12 Florida Steakhouse Chains Locals Promise Are Worth Every Penny
Steak in Florida is more than a meal, it’s a tradition of sizzling grills, bold flavors, and unforgettable nights out.
While plenty of big names crowd the spotlight, locals know exactly which steakhouses truly deliver on quality and experience.
From perfectly seared ribeyes to melt-in-your-mouth filet mignon, these chains have built a loyal following.
They aren’t just places to eat, they’re spots where dinner feels like an occasion, and every dollar spent tastes completely justified.
1. Outback Steakhouse: Australian Flair Meets Florida Flavor
Born right here in Tampa, Outback isn’t just another chain—it’s practically Florida royalty! Their Bloomin’ Onion appetizer has reached legendary status among locals who swear by it.
The reasonably priced steaks come perfectly seasoned with their signature 17-spice blend.
Floridians particularly love the Queensland Chicken & Ribs combo for those who can’t decide between land and sea.
Pro tip: Ask for the off-menu ‘Walkabout Soup’ – a velvety cheese creation that loyal patrons have been ordering for decades.
2. LongHorn Steakhouse: Where Western Heritage Meets Eastern Coastal Flavors
Stepping into LongHorn feels like entering a rustic ranch house, complete with Western décor that somehow fits perfectly along Florida’s coastline.
Their Flo’s Filet stands as their crown jewel—tender enough to cut with just your fork.
Florida locals rave about the Outlaw Ribeye, a bone-in masterpiece that satisfies even the heartiest appetites.
The complimentary hot bread with butter starts your meal on the right note.
Sunday through Thursday, early birds catch impressive specials between 3-5pm that won’t break the bank.
3. Texas Roadhouse: Hand-Cut Steaks That Make Floridians Forget About Seafood
Fresh-baked rolls slathered with honey cinnamon butter greet you before you’ve even settled into your seat. Each location hand-cuts steaks daily, ensuring peak freshness that Florida customers consistently praise.
Locals swear the Fall-Off-The-Bone Ribs actually live up to their name. The lively atmosphere includes line-dancing servers who break into choreographed routines while you dine.
Unlike many chains, Texas Roadhouse lets you handpick your specific steak from their display case—a personal touch that elevates the entire experience.
4. Ruth’s Chris Steak House: Sizzling Plates That Define Special Occasions
Butter-sizzling platters create that unmistakable sound announcing your steak’s arrival.
Every Ruth’s Chris location maintains strict 1,800-degree broiling temperatures—the secret behind their signature sear that Florida’s discerning steak lovers adore.
Their Orlando and West Palm Beach locations rank among locals’ favorite spots for milestone celebrations. The sweet potato casserole surprisingly steals the spotlight from many side dishes.
Reservation tip: Request a table away from high-traffic areas for the most intimate experience, especially at their Naples waterfront location.
5. Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar: Wine Country Meets Cattle Country
Boasting a wine list longer than some novels, Fleming’s pairs perfect vintages with prime cuts.
Their signature aged steaks undergo a careful dry-aging process that intensifies flavor profiles in ways that have won over Florida’s most particular carnivores.
Happy hour at Fleming’s Bar offers one of the best-kept secrets in Florida dining—the Prime Burger with incredible value. Their tableside presentation of desserts creates Instagram-worthy moments.
Fleming’s Jacksonville and Sarasota locations feature local seafood additions that complement their beef options beautifully.
6. The Capital Grille: Old-World Elegance With New-World Flavors
Mahogany paneling and art deco touches create an atmosphere of refined indulgence at Capital Grille.
Their 24-hour dry-aged steaks develop complex flavor notes that have converted many Florida seafood devotees into steak enthusiasts.
Locals specifically recommend the porcini-rubbed bone-in ribeye with aged balsamic. Their sommelier program stands out among chain restaurants, offering personalized wine pairings that elevate every bite.
The generous pour wine program lets you sample multiple premium vintages without committing to full bottles—a feature frequent patrons particularly appreciate.
7. Morton’s The Steakhouse: Chicago Tradition With Florida Flair
Famous for their theatrical tableside menu presentation, Morton’s servers wheel out raw cuts for your inspection before cooking.
Their legendary hot chocolate cake requires 30-minutes advance ordering—a wait that Florida regulars insist is absolutely worthwhile.
Morton’s bar area offers a power hour with discounted prime burgers that locals use as an affordable entry point to luxury dining. Their Miami location remains a celebrity hotspot during certain seasons.
The bacon-wrapped scallops starter has developed such a following that some regulars order it as their main course with a side of their famous creamed spinach.
8. Texas de Brazil: Endless Meat Paradise For Serious Carnivores
Gauchos wielding skewers of fire-roasted meats parade through the dining room in this Brazilian steakhouse spectacle.
The green/red coaster system puts diners in control—flip to green and prepare for a protein parade; flip to red for a much-needed break.
Orlando locals particularly love their expansive salad bar featuring imported cheeses and charcuterie. Their house-special picanha (top sirloin) captures the authentic flavors of Brazil.
Regulars recommend saving room for the caramelized bananas dessert that provides the perfect sweet finish to a meat-centric feast.
9. Fogo de Chão: Brazilian Steakhouse That Conquered Florida Hearts
Unlimited tableside carved meats create a carnivore’s dream at this authentic churrascaria. Their distinctive gaucho service style originated from Brazilian cooking traditions dating back centuries.
Florida locations feature seafood additions that complement their traditional offerings.
The Market Table offers an impressive array of fresh salads, imported cheeses, and cured meats that could stand alone as a meal.
Locals recommend the “Full Churrasco Experience” for first-timers, but savvy regulars often opt for the more affordable lunch pricing for essentially the same feast.
10. Charley’s Steak House: Florida’s Homegrown Steak Legend
Wood-fired grills impart a distinctive smoky essence that’s become Charley’s signature.
Their steaks undergo a complex four-step cooking process that includes open flame grilling over Florida citrus and oak woods.
Orlando visitors often miss this local gem while chasing theme park dining, but Floridians know it’s worth the trip.
Their tableside Caesar salad preparation has remained unchanged for decades—because perfection needs no updates.
Request a seat near the open kitchen to watch flame-kissed steaks being prepared by chefs who treat cooking as performance art.
11. Shula’s Steak House: Where Football Legend Meets Culinary Excellence
Football memorabilia decorates the walls of this upscale chain founded by Dolphins coaching legend Don Shula.
Their famous 48-ounce porterhouse challenge has tempted countless Florida diners—finish it solo and join the elite “48-oz Club” with your name displayed forever.
Naples and Miami locations enjoy particularly strong local followings. The football-shaped chocolate soufflé scores points with dessert lovers who appreciate the playful nod to Shula’s sports legacy.
Their SHULA CUT® steaks undergo a proprietary aging process that ensures consistent marbling and tenderness across all locations.
12. Saltgrass Steak House: Gulf Coast Flavor With Texas Attitude
Named after the coastal marsh areas where cattle once grazed on salt grass (giving their meat a distinctive flavor), this chain delivers Texas-sized portions.
Their certified Angus beef steaks come topped with garlic butter that slowly melts into the hot meat. Florida locations feature seafood additions to their traditional steakhouse menu.
Their legendary homemade beer bread arrives warm at your table with honey butter that locals sometimes request extra portions of.
Happy hour features Texas-sized margaritas that pair perfectly with their Range Rattlers (jalapeños stuffed with shrimp and cheese, then wrapped in bacon).