Benjamin Steakhouse - New York

Located in the Dylan Hotel, the Benjamin Steakhouse brings together two former Peter Luger employees Benjamin Prelvukaj (ownder) and Arturo McLeod.

The restaurant is situated in one large open room, which is brightly lit compared to many steakhouses.  Dark leather booths surround the outer part of the dining room, while plainly decorated tables adorn the interior.  Given the open atmosphere and brighter lighting, it does not have that "clubby" feel that most steakhouses have.

The waitstaff is full of attitude, as are many of the guests, the kind stereotypical of New Yorkers.  Rather than suggest items, the wait staff almost demands that you order certain items.

Strip steaks and Rib Eye's come on their own, while the Porterhouse steaks are ordered by either 2-4 people.

Lobster Bisque

The Lobster Bisque is silky smooth and punched with the brininess of lobster.  It is rich and does not contain any pieces or chunks of lobster.  Although good, it would be better if there was actually some lobster meat included.

Wedge Salad

The Wedge Salad can be ordered with or without bacon, but who would do that?  The bacon are large pieces of slab bacon, and surprisingly a generous portion is given.  The lettuce is crisp, the tomatoes are juicy but not at the peak of ripeness.  The downfall of this salad however, is that the dressing was so salty it was almost inedible.

Steak for Two

The Porterhouse for two was ordered medium rare, but actually was closer to rare.  The steaks are dry aged for 28 days, so the steaks are tender with just a hint of "funk" that dry aged beef is known for.  The steak comes swimming in a pool of butter, almost to the point of being overkill.  The steak is pretty flavorful but not the best that I have had.

Steak, Creamed Spinach, Benjamin Potatoes

The Creamed Spinach is your standard dish.  There is nothing about it that stands out.  It is well executed but does not contain as much cream as some versions I have had.

The Benjamin Potatoes are more akin to home fries.  Again, decent but nothing that stands out.  There were many burned bits, but unfortunately no real crunchy parts.

The Benjamin Steakhouse serves a more than decent steak, but I would not make a special trip to come here.  If in the immediate area, this is a good solid choice.