You’re craving steak, but not everyone in your party is salivating for meat and potatoes. Perhaps you’ve got some vegetarians in the group. Or maybe some of your pals are turned off by the ambience of a traditional restaurant devoted to beef. Whatever the reason, these five NoVA restaurants are a great place to order up a steak without stepping foot into a steakhouse.
2941
This fine dining establishment — which landed the No. 1 spot on our Best Restaurants list this year — is known for its tasting menus. But those who come in for a steak will be rewarded with a Black Angus rib-eye from Braveheart that competes with the best offerings from beef specialists. It may be served with a heavy knife, but the buttery flesh barely merits it. Beneath its sauce au poivre and side of crispy potatoes, it’s as close to perfection as it gets. 2941 Fairview Dr., Falls Church
Brasserie Royale
In the global pantheon of gustatory satisfaction, few dishes tower quite as high as steak frites. Our current favorite iteration is at this cozy bistro. The bavette steak, part of the sirloin, may not be fancy, but you’ll forgive it for its outsized flavor that includes a topping of herb butter and chunky fries that can be upgraded with herbs or cheese fondue. 46290 Cranston St., Sterling
Osteria Marzano
Can’t decide between steak and pasta? Don’t. Instead, get a 9-ounce filet mignon that’s crowned with a giant raviolo filled with creamy cacio e pepe sauce. Those who prefer a simpler steak will be just as happy with their 14-ounce rib-eye in red wine reduction. 6361 Walker Lane Metro Park VI, #140, Alexandria
Proof Kitchen + Bar
Ensure you leave this stylish whiskey room more than full when you order the Kansas City Steak. It begins with a 20-ounce New York strip that’s served with tangy house steak sauce. But besides fresh, seasonal vegetables, you’re also treated to both steak fries and oversized beer-batter onion rings, doubling your pleasure at least. 9861 Discovery Blvd., Ste. 115, Manassas
Sweetwater Tavern
How could we not include a Great American Restaurant on this list? Not when the drunken rib-eye steak is on the menu. The local chain of family restaurants doesn’t skimp on extras, including Ozzie rolls (for an extra $1), salad, and a loaded baked potato. But the star of the show is the garlicky, beer-marinated steak with mushrooms. Multiple locations
Feature image of Brasserie Royale by Michael Butcher
