Is Peter Luger Steakhouse the Best in NYC? We Tried 15+ Steakhouses to Find Out

Is Peter Luger the best steakhouse in New York City? We’ve tried more than 15 iconic NYC steakhouses to find out. We came here about a year ago to make our very first restaurant review and let's just say, it wasn't our best. Since then we’ve been to most of the best steakhouses in the city and we’ve heard from all of you on what we could’ve done better. So we're heading back to Peter Luger to try their Luger Burger, Steak for One, Special German Fried Potatoes, Creamed Spinach and Apple Strudel.
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[@beachy6758]

There is no excuse for the front of the house making you feel uncomfortable. Their job is customer service!. I really enjoy watching you and your wife. Very warm and professional. Annie H., Bethany Beach, Delaware

[@travelfuller]

Thank you so much! Yes, we completely agree. If you’re going to a fine dining restaurant and spending a lot of money, welcoming you is the least they can do. We just went to a very similar steakhouse called Golden Steer in Las Vegas and every staff member there could not stop thanking us for choosing them, despite the fact that they’re fully booked for months!

[@-EchoesIntoEternity-]

Peter Lugers the epitome of resting on one's laurels

[@travelfuller]

Totally agree but the burger and strudel are top tier

[@RantingGreekGamer]

You two are a joy to watch! Lots of love from Greece! 😍

[@travelfuller]

Thanks so much!

[@bb57365]

Used to go to Luger's a lot in the 90's. Place hasn't changed a bit. Always felt like it was the measuring stick for great steaks. No nonsense great food. The burger is a great deal.

[@travelfuller]

Definitely! Yeah, we're looking forward to going back for a burger and a strudel. Amazing inexpensive meal!

[@ILruffian]

Thanks for taking the time to gather this information for us. If you don't mind me asking, what camera(s) was this shot on? Excellent production quality for a relatively low number of subs.

[@travelfuller]

Thanks! We shoot on the Sony a7 IV haha we're hoping to have more subs one day

[@kevinluyo1142]

Glad you enjoyed your second time at Peter Luger's! To be honest, I'm considering a revisit as well. Here's something a lot of KZbinrs don't mention, that I honestly think is a knock against Peter Luger, and even Gage & Toller from your previous video. The location. A lot of these huge names appeal to tourists, or locals on special occasions. Brooklyn isn't that far, but it is far enough that it makes me not even consider Peter Luger. For example, Keen's has an elite location, within walking distance from Penn Station. Definitely think Peter Luger is worth going, but as you mentioned, you won't get a wildly better steak than you could somewhere else in Mahattan, or maybe even your local city. So once you factor in more barriers of entry like the snootiness, the cash only, the location, and it makes the value proposition weaker IMO.

[@matthewpoole7752]

Their refusal to accept my uk debit card is a deal breaker for me I'm not taking hundreds of dollars in cash in the nyc subway through brooklyn

[@travelfuller]

We completely agree. It is good, better than we gave it credit for the last time, but not good enough for the trip when there are other options just as good if not better with better service and that actually accept credit cards. Keens, Gallaghers and Hawksmoor are three of our favorites and all are super centrally located. I would recommend all three over Peter Luger anyway

[@monkeyballs512]

⁠@@travelfullerHawksmoor isn’t anywhere near the same league. Keen’s and Gallagher are, and I’d add Sparks and Wolfgang’s to that list. Benjamin is also good, but a slight step below

[@hoppysport2872]

Kevin...Absolutely a great point. I live in the Gramercy area and won't go to Peter Luger's anymore...and I have a car that I park on the street. The corrupt, usury $15 congestion pricing fee will also eliminate our restaurant forays into the outer boroughs, starting on June 30th. I can easily walk to: -Wolfgang's on Park Avenue South - Knickerbocker Bar & Grill on Uni & 9th -Rocco's on Madison & 27th - Hawksmoor on Park South & 22nd - Vinyl Steakhouse on 19th & Fifth I refuse to spend $100 R/T on an Uber or taxi to Peter Luger. And I won't risk our lives going below ground.

