Gallaghers Steakhouse NYC Review: Porterhouse for Two, Caesar Salad, and Cream Spinach

If you are looking for a true New York steakhouse experience, Gallaghers Steakhouse in Midtown Manhattan is one of the most iconic spots you can visit. Known for its open kitchen, dry-aging room visible from the street, and classic old-school steakhouse vibes, Gallaghers has been serving locals, celebrities, and steak lovers from around the world since 1927. I recently had the chance to dine there and experience their famous Porterhouse for Two along with some classic sides and wine.

In this detailed review, I will share everything from the atmosphere to the food, wine pairing, service, and overall experience so you know exactly what to expect on your visit.

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About Gallaghers Steakhouse in New York City

Gallaghers Steakhouse is located in the heart of Midtown, just steps away from Times Square, Broadway theaters, and major hotels. It first opened in the Prohibition era and quickly became a gathering spot for Broadway stars, sports icons, and politicians. One of the most unique features is the street-facing dry-aging room, where large cuts of beef hang for weeks to develop deep flavor before being grilled over hickory coals.

Inside, the restaurant has a warm and timeless atmosphere with dark wood paneling, white tablecloths, leather chairs, and walls covered in photos of famous guests. It feels like stepping back in time while still offering a lively, upscale dining experience.

What We Ordered at Gallaghers Steakhouse and Menu

Our order for the night was:

• Porterhouse for Two
• Caesar Salad as an appetizer
• Cream Spinach as a side dish
• A half bottle of Keenan Napa Valley 2019 for wine pairing
• Complimentary bread and butter served to all tables

Complimentary Bread and Butter

Before any appetizers arrive, Gallaghers serves a basket of freshly baked bread with creamy butter. It is a small but important touch that sets the tone for the meal. The bread had a soft interior and a slightly crisp crust, perfect for snacking on while sipping wine or waiting for the main courses.

Caesar Salad: A Classic Appetizer

For our appetizer, we ordered the Caesar Salad. At first glance, it looked like a standard Caesar, with crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, crunchy croutons, and Caesar dressing. The flavor was straightforward and not overly complex, but it served its purpose well. While it may not have been the most memorable Caesar I have ever had, it was fresh and light, providing a refreshing start before diving into the heavier steak course.

The Star of the Night: Porterhouse for Two

The Porterhouse for Two is one of Gallaghers’ signature dishes and a must-try for steak lovers. Even though I do not usually eat steak often, I was blown away by the flavor, texture, and overall quality of this cut.

The Porterhouse combines two steaks in one, the tender filet mignon on one side and the flavorful New York strip on the other, separated by the T-shaped bone. This cut is perfect for sharing and offers a balance between buttery tenderness and rich beefy flavor.

Gallaghers grills their steaks over hickory coals, which gives them a slightly smoky aroma and a beautiful char on the outside. The inside was perfectly cooked to our requested doneness, juicy and flavorful without needing any heavy sauces.

While Gallaghers does provide a basic steak sauce on the side, I found that the meat itself was delicious enough to enjoy on its own. Still, for those who like a little extra tang, the sauce complements the beef nicely.

Cream Spinach: The Ideal Side Dish

For sides, we chose Cream Spinach, one of my personal favorites whenever I visit a steakhouse. Gallaghers’ version was creamy, well-seasoned, and had the perfect balance of spinach flavor without being overly heavy. It paired beautifully with the Porterhouse, offering a rich and savory contrast to the grilled meat.

Every bite of steak with a spoonful of cream spinach felt like the ultimate comfort food combination.

Wine Pairing: Keenan Napa Valley 2019

To accompany the meal, I ordered a half bottle of Keenan Napa Valley 2019, a red wine with a bold yet smooth profile that complemented the richness of the Porterhouse. The wine had dark fruit notes, subtle spice, and a balanced acidity that worked beautifully with both the beef and the cream spinach.

If you are visiting Gallaghers, I recommend exploring their wine list because they offer a wide range of bottles and half bottles to suit different budgets and tastes.

Atmosphere and Service

Gallaghers Steakhouse has a lively yet comfortable atmosphere. Even though the dining room was full, the noise level was moderate enough to enjoy conversations without shouting. The crowd ranged from business diners to families, tourists, and locals celebrating special occasions.

The staff was professional and friendly, checking in at the right moments without being intrusive. Our server was knowledgeable about the menu and made sure our wine was served at the ideal temperature.

Why Gallaghers is Worth a Visit

Here are some reasons Gallaghers stands out among New York City steakhouses:

1. Historic charm - Dining here feels like stepping into a piece of New York history.

2. Open grill and dry-aging room - You can actually see where and how your steak is prepared.

3. Perfect for special occasions - The upscale atmosphere is great for birthdays, anniversaries, or date nights.
4. Central location - Easy to access before or after a Broadway show.
5. Consistent steak quality - The Porterhouse was one of the best I have tried in NYC.

Tips for Visiting Gallaghers Steakhouse

• Make a reservation - This is a popular spot, especially on weekends and before Broadway shows.
• Dress smart-casual - While there is no strict dress code, most diners wear nice attire.
• Share your sides - Portions are generous, so order to share.
• Consider a half bottle of wine - Perfect if you want a quality pairing without committing to a full bottle.
• Come hungry - Steaks here are large and filling.

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Final Thoughts on Gallaghers Steakhouse

Even though I do not usually go out of my way to eat steak, my dinner at Gallaghers completely won me over. The Porterhouse for Two was cooked to perfection, the cream spinach was indulgent and satisfying, and the wine pairing elevated the entire meal.

While the Caesar Salad was nothing extraordinary, it did its job as a refreshing starter. The overall dining experience, from the friendly service to the inviting atmosphere, made this visit memorable.

If you are a steak enthusiast or simply looking for a classic New York City dining experience, Gallaghers Steakhouse should be on your list. Whether it is your first time in NYC or you are a local celebrating a special occasion, this iconic restaurant delivers on flavor, history, and hospitality.

Gallaghers Steakhouse NYC

• Address: 228 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019
• Cuisine: American Steakhouse
• Specialties: Porterhouse for Two, Dry-Aged Steaks, Classic Sides
• Atmosphere: Upscale, Historic, Lively
• Price Range: $$$$
• Reservations: Recommended