Expert Chef Reveals the Most Overrated Steakhouse Cut
When you’re dining at a steakhouse, choosing the right cut of meat can make or break your meal. While many consider Filet Mignon to be the pinnacle of steak perfection, some experts disagree.
Chef Diana Manalang has shared a bold opinion on why this premium cut might not always be worth the splurge.
Fat Equals Flavor
Chef Manalang, known for her love of richly flavored dishes, believes cuts with fat and bone offer the best experience. Speaking with Eat This, Not That, she said, “My favorite, the rib-eye. Give me all the fat; even better when it’s bone-in.”
For Manalang, the magic of a good steak lies in its natural fat content, which delivers bold flavors, and the bone, which enhances the meat’s taste during cooking.
Why Filet Mignon Falls Flat
While Filet Mignon is often touted for its tenderness, Manalang argues that it lacks flavor. “Yes, it is tender and juicy, but because it’s so lean, it has no real flavor. Sauces are vital for this cut because its flavor is lacking,” she explained.
Without the marbling of fat, Filet Mignon often needs heavy seasoning or rich sauces to compensate.
For steak enthusiasts who crave bold, unadulterated flavors, the rib-eye or other fattier cuts might be the better choice.
On the other hand, those who prefer tender textures might find solace in the Filet Mignon—but they should be ready to lean on sauces for extra oomph.
Avoid Common Steakhouse Pitfalls
Chef Andy Knudson of Tillie’s in Dripping Springs, Texas, offers additional advice for steakhouse diners. One of the biggest missteps? Ordering too much food.
“Less is more in a high-quality restaurant,” Knudson advises. He suggests sharing appetizers, splitting a large steak, and enjoying a communal dessert to avoid waste.
Another tip? Skip ordering fish at a steakhouse. “You wouldn’t ask a vet to remove your appendix—why get a steak chef to cook fish?” Knudson quips.
So next time you visit a steakhouse, make an informed choice: go for the flavor-packed rib-eye, share your meal wisely, and let the steak do the talking.
Discover the secrets to picking the perfect steak and learn why rib-eye might be the ultimate choice. Visit our homepage for expert tips.
