In the past, USDA Prime beef was considered the epitome of quality, reserved for the finest New York steakhouses like Peter Luger, Palm, and Christ Cella. But that’s no longer the case, as the USDA Prime rating is now applied to meat that would have been classified as mere Choice in the past.
However, there are still steakhouses in New York City that go the extra mile to procure the finest beef available, and Benjamin’s Steakhouse is among the best.
A Legacy of Excellence
Benjamin’s Steakhouse was founded by Ben Sinanaj and Benjamin Prelvukaj, who both worked at Peter Luger steakhouse. In 2006, they opened their own establishment, bringing along Arturo McLeod, one of Luger’s skilled chefs.
Their first location was just south of Grand Central Terminal, and they later expanded to a second venue near the New York Public Library. They now have another location nearby called Benjamin Prime, as well as a seafood restaurant on East 58th Street, The SeaFire Grill.
Inside Benjamin’s Steakhouse
Stepping into Benjamin’s Steakhouse is like entering a world of refined dining. The well-set tables are adorned with fine stemware, double white cloths and soft lighting. The restaurant staff, led by manager John Martinaj, goes above and beyond to make every guest feel welcome, despite the bustling atmosphere.
But it’s the little details that set Benjamin’s Steakhouse apart from the rest. They give diners generous servings of butter and a dish of olive oil to accompany the rolls, bread and sesame crackers. Need extra dressing for your salad? No problem – the waitstaff will gladly bring you not one but two ramekins. It’s these thoughtful touches that make a meal at Benjamin’s a memorable one.
A Wine List to Impress
New York City is known for its fierce competition among restaurants, and Benjamin’s Steakhouse rises to the challenge with an extraordinary wine list. Victor Dedushaj, the wine director for all of Benjamin’s restaurants, boasts an extensive selection.
Benjamin Prime offers around 1,000 different wines, Benjamin’s Steakhouse offers 600, The SeaFire Grill offers 700, and the White Plains location offers 1,000. They also offer an impressive array of cocktails that are expertly crafted and generously poured.
Signature Dishes Worth Savoring
While you may find some familiar items on the menu, there are a few standout dishes that truly define Benjamin’s Steakhouse.
- Signature Benjamin salad – a delightful blend of two greens, red onion, apple, and a generous amount of lump crabmeat.
- Crab cake – a must-try, featuring sweet crabmeat without overwhelming filler.
- Baked clams – plump and juicy, expertly cooked to retain their moisture.
- Tuna tartare – made from top-quality tuna with just the right amount of seasoning, is a fine example of the restaurant’s attention to detail.
- Benjamin’s Soup – a rich and hearty combination of ground beef, potatoes, and onions, topped with a flaky puff pastry.
Prime Beef and Lamb Delights
As expected, Benjamin’s Steakhouse excels in its offering of dry-aged USDA Prime beef. The steaks are cooked to perfection, featuring a delectable charred exterior and a tender, juicy interior that’s bursting with flavor.
Whether you’re ordering for two, three, or four people, the prime beef options are sure to satisfy even the most discerning carnivores. And let’s not forget the Colorado rack of lamb—a substantial portion of succulent meat that boasts incredible flavor, particularly in the delectable bits found near the bone. Unlike some steakhouses that may offer wagyu beef, Benjamin’s focuses on the superior taste of USDA Prime beef, forgoing the excessively fatty cuts.
Indulge in Lobster and Sides
At Benjamin’s, they not only excel in serving top-quality beef but also in the preparation of lobster. If you’re a lobster lover, you’ll be delighted to know that Benjamin’s offers steamed, cracked lobsters right at your table. The expertly trained waitstaff ensures that your lobster arrives steaming hot and promptly removes the sweet meat from its shell. It’s a seamless and satisfying experience, which is often overlooked at other establishments where the lobster-cooling ritual can take far too long.
To complement your meal, be sure to try their home fries—a divine potato dish that’s cooked to perfection. The creamed spinach is rich and flavorful, while the onion rings are a standout, boasting a crisp texture and a sweet onion taste that will keep you coming back for more.
A Sweet Finale
After a hearty steak dinner, it’s essential to leave room for one of Benjamin’s sumptuous desserts. Treat yourself to their velvety cheesecake or indulge in a chocolate soufflé that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. These delectable treats are the perfect way to conclude your dining experience at Benjamin’s Steakhouse.
While there are other excellent steakhouses in New York City, Benjamin’s Steakhouse stands out among the very best. Although it has multiple locations, it maintains an unwavering commitment to quality and service.
Did you know that steakhouses have unspoken rules? Learn about them here: