Walking along West 58th Street in New York City, you might easily miss Quality Meats. Its understated facade blends seamlessly with the surrounding buildings. However, stepping through its heavy wooden doors is like entering a different world. The interior immediately captivates with its warm, industrial-chic aesthetic, a striking combination of wood, steel, and marble that evokes a sense of awe and sophisticated comfort. While the ambiance alone is worth noting, the true star of Quality Meats is, undoubtedly, the exceptional food.
Rosemary Rolls at Quality Meats, a must-try appetizer in Midtown Manhattan
Before even perusing the menu, we were treated to a delightful surprise: a small cast-iron pan filled with freshly baked rosemary rolls. These weren’t just any rolls; they were fragrant pillows of dough, infused with the invigorating scent of warm rosemary and a delicate sprinkle of sea salt. The aroma alone was intoxicating, and the taste? Simply heavenly. Resisting the urge to ask for seconds (or thirds!) proved to be a testament to our willpower, as we knew we had a full meal ahead.
Fragrant rosemary rolls served in a cast iron pan at Quality Meats restaurant in New York
For our appetizer, we shared the Crab and Avocado Salad – a refreshing and generous portion for $13. The plate arrived adorned with succulent, sweet crabmeat, artfully arranged atop thinly sliced tomatoes. This vibrant base was then crowned with creamy, buttery avocado slices and subtly enhanced with a drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil. It was an explosion of fresh flavors and textures that disappeared from the plate far too quickly. Take our advice: if you are ordering this as a starter, consider doubling the order, especially if you’re sharing.
Delicious Crab and Avocado Salad at Quality Meats, a fresh starter option
Close-up of Crab and Avocado Salad showing layers of crab, avocado, and tomato at Quality Meats NYC
Despite numerous recommendations for the Aged Bone-in Sirloin, I opted for the Filet Mignon. At $34 for 10 ounces, it seemed the perfect lunch portion compared to the 18-ounce sirloin. My choice proved to be excellent. The filet arrived perfectly cooked on a scorching hot plate, simply presented and unadorned. Initially, the simplicity felt underwhelming, but this changed instantly as our server approached with a cart. Right before our eyes, they proceeded to prepare Quality Meats’ signature house-made steak sauce tableside. This unexpected and captivating presentation elevated the dining experience to a new level of sophistication.
Creamy Corn Crème Brûlée dessert at Quality Meats restaurant in New York City
However, even the expertly cooked steak was eclipsed by the Corn Crème Brûlée. This side dish is an absolute revelation. Sweet corn kernels are folded into a silky smooth custard, baked to perfection, and then torched to create a beautifully blistered and browned sugar crust. The combination of textures and sweet, savory flavors was simply divine. One bite was enough to declare it love at first taste. Sharing my leftovers later, the reaction was equally enthusiastic, with a demand to learn how to recreate this dish at home.
Close-up of Corn Crème Brûlée with caramelized sugar crust and sweet corn kernels at Quality Meats
Quality Meats, located at 57 West 58th Street in New York, NY 10019, is more than just a steakhouse; it’s a culinary destination. From the warm rosemary rolls to the unforgettable Corn Crème Brûlée, every dish is crafted with quality ingredients and presented with finesse. Whether it’s a special occasion or a desire for an exceptional meal, Quality Meats on West 58th Street is undoubtedly worth a visit. For reservations, call (212) 371-7777 or book online. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this unassuming gem in Midtown Manhattan.