Anonymous Idiot

        

I just read the article on steak temperatures and noticed the comments on Ruth’s Chris.

Ruth’s Chris is one of the three Zagat “rated” restaurants in the Knoxville area. The other two are Flemings, and P.F. Chang’s. Having eaten at all three and I have to say that in all three cases, the meals were good but not great.

Ruth’s Chris and Flemings are nearly the same restaurant. In both of these establishments, the emphasis is on customer service. Although this is a bit of a lost art today, this alone cannot condone a seriously “out of whack” cost to quality ratio. Both restaurants  have quality food, I won’t argue that fact. However, the quality level is not high enough to warrant the cost. A crumb comb simply isn’t worth the extra that you pay for it.

P.F. Chang’s is at least unique. It’s a good restaurant when you consider the cost to quality ratio.

If you want a truly good meal in the greater Knoxville area there are a hand full of restaurants that should be rated.

Best in the Area: Foothills Milling Company: You won’t find a better dining experience in the greater Knoxville area. Period. It has a rough exterior and it take a little travel time but the quality of the food is impeccable. Prices are in line with the quality and the staff is friendly not stuffy. The grouper is probably the best that I have had anywhere at any price.

Best Classic Steak house: Ye Olde Steak House: The old war-horse of Knoxville steaks. It has always been good but it’s even better since it re-opened.

While in the Mountains: Trailhead: Although, I don’t think that this is the best restaurant on this list, I always walk away from the meal happy. The bread is excellent.

Best bang for the buck: Outback Steak house: Ok, so this is not “fine dining”. What Outback is, is simply good fare at a good price. In my book, this is the filet that I judge all others by. If you find one that is better in this area, I would like to hear back from you.

If you’re a truly dedicated connoisseur of great food and happen to be in the Memphis area, Folk’s Folly is the best filet that I have had period. I can’t say enough good things about this restaurant. It’s a little on the pricey side but worth every penny.

An honorable mention should go to Kaya. This is a great meal for the money.

Too bad that Mango died a year or so ago. It was one of the best in the area, if not a bit too artsy.