Back in the 80s, going to a steakhouse was a full-blown event. It wasn’t just about the steak, it was about the sizzling platters, extravagant side dishes, and indulgent desserts that made you feel like royalty. From surf-and-turf to tableside flambé, these 12 dishes defined peak steakhouse luxury in the decade of excess.
Filet Mignon with Béarnaise Sauce
Tender, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, filet mignon was the ultimate sign of upscale dining. The rich, tarragon-infused Béarnaise sauce added a sophisticated touch that felt straight out of a French bistro. Served with a perfectly seared crust, it was pure decadence on a plate.
Prime Rib with Au Jus
A thick, juicy cut of prime rib, slow-roasted to perfection, was the centerpiece of any steakhouse menu. Served with a side of rich, beefy au jus for dipping, it was as luxurious as it was satisfying. The only way to make it better was by adding a loaded baked potato on the side.
Surf and Turf (Steak and Lobster Tail)
The ultimate flex at any steakhouse, surf and turf combined a juicy steak with a buttery lobster tail. The contrast of charred beef and sweet, tender seafood made every bite feel indulgent. Topped with melted butter, it was the epitome of 80s extravagance.
Steak Diane
This classic dish featured a perfectly cooked steak flambéed with brandy right at your table. The creamy, mushroom-studded sauce added an extra level of richness that made it feel truly indulgent. Watching the flames dance across the pan made it even more memorable.
Porterhouse Steak
Massive, juicy, and perfect for those who wanted both a filet and a strip steak in one cut, the porterhouse was pure excess. It came out sizzling on a hot plate, making every bite feel like an experience. It was the kind of steak you ordered when you wanted to impress.
Oysters Rockefeller
Baked oysters topped with a creamy, herby sauce and a crispy breadcrumb crust were a high-class appetizer. The rich, briny flavor paired perfectly with a glass of champagne or a dry martini. In the 80s, ordering these meant you had great taste, and a decent paycheck.
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Lobster Bisque
This velvety, rich soup was the perfect way to start a steakhouse meal, made with cream, butter, and plenty of lobster meat for pure indulgence in a bowl. The deep, briny flavor made every spoonful feel luxurious, especially when topped with a drizzle of sherry or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra layer of elegance.
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French Onion Soup
A deep, savory broth loaded with caramelized onions and topped with a thick layer of gooey melted cheese, this soup was pure comfort. Served in a piping hot crock, it arrived with strings of cheese stretching from spoon to bowl. One bite and you knew you were in for a great meal.
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Escargot in Garlic Butter
Snails might have sounded intimidating, but drenched in garlic butter, they became a luxurious delicacy. Served sizzling in their shells, they were rich, tender, and perfect for soaking up with crusty bread. If you wanted to show off your sophisticated palate, this was the dish to order.
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Twice-Baked Potato
A giant baked potato, scooped out, mixed with butter, sour cream, and cheese, then baked again to golden perfection—this was the ultimate side dish. It was creamy, crispy, and over-the-top in the best way. Topped with crispy bacon and chives, it was pure indulgence.
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Baked Alaska
A dramatic dessert of ice cream and cake covered in meringue and flambéed tableside, Baked Alaska was peak 80s showmanship. The contrast of warm, caramelized meringue and frozen ice cream was a sensory delight. If you wanted to end your meal with a spectacle, this was the way to do it.
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Crème Brûlée
Breaking through the caramelized sugar crust to reveal the smooth, creamy custard underneath was one of life’s little luxuries. The rich vanilla flavor paired perfectly with a cup of strong coffee or an after-dinner liqueur. It was the kind of dessert that made you feel like royalty.
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Coffee with Bailey’s or Kahlúa
No steakhouse meal was complete without a warm cup of coffee spiked with a creamy liqueur, offering a rich and comforting finish. The smooth, slightly sweet flavors of Bailey’s or Kahlúa made it the perfect nightcap, blending seamlessly with the boldness of the coffee. It was a small touch that made you feel like you were truly treating yourself, adding a hint of luxury to the end of the evening..
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The 80s were all about bold flavors, over-the-top presentations, and indulgence in every form. A steakhouse dinner wasn’t just a meal, it was an experience, filled with sizzling platters, rich sauces, and show-stopping desserts. Whether you were celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, these dishes made every night feel like a luxury.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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