March 2010

STK SIZZLES

George J. Vogrin, Stalker Vogrin Bracken & Frimet

Located in New York's the uber-trendy Meatpacking District, STK is to steakhouses what dinner-theatre is to dinner. Yes, there is food, but there is also a show! And what a show it is.

Unlike other wood-paneled steak temples, STK has that dark, nightclub feel as you walk past the bouncers to get in. Yes. Bouncers. (on busy nights) And even a velvet rope. There is a small eating area to the left in the front and a huge square bar area in the center of the restaurant. Opposite the main bar there is also a smaller closed bar area for paparazzi-shy celebrities. Behind these two bar areas is the main dining area with grand booths and tables for smaller parties. You feel like you are in a busy nightclub with tables rather than a restaurant.

The drinks are what one would expect from a "trendy" bar, creative enough but with a potent punch. The bar scene is usually buzzing. Clearly this can be a venue for eating or just drinking. As this is a "destination" bar, expect a bit of an attitude from some of the patrons. At times it can feel more like Jersey Shore than Moulin Rouge but the energy is certainly turned up high with a DJ spinning the tunes. And, as a "see and be seen" sort of environment there are the usual celebrity sightings that heighten the experience for the merely mortal.

You can get so caught up in the show at the bar that you might forget that the reason you came was for dinner. Quite frankly, given the swanky atmosphere, one may be expecting more sizzle than steak. However, the food is remarkably and consistently good. The menu is an echo of the traditional "steakhouse fare" with a modern twist. Current executive chef Todd Mark Miller is known for his inventive salads such as jumbo lump crab and with avocado and mache greens. The steaks are simply marvelous and the "must have" side order is the parmesan truffle fries. Given the pandemonium seeming to occur in and around the bar area, the service is remarkably efficient as the presentation of each plate creates its own little mini-show.

Overall, an excellent find and a great night out whether it be with friends or clients.

About the Author

George J. Vogrin is a partner in the New York office firm of Stalker Vogrin Bracken & Frimet. Mr. Vogrin represents insurance carriers in insurance and reinsurance coverage matters. Mr. Vogrin has represented both domestic and London market carriers in disputes throughout the US. Mr Vogrin is admitted in New York, Massachusetts, California and the District of Columbia.  Stalker Vogrin Bracken & Frimet has offices in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The firm specializes in representing insurance carriers on complex matters involving first and third-party coverage as well as reinsurance, transactional and regulatory matters.