Need help - steakhouse in Philly ?

Going to be stuck in Philly alone on a weekend night - any recommendations for a steak house where I'd be comfortable (male) going alone and reading my book ? I like top-end places, and on the same trip will be dining at the Palm in DC. Thanks !

The Prime Rib at 17th and Locust is probably good for what you're looking for. It's a little more traditional and less "happening" than some of the other upscale steakhouses in town, but it's very good.
You may want to check if they still have a jacket requirement if you're going to make a reservation. I know I read something about them loosening that, but it may have only been for certain nights of the week.

Can't go wrong with Morton's or Ruth Chris!

Was hoping to avoid chains, sorry - should have specified !

quote:

Originally posted by jockey52

Was hoping to avoid chains, sorry - should have specified !

But you're going to the Palm?

Most of the upscale ones are chains. The one with the best reputation among those that aren't is Barclay Prime on 18th Street next to Rittenhouse Square. And I know some people consider it to be the best steakhouse in Philly, chain or not. I haven't been there, but based on what owner Steven Starr's other restaurants are like, I imagine it to be fairly happening and a little loud for someone who wants to read a book while dining. Maybe someone who has been there will inform you otherwise though.

wish I had your expense acct. my heart goes out to you. GOOD EATIN'

Michael, somehow the Palm manages to avoid feeling like a chain, in my experience - unlike Ruth's Chris with its sizzling butter, Morton's with its tiresome dog and pony show exhibition "this is our one pound baked potato" and Capital Grill.

Engine 46 steak house on Columbus blvd.

quote:

Originally posted by mikez629

Engine 46 steak house on Columbus blvd.

Sorry to say that they actually closed this place-just looked on line.

Pats and Gino's :)

quote:

Originally posted by phlmaestro2000

The Prime Rib at 17th and Locust is probably good for what you're looking for. It's a little more traditional and less "happening" than some of the other upscale steakhouses in town, but it's very good.
You may want to check if they still have a jacket requirement if you're going to make a reservation. I know I read something about them loosening that, but it may have only been for certain nights of the week.

The Prime Rib does require a jacket for men at all times. It's the one reason that I've never eaten there.

I highly recommend The Prime Rib. Only two other locations (D.C. and Baltimore) so hardly a chain, and a swanky, supper-club experience unlike, Morton's, Ruth's Chris, The Palm, or any other expense account steakhouse.

True, a jacket is required at dinner, (they do have some loaners) but for a (possibly) one-time experience
The Prime Rib is it. Be sure to get the crab Imperial as well as a (phone book sized) slab of prime rib, or any of their excellent steaks. Take a cab as the drinks are also behemoth sized.

Thanks,

Kevin

http://www.theprimerib.com/