Abe & Louie's is Boca Raton's "IT" steakhouse, FOR THE MOMENT! The city is notorious for landing phenomenal eateries only to see them fade away to everyone's dismay. I certainly hope that is not the case for Abe & Louie's because it is quickly becoming my favorite steakhouse in all of South Florida and I have been to just about all of them.
Upon entry, you KNOW it's a steak house. Rich woodsy tones, dark colors, stark white tablecloths, perfect lighting all set the stage for what a traditional steakhouse should be. The hosts are there to greet you instantly, are very accommodating, although it is almost certain that they will escort you to the bar for at least one token cocktail before seating you. Nevertheless, the system works. Find a spot at a very cozy and active bar with great ambience, televisions to catch the latest sporting event, and extremely knowledgeable bartenders who are anything but novices. They are quick, efficient and concoct excellent drinks. Within 15 minutes, the host has found you and you are prompted to pay your tab and follow suit.
Once at the table, the fun begins. Professional wait staff rattle off the daily specials. They all sound phenomenal; it's just a matter of what you like.
Appetizers & Salads: Like seafood? Go for Abe's Shellfish Tower. Great presentation. As far as salads, all the traditional and not so traditional are there. I thought the Caesar was a bit bland but the rest in my party seemed to like their choices of the Abe & Louie's Salad and the Boca Chopped Salad.
Entrees & Sides: The last two times I frequented the establishment, I had a NY Strip with aged-cheddar melted atop. (I know it's a heart attack on a plate, but WOW!) Last week, I tried Saturday's "Carpetbagger Steak". I thought it was extremely flavorful but at the end of the day, great steak is best without the frills. Truth be told, everything they brought out looked great! As for sides, I am convinced that every steakhouse in America offers the exact same sides, consisting of every form of potato and a few tries at a healthy vegetable alternative. Anyone who frequents steakhouses on a regular basis will certainly agree that after the cocktails, the bottle of wine at the table, the appetizers, the salads, the main course...the last thing you actually NEED are the sides! But of course, you order them, usually in the form of a starch and a feeble attempt at a healthy green. Might I suggest the Sauteed Spinach with Garlic and Mushrooms. Really, really good.
Desserts: Like you are not full enough, but we must carry on! Abe & Louie's has a wide assortment of dessert including the classic Creme Brulee, but I must admit, I was not overwhelmed by any of them and admittedly, the 4 of us ordered quite a few. There was nothing that had us exclaiming, "You have got to try this!"
Bottom Line: If you are looking for a great steakhouse to rival any other, look no further. This is the complete package and I am happy to go on a moment's notice. Just remember to bring your wallet, some fashion, a little bling and some attitude. You're not in Kansas anymore. THIS IS BOCA BABY!
The short: http://www.abeandlouies.com
- City: Boca Raton
- Closest Intersection: Butts Rd./Glades Rd.
- Dress: Classy - Sophisticated
- Reservations: Yes
- Vibe: Rich, woodsy tones, warm, inviting
- Drinks: Full Service Bar
- Price: Entrees $27-$84
- Final Score: B++
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