The Best Steaks In Town

I have to admit it’s great to be back at work. Maternity leave is nice, but it’s anything but relaxing. Maternal it certainly was, but the only thing I took leave of was my senses. I’ve spent the last eight weeks recovering from delivering a huge (well, he seemed huge at the time) 9- pound, 4-ounce baby and the complications that came alongside. Once you’re in the twilight zone of new motherhood you realize that mealtimes, sleep patterns and moments to yourself are all luxuries you cannot afford. If you don’t believe me, just imagine trying to breast-feed, control a 2-year-old and eat dinner all at the same time and in something of a civilized fashion.

Believe me, I just couldn’t wait to get back to going out for dinner.

Steak has been the one thing that I craved both during my pregnancy and immediately afterward, so I feel in pretty good shape to share some of the best steaks in town.

D.K. Kodama’s steakhouse in Waikiki (d.k. Steakhouse) is doing a masterful job producing dry-aged steak on the premises. But if the powerfully pungent steaks are too much for you, then their menu offers some great alternatives. I’m particularly impressed with their specials, which showcase some local-style complete meals at extremely reasonable prices. And this month there’s a surf and turf special that is well worth the money. And while d.k’s has the ambience of a traditional steak house, (richly decorated walls, dimmed lighting, white tablecloths and intimate booths), there are other restaurants in town that offer excellent value and outstanding steaks. 3660 On the Rise offers, I believe one of the best steaks around. Simply seasoned with Hawaiian salt, it’s a testament to how less can be more.

And for steak in a non-traditional style and setting? Shanghai Bistro in the Discovery Bay Center can’t be beat. Here Chef Chih-Chieh Chang delivers some of the most tender meat in town. His hot and spicy tenderloin is marinated and then tossed with chili peppers. It’s mouthwateringly good. I don’t know anyone who doesn’t love it at first bite.

I’d like to tell you of the great steaks at Morton’s, but I never go there. It appears to buy nothing locally and, as you all know, I’m a great supporter of restaurants that promote local agriculture. So, until it does …

Neighboring Longhi’s, though, serves an outstandingly good steak. Marinated in olive oil, garlic and basil, the New York strip is served pupu style with basil butter. Fabulous.

But it is to Ruth’s Chris that all true carnivores must head this week. To celebrate its 16th anniversary in Honolulu, and 40th anniversary nationwide, the restaurant is offering a complete menu for just — wait for it — $40.

I know, you can’t even wait to read the end of the column now, can you? Here’s the phone number to call and make a reservation: 599 3860.

The four-course dinner includes appetizers, Caesar salad, grilled fish or petite filet mignon and dessert. The offer runs on two nights only — July 25 and 26 — and I’m guessing the restaurant will be sold out, with a waiting list for cancellations.

I’m sharing all my best secrets this week — guess I must have missed you guys!

Happy eating!

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