Gallaghers is famous for a few things: their prime rib, visible dry-aging meat locker and history. But maybe most of all, Gallaghers is famous for being Gallaghers.
Picture the “classic New York City steakhouse.” Burgundy booths, white tablecloths, the smell of rendering beef fat; the sound of murmured voices, clinking glasses, Frank crooning. You’re at Gallaghers. The only blanks to fill in are the gorgeous horseshoe bar, visible dry-aging locker, and the kinetic energy emanating from the open kitchen. Once you’re actually there, it’ll become clear that the room isn’t frozen in time—the place has seen a few remodels and updates. Still, that old school essence wafts like so much grill smoke.
You can get any cocktail you want as long as it’s a classic, which is what we’re looking for in a place like this anyway. Seasoned bartenders all but guarantee that your martini arrives finely-tuned, ice cold, and, providing you’ve made your vision clear, precisely the way you like it. The wine list is long and well-deserving of a study, but you can also trust your savvy server to make a suggestion.
Gallaghers is one of the only steakhouses in the city that charcoal grills its meat, imparting a beautiful hint of smoke and char you can’t easily find elsewhere. Rumors of an out-of-sight sous vide circulator are a testament to the excellent cookery going on. If they’re not sold out for the day, order the prime rib. Trust us. Fatty, unctuous, it melts in the mouth. Even if you’re SOL on that front, it should be clear from what’s on the opposite side of the interior windows that much care and effort go into preparing every cut of beef that leaves the kitchen, so no stress. For those who don’t mess with meat, rest assured that the seafood here is excellent. The chef has, wisely, chosen fish that stand up to high-heat, steak-like preparations. If you want something a little more delicate, a beautiful raw bar has you covered.
At Gallaghers, you’re paying as much for the experience as the food, and it is a rare experience if you catch our drift. The good news is that you’re likely to have a very good meal there, maybe even a great one, depending. But in a city where money can buy some of the best of the best of any cuisine, you’re choosing Gallaghers because it’s Gallaghers.