The cost of armored car cash pickups is more expensive than credit card processing fees. I can't imagine the night manager is leaving daily with cash in a bank sleeve. So they're cash only for the same reason other business' are cash only, defrauding the IRS.
I think where they sat you and with your back to the room I think you could have brought your own bread for a steak sandwich and your own bottle of wine! No one would have noticed anyway!
the excuse about the minimal credit card processing fee is pretty hilarious. we all know what cash businesses are about. there are tons of them where i live in south jersey just a few mins away from atlantic city. even at a place like PL, if they passed the processing fee to the customer, the average party isn’t going to end up spending probably more than $5-6 extra. what’s another $5 on a $200 meal lol?
My dude sat next a bathroom, heard people doing their business, and even went so far as to bring his own salt because he didn't trust the restaurant would season it enough BUT....its not overrated?? C'mon bro.
Your dude should have asked to be moved and if he knew the food needed more salt and went to the extreme of taking his own, why did he bother? He seems to have wanted to have a lousy meal. No sympathy.
PL is one of the restos that I want to try if ever my whole family of 6 visit NY as tourists but with the no credit card policy and hefty price tag, we have to remove it from our go to list.
@@EriCooks But why would you want to go there in the first place? Even if you ignore the insane prices, the presentation and service are terrible, and the steaks are just not that good.
I have a friend who will drown his steak in A1. I'm like, dude, you could drown a baked potato with A1 instead and it would taste the same and save you money. When I want beef I want to taste beef, not some brown goo that changes the flavor.
Sorry, Peter Luger is not some special company. The company can always place a surcharge for those who wish to use credit card (to cover the expense they incur for processing the purchase). It is 2023, and cash/check is a potential risk source. In the Netherlands, it is practically a cashless society and expensive restaurants thrive.
The zero star review is correct! We were yelled at for ordering a double drink, our steaks were so rare we had to send it back twice. And it sucked! By far the most expensive and disappointing meal of our dining career. So many better steak houses in NYC. Avoid like the plague.
Gallagher's are my go-to when I visit NYC. Just checked their website, $32 for a 3-course lunch. My opinion is that it's the best steakhouse in Times Square.
Poor baby! Do rare steaks make your tummy feel bad? I’m surprised you didn’t pan Peter Luger’s for NOT having chicken nuggets and Kraft Macaroni and Cheese.
3:14 Hearing someone use the bathroom, while eating a $90 steak, is the epitome of restaurant intransigence/arrogance over the comfort-level of customers. That example alone is enough to convince me to never go to Peter Luger. Install a bathroom fan, add music, do something!
Wow, another absolute BANGER James! This one is repeat worthy in my discord we've mentioned to you before. Everyone here loves your reviews, hope to see you one day!
Former New Yorker here and mad props to your channel for reviving those years of mine with all these familiar places. I think it all comes down to familiarity but at the same time I haven't been there since 2009 before moving to Cali in 2011 so it's been a while. Luger will always be Luger just like Sparks, Delmonico, Gallagher's, Old Homestead, etc. How they've lost their Michelin stars is however beyond me but yes I would even pay cash if you know what I mean. When that craving hits it all goes away kinda like when I used to work in Williamsburg before the hipsters moved in. How would you compare Luger to Wolfgang? I've never been to Wolfgang because I heard it was nothing but a cheap imitation of Luger so yeah it was that familiar! Your conclusion is as good as mine. 💖💪🗽👍💯
Thank you so much! I still haven't been to Wolfgang's yet, but it's definitely a spot I want to check out in the future. The restaurant seems to take a lot of inspiration from Peter Luger.
Peter luger is on my bucket list and has been since I first came across it on UA-cam. Have to say though, I clocked a few weeks back a lot of negative reviews on here lately so did have to wonder. Enjoying your output - great review (again). Fair and balanced I think. Poor by them to sit you where they did, especially as it was quiet and they could have put you literally anywhere else.
It's definitely a worthy bucket list restaurant. Yeah, I can only speak for my experience and I loved it! Although, like I said, it's not perfect. My seat was actually really good except for the sound effects. I just wish they had music playing.
I’ve been there and it’s not that great. There’s better steak houses in NYC. The steak if good, the potatoes are bland and the everything is super expensive. I mean come on, if you’re paying $90 for a steak and have to bring your own salt, that should tell you everything you need to know about this place.
The reason it stinks? And I’ve been there several times since the 70’s: First, overpriced. Second, Brooklyn. (And I grew up in Brooklyn.) Third, and most important: People know how to properly cook steaks nowadays. Yeah, it’s nicely aged, but I can still make a steak closely as good at home. Going to Peter Luger’s no longer indicates status. It indicates stupidity.
Terrific video and review James!! Excellent descriptions , advice and overall fab content!! I really value your impressions and thoughts. You rock! Awful to have been seated in the place you landed. Ugh right? I would have insisted on moving. Unacceptable. They could sound proof! Thanks!
Thank you so much! Yeah, the only bad aspect of that seat was the proximity to the washroom. If they just had music playing or if more people were dining in the restaurant then it probably wouldn't have been much of a problem.
That bit about the bathroom is….weird. How can such a place allow this. I’ve heard sooo much positive about PL and I loved the bit about PL on the Netflix movie. This is really disappointing.
Yeah, it was an unfortunate aspect, but one that I probably wouldn't have noticed if there were more people in the restaurant or if there was music playing.
I don't even know where to begin here. I grew up eating at Luger's, almost 3 decades of my adult life. I worked down the block for 3 years. That burger was my lunch whenever I got my commission check! (I still think it's the best thing / bang for the buck on the menu) You got the ribeye, but they're traditionally known for their porterhouse. I prefer ribeye, but you go here for the porterhouse. The molten butter always keeps the meat cooking, so I'll say order your steak a temperature level under what you prefer. I'll give their creamed spinach a nod. Always good. Do I think they lost their edge over the years? Yes. In my opinion, there are much better steakhouses in NYC, both new and old school. I'll go maybe once a year now, and it's mostly for sentimental reasons. But, I suppose that's where they have the edge. They are iconic. Certainly no where near bad, just different from years ago. And, yes. The prices have rose through the roof. For $150? With my butcher in Queens, I can make 4 of those at home, with sides, and a nice wine pairing for family. Luger's meat is all from Pat LaFrieda anyway (that's a good thing) so it's accessible to most. Anyway, I'll stop rambling on about nothing🤣I'm very glad you enjoyed your 3 visits. The place ain't bad, but there's certainly better.
