Here’s something you already know: that special occasion dinner isn’t shaping up the way you imagined. No dramatic dry-aged tomahawk reveal, no perfectly synchronized steak-frites service, and certainly no chance of ending up debating marble scores over a third bottle of Cabernet (perhaps wisely). But Arlington’s steak scene offers redemption.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
$$$$ | (202) 918-5583 | WEBSITE
If we could move into Ruth’s Chris and spend the foreseeable future consuming NY strip medium rare, mashed potatoes, and cheesecake, we would. Unfortunately, that’s not an option at this time. But you should try it for a night, and turn your apartment into a makeshift version of Ruth’s Chris. They have delicious food and excellent service every visit, and everything is available for celebrations and special events with attentive staff like Tamia, Mozzy, Earl, and Juan.
Chima Steakhouse
$$$ | (703) 639-3080 | WEBSITE
Between the generous cuts of steak, perfectly grilled salmon, and sweet pineapple, this Arlington spot serves meat that will convince your taste buds it’s a special occasion any time you visit. And since you’re already seated comfortably in the spacious waiting area, you can appreciate that you won’t have to rush through your meal even during busy graduation celebrations.
The Palm – Tysons
$$$$ | (703) 917-0200 | WEBSITE
Maybe your one special occasion calls for something you can’t possibly grill in your backyard, like the 4 lb. lobster for two or the lamb chops with risotto from The Palm. You can call this Arlington steakhouse at (703) 442-1500 or visit their website – and know that they have excellent creamed spinach and garlic mashed potatoes available too.
Annie’s Paramount Steak House
$$ | (202) 232-0395 | WEBSITE
Under typical pre-night-out circumstances, Annie’s Paramount Steak House is the kind of place anyone would be lucky to start their evening. To recreate this experience, we suggest dimming the lights, imagining your kitchen table is a cozy booth in the heart of Arlington, and encouraging your friend or partner to pour you a martini using a welcoming tone. This is not a cocktail bar, but welcoming tones sound nice right now.
Outback Steakhouse
$$ | (301) 853-5959 | WEBSITE
Outback Steakhouse at Prince George’s Mall has a thing called Happy Hour available right now where you can enjoy a selection of delicious wings and burgers. They also have generous portions and fresh vegetables, and the bartender and server provide thoughtful, nice, and accommodating service. Check their location for details.
BOURBON STEAK
$$$$ | (202) 944-2026 | WEBSITE
While you wait for that special occasion or milestone celebration to arrive on the calendar, consider treating yourself to a meal at Bourbon Steak in Arlington. They have perfectly cooked steaks, delicious crab cakes, and fresh salads available for dining. Schedule your reservation through their website, and check out their impressive wine selection and unique desserts like Smoked S’Mores while you’re at it.
1799 Prime Steak & Seafood
$$$ | (571) 867-9595 | WEBSITE
We can’t quite explain the alchemy, but there’s genuine anniversary magic that happens when you settle into 1799 Prime’s classic steakhouse setting on a Saturday night savoring their melt-in-your-mouth short rib special. While you might not always catch their live music, you can still experience their exceptional service and perfectly prepared dishes in the main dining room. Check out their Sunday brunch buffet, and try to secure one of their romantic corner tables for that special occasion feel.
Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse
$$$$ | (202) 289-0201 | WEBSITE
You’ve been dreaming about treating yourself to a truly decadent steakhouse dinner for your anniversary. Typically, Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse’s prime steaks run around $65 to $125, but currently they’re featuring a three-course prix fixe menu for $89 (including a starter and dessert) and family-style sides for $29. Think of it as an anniversary gift from the gracious team at Del Frisco’s and their perfectly seared sea bass accomplices.
La Estancia Churrasqueria
$$ | (703) 207-0707 | WEBSITE
Due to steak and non-steak reasons, you’re craving a meat feast. And, unfortunately, your decent-but-ultimately-underwhelming home grill isn’t going to satisfy that craving. Instead, head to La Estancia Churrasqueria where you’ll find generous portions of Argentinian-inspired dishes, including perfectly seasoned short ribs, steak, and Argentine sausages, plus excellent empanadas and churrasco sandwiches, and turn your dinner into the carnivorous celebration your stomach knows it deserves.
