The best steak I’ve ever had…

was at John Thomas Steakhouse in Ithaca, New York. Now, I am not claiming this is the best steak there is, I’m simply saying it’s the best steak I’ve had thus far, and I’ve had a lot of steak. It was a Small (10oz!) Filet Mignon, and I cannot even remember all of the delicious appetizers that preceded it and sides and desserts that accompanied and came after it. It was juicy and tender, but solid, so the knife easily sliced through creating a perfectly shaped bite. The seasonings were mild but intense enough that you didn’t need any type of sauce for enhancement. It was a beautiful site as well— tall, trim, crisp on the outside pink in the middle. And there was wine, oh wine… rich, spicy reds that accentuated every little taste. It was magical, really.

So why JTS in Ithaca? You see my husband went to Ithaca for undergrad, and I planned a surprise birthday gathering there for his 30th. Many of his college friends (now our mutual friends), live in the city and we all piled in cars and headed down for a fun weekend of eating, drinking and being very merry. It was a treat for all… those who were returning alumni and those who were there for the first time, like me.

Ithaca is Gorges. Known for its waterfalls, gorges, university and many other wonderful things, it is definitely a fantastic place to visit, even if you don’t have an alum for a husband.

During our visit we went to The Nines Pizzeria/Bar, which is divey ol’ pizza joint, just the way I like them, visited several wineries including Lucas Vinyards (where I distinctly remember seeing about fifteen of my friends surrounding the tasting bar, an exquisite site!), hiked waterfalls, ate a delicious steak dinner and ended the weekend with another unexpected and amazing treat, The Ithaca Farmer’s Market.

There we tasted all types of produce, baked goods and even thai noodles cooked right on premises! There was pottery, knitted goods, jewelry, paintings and let’s not forget the bluegrass band serving up a soundtrack for the entire event.

It was a great weekend in a great place, with great friends. Perhaps I will find a steak someday that puts JTS in second place, but I’m pretty sure it wasn’t just the cut of meat or the preparation that has put this meal on my ‘Steak Throne’.