For sure! Peter Luger is definitely not my top NYC steakhouse, but I still enjoy it. I think people need to realize that just because Peter Luger might be the most famous place for steak in NYC doesn't automatically mean that it's the best. It's certainly one of the most unique however. The prices are definitely high and I understand with inflation, especially with regards to the prices of beef, it's not easy for a lot of restaurants. I'm actually surprised that their burger has stayed the same price these past few years. It's definitely a deal! Absolutely! As long as one has a good piece of meat and cooks it properly, a steak made at home can match almost any steakhouse.
I'm a bit older and a bit old school, so I loved this video and your perspective. Having said that, If I was spending what amounts to $AU135 for a single piece of meat, it better be life changing.
note to diners: it is considered proper etiquette to tear a bite-sized piece of bread and butter that morsel and pop it in your mouth. dipping it in the melted butter is of course more delicious as the meal progresses. yes. a lot of steak houses nowadays seem to not season their steaks as well. so people with food restrictions should be advised not to step in restaurants and ruin everyone's dining experience. good show
A long time ago, when I was part of a small startup, I spent quite a bit of time traveling with our co-founders. This gave me the opportunity to dine at some really great places. Steak Houses seemed to be their favorite, and I can still remember the entire visit to Peter Luger's.
Well said and fairly reviewed. A dear friend (with a PL low number credit card) took me there for my first time and as you said, it was memorable. I have happily returned several times and brought others with me.
Great video James ! Gives perspective on the place . It’s on my bucket list however after you review of keens decided I would visit Peter Luger . But for the Burger 😊
Your story about bringing your own salt was hilarious. By the way, the best Old School Chicken Soup w/ Matzo Balls and Hungarian Stuffed Cabbage are just around the corner from there, at Gottlieb’s.
Haha! Yeah, sometimes I've got to come to a restaurant prepared for anything! Thanks for the recommendation about Gottlieb's. I've always been curious about it, but haven't visited it yet.
One more thing, if you go to Gottlieb’s stick to the soups, hot entrees like their beef goulash, kishke’d and kugels. (It’s not so much about the sandwiches there, if you ask me.) Try their gefilte fish w/ a lot of horseradish to start. And order a Dr. Browns Soda. Their food is very hearty, it’s mote like wintertime food reflecting its Hungarian roots. Go during the day and check out the bakeries. Enjoy it while sitting on a park bench. A little known thing in Hasidic neighborhoods is that eating while walking in pubic is avoided. Of course some visitors might do it, but I’d rather show respect for a neighborhood’s culture. 🙏🏼🙏🏾🙏🏿
I profoundly disagree!! Sometimes the sound of silence is blissful, notwithstanding unpleasant noises emanating from the washroom. In fact, I recently went to a Michelin starred restaurant in Chicago and the “music” was soooooo loud that I ended up with a headache when it was time to leave. Given that most music in today’s era is artificially made aggravating techno-noise it is nice to hear no impenitent “music” or just lovely light classical music!!
Fair enough. I would rather have no music than music that's too loud. It's just in the case of Peter Luger, the atmosphere really would've benefited from something being played.
Your reviews are amazing. To be honest your reviews are more authentic than others. I feel like others dont know how to properly review as a food critic. They are just looking to become youtube famous food reviewers instead of doing real reviews.
It's a way for the restaurant to avoid the fees credit card companies charge venders for using their services. I don't think anyone likes their no credit card policy.
Been there each time I've visited NYC the last few years and its always delivered. The review didn't do much because everytime I've been there for dinner, it's always packed!
Great review. I have dined there a number of times over the years and the steak is always excellent. Agreed that is very pricey, but the experience is well worth it. Service is good but not terrific. Finally, I remember a time in the late 80s where you would pay someone to watch your car while you dined. Things changed afterwards, but may be reverting back unfortunately
Thank you! Absolutely, Peter Luger delivers a unique experience. Yeah, I know what you mean about the service. I never had a bad waiter, but I've also had more attentive service at other steakhouses. Indeed, places are always changing for better or for worse.
I can understand how the cost of a premium steak can sort of justify the price, as there is a lot of work that goes into aging the meat, but how do you justify 15 dollars for a small piece of apple strudel no matter how good it tastes.....that is just another example of ridiculous pricing.....I have been to premium steak places where the meat is aged and the steaks run about 50 dollars a steak, so, 90, once again, is just silly pricing. I would never grace such a place, regardless of whether I could afford it or not, as I don't like to ripped off.
Unfortunately, I haven't. Since I've only dined at Peter Luger alone, I've only gotten the steaks meant for one person, but I'll get the porter house one day.
Thanks for this updated and thorough review. PLS is soon coming to Las Vegas (Caesar's), so I'm eagerly anticipating its arrival. I plan on dining there at least two times, once for dinner and its steak for two (the Mrs will be with me), along with their famous bacon as an appetizer. And the other will be for lunch to have that burger. Wonder if this locale will also be cash only. Guess I'll find out. BTW, I'm with you on adding a custom finishing salt to my beef, being I do this at home as well.
Thanks for watching! Yeah, a good finishing salt can be a game changer! I hope they take credit cards in Vegas. I feel like they would, but either way, it will probably be expensive. Still, it's an exciting addition for Vegas and hopefully I'll be able to check it out the next time I'm in the city. Yeah, going at least twice is the way to do it. I've seen people order both a steak and burger for a single meal and while I bet it's still good, it's just a little too much meat for me. I think to fully appreciate the steak and burger, one needs to consume them separately over two meals.
Although I have never been to the actual restaurant, I have ordered steaks from their Butcher shop and had them delivered overnight many times over the years. They are absolutely amazing and very consistent with the size and quality. I even send them to family and friends as a holiday present and everyone absolutely loves the steak.
While I'd love to get it as a present I took a quick look at their web site and it's terribly overpriced. With some research you can probably find a local butcher who can special order older dry aged steak. Or buy it from someplace like crowd cow that doesn't have the brand premium.