[@Opandort]

Great review video👌🏻

[@travelfuller]

Thank you!

[@KrisKk08]

Great video guys thank you for sharing! Glad there was no gift card drama this time! Servers seemed nice! Food looked delish! Thanks again! 😊

[@travelfuller]

Thanks! Haha yeah we were tempted to try that again just to see if it would work but we chickened out. Our waiter was very good this time as well! And yes, the burger and strudel are some of the best we’ve ever had!

[@TheMoonKingdom]

Many people in my family have Peter Luger nostalgia, but enjoy other Steak Houses way more these days. By the way, I'm not sure how much you guys enjoy fish or other sea food, but I would definitely enjoy reviews like that as well:)

[@travelfuller]

Haha we went on an aggressive steakhouse streak and have a few more to post but then we’ll be taking a break from them for a while! But yes, I can definitely see the nostalgia. The service was still not great and it feels so much more touristy than any of the other places we went but we might go back just for the burger and strudel!

[@73richg]

That Cool Whip looks tasty

[@sweetrapture1]

You can't have pie without Cool Hwip

[@jamieweiss7905]

I’m an old school fan. The front of house is a bit and for as long as I’ve been going there we don’t even ask for menus to lean into it. Also - a shout out for the sauce. I’ve been buying that by the bottle for a decade to use on burgers and eggs at home. Great stuff.

[@travelfuller]

Yeah it’s not something we’ve seen anywhere else but it’s a bit of an unpleasant experience for unsuspecting tourists. I think people might enjoy it more if they know what to expect! Haha yeah we keep seeing it at Costco actually. Kristin loves it so we finally bought some for home

[@jamieweiss7905]

@@travelfuller the sauce is amazing. And has so many applications at home.

[@mistergrendel32]

Kristin is trying the Luger Burger, but almost eats the whole thing. Watch that wife Will. I LUV your videos because it kind of lets me experience New York. I don’t even mind the vocal fry and up talk. Ron in north Texas here. 😜🤓

[@travelfuller]

She tends to do that but I can’t even blame her because the burger was amazing. Thank you! Haha we’re working on the focal fry and up talk but it’s not that easy to stop!

[@mistergrendel32]

@@travelfuller Don’t be concerned about it. You are who you are. 🤓

[@joecommentator8534]

I like the ambiance at Peter Lugar’s with their older waiters who not only serve, but clean the as well. They also don’t write down your order and still get it correct.

[@zaqwsx2811]

Nice videos. Y'all, so can see you did your homework this time before coming back: - you were seated downstairs - potatoes & cream spinach - the burger as an appetizer - strudel with schlogg To avoid haughtiness, don't want to mention the things the more ardent Lugerites are in tuned to. Best,

[@KellyFurst1]

Amazing video as always! I have to stop watching these on an empty stomach

[@travelfuller]

lol thanks!!

[@BELLAPHONTOO]

Kristin, the accidental carnivore.

[@travelfuller]

lol the intentional carnivore!!

[@Grandad1967]

We're going to Delmonicos on the 24th , can't wait.

[@travelfuller]

It’s amazing! Enjoy!

[@Grandad1967]

@travelfuller thank you , we'll let you know how it goes . Was it your favourite ? We're also going to Gallaghers for lunch .

[@travelfuller]

@@Grandad1967 Gallaghers is amazing as well! That’s such a hard decision. Even though Delmonico’s is known for its steak, it’s not a typical steakhouse like Peter Luger or Gallaghers. I think our top three are Keens for a historic NYC steakhouse, Hawksmoor for a modern fun vibe and St Anselm for a cheap but amazing steak meal. Gallaghers and Delmonico’s are probably 4th and 5th though!

[@Grandad1967]

@travelfuller Thanks so much for your input. We watch most of your reviews and shall try out several of your recommendations.

[@travelfuller]

@@Grandad1967 Let us know what you think of everywhere you try! We've heard some people didn't enjoy Hawksmoor which was honestly one of our favorites. It's helpful for us to know what everyone else's experiences are like so we can make better recommendations!