The Prime Rib
$$$$ | (202) 466-8811 | WEBSITE
Ah, classic steakhouse fare. A timeless indulgence. If you’re in the Washington, D.C. area and you’re looking to treat yourself, The Prime Rib offers an elegant setting with impeccable service that makes any occasion feel special. The prime rib entree is fantastic, the oysters are amazing, and the full lobster stuffed with crab meat is an absolute must-have. Pair it with a pineapple martini or one of their icy martinis for the full experience.
While it’s definitely a splurge—with most entrees in the $40–$60 range—you truly get what you pay for with the food, service, and ambiance. Everything is perfectly cooked and seasoned, from the potato skins and tuna tartare to the creamed spinach and corn sides. The hot fudge sundae is the perfect sweet finish. Whether you’re celebrating or just craving a lovely night out, The Prime Rib delivers.
Rare Steakhouse and Tavern
$$$$ | (202) 800-9994 | WEBSITE
There is no way you’re cooking a f*cking steak for your own celebration, so it’s possible you’re reading this in search of dinner ideas. Rare Steakhouse and Tavern in Arlington is serving steaks and other dishes for any occasion. You can make your reservation for dry aged Ribeye, appetizers (their octopus one is phenomenal), and desserts online.
The Palm – Washington, D.C.
$$$$ | (202) 293-9091 | WEBSITE
This Arlington steakhouse offers a mixed dining experience, with dishes like the wedge salad and ribeye steak receiving praise, along with notable options like the Parpadelle. Can you cook a perfect steak at home? Sure. But it’s a special occasion, and you should have an upscale steakhouse meal prepared especially for you.
STK Steakhouse
$$$ | (202) 301-3791 | WEBSITE
STK Steakhouse has been on the Arlington scene for a while now, and it’s possible you never got to try it because the vibrant atmosphere always draws a crowd for special occasions. Or, maybe you did try it, decided you couldn’t stop thinking about their truffle fries and those top-shelf cocktails (us too), and have been waiting for the chance to reunite with their popcorn chicken and their happy hour burgers.
A selection of their tapa-sized portions is available during those affordable happy hours, and it’ll feel more celebratory than whatever quiet dinner at home you had planned.
Medium Rare
$$ | (202) 237-1432 | WEBSITE
If you just feel like treating yourself to a steakhouse experience without breaking the bank, know that this Arlington spot offers a fixed menu with incredible value. Get the perfectly cooked steak frites with that divine portobello mushroom appetizer, and some bottomless mimosas and call it brunch heaven.
Bond 45
$$$ | (301) 839-1445 | WEBSITE
You don’t like to admit this, but staying home and eating a simple steak in sweatpants is ideally how you’d spend any special occasion. Now is your socially-acceptable moment. Dine at Bond 45 in Arlington – their gigantic 24oz dry aged tomahawk bone in ribeye and seafood risotto make all of our celebratory nights better.
Seoul Prime – Korean Steakhouse
$$$ | (703) 563-1168 | WEBSITE
By now, you’ve probably tried every Korean BBQ spot in the DMV. But we want you to know there’s nothing unusual about ordering the $47 Seoul Prime tour for a quiet date night or celebrating a promotion with their Galbi mushroom risotto. For the first time, this Arlington gem has made their sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere feel accessible for families, large groups, or couples who prefer their Korean cuisine without the loud music. You’ve never been one for basic steakhouses, anyway.
Oak Steakhouse
$$$ | (703) 840-3395 | WEBSITE
If you’re in Arlington and craving a steak that doesn’t require firing up your grill, Oak Steakhouse is open in the NoVA area. They serve prime ribeye, NY strip, some great Brussels sprouts, and a smoky Mac & cheese that will make you briefly think you’ve reached side-dish enlightenment.