Went to the one in Great Neck years ago with a friend. We had the porterhouse steak for two. I was dreaming about that steak for a week. We went for lunch and everyone was very nice to us.
I've never been to PL but I've worked as a cook and I had the record on the grill for not having any steaks being sent back ( up to 2020) ) at a place in Dallas. If you are going to a restaurant you heard about from the TV or Internet with the intention of rating it online or putting on Instagram/UA-cam your not gonna enjoy it as much and you will find things to be picky about . If a true steak lover went to PL and just went for the steak and some good conversation that steak will probably be the most fire steak he or she ever ate . Sometimes people forget going out to eat is to relax and enjoy your blessings not write a essay or make a TV production or write a OP Ed on meat and climate change.
That's impressive! Even if one cooks a steak perfectly there are always people who have different ideas on what a "medium" or "medium rare" temperature should look like. Yeah, I do think people can have heightened expectations about any restaurant they've heard about before. Just because something is famous it doesn't mean it's the best. It would be nice if diners went into restaurants with an open mind and not let what they've heard about an establishment influence how they feel about their experience.
Word. I’m a guy who doesn’t get the opportunity to eat fancy food too often. I hear about people trashing on Peter Luger (or any restaurant that’s not *h y p e* at the moment really) and I’m kind of bummed out by that. Like dude, if I got a chance to take a friend or a date to Peter fucking Luger, which is a renown and historic dining establishment, and enjoy a nice meal I’d be so fucking happy.
@@TokenChineseGuy spend your money how you feel . On the down low if you have USD spend that savings on stuff that will.mske you happy cause even Janet yellen dropped the ball the USD will collapse and the CBDC is waiting to step in .
That was an excellent review. The way you described everything was perfectly worded. One thing bothered me and tat was you did not have Coffee with your dessert.
Naw, this place is legit overrated. Steak while cooked perfectly, has a pretty bland flavor when it comes to the actual meat. It was oddly disappointing.
There is a clone of Peter Luger's Steakhouse in Bridgeport, Connecticut called Joseph's Steakhouse. Similar menu, similar service. You should check it out if you're ever in the area!
I think they lost their Michelin star because there's so many copycats out there and so Peter Luger just didn't stand out anymore as a result. Definitely not overrated, I was there last year and had some of the best steak I've ever had. And those desserts are just marvelous.
For sure! It's such a special place! When you do something unique there will always be imitators. Yeah, I feel like a lot of people never get around to the desserts at the restaurant because they get so filled up with the steak, which isn't a bad thing, but I've loved every dessert that I've had there. Plus, the fact you can top each of them with schlag just takes them to another level entirely!
@@ramencurry6672 That's one thing I like the Great Neck one better - it's a little bit of a walk, but the bathrooms are by the front entrance, so you don't get farts and diarrhea-explosions, if any happen, rouining the acoustics of your meal! 😂
I vastly prefer restaurants that don’t have music playing. I love hearing the sounds of people and food coming and going (but not the unfortunate sounds you endured from your table).
Yeahhh idk about a place that cuts your steaks for you and charges 17 dollars for a slice of tomato and onion. Also served up on grandma’s plate. I’ll go somewhere else
It seems that more and more steakhouses these days tend to slice their steaks. Yeah, that is a crazy price for tomatoes and onions, but at the same time, I wouldn't order that dish even if it was two dollars, because it's just tomatoes and onions. I've never seen the appeal of that dish.
Yeah very true but the fact that it’s on the menu and cost 17 dollars raises some red flags for sure. Also I thought you have to let a steak rest after cooking it before cutting it. I assume they do but yeah idk don’t cut my steak lol
In this video, he says that PETER LUGAR is not over rated, and I disagree with him, because all steakhouses are very expensive and when you order a steak nothing comes with it, no starch and no vegetables, and they even charge for bread,or rolls and butter, and you even have to order the sauce, as he is a BLOGGER what does he know about the restaurant, cafe,hotel I do,Culinary graduate and 50 years in the industry, absolutely nothing so I will remind him of the 1st ammendment, freedom of speech, under the constitution
No credit cards is about 2 things. #1 - easier to cook the books and pay less taxes when it’s all cash, note they do accept debit cards. #2 - they don’t want someone to come in and then charge back their meal. It’s much harder to charge back on a debit card than on a credit card.
Fantastic...I was going to Delmonico`s for the history of it...but now I will go to Peter Luger.. Great Reviews and videos...I watched yours and the one from the meat show of the youtube channel " Eater" about delmonicos and yours is on another level...10 gtimes better ---and they have 3,4 million subscribers and much more money to spend...Greetings from Portugal
I did both this weekend. Delmonicos has a much more Fine dining atmosphere, the service is much better and prices are similar. Peter Luger doesnt feel high end at all. be careful walking theres so much greese on the floor!
@Sceptical Brit Restaurants are trying to recoup their losses as a result of the Covid lockdown. They’re not willing to pay the extra fees associated with credit card fees, not yet anyway. Each surviving restaurant is like a miracle!
@@amyt2400 The credit card policy has been in place at Luger's forever - it has nothing to do with Covid. Even when times were good, they were unwilling to part with a small fee to accommodate their customers. Not worth it in any way.
I work at Peter Luger's Tokyo restaurant and I laughed at the Brooklyn prices. So cheap! The steak for two at Peter Luger's Tokyo is over $225! Consider yourself lucky!
Fortunately I have a local small scale beef grower a mile from my house. They focus on the best dna they can find when breeding stock. I can get a unbelievable ribeye Suis Vide that dude then sear it over hot coals. Absolutely devine for about 35 bucks. 👍
Peter Luger is my absolute go to when in NYC. But I would say the best value I’ve come across is Crescent City Steaks in New Orleans. IMO, the quality and vibe comparable to Peter Luger but significantly less expensive. They serve a 36 oz porterhouse for two which is $72. That’s an absolute bargain for a steak like that.
He's mentioned the absence of flaky salt in a number of these videos and it makes you wonder why restaurants just don't serve some in a ramekin to every guest (not in shaker). We do have some sense of our own palates and how the finishing salt might interact with whatever sauces, so it's not a crime to leave it up to the guest, at least just a little bit.
