The Overpriced Item You Should Never Order at a Steakhouse

Put down the shrimp cocktail. If you’re at a steakhouse, experts agree: seafood is the most overpriced item you can order. While it might look tempting on the menu, it’s rarely worth the price—and often disappoints compared to what you’d get at a seafood restaurant.

Here’s why you should stick to steak, fries, and other classics when dining at these meat-focused spots.

🚫 Why Seafood Fails the Steakhouse Test

Steakhouses are great at cooking meat. But they’re rarely experts at preparing fish, oysters, or lobster. According to chefs like Dennis Littley, kitchens at steakhouses are designed to perfect steaks—not seafood. This means:

• Lower quality: The seafood might be frozen or not freshly sourced.
• Basic prep: Dishes like grilled salmon or fried shrimp lack the creativity you’d find at seafood restaurants.
• Sky-high prices: You’ll pay premium prices for something that’s not the restaurant’s specialty.

For example, a seafood platter at a steakhouse can cost up to $50, while a dedicated seafood spot might offer fresher options for the same price.

🥩 What to Order Instead

Save your money for what the steakhouse does best:

1. Bone-in cuts: Ribeye or T-bone steaks are juicy and packed with flavor.
2. Classic sides: Loaded baked potatoes (in moderation!) or mashed potatoes are affordable crowd-pleasers.
3. House specialties: Try dry-aged steaks or whiskey pairings for a unique experience.

💸 Other Overpriced Traps to Avoid

While seafood tops the list, watch out for:

• Sodas: A $4 drink costs the restaurant pennies to make.
• Chicken dishes: Often bland and overpriced compared to steak.
• Salads: Basic greens with dressing can cost more than a side of fries.

Bottom line: Steakhouses are for steak. Skip the seafood, avoid the upsells, and enjoy a meal that’s worth every penny.

Citations:
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