PHLReview
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Barclay Prime is a steakhouse on the edge of Rittenhouse Square, which makes it about one of 10 in the area. And while it’s not the most classic, it is our favorite. First of all, it consistently makes the best steak in the city. Perhaps more importantly, you can come to Barclay, not order a steak, and still have a fantastic experience.
photo credit: Max Grudzinski
photo credit: Max Grudzinski
photo credit: Max Grudzinski
Barclay Prime goes big. Like a Kardashian planning a Spider Man-themed birthday party for their one-year-old big. Like the city of Philadelphia after winning a Super Bowl big (okay, maybe not that big). But everything they do at this sexy, loungey, formal-but-not-stuffy spot makes you feel like you’re related to Logan Roy, whether you’re there for a cocktail before a show, or a feast before a marriage proposal.
Shrimp Cocktailphoto credit: Nicole Guglielmo
Tuna Tartarephoto credit: Nicole Guglielmo
Wagyu Filet Mignonphoto credit: Nicole Guglielmo
And nothing at Barclay Prime goes bigger than the food, which ranges from traditional steakhouse—wedge salad, shrimp cocktail, and a marbled ribeye—to more unconventional options, like hamachi crudo, Chilean sea bass in a koji marinade, and, of course, the Barclay Prime Cheesesteak. This $140 signature dish is stacked with wagyu ribeye, foie gras, and truffled cheese whiz, and comes with half a bottle of champagne. It’s ridiculous, it’s decadent, and it’s worth every penny.
photo credit: Nicole Guglielmo
But that could describe the meal at lots of steakhouses. What really sets Barclay apart is the effortless sophistication of the wood-paneled dining room, which looks like a private library. Chandeliers and candlelight give the room a soft glow—just enough light to take in the champagne-sipping couples, martini-fueled groups of friends, and pro-athletes comparing championship rings around you.
If you pop in for just a cocktail and small plate, get a seat in the gold, black, and white bar-lounge area up front. It’s definitely a step down from an evening in the main dining room (and you won’t get to choose your own Japanese, German, or American steak knife!), but you won’t have to spend as much as you would on Sixers 100-level seats.
photo credit: Max Grudzinski
For all that is excellent at Barclay Prime, there is one downside: how expensive it is. You should be prepared to spend upwards of $200 per person for dinner here—but if you’re looking for the best steakhouse—and one of the best dining experiences—in the city, Barclay Prime is in a league of its own.
Food Rundown
photo credit: Nicole Guglielmo
Barclay Prime Cheesesteak
It’s filled with wagyu ribeye, foie gras, and truffled cheese whiz. We could say it sucks, but that would be a lie. It’s delicious and decadent, and comes with a half bottle of champagne. That being said, we have lots of other $12 cheesesteaks that we like even more, so wouldn’t suggest ordering this unless it’s going on an expense account.
photo credit: Nicole Guglielmo
18oz Ribeye
All of the steaks here come simply prepared, topped with a few flakes of sea salt. You can get them with a sauce (our go-to is the béarnaise), but they’re so perfectly cooked and well-seasoned that they need no accessories. Our favorite is the ribeye, which has a buttery crust and flavorful, tender interior.
photo credit: Nicole Guglielmo
Chilean Sea Bass
This flaky sea bass is served with a sweet, slightly funky koji marinade. It’s the best non-meat main dish here.
photo credit: Nicole Guglielmo
Truffle Mac and Cheese
Call us crazy, but truffle is…kinda overrated. This dish is more truffle mac and-not-enough-cheese. We would suggest an order of tots instead.
photo credit: Nicole Guglielmo
Potato Gratin
This French classic combines thinly sliced potatoes with cream and gruyere cheese. It’s perfectly baked with a chewy, golden brown cheese crust, and melty middle.
