Steve’s Sizzling Steaks – Carsltadt NJ

You would never guess from its outside appearance what an old-school landmark Steve’s Sizzling Steaks is, so that’s why I’m telling you to pull over and visit, despite the unassuming beige clapboard exterior.

Steve’s has been here on route 17 since 1936 - when the Meadowlands were actually meadow lands, not just a sports complex. That’s the same year my dad was born, and he would’ve loved this place.

Heavy captains chairs, fish and game memorabilia lining the walls, delicious thick-cut steaks and rich desserts, dad would have been happy eating here and swapping stories with original owner Steve who from all accounts (surviving 2 plane crashes? Fishing with the famous?) was a larger than most lives personality. Speaking of family, Steve’s is still family run - currently by Blaze, who’s mother Marie (Steve’s daughter) was the first woman bartender in Bergen county.

But onto the food. So Good! While they have many menu items, as the name implies, they’re famous for their steaks. As they should be! Arriving on a sizzling platter, coated with an “addictive” special sauce, your first bite will tell you you came to the right place. Don’t forget to get yours topped with their signature button mushrooms.

In the original bar and dining room photos of famous diners and stories of Steve’s adventures line the walls, so don’t leave without taking in all the history hidden inside this roadside institution. And don’t worry, your craving for that special sauced steak will ensure you’ll want to return.

Good news! They’re open for lunch daily

They’ve been named best steakhouse in Bergen County for 2019!

Some of the friendly staff have been here for generations, always a good sign.