Ray's the Steaks in Arlington, Virginia: Review

Have the Stakes Been Raised at This Washington DC Steakhouse?

Ray's the Steaks has long been one of the most popular steakhouses in the Washington, D.C. metro area. It's a pleasant change of pace from the chains that inhabit the area, including the likes of Morton's and Ruth's Chris. While both of those steakhouses are great, Ray's the Steaks offers a completely different experience.

There's no stuffy atmosphere and items on the menu are - gasp - affordably priced. Ray's the Steaks is a dressed down version of the high class steakhouse that delivers excellently in both taste and value.

When you sit down you're given a dish of spicy seasoned cashews and just a few small pieces of focaccia bread. It's enough to quell your hunger pangs without taking up any unnecessary space in your stomach. Note: there are big, wonderful portions of food coming in your direction quite soon.

The menu is divided into several different portions. The first half is a selection of various steak dishes at bargain prices. Sauces such as a spicy chipotle "El Diablo" sauce, along with a version of the same sauce with bleu cheese, the "Blue Devil", populate this section. There is also a bacon wrapped steak dish and steak fajitas amongst many other choices.

Don't worry if you're looking for something a bit more traditional with your steakhouse menu. The second half of the menu contains all of the tried and true steakhouse cuts of meat.

When you get your menus you're also given a piece of paper with information such as their specific temperatures for rare, medium and other preparations of steaks. The paper also includes a note urging you not to cut into the center of your steak right away. They say that they allow for several minutes of on the plate cooking to complete your steak, so they recommend you start on the edges and work your way in so you get the exact level of doneness you were looking for.

Each table is also given a complimentary serving of mashed potatoes and creamed spinach. It's a nice touch and keeps you from having to order your own side, although there are plenty of side dishes and appetizers available if you so choose.