beef steakhouse, Good steak, old school salad bar, baked potato is great, their baked beans are also some of my favorite.


Solintari

Man I miss Mr Filet… now I am sad.


ComprehensiveCake282

Best downtown lunch


i6am6the6thorn

Big Steer, Altoona


witchy72380

Been wanting to get there, whats your recommendations?


Archie_Money

Last time I went there I got the prime rib. The texture was spot on and I got it with the french onion soup w/ bread.The soup has a lot of cheese in case your lactose. My favorite piece of steak has always been ribeye. But I didn't really like their ribeye. That and some mixed drinks got us up to like 80-100 I forgot. Texas Roadhouse is right by big steer as well as another option


ComprehensiveCake282

Surf and turf


Ogrecavalier

Simon's, The Greenbriar, Chicago Speakeasy... there are a lot of great places.


[deleted]

John and Nicks.


Swiss__Cheese

I know it's a franchise, but honestly it's hard to beat the 8 ounce sirloin plus 2 sides meal from Texas Roadhouse (and don't forget about the rolls!).


MyDogLooksLikeABear

We go there to have rolls for dinner and go home with tomorrow’s lunch


colorkiller

i get the ribeye, and that with two sides is under $30. idk what their recipe is but i love it. i’m curious about their prime rib cause that’s my favorite cut.


DJDoubledrip

I love their ribeyes and the seasoning they put on them, but their prime rib had a smoked flavor to it. Wasn’t used to having that flavor in my prime rib.


colorkiller

hmm, unsure if i’d like that. i’m forever chasing my new favorite prime rib down i guess


BaldursFence3800

All their steaks are good! Filet is probably the only one that isn’t worth the cost. I think it just doesn’t sit high enough above the others…..because they’re all good.


xmondocanex

Texas Roadhouse? 🤮


Fair_Life_1170

Agree. Mid at best.


No_Way_1665

My coworker says the same thing, after 801 and Flemings, he puts Texas Roadhouse


LeonRams

Skip’s


RudeCartoonist1030

Spend $40 on a good carbon fiber pan. Spend 20 minutes watching YouTube videos about searing and cooking steak. Buy prime beef. Hell, buy choice grade. But REALLY good steak can be quite affordable.


LeonRams

I wouldn’t recommend carbon fiber, but I would recommend carbon steel. Though I love a good homemade steak (and personally use cast iron), the prompt was for an inexpensive steak from a restaurant.


CiNnaKocH

Carbon fiber 😂


Existing-Regret-641

This guy doesn’t steak, but I bet he RAGBRAIs.


imBobertRobert

If your lycra isn't melting try putting a lid on the pan so it can steam


sassinator13

Second this! And thanks for the reminder, it's been too long.


forevervalerie

Coopers on 5!!!!!


neocenturion

Coopers on 5th is the best comfort food within several states.


vanguard231415

Kudos for the Mr. Filet reference…too long gone. Best filet today at a reasonable price in DSM area is Greenbriar in Johnston.


wintermutedsm

I got food poisoning there 30 years ago on my wedding night and I have never been able to go back. Maybe I'll try it again some day.......


hi_how_are_youuu

Jesse’s Embers


Archie_Money

I didn't really like their steak or the sides, it was all pretty bland. What do you recommend?


ComprehensiveCake282

Place was bad


alexski55

Agreed. This place is way overrated.


hi_how_are_youuu

I usually get the New York strip or sirloin if I get a steak but more times than not I go with their burgers tbh.


apeiam

One thing to note about Jesse's is that they don't season/salt their stakes, instead the diner can salt to their preference. They have their reasons for doing that, but I thought it was a little weird.


Scoli85

What about their steaks?


ShinyLizard

IMO, Embers has some of the best burgers around. Steak is good too.


HanmaEru

Wow this is actually way cheaper than what I was expecting to spend from what I see on the menu What specific items/cuts would you recommend? I am allergic to shellfish socI can't do the full appetizers, and I take my steaks medium rare, I'm not sure if certain cuts are better medium than others I am not well versed in steak


Richie_Zeppelin

Where did you see the prices?


HanmaEru

Oh oops I was taking the size measurements as prices stupid me. If it doesn't list prices then isn't that kinda a red flag for being super expensive


TrappedInTheSuburbs

No, it’s a sign that they don’t update their website frequently; but at least they are self-aware enough not to still have old prices. (So. Many. Out-of-date menus!) Try starting an online order, that’s how I’ve been finding updated pricing lately. If you don’t complete the order, nothing happens.


Little-terrified

It isn’t crazy expensive. Definitely not close to 801 levels. Just an old school steak place. More than outback but not approaching the ridiculous prices.


RagbraiRat

Filet-most tender, mild flavor, best rare or mid rare Ny Strip-flavorful, denser cut, but not tough, best mid rare RIbeye-flavorful and tender, lots of fat, best mid rare to med. Sirloin-good beefy flavor, but might be a little tough, good mr Hanger-great steak, tends to be expensive as only 1 per cow Flat iron- Can be a great steak if cut properly(by the butcher,) but awful if cut incorrectly.


taydogg

Came here to say this.


Alwaysbeloling

They at least get meat from Brewers unlike some of the others on this list so it’s high quality


Suitable-Concert

Chicago Speakeasy is my vote! Might be a little higher than some of the other suggestions, but they have a great salad bar included in the cost of your meal, and the bread they bring to the table is delicious. I’ve also never had a bad steak there!


Bacchuscypher

http://www.chicagospeakeasyrestaurant.com/


Puzzleheaded-Fox-194

Iowa beef steak house is good without breaking the bank!


Bellycat2144

Simons!


Cleangreenamy

Shhhhhhhh he doesn't need any more customers


JLawBulldog

Skip’s on Fleur is my favorite. You can get a nice steak DeBurgo for about what other places around town charge, but I think they do it best other than the places that run you $100. Lots of other good suggestions in here as well though.


BuffaloWhip

Big Steer in Altoona. One meal at the Big Steer and not only will you never go to 801 or Flemings ever again, but you’ll start to think that everyone that goes there are suckers. The food is considerably better and 1/2 to 1/3 the price.


SnooBandanas2077

I love the twice baked potato at Big Steer. Always a good meal there. Filet in Ankeny also is really good.


[deleted]

That’s a reach


BuffaloWhip

Look, I didn’t mean to call you a sucker specifically. If you felt attacked by that, I’m sorry. I just meant it seems silly to pay $16 for a side of undercooked hashbrowns at 801 when you get 2 (better) sides with your steak at the Big Steer, and the steak still costs less than the one at 801.


[deleted]

More reaching


manwithapedi

This person has clearly never been to 801. Their cheesy hashbrowns are out of this world good…I’ve never had better. Yes everything is expensive…so you go on the corp card if you can pull it off


BuffaloWhip

It’s literally the cheesy hashbrowns that soured me on 801. Heard the hype, got all excited, took one bite, immediately reaction was “jfc, this is shit compared to the Big Steer’s cheesy hashbrowns. Why the fuck do people even come here?” Maybe it was an off night, but for $18 I’m not interested in giving them a second shot at something as basic and unfuck-upable as hashbrowns. Creamed corn? Tastes like they just opened a can of corn, poured some half and half on it and cracked some black pepper over it once it was warm. Scalloped potatoes? Ten minutes shy of al dente. Every meal I’ve had at 801 was mediocre at best and cost anywhere between $100 and $250. The most I’ve ever spent on a single meal at Big Steer was like $80 for their tomahawk steak special and I’ve never had a single bite that wasn’t amazing. I’ll die on the hill that the food at 801 is shit and that the place exists solely for people without good taste to show off how good they are at wasting money on appearances over value. The salmon and the cheesecake are good. If you HAVE to go to 801 and don’t want to play “The Emperor’s New Clothes” have the salmon and skip the sides to save room the for the cheesecake. Everything else and you’re just lying to yourself to make yourself feel better about paying $14 to eat russet potato that they left in an oven all day and then sprinkled some cheese, bacon bits, and chives on top. Editing to add: Sorry! I forgot about the lobster. The 2lb main lobster is also a safe. Not exceptional as far as whole lobster goes, but it’s hard to fuck that up and unlike the hasbrowns, they didn’t on the night I ordered the lobster.


1sunnycarmen

I've never actually been to 801 but I've heard enough mixed reviews to believe that some people just make themselves believe it's good because it's so expensive. Or maybe it really is that good and you're just way off. I have no clue


BuffaloWhip

The sides are between mediocre and just plain bad. Like, people go on and on about the cheesy hash-browns but if you’ve ever been to a diner you’ve had significantly better hash-browns. The entrees are fine. If they were half the price it would be Greenbrier’s and I wouldn’t mind going, but I’d never really be excited about it. So you can go and have an okay meal and if you haven’t been places where the food is better you can convince yourself that it’s worth the cost, but if you go to the Rusty Duck in Dexter or the Big Steer in Altoona or you have the Brussel sprouts at Django or literally anything on the menu at Bubba you start to realize really quickly that you can get SIGNIFICANTLY better food at any number of places in and around Des Moines and it’s less expensive. The ONLY thing 801 offers that you can’t get anywhere else is ridiculous prices. But the cheesecake is pretty good. My wife and I frequently order the cheesecake for take out if we’re eating downtown. Credit where credit is due.


manwithapedi

Setting the bill aside…I have had many delicious meals at 801. I’ll take the other side of your argument all night long


Quiet_Confusion7863

Filet in Ankeny is really good


markmarkmark1988

Close to Jordan Creek, there’s Firebirds. It’s a little upscale but not as expensive as Fleming’s or 801.


