Chop House - First and last time.

[drbales]

Went there last night with party of five. While the service was very good the food was not at all. Filet had to be returned - ordered med rare and was served well done. Why it ever was allowed to leave the kitchen is beyond me. Took forever to be replaced. When meals were being placed on the table we were informed at that time that they had no more baked potatoes. Replaced with mashed. not what we had in mind. Overall bill with dinner, drinks and tip $375. Not the quality expected or delivered. NO plans to ever return.

[billethkid]

What did the manager/person in charge have to say?

[Garywt]

We went once and that was it for us. The price verses everything else was not worth it. To many other places to eat than to return to a place that didn’t do it for us.

[Number 10 GI]

Don't complain here, ask for the manager right then and there. How can a manager be expected to maintain quality service if he doesn't get feedback? If I don't receive the service or quality of food I'm paying for I always get the manager and air my complaint. I also ask for the manager if I get excellent service/food and tell him/her how much I appreciate it. Remember, the squeaky wheel gets the grease.

[salpal]

To each his own, but I Love the Chop House, have never had bad service nor a bad meal. While a bit more pricey than the chain restaurants we have all over, my personal opinion is that it is worth it for a great meal.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

I’m there 5 or 6 times a month, never had a problem or know anyone that did , but it happens , if you had brought it to attention of management I’m sure they would have done something for you

[coralway]

To each his own, but I Love the Chop House, have never had bad service nor a bad meal. While a bit more pricey than the chain restaurants we have all over, my personal opinion is that it is worth it for a great meal.





Ditto - love the place. Great food and just as great service. A tad pricey? Yes, but nowadays most places are

[Babubhat]

Management has always taken care of any issues on the spot

[npwalters]

Management has always taken care of any issues on the spot

The sign of a good restaurant is one that does not require intervention by the manager after a problem. Hopefully he has set an atmosphere and service model that gets it right from the beginning.

[tophcfa]

We enjoy the Chop House, but last time there was a new menu and our go to dinners were no longer available and the price increases were very substantial. It is now only a couple times a year special occasion type of place.

[Garywt]

I’m there 5 or 6 times a month, never had a problem or know anyone that did , but it happens , if you had brought it to attention of management I’m sure they would have done something for you

We generally don’t eat out 5-6 times a month, never mind 5-6 times at the same restaurant. In 2020 we only went out 3 times, eating outside each time. This year we have been out maybe a half dozen times.

[Babubhat]

So the manager is tasting food before it’s served? Makes no sense.

[JSR22]

We eat therE 1 to 2 times every week. Never had a bad meal and the service is always great. They always have at least 2 managers on the floor. You should have spoken to a manager instead of complaining on TOTV.

[DeanFL]

.
.
We were there last night, 2 couples. Service was fantastic - his name was Cyril. Very professional - perfect. We had 2 orders of lamb shank, 1 of Sea Bass, 1 Pork medallions. Each was GREAT. 2 managers stopped by at various times to ensure all was good.

Could not have been better.
.
.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

We generally don’t eat out 5-6 times a month, never mind 5-6 times at the same restaurant. In 2020 we only went out 3 times, eating outside each time. This year we have been out maybe a half dozen times. am I supposed to feel guilty or something , I never cook , never , the last time I turned on a stove was before I got my first Keurig a very long time ago and had to boil water for instant coffees , I spent money foolishly when I didn’t have it and I spend even more foolishly when I do have enough

[Nucky]

I had the same experience as the OP some time back and got ripped on here for mentioning it. The meal sucked. Fortunately, it was just one time and we were going there a whole lot until Covid hit. Not ready yet.

I wouldn't give up on the place from one bad experience.

[kathyspear]

am I supposed to feel guilty or something , I never cook , never , the last time I turned on a stove was before I got my first Keurig a very long time ago and had to boil water for instant coffees , I spent money foolishly when I didn’t have it and I spend even more foolishly when I do have enough

Good for you, Charlie. We eat out almost every night because we don't like to cook OR clean up. To each his own, right?

