Fleming’s Steakhouse
Newport Beach, CA
American
$50 or more
Our rating: 2 forks
Living in California provides an opportunity to grill most any day of the year, so going out for a steak is mostly about the sides and the atmosphere. Good chains like Morton’s, and Ruth Chris serve up excellent “meat and potatoes” at most any of their branches. Fleming’s is a small chain of 16 or so restaurants run by Paul Fleming of PF Chang’s China Bistro fame.Go here to experience a decent steak with darn good sides. The steak selection is USDA Prime, and is offered with a choice of peppercorn or bŽarnaise sauce on the side. Try the cream corn and cream spinach for sides. The tower of onion rings or french fries looked fun. My favorite salad is the romaine wedge with tomatoes and blue cheese. The crab cake appetizer was tasty, though the sauce was uninspired.
The Newport Beach space is simply decorated and comfortable, though a bit noisy during peak hours. The staff is friendly and professional, though the tables are a bit small, especially if you order several sides, and require constant maneuvering of plates and glasses during your meal.
They have an extensive and expensive wine list. The bad news is their corkage fee or $ 25. The good news is they serve many wines by the glass and have wine tasting dinners.
As a side note, Smith and Wolinsky (throughout the country) is overrated, as is
Plaza III in Kansas City.