You wouldn’t be able to tell from the outside, but One Prime Steakhouse is a large restaurant with a big bar area and a beautiful view of Lake Monona. And, it serves up some delicious steaks.
I tried the filet mignon ($59.99 for 7 oz., $69.99 for 10 oz.), New York strip ($71.99 for 16 oz.) and Wagyu ribeye ($99.99 for 16 oz.). All of them were very tasty, tender and juicy, with a nice grilled flavor to them. The restaurant lets you know that they typically cook 1° less, so if you prefer, say, medium, it’ll come medium-rare. Next time, I may get the 36 oz. Porterhouse ($145.99) or the beef Wellington ($62.99).
If you don’t want beef, you can order items like the rack of lamb ($54.99) or One Prime roasted chicken ($38.99). From the seafood section, I tried the Chilean sea bass ($54.99), and it was okay. The fish was a bit rubbery and was essentially flavorless. Fortunately, the miso and wasabi sauces were good, but they came on the side instead of being cooked with the fish as a glaze.
Among the appetizers, the chilled oysters on the half shell ($25.99) were a good way to start the meal. I especially liked that the cocktail sauce had a little spice to it, and the mignonette was the best I’ve ever had. Meanwhile, the deviled eggs ($27.99) were pretty standard, but you do get a hint of saltiness from the bit of caviar on top.
Both the Maine lobster bisque ($15.99) and its presentation were delightful. You are served a bowl with lobster meat at the bottom, and then the server pours the creamy and savory bisque on top.
The sides are meant for two people to share, and I do agree with the portion size. I recommend the lobster gnocchi ($34.99), which was a little salty but still enjoyable, as well as the macaroni & cheese ($13.99), which was enhanced with crispy breadcrumbs on top. Other sides include bone marrow pie ($23.99) and mushroom risotto ($18.99).
One Prime Steakhouse is open for dinner every day.
Tags: downtown, steakhouse