[@fomfom9779]

Nothing preventing you from ordering a couple of cheeseburgers, and sharing the bacon, along with the fried potatoes, and apple strudel.

[@travelfuller]

We’ll definitely be back for some burgers and strudel!

[@kingkongbundy2380]

The staff at luger all have the cold feeling. I have been going there for over 20 years and it is my favorite steakhouse. It took years for the waiters to "warm up" to us but I always loved the coldness. It is part if their shtick!

[@travelfuller]

We’ve talked to a few regulars who love that they’re the only ones who get a warm welcome and friendly service. It’s definitely an atypical shtick but if you go there knowing what to expect it’s much more enjoyable

[@zaqwsx2811]

Imho, the ambiance of Lugers is actually the lack of the stereotypical restaurant ambiance

[@johnjuarez8005]

Kris and Will, gotta say, you both would be the go to neighbors to hit up on places to go!!!

[@travelfuller]

Haha at least when it comes to steakhouses! We’re hoping to branch out a little more soon

[@mariojohnson4695]

Steakhouses tend to be expensive, to expect a party to use cash only to me is unreasonable. This is my opinion, so please no haters.

[@travelfuller]

Haha we agree. It’s at least better that they accept debit cards but still, to have some of the highest prices and not accept credit cards doesn’t make sense

[@Wab12]

I used to be the exterminator in that restaurant, they rats used to their bite first and the and the steak were turning green ., hope you enjoy it

[@ggagoots]

If you guys havent gonr to Striphouse.....you must, its the best

[@travelfuller]

We have and loved it! We made a video on it a few months ago

[@ggagoots]

@@travelfuller yeah now that I've been watching all your stuff I did see it lol we love strip house they're a little thinner than the other places but we still love the flavor Love the channel by the way keep it up

[@travelfuller]

Thanks appreciate it! We've only been to Strip House that one time but we really want to go back and try one of their more traditional steaks. Everything else we had was incredible

[@ggagoots]

@@travelfuller yes I recommend you do also id recommend the one downtown I think it's got better ambiance personally and it has a speakeasy downstairs that's really nice when with the wife/husband.

[@davidthomas7912]

Old Homestead was also amazing and Delmonico's are my top #3. With Keens being #1

[@travelfuller]

Old Homestead is great as well! It’s so hard to decide but I think our top three are Keens, Gallaghers and Hawksmoor

[@davidthomas7912]

@@travelfuller I respect your choices. Have you folks tried Delmonico's

[@travelfuller]

Yep! It was one of our earlier videos. Their signature Delmonico steak is one of our favorites!

[@incognitotees]

would you guys like to explore Argentinian steaks in Queens? There's two spots that are literally across the street from each other. La Esquina Criolla and El Gauchito in Corona, Queens. Both legit spots

[@travelfuller]

Thanks those are awesome suggestions! These will definitely be on our radar

[@fumeokid]

I’ve had the steak 2 times.. not impressed. Had the burger almost 6 times or more and when it’s good it good but there are times when it’s super gamey. I’ve had that happen about 4 times. It’s just not consistent so I go maybe once a year if that. The last time the burger was funky like liver so I haven’t been back since 2022. The Strudel however was amazing!

[@travelfuller]

That’s good to know! This was our first time trying it and it was perfect. And the strudel was so good. We’ll have to go back for both and see if we have any issues with the consistency

[@tompuza2711]

yall always look so baked, not hating its just a vibe lol

[@travelfuller]

LOL you’re actually not the first person to say that

[@j0epr0]

I also felt the front house was dry lol our waiter was amazing!

[@travelfuller]

I don’t understand why they’re like that! Someone tried telling us it was because they’re playing into a New Yorker stereotype for tourists but that seems ridiculous. Why start your guests off with bad service!

[@jimothy4488]

wow this is a good channel, glad I found you. Food reviewers in NYC seem like real people and have an appropriate level of discernment.

[@travelfuller]

Thanks! Haha glad you think so. Let us know if there are any places you think we should try!

[@marcalhanaty4636]

Five dollar splitting fee is crazy! That place has gone downhill over the years, many more better options in the city now

[@travelfuller]

Totally agree!

