OK, so I used to be a Ringside only kind of guy. Not real fond of chains like Morton's and Ruth's Chris. Then I tried El Gaucho. Not that it's a chain, but there is another on in Seattle.\r
All I can say is *burp*.\r
This was an amazing meal. Maybe one of the best steak dinners I've ever had. The presentation is a big part of it, but that does not at all mean that they are all show and no go. Here's my recommendation for the perfect meal:\r
Start with the Diablo, prepared tableside. It's like a giant cauldron of Spanish Coffee (and I'm Huber's SC junkie!).\r
Then move on to the Caesar Salad, again tableside preperation.\r
For the main course, I love the Chateaubriand. But the flaming sword of tenderloin is a close second.\r
Finish up with Bananas Foster, again prepared tableside. I've had the Bananas Foster at Brennen's in New Orleans, where it was supposedly were ""invented"", and El Gaucho does it better!\r
They love to set things on fire here. Very cool show and excellent presentation.\r
And the food was amazing. The steak melts in your mouth! Ordered medium rare (truly the only way to enjoy a good steak) is warm and red through the center - perfect!\r
The bourbon sweet potatoes were awesome as well.\r
I can't think of a single negative thing about this place!\r
I'm still going to go to Ringside when I want an old school Portland experience, but when I'm up for a nice quality meal with some flair, it's El Gaucho all the way!
Pros: Top notch steak, lots of flash and fire! Oh - and they serve the Vesper martini!
Cons: None.
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