Ben Benson's Steak House

My second time to NYC but my first trip to Ben Benson's. The restaurant was recommended by my NYC friend so I had a feeling it would be good. Benson's surpassed expectations. The steaks were really good as were the sides. I didn't go for dessert as we were full by then, maybe next time.

Ben Benson's was tremendous! One of the best meals I've ever had. From the salad to the shrimp cocktail to the porterhouse, I was thoroughly impressed. Everthng tasted great and the service was excellent. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Wow.....what a total disappointment!!! We've been to Ben Benson's once previously on a special occassion and were totally and thoroughly impressed. Naturally, we expected a similar experience.....but unfortunately, that was not to be. On a Saturday evening at 9PM, we'd expect the service and food to be tip top. Instead, the quality of porterhouse steak we ordered was sub-standard and clearly not cooked to our requested medium rare. To make matters worse, we we disappointed in the moderately disinterested service. Having a screaming undisciplined child at a table in the backgound in conjunction with a loud roudy bunch of guys did not add anything positive to our experience. Sadly, it is no wonder the restaurant was half-empty during a primetime Saturday evening.

I had a fantansic experience before, but this time was terrible. We went to the bar for a drink before sitting at our table and the bartender made eye contact with us, then walked away and sat at a nearby table to talk on his cell phone. When he was finally finished with his calls, he came back to take our drink order. We were seated for dinner between a loud family with a screaming child and a group of guys that were playing music loudly on their cell phones. Our steak was overcooked and fatty but we did not return it b/c by the time it was served we were totally starving. The steak was $97.00 and nowhere near worth the price. It was tough and chewy. Our bill was almost $200 w/the tip and we left completely irritated. We politely tried to express our dissatisfaction to the manager suggesting that perhaps they have an area for families vs. people who would like to enjoy their meal w/o listening to screaming and he said "what do you want me to do, tell people they can't bring children?" Mind you, it was after 9pm at an expensive restaurant. It may have well have been 5pm at Chilis by reflection of the atmosphere and quality of response from the manager. I will never go back there again.

Ben Benson's Steak House is the best steak house ever! I'm a big meat lover and have been to many steak houses but this still has to be my favorite place to eat. The fillet migon *mediam rare* just melts in the mouth. It has the butter sauce that adds a special touch to it. You can even ask for extra butter sauce. Their service is great and ambiance is perfect for a romantic meal!