1 - If the Steak Sauce was invented to cover-up a past-due cut of meat, why offer it at such an establishment? 2 - That 1/4" grey band on the top & bottom of the steak is a little disconcerting on a med-rare custom order. 3 - Cash $$$ payments leave no discernible trail for the IRS. American Greed one-o-one!
They would probably save a bit of money if they only served the steak sauce from the bottle. I bet a lot is unfortunately wasted. I hate the fact that they don't take credit cards, but they do accept debit cards.
I love the ‘no credit cards’ policy and no music. It’s not a Johnny Rockets. They value tradition and know they will get by without trying to solicit all the rubes.
You shouldn't need steak sauce....If its a great steak. Agreed! But if you ever want a steak sauce for any reason. Peters isnt good for anything. Tried everything thing. Not even good for sauce mixing. *Sigh*
10:30 Crazy food costs so much there. R2850 for your experience there for one person. You should travel abit James and come to South Africa where your dollars would surely demolish our Rand value. Youd be pleasantly surprised. Hopefully it will make your channel grow abit to have such experiences on there.
James, I agree with you. I don't think Peter Luger is overrated. While not all of the sides are so great, the steak is truly outstanding, as are the desserts. Yes, it's expensive, but given the quality and the pedigree, I'm fine with the prices (and, yes, the excellent burger is a relative good deal).
Another factor is modern thermometer has made cooking steak so much easier. People today won’t understand how hard it is to make good steak in like 25 years ago.
Loved Peter Lugers went twice my uncle flew in from bay area to go. I'm friends with Pete Wells and took him to Raos and I talked about that and his eleven Madison review. Also his nobu review is like Peter Lugers
a year ago I visited NY for the first time and of course I wanted to eat in Peter Luger, so I went there ordered porterhouse and it was so disappointing. My mouth was melted, not the steak, because it took almost like forever to chew. I was kind embarrased because I told my wife and children that Peter Luger was a must place to eat😂. I,m not an expert on steak but please I know a good one. Then next day my daughter brought us to Gallagher and OMG the best
that near bathroom seating is a crime
Indeed!
@@Jamesnu Why not ask to be moved?
@@darnellleake405 Thats not his job
The cost of armored car cash pickups is more expensive than credit card processing fees. I can't imagine the night manager is leaving daily with cash in a bank sleeve. So they're cash only for the same reason other business' are cash only, defrauding the IRS.
Smart of you to bring your own salt! Next time you may have to bring a portable radio with you, too.
Haha! Yeah, that's good thinking!
I think where they sat you and with your back to the room I think you could have brought your own bread for a steak sandwich and your own bottle of wine! No one would have noticed anyway!
the excuse about the minimal credit card processing fee is pretty hilarious. we all know what cash businesses are about. there are tons of them where i live in south jersey just a few mins away from atlantic city. even at a place like PL, if they passed the processing fee to the customer, the average party isn’t going to end up spending probably more than $5-6 extra. what’s another $5 on a $200 meal lol?
Exactly!
Every little bit counts in a country where 71% of people are living paycheck to paycheck. Mindsets like yours are partially the reason
My dude sat next a bathroom, heard people doing their business, and even went so far as to bring his own salt because he didn't trust the restaurant would season it enough BUT....its not overrated?? C'mon bro.
Your dude should have asked to be moved and if he knew the food needed more salt and went to the extreme of taking his own, why did he bother? He seems to have wanted to have a lousy meal. No sympathy.
Your comment is overrated
thank you James, I love my virtual visits with you. I'm 85 and disabled and I do not get to dine out anymore.
Thank you so much for watching! I really appreciate it!
Give me a break. Not accepting credit cards is not about fees. Those 2½% aren’t gonna break your business. It’s all about not wanting to pay taxes.
PL is one of the restos that I want to try if ever my whole family of 6 visit NY as tourists but with the no credit card policy and hefty price tag, we have to remove it from our go to list.
@@EriCooks But why would you want to go there in the first place? Even if you ignore the insane prices, the presentation and service are terrible, and the steaks are just not that good.
@@someguy31415I am just looking for a justification in not going to PL.
Peter Luger practice of being cash business makes me feel like they are tax cheat.
@@icelandic_mughal2223 a well-founded feeling
How to piss off the waiter at Peter Luger: Ask for a bottle of A-1 😂
Haha!
I have a friend who will drown his steak in A1. I'm like, dude, you could drown a baked potato with A1 instead and it would taste the same and save you money. When I want beef I want to taste beef, not some brown goo that changes the flavor.
@@lancekirkwood7922 Exactly! Well said!
imagine what heinz 57 would do
Sorry, Peter Luger is not some special company. The company can always place a surcharge for those who wish to use credit card (to cover the expense they incur for processing the purchase). It is 2023, and cash/check is a potential risk source.
In the Netherlands, it is practically a cashless society and expensive restaurants thrive.
The zero star review is correct! We were yelled at for ordering a double drink, our steaks were so rare we had to send it back twice. And it sucked! By far the most expensive and disappointing meal of our dining career. So many better steak houses in NYC. Avoid like the plague.
What Steakhouses do you recommend
Gallagher's are my go-to when I visit NYC. Just checked their website, $32 for a 3-course lunch. My opinion is that it's the best steakhouse in Times Square.
Are the courses a soup, salad, and sandwhich?@@harrylloyd6955
@@harrylloyd6955Hell of a price for a NYC three course lunch lol.
Poor baby! Do rare steaks make your tummy feel bad? I’m surprised you didn’t pan Peter Luger’s for NOT having chicken nuggets and Kraft Macaroni and Cheese.
3:14 Hearing someone use the bathroom, while eating a $90 steak, is the epitome of restaurant intransigence/arrogance over the comfort-level of customers. That example alone is enough to convince me to never go to Peter Luger. Install a bathroom fan, add music, do something!
Yeah, it would be such an easy fix for the restaurant.
Imagine someone dropping no. 2 while you chewing your 90 bucks steak! 😂
@@harukrentz435 Haha!
In response to the critic who gave Peter Luger’s 0 stars, I am reminded of Anton Egos speech from Ratatouille.
Haha! Great movie!
that bathroom thing would have really ruined it for me after paying all that money
I know what you mean. I just don't know why they don't play music, it would improve everything.
Wow, another absolute BANGER James! This one is repeat worthy in my discord we've mentioned to you before. Everyone here loves your reviews, hope to see you one day!