[@rmcross428]

The food looks great, but the atmosphere seems cold and noisy.

[@travelfuller]

Our thoughts exactly!

[@rmcross428]

I was fortunate enough to have visited the "Tavern on the Green" restaurant many years ago and had a table in the crystal room. When you walked into the room it took your breath away. You knew it was special! Not so much at Peter Lugers.

[@travelfuller]

We are hoping to go back there soon! We went only once about ten years ago and remember it feeling so special. We’d love to try it again and make a video on it!

[@reodds]

Wonderful video review as always! We really like Peter Lugers, but feel Rothmann's is even better. Any change of a review there? Thanks!

[@travelfuller]

Thank you! I’m not sure we know that one. Is it the one on Long Island?

[@reodds]

@@travelfuller Yes, they in East Norwich on the North Shore of Long Island. Definitely worth the trip!

[@travelfuller]

@@reoddsthanks for the tip! Hopefully we can make it out there!

[@ter1413]

Live in Brooklyn and have been to PL's multiple times. Had the cheeseburger about a month ago. Eh.

[@travelfuller]

Really! Surprised to hear that. We thought it was really good!

[@rickacevedo322]

My money is on Keens and maybe Wolfgang’s

[@travelfuller]

Agree on Keens, Wolfgang's video is coming next!

[@franciscofredericci4081]

$5 splitting fee? What does that even mean! :) Charging to share???? :)

[@japnuts]

Ya that is horrible. Order a menu item. Thats what you. Insane

[@travelfuller]

Yep! If you share a steak for one or any entree other than the steak for two, it’s a $5 up charge

[@japnuts]

@@travelfuller crazy

[@bb57365]

And I still have my Peter Luger account card, wonder if it will still work?

[@travelfuller]

Probably would! What does the card get you?

[@bb57365]

It’s their proprietary credit card. They used to take the card or cash only. I believe I opened the account in 1991. Lol

[@tonyparisi3975]

10:54

[@greggthebandman9678]

she is sooooo cute....

[@AL.BUNDY.]

The steak looks too rare. Did u guys order it rare or medium rare? The burger is definitely medium and not medium rare. Considering the price, one would expect the food to be more "professionally" cooked.

[@travelfuller]

We ordered it medium rare but they bring it out underdone so it can cook more while it sits on the hot plate

[@guru2899]

Overrated and overpriced.....for my money it's Delmonico's any day of the week.

[@RobMLyon]

Agreed

[@user-rv8lg5oc6w]

Try Texas Roadhouse 16 n.y strip for around 30 bucks with a salad and potatoe. It tastes great, and yes, I have been to Peter lugers . It's not worth 5 times the price

[@travelfuller]

Wow that’s a great deal! We’re hoping to try Texas Roadhouse soon. Maybe we’ll make a video on it too

[@user-rv8lg5oc6w]

@travelfuller there is one in Teterboro n.j Next to the airport .it's noisy but fun! P.s. You're a cute couple. Good luck with your channel

[@travelfuller]

Thanks really appreciate it! Yeah we’ll have to try it. So many people have been telling us it’s the best out of the popular chains

[@hoppysport2872]

Great suggestion. Was at the Texas Roadhouse in Teterboro recently and had the exact 16oz New York strip for $30. It's was excellent. Quite a deal with the two included sides. Is it fine dining? No! But neither would I consider Peter Luger fine dining. There were 3 of us in the party, and all agreed that our steaks were fantastic.

[@sarahostrinsky4595]

Fake title. I thought you would be reviewing 15 steakhouses.

[@travelfuller]

Oh! Sorry about that! We’ve been reviewing them one at a time leading up to this one

[@alexchadban458]

I think that your cutlery skills are lacking. It might be an American problem. Pls adjust your fork.

[@japnuts]

5 dollar splitting fee? Really?

[@johnjuarez8005]

Weak sh*t!!!

[@davidthomas7912]

Sorry Keens is the best steakhouse in the country

[@travelfuller]

In NYC alone there are a bunch we prefer like Keens, Gallaghers, Hawksmoor and St. Anselm