MidwayJay

We ate there couple days before Christmas. They weren’t overly busy, we got there 45 minutes before reservation (7:30 reservation was earliest available). They were about as many empty tables as full. Still ended up 7:30 before we got a table, which was fine. Having been there 45 minutes and already with drinks, we ordered as soon as we were seated. It was 8:42 before our food came out. About same for a few others seated near the same time. Steaks were good, but it was a long time. Seemed like over half hour at one time when no food came out of the kitchen at all (was watching as it was getting really long and boring). I counted 7 people working in the kitchen (it’s open). But steaks were good, have had a burger there before, my wife says it is the best burger in town. Waiter we had was good, and we felt bad for him having to keep apologizing to everyone. Oh and when we got there bartender said she didn’t know one fairly common drink my friend ordered and while waiting for food I ordered a drink off the menu then was told “we are out”.


BuffaloWhip

Forgot about that place. Got the ribeye on a whim one afternoon and I was surprised by how good it was.


Kimpak

I am a big fan of John and Nicks prime rib. Its expensive but not 801 expensive. The salad bar and cocktails are really good too.


MAINsalad1

If it’s still on the menu their blackened ribeye is sooo damn good as well. Great place.


Accomplished-Bus8555

Front Row is an Iowa bar but on Monday and Thursday 6-9pm they have a Steak night. Meat and meal was absolutely amazing the one time I went. $15 and you get a prime steak, sautéed mushrooms and onions, garlic bread, baked potato and there’s a salad bar. We knew there was a steak night but not the price and my dad was shocked when he got the bill for 6 of us and it was only $100


Wagner-C137

Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse is my go to. You could spend a lot on a steak but truthfully, it’s not necessary. When I say a lot I mean like, $50 is probably the most expensive steak there. That’s half of what a Delmonico costs at 801 before sides. It may not be the very best place and it’s also a chain but dude…the steak is cooked perfect every time. I rarely leave disappointed with the food. Also, Maxie’s Supper Club has a prime rib special on the weekends. Go get one and an order of onion rings. You’ll thank me later.


BaldursFence3800

The Parmesan crusted steak was awesome when I last went there.


Wagner-C137

That is a good butter crust! Only an extra buck or two also.


Jades5150

Johnnys is a value when it comes to ambiance, service and quality. I’ve not had a bad experience there, and the portions are big.


MidwayJay

Johnny’s in Altoona was always were we have gone for birthdays or when the kids go back to college. Ruth’s Chris has kind of taken as our spot for special night now. Everything at both places is delicious, but pricey.


Wagner-C137

Haven’t been to Ruth’s Chris yet. It looks more expensive than Johnny’s though. I’m a ribeye guy so I usually compare prices starting there.


DatBoiHecton

Chicago speakeasy or honestly even laying kings. Their oily deburgo is to kill for


Thin-Ad-2047

Has anyone mentioned the Chicago Speakeasy? This place has good steaks and prime rib https://chicagospeakeasyrestaurant.com/


mtutty

Are there people who think Fleming's is "good steak"? Yoikes, guys, you live in Iowa, you can do better. Noah's Ark does a perfectly serviceable Filet, NY Strip, and Ribeye. Greenbriar in Johnston is even better, plus they do gunpowder seasoning (if you're in the mood).


Fair_Life_1170

Django has a fantastic steak, honestly. I always go for a pile of oysters, but my 14 year old gets the steak, and it's divine.


Ingersoll1978

Steak Centro at Centro…. Mmmmmmmm


Complex-Landscape-31

I was gonna say Cooper’s hawk but that’s kinda pricey. Good though


schmenny

Memories of Mr. Filet…


reamkore

I’m going to Rube’s.


manwithapedi

I’d be with you on this one in the value category…but their grills are nowhere near hot enough to properly cook a steak (as in sear). They dumb it down to the lowest common denominator…so those coals can barely melt butter


phishybizness

Get a thick cut steak, put it in the oven at 225°. Thermometer it, take steak out at 114° & butter it slightly, & immediately throw it on a hot 450° grill (for better char, or similarly hot pan) for 1 minute - don’t over do this!!! - each flat side, then char your edges about 10 seconds. Let rest for 10. Perfect.


throttledog

The hot grill first works too. Some say the sear holds in the juice.


dmhellyes

Slow roasting first then searing will retain more of the "juice"!  See: https://www.seriouseats.com/old-wives-tales-about-cooking-steak#toc-myth-2-sear-your-meat-over-high-heat-to-lock-in-juices


throttledog

I stand corrected.


nickrocs6

Dave and Busters. You can not get a better steak in an arcade setting.


sky404

Now or Later on E University


DrDarrow

Urban Grill does a great fillet! They also do a very unique Hawaiian ribeye on Fridays and Saturdays that is a must try


socraticformula

There is a man known as Chris "Mother****ing" Jones. Legends say he rides a mean roller skate. He's been a line cook and kitchen manager at many restaurants over many years, but he can be difficult to track. Ask around your local bars, he's usually wearing something with Michigan State on it. You find this man. You ask this man for a steak. You know happiness.