Thank you so much! That really makes me happy to hear! I hope to see you one day as well!
PL is just so so, not worth it. They’re definitely living off their long ago reputation, don’t take anyone’s word, go and try it for yourself.
Right? Totally sucks.
Former New Yorker here and mad props to your channel for reviving those years of mine with all these familiar places. I think it all comes down to familiarity but at the same time I haven't been there since 2009 before moving to Cali in 2011 so it's been a while. Luger will always be Luger just like Sparks, Delmonico, Gallagher's, Old Homestead, etc. How they've lost their Michelin stars is however beyond me but yes I would even pay cash if you know what I mean. When that craving hits it all goes away kinda like when I used to work in Williamsburg before the hipsters moved in. How would you compare Luger to Wolfgang? I've never been to Wolfgang because I heard it was nothing but a cheap imitation of Luger so yeah it was that familiar! Your conclusion is as good as mine. 💖💪🗽👍💯
Thank you so much! I still haven't been to Wolfgang's yet, but it's definitely a spot I want to check out in the future. The restaurant seems to take a lot of inspiration from Peter Luger.
I love that you sneaked sea salt in! I do crazy stuff like that! LOL! Keep it up! Great channel!
Thank you!
Peter luger is on my bucket list and has been since I first came across it on UA-cam. Have to say though, I clocked a few weeks back a lot of negative reviews on here lately so did have to wonder.
Enjoying your output - great review (again). Fair and balanced I think. Poor by them to sit you where they did, especially as it was quiet and they could have put you literally anywhere else.
It's definitely a worthy bucket list restaurant. Yeah, I can only speak for my experience and I loved it! Although, like I said, it's not perfect. My seat was actually really good except for the sound effects. I just wish they had music playing.
I’ve been there and it’s not that great. There’s better steak houses in NYC. The steak if good, the potatoes are bland and the everything is super expensive. I mean come on, if you’re paying $90 for a steak and have to bring your own salt, that should tell you everything you need to know about this place.
The reason it stinks? And I’ve been there several times since the 70’s:
First, overpriced. Second, Brooklyn. (And I grew up in Brooklyn.) Third, and most important:
People know how to properly cook steaks nowadays. Yeah, it’s nicely aged, but I can still make a steak closely as good at home. Going to Peter Luger’s no longer indicates status.
It indicates stupidity.
Terrific video and review James!! Excellent descriptions , advice and overall fab content!! I really value your impressions and thoughts. You rock! Awful to have been seated in the place you landed. Ugh right? I would have insisted on moving. Unacceptable. They could sound proof! Thanks!
Thank you so much! Yeah, the only bad aspect of that seat was the proximity to the washroom. If they just had music playing or if more people were dining in the restaurant then it probably wouldn't have been much of a problem.
That bit about the bathroom is….weird. How can such a place allow this. I’ve heard sooo much positive about PL and I loved the bit about PL on the Netflix movie. This is really disappointing.
Yeah, it was an unfortunate aspect, but one that I probably wouldn't have noticed if there were more people in the restaurant or if there was music playing.
I don't even know where to begin here. I grew up eating at Luger's, almost 3 decades of my adult life. I worked down the block for 3 years. That burger was my lunch whenever I got my commission check! (I still think it's the best thing / bang for the buck on the menu)
You got the ribeye, but they're traditionally known for their porterhouse. I prefer ribeye, but you go here for the porterhouse. The molten butter always keeps the meat cooking, so I'll say order your steak a temperature level under what you prefer. I'll give their creamed spinach a nod. Always good.
Do I think they lost their edge over the years? Yes. In my opinion, there are much better steakhouses in NYC, both new and old school. I'll go maybe once a year now, and it's mostly for sentimental reasons. But, I suppose that's where they have the edge. They are iconic. Certainly no where near bad, just different from years ago. And, yes. The prices have rose through the roof. For $150? With my butcher in Queens, I can make 4 of those at home, with sides, and a nice wine pairing for family. Luger's meat is all from Pat LaFrieda anyway (that's a good thing) so it's accessible to most.
Anyway, I'll stop rambling on about nothing🤣I'm very glad you enjoyed your 3 visits. The place ain't bad, but there's certainly better.
For sure! Peter Luger is definitely not my top NYC steakhouse, but I still enjoy it. I think people need to realize that just because Peter Luger might be the most famous place for steak in NYC doesn't automatically mean that it's the best. It's certainly one of the most unique however.
The prices are definitely high and I understand with inflation, especially with regards to the prices of beef, it's not easy for a lot of restaurants. I'm actually surprised that their burger has stayed the same price these past few years. It's definitely a deal!
Absolutely! As long as one has a good piece of meat and cooks it properly, a steak made at home can match almost any steakhouse.
Fantastic review. Appreciate your style of reviewing the restaurant.
Thank you! I really appreciate it!
I'm a bit older and a bit old school, so I loved this video and your perspective. Having said that, If I was spending what amounts to $AU135 for a single piece of meat, it better be life changing.
I know what you mean! Peter Luger is definitely a special occasion type restaurant.
note to diners: it is considered proper etiquette to tear a bite-sized piece of bread and butter that morsel and pop it in your mouth. dipping it in the melted butter is of course more delicious as the meal progresses.
yes. a lot of steak houses nowadays seem to not season their steaks as well. so people with food restrictions should be advised not to step in restaurants and ruin everyone's dining experience.
good show
A long time ago, when I was part of a small startup, I spent quite a bit of time traveling with our co-founders. This gave me the opportunity to dine at some really great places. Steak Houses seemed to be their favorite, and I can still remember the entire visit to Peter Luger's.
Nice! It's definitely a memorable restaurant to dine at!
mom and pop startups don't have money to dine out. must be nice to be in a tech startup that spends rich investors' money.
@@papagen00 if a business can't afford to have traveling employees have a steak once in a while, it is not much of a business:-)
Love, love ypur reviews thank you please do more.
Thank you so much! There are plenty of more videos to come!
@@Jamesnu Great I cannot wait
@@PatriciaRoggero I appreciate it!
Well said and fairly reviewed. A dear friend (with a PL low number credit card) took me there for my first time and as you said, it was memorable. I have happily returned several times and brought others with me.
Thank you! It's certainly a special place!
