When it comes to ordering a steak, there’s nothing quite like the excitement of choosing the perfect cut. But with options like filet mignon, ribeye, and New York strip on the menu, you might be wondering which one to pick. Each cut offers a unique experience in terms of flavor, tenderness, and texture. At GOODWIN – The Steak House, we want to help you make the best choice for your next meal. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between these classic cuts so you can enjoy your steak just the way you like it.
Filet Mignon: The Tender King
Filet mignon is often called the “king of steaks” for a reason: it’s one of the most tender cuts you’ll ever find. This cut comes from the tenderloin, a small, lean muscle that doesn’t get much exercise, making the meat incredibly soft. Let’s dive into what makes filet mignon stand out.
Key Qualities of Filet Mignon
- Tenderness: Filet mignon is famous for its melt-in-your-mouth texture. Since the tenderloin muscle doesn’t work very hard, the meat stays soft and delicate.
- Flavor: Filet mignon is mild in flavor compared to other cuts. Its leanness means it doesn’t have the same rich, beefy taste as a ribeye, for instance. But this subtle flavor is perfect if you prefer a clean, simple taste.
- Size and Shape: Filet mignon is typically smaller and rounder than other cuts. It’s a good choice if you want a smaller portion without sacrificing quality.
Best Way to Enjoy Filet Mignon At GOODWIN – The Steak House, we recommend cooking filet mignon to medium-rare. This allows the meat to stay tender and juicy. Often, a simple seasoning of salt and pepper is all it needs, though it pairs wonderfully with a rich sauce or even wrapped in bacon for added flavor.
Filet mignon is ideal if you’re seeking a delicate, elegant steak that’s easy to enjoy without any intense flavors. It’s a great choice for date nights or special occasions when you want something extra luxurious.
Ribeye: The Flavorful Choice
If you’re after bold flavors and juicy, well-marbled meat, then the ribeye is the cut for you. Known for its rich marbling (fat that runs throughout the meat), the ribeye delivers a flavor-packed experience like no other. Here’s why ribeye is so popular among steak lovers.
Key Qualities of Ribeye
- Flavor: Ribeye is packed with beefy flavor, thanks to its high fat content. The marbling helps keep the meat juicy as it cooks, making each bite incredibly flavorful.
- Marbling: Marbling refers to the white streaks of fat within the meat, and ribeye has plenty of it. As the steak cooks, the fat melts, which enhances its flavor and makes the meat moist.
- Tenderness: While ribeye isn’t as tender as filet mignon, it’s still soft enough to be enjoyed easily. The fat content helps give it a luxurious mouthfeel and a pleasant chew.
Best Way to Enjoy Ribeye At GOODWIN, we suggest cooking ribeye to a medium or medium-rare level to allow the fat to melt and infuse the meat with flavor. The ribeye is also fantastic with a simple salt and pepper seasoning or with a bolder rub to complement its strong taste. Ribeye is perfect for anyone looking to savor a steak with intense flavors and a juicy bite, making it great for both solo dining and celebratory meals.
New York Strip: The Best of Both Worlds
The New York strip, sometimes known as the strip steak, sits between the filet mignon and ribeye in terms of flavor and tenderness. Cut from the loin, the New York strip is leaner than the ribeye but has a bit more chew than the filet mignon, giving you a balanced experience.
Key Qualities of New York Strip
- Flavor: The New York strip is known for its bold, beefy flavor. It doesn’t have as much marbling as the ribeye, so the taste is strong but not as fatty.
- Texture: With a firm yet tender texture, the New York strip has a satisfying chew that steak lovers enjoy. It’s not as tender as filet mignon, but it’s still easy to cut through and enjoy.
- Fat Cap: Many New York strips have a thin layer of fat on one edge, which adds flavor as it cooks and helps keep the meat juicy.
Best Way to Enjoy New York Strip New York strip steaks are best enjoyed at medium-rare to medium doneness, which keeps the meat tender and juicy without overcooking it. Like the other cuts, a simple seasoning lets the meat’s natural flavor shine. For a classic steakhouse feel, you can’t go wrong with a New York strip. It’s a balanced choice for those who want a combination of tenderness and flavor.
Which Cut Should You Choose?
Now that you know more about these three cuts, here are a few tips on choosing the one that’s right for you.
- If You Prefer Tenderness Over Flavor: Filet mignon is the best choice if you want the softest, most delicate steak. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a subtle, melt-in-your-mouth experience without a lot of fat or strong flavors.
- If You Love Rich, Bold Flavors: Ribeye is your go-to steak if you’re a flavor enthusiast. The marbling in ribeye ensures every bite is packed with juicy, beefy goodness. It’s a great pick if you enjoy a bit of fat and don’t mind a steak with some chew.
- If You Want a Balance of Flavor and Texture: New York strip offers the best of both worlds. It’s tender with just enough fat for flavor, making it a good middle ground between filet mignon and ribeye. This cut is versatile and suits almost any occasion.
Elevate Your Steak Experience at GOODWIN – The Steak House
At GOODWIN – The Steak House, we’re passionate about offering the finest cuts of steak, prepared to bring out the best in each. Whether you choose filet mignon, ribeye, or New York strip, each steak is carefully sourced and cooked to perfection by our talented chefs. And don’t forget to pair your steak with wine to complete your meal.
Each of these cuts brings something unique to the table. So next time you’re planning a dinner restaurant in Geneva, you can make an informed choice, knowing exactly what to expect. We invite you to explore these different cuts and find the one that best satisfies your taste.
Whether you’re a fan of the melt-in-your-mouth filet mignon, the flavorful and juicy ribeye, or the classic New York strip, choosing the right steak can elevate your dining experience. Our menu features these delicious cuts, allowing you to enjoy steak exactly the way you like it.
At GOODWIN – The Steak House, we’re not only about exceptional steaks but also about providing a complete dining experience that suits every occasion, including business lunches. Our midday menu offers a refined selection of steaks and lighter options, perfect for a productive, satisfying meal. To complement your steak, we offer a curated list of special drinks, from fine wines and classic cocktails to unique in-house creations, ensuring there’s a perfect pairing for every palate.
For a seamless dining experience, we recommend making a reservation in advance—simply contact us through our website or give us a call to reserve your table. Whether it’s a business lunch, a celebratory dinner, or a cozy night out, GOODWIN is here to make your dining experience exceptional.
So bring your appetite, make your choice, and let us serve you a steak dinner you won’t soon forget.