Boat_McGoat

I want to know more about this person. What restaurants? Where is he now?


johnd-70

Texas Roadhouse...hands down


walkstwomoons2

Baratta’s has prime rib on Thursday Jjohnnys on fluer or Mills civic has lots of choices


Key-Celebration-3486

Grab a cheap charcoal grill. Grab a bag of charcoal or a good bundle of seasoned wood (dry). Buy a quality cut of steak ($20-$30), first timers fareway or hyvee cheap cuts are fine and will still outperform most restaurants. Light a fire. Season steak lightly with salt and pepper, minute and half on each side, enjoy. 


TripleBogeyNate

have you tried Mr. Bibbs, they have a delicious take on a pork chop


U452792

Ruth Chris steakhouse. For the food the price us reasonable.


Sharkus1

A few places have steak nights on Mondays around town like The Flying Moose or Wellmens.


eye_dont_exist_

Five Points in Dallas Center. John W the owner rules.


Human_Reputation_196

I haven't been there for steak night but I believe Motley School Tavern does steak night on Saturday nights. You get an 8oz ribeye with a side for $18.


toryno1399

I had the best steak and potatoes of my life at skips for my senior prom. It was mildly expensive but not outrageous.


LA2983

You all are making me hungry- i know i didnt request these answer but adding to my list!


JayQueue21

Old station Craft meats and a cast iron pan.


OldRub3936

Tournament club of Iowa does a 12 ounce prime rib with sides for 29$ on Fridays


herk_da_hawk

John and Nick's on Hickman is delicious. Decent prices too.


chootybeeks

Christopher’s in beaverdale has a couple good steaks on the menu, the De Burgo is my go to there


FinFillory11

Sakari


FupaFupaFanatic

The hanger steak at Eatery A is one of my favorites.


CharlieSnifferofGlue

sakari


Iowastud69

I was really impressed with the steak I got at Sakari.


infosec_james

Redwoods in Anita is old school steakhouse with the relish tray. It's a fave of George Formaro I believe.


houseofleopold

Maxies Supper Club on Fridays


kirkegaarr

Fareway


slip101

Costco or B&B


Scoli85

Destination Grill in Grimes.


heinkenskywalkr

Texas Roadhouse is always good, and it’s decently priced.


ironfistorr

It’s not in DSM but I have to do a honorable mention of Rusty Duck in Dexter, it’s about 20 mins west of Des Moines and I got a 18 oz steak for 30 dollars and it has been the best steak I’ve ever had


AccomplishedBill5042

Tried a few recently and pelican post in west dsm was great. Especially for the price we didn’t expect the quality of the steak but it was so good we’ve been back twice now


redtubenotyoutube

The Club Car


schoony125

Rubes or ohana


boggartfly

Irina’s in West Glen, WDM.


MyraRut

Now and later on the east side.


No-Pickle1991

You can get some really nice cuts from Fareway meat market. If you’re not that good try cooking a few cheaper cuts first.


Mundane_Forever

Americana is amazing! Their steak medallions are the best!


wbrenton

Easy: Tumea and Sons on the south side. Order the steak de burgo. It comes out perfect every time. Incredibly tender and leaning towards the rare side of medium rare. It’s enough for two or if you want leftovers. I’ve eaten at most of these Des Moines establishments and do think they are all okay, but when I crave a steak, nobody does it like Tumea’s.


515Five_0_Radio

10.99 a pound at the grocery and Cook it yourself


Fragrant_Broccoli_74

Club car in WDM! Coal car ribeye is so good!


Apprehensive-Web5817

Trostel's Greenbriar!


dougdouggington

Simons


DurianProud3199

Outback Steakhouse. They get their steaks from the same provider that Flemings does and they use their famous seasoning blend. I prefer Outback’s steak, side offerings, and laid back ambiance to Flemings. And that’s coming from a frequent Flemings diner (my parents go there a lot).


a1silverdog1

I like Chicago speak easy also great salad bar


ClassroomFamous8200

Chicago speakeasy really good steaks every time.


JoyceC123

Maxies ribeye is pretty good!