I’m not getting cash out to eat at a restaurant that costs $150-200 a head. Fuck that!
Great video James ! Gives perspective on the place . It’s on my bucket list however after you review of keens decided I would visit Peter Luger . But for the Burger 😊
Thank you! I love Keens! But you can't go wrong with the burger from Peter Luger.
Your story about bringing your own salt was hilarious. By the way, the best Old School Chicken Soup w/ Matzo Balls and Hungarian Stuffed Cabbage are just around the corner from there, at Gottlieb’s.
Haha! Yeah, sometimes I've got to come to a restaurant prepared for anything! Thanks for the recommendation about Gottlieb's. I've always been curious about it, but haven't visited it yet.
One more thing, if you go to Gottlieb’s stick to the soups, hot entrees like their beef goulash, kishke’d and kugels. (It’s not so much about the sandwiches there, if you ask me.) Try their gefilte fish w/ a lot of horseradish to start. And order a Dr. Browns Soda.
Their food is very hearty, it’s mote like wintertime food reflecting its Hungarian roots. Go during the day and check out the bakeries. Enjoy it while sitting on a park bench. A little known thing in Hasidic neighborhoods is that eating while walking in pubic is avoided. Of course some visitors might do it, but I’d rather show respect for a neighborhood’s culture. 🙏🏼🙏🏾🙏🏿
@@amyt2400 Absolutely! That sounds like a great meal! And there are definitely some nice parks in the area to sit down and relax.
I profoundly disagree!! Sometimes the sound of silence is blissful, notwithstanding unpleasant noises emanating from the washroom. In fact, I recently went to a Michelin starred restaurant in Chicago and the “music” was soooooo loud that I ended up with a headache when it was time to leave. Given that most music in today’s era is artificially made aggravating techno-noise it is nice to hear no impenitent “music” or just lovely light classical music!!
Fair enough. I would rather have no music than music that's too loud. It's just in the case of Peter Luger, the atmosphere really would've benefited from something being played.
Great review 👍🏻 Glad I found your channel just subscribed
Thank you! I really appreciate it!
Your reviews are amazing. To be honest your reviews are more authentic than others. I feel like others dont know how to properly review as a food critic. They are just looking to become youtube famous food reviewers instead of doing real reviews.
Thank you! That means a lot to me. I always strive to be authentic and not follow trends or do something just to get views.
James' alt account dropped
@@rexiioper6920 Yeah, I tried something a bit different with this video.
How do you not accept credit cards? What’s the explanation for this?
It's a way for the restaurant to avoid the fees credit card companies charge venders for using their services. I don't think anyone likes their no credit card policy.
Been there each time I've visited NYC the last few years and its always delivered. The review didn't do much because everytime I've been there for dinner, it's always packed!
I know what you mean. No matter what, there will always be fans of Peter Luger.
Great review. I have dined there a number of times over the years and the steak is always excellent. Agreed that is very pricey, but the experience is well worth it. Service is good but not terrific. Finally, I remember a time in the late 80s where you would pay someone to watch your car while you dined. Things changed afterwards, but may be reverting back unfortunately
Thank you! Absolutely, Peter Luger delivers a unique experience. Yeah, I know what you mean about the service. I never had a bad waiter, but I've also had more attentive service at other steakhouses. Indeed, places are always changing for better or for worse.
I can understand how the cost of a premium steak can sort of justify the price, as there is a lot of work that goes into aging the meat, but how do you justify 15 dollars for a small piece of apple strudel no matter how good it tastes.....that is just another example of ridiculous pricing.....I have been to premium steak places where the meat is aged and the steaks run about 50 dollars a steak, so, 90, once again, is just silly pricing. I would never grace such a place, regardless of whether I could afford it or not, as I don't like to ripped off.
Your so cute sneaking in the salt. If you want it, you should have it. That steak looked so good. 😋
Haha! Yeah, it was a great steak!
@7:52 🤣🧂 sometimes you just have to do what you have to do....🤣
Haha! Yeah, it's always good to be prepared!
Have you tried porter house at PL? Would you say rib steak better than porter house?
Unfortunately, I haven't. Since I've only dined at Peter Luger alone, I've only gotten the steaks meant for one person, but I'll get the porter house one day.
Thanks for this updated and thorough review. PLS is soon coming to Las Vegas (Caesar's), so I'm eagerly anticipating its arrival. I plan on dining there at least two times, once for dinner and its steak for two (the Mrs will be with me), along with their famous bacon as an appetizer. And the other will be for lunch to have that burger. Wonder if this locale will also be cash only. Guess I'll find out. BTW, I'm with you on adding a custom finishing salt to my beef, being I do this at home as well.
Thanks for watching! Yeah, a good finishing salt can be a game changer! I hope they take credit cards in Vegas. I feel like they would, but either way, it will probably be expensive. Still, it's an exciting addition for Vegas and hopefully I'll be able to check it out the next time I'm in the city. Yeah, going at least twice is the way to do it. I've seen people order both a steak and burger for a single meal and while I bet it's still good, it's just a little too much meat for me. I think to fully appreciate the steak and burger, one needs to consume them separately over two meals.
@@Jamesnu Agreed.
Is there parking available on site for those that drive there?
There's street parking, but I'm not sure if there's any lots nearby. I've always gotten there by subway.
Although I have never been to the actual restaurant, I have ordered steaks from their Butcher shop and had them delivered overnight many times over the years. They are absolutely amazing and very consistent with the size and quality. I even send them to family and friends as a holiday present and everyone absolutely loves the steak.
Nice! The steaks definitely make great gifts.
While I'd love to get it as a present I took a quick look at their web site and it's terribly overpriced. With some research you can probably find a local butcher who can special order older dry aged steak. Or buy it from someplace like crowd cow that doesn't have the brand premium.
Appreciate your honest opinion about the price of these steaks.
Haha!
Went to the one in Great Neck years ago with a friend. We had the porterhouse steak for two. I was dreaming about that steak for a week. We went for lunch and everyone was very nice to us.
Nice! Yeah, you don't forget a meal from Peter Luger!
I ate here once and pulled out a bottle of Heinz 57 sauce and the GM cursed me out…
😂😂😂
Haha!
Great review! When the rib steak is that good, you got to go all in! Peter Luger is such a great spot except for the price tag.
