When the prototype STK (short for “steak”) opened in 2006 in Manhattan's meatpacking district, New York magazine dining critic Adam Platt declared it “a glittery new dining establishment–disco.”
Five years on, the newest STK just opened adjacent to the Lowes Atlanta Hotel in Midtown — joining outposts in Miami, Las Vegas and Los Angeles in consolidating a steakhouse-meets-lounge concept that aims to appeal to women by blending chic food, beverage and nightlife under one roof.
The look: Fun, flirty, and high-energy all are descriptors that could easily apply to the atmosphere, though the sound system is the only thing that’s really loud. A glossy black and cream color scheme conjures haute couture; leather banquettes, textured faux crocodile tiles, mirrors, and a towering wall of plaster steer horns are set off by theatrical lounge lighting.
The scene: During one of a recent series of preview parties, pulsing dance music filled the space, as several leotard-clad women wiggled atop raised platforms that suggested a gentleman’s club rather than a ladies’ restaurant. At the bar, long lines of revelers queued-up for a taste of Dirty Pearls ($15), a martini mixed with Grey Goose vodka, olive juice and blue cheese-stuffed olives.
The menu: Signature bites designed to go with drinks include “Shrimp Rice Krispies” ($14), tiger prawns with shrimp chips and shrimp bisque, and “lil’ BRGRs” ($18), Wagyu sliders that can be dressed-up with fancy extras like shaved truffle ($5) or foie gras ($10). Steaks range from a petite six-ounce skirt ($19) to a manly 37-ounce cowboy ribeye ($67). Chophouse-style sides ($8) include some Southern nods, such as mac-n-cheese and collard greens.
The drinks: Not surprisingly, cocktails are the center of attention at the bar. Look for takes on classics like “Not Your Daddy’s Manhattan ($14) with Woodford Reserve bourbon, Licor 43 liqueur, and sweet and dry vermouth. There’s champagne and sparkling wines by the glass and a concise bottled beer list.
The extras: For meetings and small groups, STK Atlanta offers two private dining suites named for famous burlesque stars, “Tempest Storm” and “Candy Barr.”
Dining out
STK Atlanta, Midtown
5:30.-11 p.m. Sundays-Tuesdays; 5:30 p.m.-midnight Wednesdays-Thursdays; 5:30 p.m.-1 a.m. Fridays-Saturdays.
Appetizers and salads, $10-$21; raw bar, $13-$60, steaks and entrees, $19-$67; sauces, sides and toppings $2-$15.
1075 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, 404-793-0144, stkhouse.com
About the Author