Never been to the Chop House but we'll be going soon to celebrate a relative's milestone birthday. I notice on the menu that all the steaks are "market priced". What are the going market prices for their steaks these days? Thx.

kathy

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Well the last one I had was $54 I think and please folks I know there are people starving everywhere and I help more then many lol Go Dodgers FYI I never clean either lol

[kathyspear]

Well the last one I had was $54 I think and please folks I know there are people starving everywhere and I help more then many lol Go Dodgers FYI I never clean either lol

Yeah, I figured they would be in the 40's or 50's. Looking forward to that dinner! Thx.

k.

[Garywt]

am I supposed to feel guilty or something , I never cook , never , the last time I turned on a stove was before I got my first Keurig a very long time ago and had to boil water for instant coffees , I spent money foolishly when I didn’t have it and I spend even more foolishly when I do have enough
No reason to feel guilty. With COVID I have been unable to eat out plus eating out isn’t a favorite of my wife. If I was eating out more I prefer restaurants with more variety, we found the menu very limiting for us with what we like. Also we had other issues when there, table issues, spilling water and more.

[Garywt]

We eat therE 1 to 2 times every week. Never had a bad meal and the service is always great. They always have at least 2 managers on the floor. You should have spoken to a manager instead of complaining on TOTV.
There is not enough choice on the menu for us to eat there 1-2 times a week. Would rather go to someplace like Texas Roadhouse or the like than the Chop House.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

I go to many different restaurants and if that’s what you wanted to say why the need to play off my post ?? Go Dodgers and anyway it’d all good I never take anything personals do if Dodgers hold the lead I’ll have made enough on the trifecta of astros, Braves and Dodgers to eat out for the next 2 weeks for nothing and with a date lol I rarely eat alone

[Kelevision]

Went there last night with party of five. While the service was very good the food was not at all. Filet had to be returned - ordered med rare and was served well done. Why it ever was allowed to leave the kitchen is beyond me. Took forever to be replaced. When meals were being placed on the table we were informed at that time that they had no more baked potatoes. Replaced with mashed. not what we had in mind. Overall bill with dinner, drinks and tip $375. Not the quality expected or delivered. NO plans to ever return.

Your steak was overcooked, took too long to cook you a new one and you had to eat mashed potatoes instead of baked? So you’re NEVER going back again??? :ohdear: but holy moly, it only cost 375 for 5 people eating steak and drinking drinks? Not sure where you all came from but that’s a steal. I’ve spent that much on only me. I hope you tip at least 20%.

[golfing eagles]

No reason to feel guilty. With COVID I have been unable to eat out plus eating out isn’t a favorite of my wife. If I was eating out more I prefer restaurants with more variety, we found the menu very limiting for us with what we like. Also we had other issues when there, table issues, spilling water and more.

Sorry to hear that you've been that severely ill with COVID for such a long time and unable to get out of your house, get better soon.

[spd2918]

We love the Chop House, especially the brunch specials. I rarely order steak (anywhere) because I know how to make them to my own liking and doneness is subjective.

I find it odd that when one person has a non perfect meal they feel the need to publicly trash a restaurant's reputation instead of bringing it to the attention of management. One cook makes a mistake and suddenly everyone needs to know about it.

How many of you had careers in which a small single mistake would cause others to publicly smear your company?

[JSR22]

There is not enough choice on the menu for us to eat there 1-2 times a week. Would rather go to someplace like Texas Roadhouse or the like than the Chop House.

There are many things we like in the Chop House menu especially the delmonico steak. We went to Texas Road House once and left. Way too noisy and after looking at the menu definitely not the type of food we enjoy.

[golfing eagles]

We love the Chop House, especially the brunch specials. I rarely order steak (anywhere) because I know how to make them to my own liking and doneness is subjective.

I find it odd that when one person has a non perfect meal they feel the need to publicly trash a restaurant's reputation instead of bringing it to the attention of management. One cook makes a mistake and suddenly everyone needs to know about it.

