Wolfgang's Steakhouse
409 Greenwich Street (at Hubert)

My hunt for a solid steakhouse in Manhattan contined last night, and this time was Wolfgang's Steakhouse in TriBeCa. I have searched in vain in the past, with some horrible experiences (Old Homestead and La Carne Grill), some pretty awful ones (Dylan Prime and Bull & Bear), a pretentious one (BLT Prime), and a pretty okay one (Blair Perrone). However, there was not one good place -- odd, considering this is New York. Why can't they do it nicely like Orlando's Vito's Chop House or even the bloody Fleming's chain?

It didn't start well as I had to wait for the maitre'D for like 2 minutes, and he promptly placed me at an awful table next to a large group (in a rather empty restaurant). Bad start. I ended up skipping the starter and had a nice ribeye. It was a little overcooked, but it was good and solid. The side of broccoli was just huge, and thankfully very garlic-laden.

The place filled up with larger groups of Wall Street types as I dined, and that killed any ambience...but I was just looking for a good steak, not frills. I got one, despite the strange service level. After a grappa, I headed out...but had to run back to get my mobile. I took my leftovers and briefcase and forgot this...

So in conclusion, it's a good place, but I won't travel across town for it. It's just easier to walk to Blair Perrone -- and the meat's about as good. And by the way, their website is just annoying...

Food: B
Atmosphere: C+
For Lone Diners: C+