The Mouth-Watering Prime Rib At This Classic California Steakhouse Is Worth The Drive
Last weekend, I finally made the pilgrimage to Lawry’s The Prime Rib in Beverly Hills, and boy, was it worth every mile!
This iconic California steakhouse has been serving up some of the juiciest, most tender prime rib since 1938.
The moment you walk through those doors, the rich aroma of perfectly roasted beef hits you like a delicious tidal wave, making your stomach growl in anticipation.
1. Serving Legendary Prime Rib Since 1938
I couldn’t believe my eyes when I learned that Lawry’s has been slicing up beefy perfection for over 80 years! The restaurant’s dedication to their craft shows in every succulent bite.
What started as a bold venture during the Great Depression has evolved into a culinary landmark that’s hosted everyone from Hollywood royalty to regular folks celebrating special occasions. Their time-honored recipe hasn’t changed much since those early days.
The founders, Lawrence Frank and Walter Van de Kamp, pioneered the focused menu concept – doing one thing and doing it spectacularly well. This laser focus on prime rib excellence has kept generations of families coming back for more.
2. The Art Of Tableside Carving
My jaw dropped when our server wheeled over the famous silver cart – a gleaming chariot of meaty goodness! Each massive roast is carved right before your eyes by master carvers in traditional outfits, complete with tall chef’s hats that made me feel like I’d stepped back in time.
The carver asked my preference – ‘How would you like your prime rib?’ – before skillfully slicing exactly what I wanted. The ceremony of it all adds an extra layer of anticipation that modern restaurants rarely capture.
You can choose from different cuts including the California Cut (thinner), the English Cut (three thin slices), the Diamond Jim Brady (extra thick), or my choice, the Lawry’s Cut (their standard thickness).
3. Signature Seasonings And Perfectly Roasted Beef
Holy flavor explosion! The first bite of that prime rib nearly brought tears to my eyes. Their signature seasoning blend – the same one that inspired the famous Lawry’s Seasoned Salt you see in grocery stores – creates a perfectly seasoned crust that locks in all those beefy juices.
Each prime rib is slow-roasted for hours in rock salt, which draws out impurities while sealing in moisture. The result? Meat so tender you barely need a knife, with that perfect pink center gradient from edge to edge.
Fun fact: I learned they use only USDA prime beef that’s aged for maximum flavor and tenderness. No wonder their prime rib has a buttery texture that melts in your mouth like beefy cotton candy!
4. Elegant Ambience In The Heart Of Beverly Hills
Stepping into Lawry’s feels like time-traveling to a more sophisticated era. The dining room knocked my socks off with its rich wood paneling, crystal chandeliers, and plush red leather booths that practically begged me to sink in and stay awhile.
White-jacketed servers glide between tables with the kind of old-school professionalism that’s becoming increasingly rare. The buzz of conversation, the clink of crystal, and the occasional gasp when a particularly impressive cut of meat rolls by creates an atmosphere of celebratory indulgence.
Located on La Cienega’s Restaurant Row, the restaurant’s prime Beverly Hills location adds to the feeling that you’re treating yourself to something special – a true California dining institution.
5. From Special Occasions To Everyday Indulgence
“Happy anniversary!” echoed from a nearby table as I savored my creamy mashed potatoes. I quickly realized Lawry’s isn’t just a restaurant – it’s where memories are made. For decades, Californians have marked milestones here, from first dates to retirement celebrations.
The sides deserve their own standing ovation – their famous spinning bowl salad prepared tableside with dramatic flair, Yorkshire pudding that soaks up the savory au jus, and whipped cream horseradish that delivers the perfect spicy kick to complement the rich meat.
Sure, the 90-minute drive from San Diego made me question my sanity initially, but after that meal? I’m already planning my return trip. Some experiences are worth the journey, and this beefy paradise tops that list!