How many of you had careers in which a small single mistake would cause others to publicly smear your company?

I did.

However, I'm with you---have been to Chop House many times and never an issue with the food or the service. Generally the owner comes around to the table and asks how everything was as well, the OP must have avoided that:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[ThirdOfFive]

Went there last night with party of five. While the service was very good the food was not at all. Filet had to be returned - ordered med rare and was served well done. Why it ever was allowed to leave the kitchen is beyond me. Took forever to be replaced. When meals were being placed on the table we were informed at that time that they had no more baked potatoes. Replaced with mashed. not what we had in mind. Overall bill with dinner, drinks and tip $375. Not the quality expected or delivered. NO plans to ever return.
Yikes! My nose would be out of joint too.

A couple of things. First, merchants read TOTV so rest assured that Chop House management is very much aware of your experience. However it is after-the-fact: mentioning your dissatisfaction at the time may have gotten you an adjustment on your bill at the very least. Possibly more.

Second, Monday night pretty much assures that the "B" team was at work. That is something we learned well: for places like Panera or Johnny Rockets that doesn't matter much, but for other places it can, especially in this day of worker shortages. My personal experience has been four times dining at the Lighthouse. Friday and Saturday evenings are great. Tuesday and Wednesday, not so much. I understand that that is not an excuse for poor food or service: the customer pays just as much regardless. But it IS reality.

[Babubhat]

Next time try this to insure perfection. As if restaurants don’t have enough problems.

A COUPLE has been slammed for giving a restaurant a printed list of demands on how to prepare their burgers.

The pair named Alan and Karen was criticised for bringing a bullet-pointed list with detailed instructions for the chef.

[PennBF]

I believe Chops is overpriced and are overcharging based on some believing that if you pay more you get better. Last Saturday had the Lamb Shank dinner and it was more chewy than gum. Did not finish it! They are charging what a meal would cost in Manhattan at some of the most famous restaurants ,( e.e. Kafana's, Bistro Les Amis, etc) and the quality is not near NYC level . NYC prices are around $30 for Lamb shank. Would I go back to Chop's. Probably in the future but would be much more careful as to enure I ordered meals where the quality is much more in line with the price.:ho:

[Chi-Town]

The Chop House here is good but not big city good. More of a suburban place as far as presentation and atmosphere. However, I am happy to have it a golf car ride away and do go there.

[Garywt]

Sorry to hear that you've been that severely ill with COVID for such a long time and unable to get out of your house, get better soon.
I don’t have COVID, just the fact that it is out there I can’t be out in restaurants etc because of my cancer and chemo.

[Garywt]

There are many things we like in the Chop House menu especially the delmonico steak. We went to Texas Road House once and left. Way too noisy and after looking at the menu definitely not the type of food we enjoy.
That is why there are so many restaurants. When we were at the Chop House most of us had the filet as the other steaks were well over $50 a plate. The Texas Roadhouse is great for prime rib and ribeye etc., add a baked potato and I am good…

[golfing eagles]

I don’t have COVID, just the fact that it is out there I can’t be out in restaurants etc because of my cancer and chemo.

I was going to say thank goodness, but didn't want it misinterpreted. But that's a whole lot better than being ill all that time. You can beat it, keep up the good work!!!

[valuemkt]

After I told a friend that the Chop House wasnt my favorite place,he and his wife went there. The next day he said: I should have listened to you. My first "medium rare" steak was a hockey puck, the next one was still mooing, and Iate the medium well third one because I wanted to get the hell out of there. The manager said they had a new cook..Obviously no kitchen supervision and obviously needs Gordon Ramsey to teach him / her how to cook a steak. Special night restaurant visits are in Ocala, Orlando or Tampa.

