The battle for the best steak in Corpus Christi is definitely a war between the chain restaurants and longtime locally owned and operated eateries. Combined, the number of choices is almost endless with each promising perfectly seared, tender steaks.
Some of the earlier skirmishes resulted in name changes for two well-loved local steakhouses with “longhorn” in their names. When Darden Restaurants Inc. leased space in La Palmera for its Longhorn Steakhouse, the fight began. It ended when the two local eateries finally agreed to change their names — for a price. Longhorn Steak and Ale became Ol’ Steakhouse, while Longhorn Restaurant became the Texas Flame. Both have retained their reputations for reasonably priced, delicious steak dinners.
Niko’s Steakhouse
5409 Saratoga Blvd.
Along with sumptuous steak, this restaurant also delivers excellent fish, including the Orange Rum Glazed Mahi Mahi. We suggest you start with Cordon Blue Poppers followed by the Chopped Sirloin Supreme on your first go.
Republic of Texas Bar and Grill
900 N. Shoreline (top of the Omni Hotel)
The view is worth it even if you just eat salad, but don’t pass up some of the best steaks in the region. The menu also includes quail legs, scallops, ahi tuna tartare, lamb, and venison. Known as the most romantic restaurant in Corpus Christi, Republic of Texas consistently serves melt-in-your-mouth steaks.
Katz 21 Steak and Spirits
5702 Spohn Drive
Prime, dry-aged steaks are served along with fresh seafood entrees. The top seller is the bone-in ribeye. Truly a fine dining restaurant, Katz 21 serves all its steaks at just the right temperature, allowing for the meat to meld into its tenderest moment. The menu includes creamy spinach and garlic mashed potatoes along with excellent salads and a terrific lineup of divine deserts.
Texas Flame Steakhouse
4535 South Padre Island Drive
It’s reasonably priced for top juicy and flavorful steaks. No steak sauce is needed for the highly recommended New York sirloin strip and filet mignon. The cozy, rustic atmosphere is welcoming as are the waitstaff. Homemade rolls are to die for!
Ol’ Steakhouse Co.
4307 Avalon St.
The ribeye comes in a variety of ways — all delicious, according to happy diners. Whether marinated or blue, the ribeyes are cooked to perfection, claim diners. Menu includes a steak and quail combo for an extra pizzazz. Stuffed mushrooms are a favorite starter, but there are plenty of other choices. Warm, fresh bread is served with every meal.