Thank you! It was a great steak for sure! I probably would go there more often if the prices weren't so high and they took credit cards.
I've never been to PL but I've worked as a cook and I had the record on the grill for not having any steaks being sent back ( up to 2020) ) at a place in Dallas. If you are going to a restaurant you heard about from the TV or Internet with the intention of rating it online or putting on Instagram/UA-cam your not gonna enjoy it as much and you will find things to be picky about . If a true steak lover went to PL and just went for the steak and some good conversation that steak will probably be the most fire steak he or she ever ate . Sometimes people forget going out to eat is to relax and enjoy your blessings not write a essay or make a TV production or write a OP Ed on meat and climate change.
That's impressive! Even if one cooks a steak perfectly there are always people who have different ideas on what a "medium" or "medium rare" temperature should look like. Yeah, I do think people can have heightened expectations about any restaurant they've heard about before. Just because something is famous it doesn't mean it's the best. It would be nice if diners went into restaurants with an open mind and not let what they've heard about an establishment influence how they feel about their experience.
Word. I’m a guy who doesn’t get the opportunity to eat fancy food too often. I hear about people trashing on Peter Luger (or any restaurant that’s not *h y p e* at the moment really) and I’m kind of bummed out by that. Like dude, if I got a chance to take a friend or a date to Peter fucking Luger, which is a renown and historic dining establishment, and enjoy a nice meal I’d be so fucking happy.
@@TokenChineseGuy Well said!
@@TokenChineseGuy spend your money how you feel . On the down low if you have USD spend that savings on stuff that will.mske you happy cause even Janet yellen dropped the ball the USD will collapse and the CBDC is waiting to step in .
*you're
How much % to pay for tips?
About 20 percent.
Pronounced- Malden- no splitting and emphasising of the 2 syllables-
Noted. Thanks for the heads up.
Great review!
Thank you!
That was an excellent review. The way you described everything was perfectly worded. One thing bothered me and tat was you did not have Coffee with your dessert.
Thank you! I appreciate it! Yeah, coffee would've been perfect with that dessert, but to save a little money, I got my coffee elsewhere.
@@Jamesnu you sound like a great guy, good luck with everything you do.
@@countalucard4226 Thank you! I really appreciate that!
Naw, this place is legit overrated. Steak while cooked perfectly, has a pretty bland flavor when it comes to the actual meat. It was oddly disappointing.
Fair enough.
simply not acceptable to have just ordinary table salt in this day and age and at these prices
Yeah, I'm glad I brought my own salt.
Questioning this.
The best restaurant reviews ever! Genius!
Thank you! I really appreciate it!
There is a clone of Peter Luger's Steakhouse in Bridgeport, Connecticut called Joseph's Steakhouse. Similar menu, similar service. You should check it out if you're ever in the area!
Thanks for the recommendation!
I think they lost their Michelin star because there's so many copycats out there and so Peter Luger just didn't stand out anymore as a result. Definitely not overrated, I was there last year and had some of the best steak I've ever had. And those desserts are just marvelous.
For sure! It's such a special place! When you do something unique there will always be imitators. Yeah, I feel like a lot of people never get around to the desserts at the restaurant because they get so filled up with the steak, which isn't a bad thing, but I've loved every dessert that I've had there. Plus, the fact you can top each of them with schlag just takes them to another level entirely!
They probably lost the star because of the bathroom acoustics problem. Nobody wants to hear farts during their meal
@@ramencurry6672 Haha! Yeah, that's never a good soundtrack for a restaurant.
@@ramencurry6672 That's one thing I like the Great Neck one better - it's a little bit of a walk, but the bathrooms are by the front entrance, so you don't get farts and diarrhea-explosions, if any happen, rouining the acoustics of your meal! 😂
Awesome video!
Thank you so much!
I vastly prefer restaurants that don’t have music playing. I love hearing the sounds of people and food coming and going (but not the unfortunate sounds you endured from your table).
I know what you mean. I would rather have no music instead of loud and obnoxious music that is played at some restaurants.
I would've either changed table location or just left.
I gotta respect a man who sneaks salt into a premium priced restaurant!
Haha! I like coming to a restaurant prepared.
For there prices they should provide any condiment and then some.
Yeahhh idk about a place that cuts your steaks for you and charges 17 dollars for a slice of tomato and onion. Also served up on grandma’s plate. I’ll go somewhere else
It seems that more and more steakhouses these days tend to slice their steaks. Yeah, that is a crazy price for tomatoes and onions, but at the same time, I wouldn't order that dish even if it was two dollars, because it's just tomatoes and onions. I've never seen the appeal of that dish.
Yeah very true but the fact that it’s on the menu and cost 17 dollars raises some red flags for sure. Also I thought you have to let a steak rest after cooking it before cutting it. I assume they do but yeah idk don’t cut my steak lol
@hotdoglover1573 Haha! I know what you mean. Most of the time, I prefer to cut my steak as well as opposed to it coming out pre-cut.
When I heard the number one and two story I said to myself I’ve got to subscribe. Well then you got yourself a subscriber. 😅
Haha! Thank you! I appreciate it!
I wouldn’t pay $125.00 to watch an ant eat a bale of hay!!!
I was born and raised in williamsburg brooklyn but I never been inside peter luger I plan on going inside peter luger soon
I hope you enjoy it! It's a classic restaurant!
Try Wolfgang. He used to be a server at Peter Luger for almost 30 years.
That's definitely a restaurant I want to try!
In this video, he says that PETER LUGAR is not over rated, and I disagree with him, because all steakhouses are very expensive and when you order a steak nothing comes with it, no starch and no vegetables, and they even charge for bread,or rolls and butter, and you even have to order the sauce, as he is a BLOGGER what does he know about the restaurant, cafe,hotel I do,Culinary graduate and 50 years in the industry, absolutely nothing so I will remind him of the 1st ammendment, freedom of speech, under the constitution
I respect your opinion.
James, you don't butter the entire roll. You tear off a bite and individually butter that piece.
Indeed!
Thank you for sharing this restaurant.
Thank you for watching!
No credit cards is about 2 things.
#1 - easier to cook the books and pay less taxes when it’s all cash, note they do accept debit cards.
#2 - they don’t want someone to come in and then charge back their meal. It’s much harder to charge back on a debit card than on a credit card.
