As more and more steakhouse chains join the fray in Boston, a few stand out for having stood by their principals and their quality for a long time and for being more neighborhoody than national.
At a well-aged but never old-fashioned 12 years old, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar has been one such venue.
From the bustling bar with its available but unobtrusive corner tvs and a special additional menu that features Fleming’s famous “5 for $6 ‘til 7” menu (a selection of five full-sized appetizers – including the venue’s amazing burger – offered in the bar seating area for $6 each until 7 PM) to the equally busy and beautiful exhibition kitchen at the other end, Fleming’s is a symphony of sights and sounds and savory flavors that range from the deep oranges and coppers of the walls to the perfectly pinked centers of the signature steaks to commissioned artwork by the avid Thomas Arvid that accent the open eating areas, each of which is sectioned off by bottles from the famed “Fleming’s 100” wine selection. With its combination of copper, wood, and leather, Fleming’s is clubby without being stuffy and offers seating options for intimate affairs or corporate events. In addition to the mouth-watering aromas and sizzling of the aged, broiled steaks and other victuals, Fleming’s is also awash in fragrant flowers and entices the ears with the clink of hand-blown stemware and the friendly chatter that transpires not only among the guests who come for business and pleasure but also between them and their personable servers.
With its recently-updated and expanded book of martinis, ‘retro’ and ‘couture’ cocktails and other trendy tipples that includes such offerings as the Venetian Fizz (complete with real Italian bitters), the Sailor Daiquiri (with Sailor Jerry Rum), the Whiskey Rebellion (Gentleman Jack, lime, mango and mint), and everything from the Farmer’s Daughter (with Tito’s Handmade Vodka and fresh fruit juice) to the French Tart (with organic cucumber vodka and St-Germain), as well a selection of “skinnier” cocktails that offer all the freshly-made flavors with fewer calories to its rustic bread with feta and Chardonnay and sundried tomato with basil spreads, Fleming’s combines the best of what is new and “hip” with the best of what has always been (or at least should always be) in a restaurant. Their “couture” cocktails allow their mixologists to play with top-shelf liquor and fresh fruit, and their craft beer offerings range from the tried-and-true to the “have you tried…?”
From the moment you arrive and are asked if you are celebrating a special occasion (Tip: Think of one!) And if you prefer white or black napkins to the way your server makes sure that every ingredient is to your liking and your health to putting the dollop of freshly-made whipped cream on one of their room-saving-worthy desserts, the team at Fleming’s caters to every guest’s every need and even goes so far as to respectfully suggest just what they might be. To begin, the barbecue shrimp, shrimp cocktail, calamari and crab legs bring the sea to the steakhouse and the French Onion soup can offer a square meal in itself with its rich cheese topping and baked crouton. Salads range from the sweet tomato and mozzarella to Fleming’s signature, which features candied walnuts, dried cranberries, tomatoes and onions. Among the many stand-out dinner items are the trio of filet options (including a “lite” filet with Fleming’s potatoes), and the pair of prime ribeyes, the peppercorn steak (served with Fleming’s proprietary “F17” sauce), the double-thick rib chop, the double breast of chicken and, when available, lobsters and lobster tails that would sink a lesser table. For those who did not bring a double-sized appetite, Fleming’s offers a selection of small plates that fall between their appetizers and main courses. From sliced filet to seared Ahi tuna to lobster tempura, these mid-range portions are middle of the road in size only and offer all the flavor and flair for which Fleming’s is known. Sundays are prime rib dinner days and include salad and a set of sauces that superbly set off the steer. Seasonal specials and other options also appear often and your server will be more than happy to fill you in before you fill yourself.
So whether you are in for a night or a lifetime, give Fleming’s a shot. It’s a great place for a steak (or lobster or chicken or…) in the neighborhood.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
217 Stuart Street, Boston
617 292 0808