Mightiest Steakhouses in NYC – Keens next?

Hi all – went to Peter Luger's lately and figured I'd share / ask for thoughts about famous Steakhouses in NYC, maybe get your thoughts on where to go next.

Have probably tried steak at about a dozen different spots across town – including "minor" ones like Cafe D'Alsace in UES, Karczma in Greenpoint, Capital Grille in Midtown, La Grande Boucherie in Midtown, and other joints here and there.

I say "minor" because I've also been to 3 "major" NY steakhouses now – including Peter Luger's as of last weekend.

I was a bit on the fence before going given the mixed reviews since the infamous New York Times article blasted 'em, but we must have lucked out; had what's likely one of the best steaks of my life. The kind that makes you want to shake the waiter's hand or give 'em a hug. Just heavenly.

Split the Porterhouse with my dad and every single bite was as tasty and succulent as the first; whatever they cooked it in (butter and fat, presumably) was superb. Service was great, price was steep but not any higher than at other famous restaurants in the city (roughly $140 per person, including an appetizer, the main, a side, a bottle of wine and a shared dessert). Also, some of the best Strudel I've ever had along with a comically huge platter of homemade whipped cream. Loved the whole experience, and the old NY history/charm the place exhudes.

But before that I also got to try out Gallagher's and Delmonico's in recent years. Gallagher's was somewhat similar in vibe, service and quality to Peter Luger's – but whether the cut of steak (Rib) just wasn't as great, or something else, it wasn't quite as stellar. Delmonico's was even pricier, but I honestly preferred their sides to their signature Delmonico's steak somehow, despite it being the place that supposedly invented the NY strip (it was good, but I expected better given the hype and price point).

At this point, given the sheer cost of these places, I don't expect to go back to another steakhouse unless it's a really special occasion – say a birthday or whatever. But I'm still already thinking about what the next "must-try" spot in town would be.

I've heard nothing but good things about Keens – with many pointing towards their fames Mutton Chop as a must-try. I'd probably go for the Taste of Mutton and order a steak as the main. Do folks here agree, by and large?

Any other suggestions about institutions in NYC to get a great steak at and soak in some history at the same time?

Or even other thoughts on Peter Luger's or other joints?

Cheers for your thoughts!

P.S. unforeseen bonus: If you ask, the staff at Peter Luger's can send you home with half a dozen Steak bones (with a decent amount of meat on them). No, really. Just to avoid wasting them, I guess – really neat of em.