Love your channel. Just to say, It’s not pronounced “Mal-DON.” It sounds more like Maldan.
Thank you so much!
Fantastic...I was going to Delmonico`s for the history of it...but now I will go to Peter Luger.. Great Reviews and videos...I watched yours and the one from the meat show of the youtube channel " Eater" about delmonicos and yours is on another level...10 gtimes better ---and they have 3,4 million subscribers and much more money to spend...Greetings from Portugal
Thank you! Yeah, I try hard with my videos. You can't go wrong with either Delmonico's or Peter Luger, both are great!
I did both this weekend. Delmonicos has a much more Fine dining atmosphere, the service is much better and prices are similar. Peter Luger doesnt feel high end at all. be careful walking theres so much greese on the floor!
What do you do for living, James?
Mainly I'm involved with photography.
How was the service?
It was good! On all three of my visits I had solid service.
Utterly ridiculous that you can't use a credit credit, most international tourists visitng NYC use credit cards.
It's a very frustrating part of the restaurant.
@Sceptical Brit
Restaurants are trying to recoup their losses as a result of the Covid lockdown. They’re not willing to pay the extra fees associated with credit card fees, not yet anyway. Each surviving restaurant is like a miracle!
@@amyt2400 The credit card policy has been in place at Luger's forever - it has nothing to do with Covid. Even when times were good, they were unwilling to part with a small fee to accommodate their customers. Not worth it in any way.
You pay the tax, so they don't have to 😂
@@yoitsdaneeuuhh … what tax ?
Definitely not all I can say maybe not best but never disappoints 😀
It's a great place for sure!
I work at Peter Luger's Tokyo restaurant and I laughed at the Brooklyn prices. So cheap! The steak for two at Peter Luger's Tokyo is over $225! Consider yourself lucky!
Yikes! That's definitely much more than the NYC restaurant.
Wait. There's a Peter Luger's in Japan?????
@@PlusUltraAdrian Yeah, and now one in Las Vegas as well.
Fortunately I have a local small scale beef grower a mile from my house. They focus on the best dna they can find when breeding stock. I can get a unbelievable ribeye Suis Vide that dude then sear it over hot coals. Absolutely devine for about 35 bucks. 👍
Nice!
You should’ve gotten the bacon from lugars it’s so good I’ve been there many times love love love their bacon
I definitely want to try it next time.
Peter Luger is my absolute go to when in NYC.
But I would say the best value I’ve come across is Crescent City Steaks in New Orleans. IMO, the quality and vibe comparable to Peter Luger but significantly less expensive. They serve a 36 oz porterhouse for two which is $72. That’s an absolute bargain for a steak like that.
Wow! I wish I would've known about that restaurant when I was in New Orleans!
He's mentioned the absence of flaky salt in a number of these videos and it makes you wonder why restaurants just don't serve some in a ramekin to every guest (not in shaker). We do have some sense of our own palates and how the finishing salt might interact with whatever sauces, so it's not a crime to leave it up to the guest, at least just a little bit.
I agree. That would be nice.
1 - If the Steak Sauce was invented to cover-up a past-due cut of meat, why offer it at such an establishment? 2 - That 1/4" grey band on the top & bottom of the steak is a little disconcerting on a med-rare custom order. 3 - Cash $$$ payments leave no discernible trail for the IRS. American Greed one-o-one!
They would probably save a bit of money if they only served the steak sauce from the bottle. I bet a lot is unfortunately wasted. I hate the fact that they don't take credit cards, but they do accept debit cards.
Curious, the sauce at Luger's is essentially red sauce for shrimp cocktail. It makes no sense to add it to a steak. Thoughts?
The sauce by itself is alright, but to me, I'm not a fan of the flavor combination with a steak.
Please, try Amber steakhouse! I'm curious about your opinion...
I'll definitely be going there and I will make a video of my experience.
I love the ‘no credit cards’ policy and no music. It’s not a Johnny Rockets. They value tradition and know they will get by without trying to solicit all the rubes.
Fair enough. I'm unfortunately not a fan.
Every time that I see Strudel with Cream, i think of Hans Landa
Haha!
You shouldn't need steak sauce....If its a great steak. Agreed! But if you ever want a steak sauce for any reason. Peters isnt good for anything. Tried everything thing. Not even good for sauce mixing. *Sigh*
I don't mind it, but I've definitely had better steak sauces. Plus for me, I'd much rather just have a good steak without any sauce.
Cash is, and should continue to be, King!
James, you're a photographer?
I am, but I use that sort of as an umbrella term because I do work for photography websites.
10:30 Crazy food costs so much there. R2850 for your experience there for one person. You should travel abit James and come to South Africa where your dollars would surely demolish our Rand value. Youd be pleasantly surprised. Hopefully it will make your channel grow abit to have such experiences on there.
I definitely want to travel there someday.
I am very sorry, Saying that Peter Luger is over-rated is nuts.
Indeed!
James, I agree with you. I don't think Peter Luger is overrated. While not all of the sides are so great, the steak is truly outstanding, as are the desserts. Yes, it's expensive, but given the quality and the pedigree, I'm fine with the prices (and, yes, the excellent burger is a relative good deal).
Definitely!
Another factor is modern thermometer has made cooking steak so much easier. People today won’t understand how hard it is to make good steak in like 25 years ago.
Great point.
Loved Peter Lugers went twice my uncle flew in from bay area to go. I'm friends with Pete Wells and took him to Raos and I talked about that and his eleven Madison review. Also his nobu review is like Peter Lugers
Nice! Those are some notable restaurants.
You shouldn't have gone into so much detail with the bathroom stuff.
Good video and even though this was the best review about taste the last 4 i watched killed Peter Luger.thank you for helping us all get ready to go!
Thanks for watching! I really appreciate it!
a year ago I visited NY for the first time and of course I wanted to eat in Peter Luger, so I went there ordered porterhouse and it was so disappointing. My mouth was melted, not the steak, because it took almost like forever to chew. I was kind embarrased because I told my wife and children that Peter Luger was a must place to eat😂. I,m not an expert on steak but please I know a good one. Then next day my daughter brought us to Gallagher and OMG the best
It happens, but I'm glad that you at least had a great meal at Gallaghers.