13 Phrases You Should Avoid Saying When Ordering Steak
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Ordering steak can feel like navigating a culinary minefield, especially if you are not a regular at a steakhouse. According to a 2023 survey by Statista, more than 61% of Americans eat steak at least once a month. So, it is clear that steak remains a national favorite.
Knowing what to say, or more importantly, what not to say, is crucial to avoid awkward dinner moments. Here are 13 phrases you should avoid when ordering your steak.
“I’ll take it burnt to a crisp.”
Professional chefs know how to cook a steak perfectly. “Well done” is their least favorite request. Gordon Ramsay once famously said, “If you want a well-done steak, order a burger instead!”
“What’s the cheapest steak you’ve got?”
Budgets are significant, but this question will make it sound like you care more about saving a buck than enjoying a quality meal. Instead, ask about the flavor profiles of specific cuts to make an informed and less awkward decision.
“I want it blue, just throw it on the grill for a second.”
While ordering steak rare is perfectly acceptable, asking for “blue rare, “which is barely cooked might alarm even the most seasoned servers. A “rare”” steak typically hits that sweet spot for most steak enthusiasts without hitting raw territory.
“I don’t care—steak is steak.”
Not all steaks are created equal! Cuts like filet mignon, ribeye, and T-bone all have unique flavors and textures. Not caring about the cut signals that you’re not invested in the culinary experience.
“Can I get it with ketchup?”
Asking for ketchup is almost as bad as asking for ice cubes in wine. Instead, explore the range of steak sauces most restaurants offer, like Béarnaise, chimichurri, or peppercorn sauce.
“What’s a tomahawk steak, anyway? Sounds weird.”
Asking this question might make you seem a bit out of the loop. A tomahawk is simply a ribeye with an impressively long bone still attached, giving it that “wow” factor. Search for it beforehand to avoid asking at the table.
“Can you cut it up for me in the kitchen?”
Save yourself the embarrassment; cutting is part of the steak-eating experience.
“Medium-rare? Is that, like, half-cooked?”
This is a cringe-worthy question for culinary pros and enthusiasts alike. Medium-rare is the most popular way Americans eat their steak, and it’s that perfect combination of juicy, tender, and flavorful. If you’re unsure about your preference, this is a safe bet.
“Can you make it vegan?”
While plant-based alternatives are on the rise, a steakhouse isn’t typically the place to make this request. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, check the menu beforehand for non-meat options instead.
“I want it ‘Pittsburgh rare.’”
“Pittsburgh rare”, is when the steak is charred on the outside and raw on the inside. If you’re at a high-end place, this might work, but it can come across as pretentious elsewhere.
“Can you butterfly it? I’m in a hurry.”
Butterflying a steak, or cutting it in half to cook faster, sacrifices texture and flavor. If you’re short on time, consider ordering something else instead of rushing through a beautiful piece of meat.
“Do I still need to tip if I didn’t love it?”
Tipping in the U.S. isn’t optional, it’s an expected part of dining culture. Unless there’s a genuine issue with the service, leave the server the standard 15-20%.
“I don’t need sides; I’m just here for the steak.”
Sure, steak’s the star of the show, but sides like mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, or roasted vegetables elevate the entire meal. Ignoring them means missing out on the full experience.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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