Lawry's Prime Rib — Review by Jack's Dining Room
Los Angeles, United States — Steakhouse
Lawry's Prime Rib in Los Angeles serves one of the most famous prime ribs in the country, prepared tableside in a tradition dating back nearly 100 years. The double cut beef bowl is incredibly tender and well-seasoned, rivaling the best prime rib experiences, though the $111 price tag is steep. The famous tableside potato loaded with toppings is an indulgent and worthwhile complement to the meal.
What was great: The prime rib is incredibly tender with great seasoning and rivals the best they've had. The tableside preparation and presentation are impressive. The famous tableside potato loaded with bacon, sour cream, and chives is a delicious complement to the meal.
What could improve: The price of $111 for the double cut beef bowl is very high, though the massive portion size justifies it somewhat.
The Dishes
The star of the show is Lawry's famous double cut beef bowl, a massive prime rib that arrives at the table in a notably rare state. Despite initial hesitation, the reviewer discovers that this is the proper way to enjoy prime rib at Lawry's, served only medium rare. The meat itself is exceptional, incredibly tender with excellent seasoning throughout. The reviewer compares it favorably to House of Prime Rib in San Francisco, noting the quality is very similar and ranks among the best prime rib they've ever experienced. The portion size is genuinely enormous, substantial enough that three people could comfortably share one plate.
Accompanying the prime rib is Lawry's famous tableside potato, a theatrical presentation where the server breaks open the potato at your table and loads it with bacon, sour cream, chives, and various other toppings. This indulgent side dish pairs perfectly with the rich prime rib, though the reviewer humorously notes it's the final nail in the coffin for their arteries after the massive meat course.
The Experience
The dining experience at Lawry's is notably theatrical and traditional. The tableside preparation of both the prime rib and the potato creates an impressive presentation that harks back to classic steakhouse traditions. The reviewer even receives a special honor during the visit, being knighted at Lawry's by Danny's Medallion, adding a memorable and exclusive touch to the experience.
Value & Pricing
At $111 for the double cut beef bowl, the price is undeniably steep and the reviewer acknowledges this is quite expensive. However, they justify the cost by noting the sheer size and quality of the portion, suggesting that splitting the plate three ways would make it more economical. For a restaurant that has been serving the same prime rib for nearly 100 years and invented the tableside prime rib concept, the premium pricing aligns with the establishment's legendary status and exceptional execution.
Notable Moments
You would probably think that they just shot this cow, cut it up, and served it on this plate because this thing is actually moving.
This is a huge honor
The reviewer's surprise at the rare presentation and subsequent appreciation for the traditional preparation method demonstrates the depth of Lawry's expertise and tradition.
The Verdict
Lawry's Prime Rib is a must-visit destination for serious steak enthusiasts and anyone interested in experiencing a legendary culinary institution. While the $111 price point requires commitment, the exceptional quality of the prime rib, the theatrical tableside service, and nearly 100 years of tradition make it worth the investment. Best enjoyed with company who can help tackle the enormous portion or shared among multiple diners.