Good, affordable steak can be hard to find in Hong Kong, but Porterhouse’s Beef It Up menu ($528/person), which is offered on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, is quite a steal of a price for a steakhouse in Central and a great option to satisfy your steak cravings.
Offering five different cuts of beef, the special menu gives guests the chance to enjoy a mix of Italian Marango and Australian Black Angus beef. It’s a fuss-free and simple menu to cure those beginning-of-the-week blues. Did I mention that if you finish the first platter of steak, there’s a second platter waiting? Haven’t seen THAT at a steakhouse in Central before…
Dinner began with beef consommé, which was subtle and not too salty, with bits of oxtail and herbs in the soup.
There are three starter choices: beef tartare, braised ox tongue and Porterhouse Caesar salad. Although great for sharing, these dishes were on the predictable side. I opted for the Marango tartare, which was fresh and lightly marinated, while my SO chose the Caesar salad, which was well dressed and not too garlicky.
A selection of different salts, peppers and mustards was next brought to our table, followed by a wooden board that showcased the beef. Sides were included and consisted of creamy mashed potato, green salad and French fries.
The five beef cuts – topside, brisket, flank, picanha rump and sirloin – were sliced into thin pieces, each cooked using a different technique. Our favourite was the sirloin, which was perfectly grilled, with the edges charred and the flesh super tender. The roast topside came second. Both the sirloin and topside were cooked medium rare and were a little on the chewy side. The brisket was barbecued and a little dry, the grilled flank was tender and the rump was stir-fried and a bit tough.
Scoops of creamy mango and chocolate gelato were served immediately after, with cookie crumbs sitting at the bottom of the bowl. I had hoped for a few more dessert choices beyond ice cream – this seemed boring. But, hey, Porterhouse did well with its simple menu, which was the aim.
Verdict
It can be hard for a steakhouse to diversify beyond beef and potatoes, but Porterhouse’s Beef It Up menu is straightforward yet considered with its choices. An additional 30% off any wine above $700 is included if you decide to get a bottle with dinner.
It was fun to be spoiled with different cuts of beef, but I hope the starter and dessert choices are expanded. Next time if I’m really, really hungry, I’ll come here and accept the second platter challenge.
7/F, California Tower, 30–32 D’Aguilar Street, LKF, Central, 2522 6366, click here to book online
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