[coffeebean]

After I told a friend that the Chop House wasnt my favorite place,he and his wife went there. The next day he said: I should have listened to you. My first "medium rare" steak was a hockey puck, the next one was still mooing, and Iate the medium well third one because I wanted to get the hell out of there. The manager said they had a new cook..Obviously no kitchen supervision and obviously needs Gordon Ramsey to teach him / her how to cook a steak. Special night restaurant visits are in Ocala, Orlando or Tampa.

Oh my. Are we asking for trouble going there on Christmas Eve? We are a small group and looking forward to a nice meal in a lovely atmosphere.

[JSR22]

Oh my. Are we asking for trouble going there on Christmas Eve? We are a group and looking forward to a wonderful meal in a lovely atmosphere.

I had dinner and lunch at Chop House last week and both were 100% positive experiences. We have reservations for Thanksgiving.

[coffeebean]

I had dinner and lunch at Chop House last week and both were 100% positive experiences. We have reservations for Thanksgiving.

Please post about your experience on the holiday. Will be looking for your "review". Thanks.

[Ben Franklin]

I had high hopes for the Chop House but, for me, it was no better than Outback in a different setting. But if you like it, then that's all that matters.

[retiredguy123]

I had high hopes for the Chop House but, for me, it was no better than Outback in a different setting. But if you like it, then that's all that matters.
What's wrong with Outback? I like it.

[Stu from NYC]

Oh my. Are we asking for trouble going there on Christmas Eve? We are a small group and looking forward to a nice meal in a lovely atmosphere.

By than the cook should have learned how to cook a steak.

[Stu from NYC]

What's wrong with Outback? I like it.

Went there last year and ordered a burger.

Believe it or not one side was cooked and the other side was raw.

Seems like the cook did not understand that to cook something on a grill you need to put the whole thing on the grill not half on half off. The idea of looking at what he just cooked did not occur to him.

Showed it to the manager and he walked away shaking his head.

[DaleDivine]

What's wrong with Outback? I like it.

Outback is our favorite. I like my steak Pittsburg style and Outback cooks it best.
:bigbow::bigbow:

[retiredguy123]

Went there last year and ordered a burger.

Believe it or not one side was cooked and the other side was raw.

Seems like the cook did not understand that to cook something on a grill you need to put the whole thing on the grill not half on half off. The idea of looking at what he just cooked did not occur to him.

Showed it to the manager and he walked away shaking his head.
Are you sure you didn't order the burger/tartare?

[JSR22]

We eat at ChopHouse weekly and have always had our food cooked to the correct temp we order the Delmonico steak medium rare and have never been disappointed.

[dewilson58]

the other steaks were well over $50 a plate.

Way over priced for the cuts they offer.

[JSR22]

Way over priced for the cuts they offer.

totally disagree the prime 21 day aged Delmonico at 54 is very reasonable. My husband and I split it and it is by far the best steak I have eaten in TV.

[dewilson58]

totally disagree the prime 21 day aged Delmonico at 54 is very reasonable. My husband and I split it and it is by far the best steak I have eaten in TV.

:coolsmiley:

It's all comparative on where the bar is set.

:ho:

[Garywt]

totally disagree the prime 21 day aged Delmonico at 54 is very reasonable. My husband and I split it and it is by far the best steak I have eaten in TV.

I wouldn’t pay $54 for dinner. The one time we ate there we had the filet for $29 I think.

[Topspinmo]

Don’t feel guilty (know you don’t) there lots of people that can’t or won’t cook and eat out everyday. Beside’s way groceries are going up you’re only saving about 1/2 cost of eating out and don’t have to deal with the mess. I hardly never eat out, IMO that’s where you catch what’s going around. But, that’s me.

[Topspinmo]

Way over priced for the cuts they offer.

I brought two steaks at Walmart last week, which I don’t eat often, $44 bucks. At Walmart.

[camaguey48]

Went there last night with party of five. While the service was very good the food was not at all. Filet had to be returned - ordered med rare and was served well done. Why it ever was allowed to leave the kitchen is beyond me. Took forever to be replaced. When meals were being placed on the table we were informed at that time that they had no more baked potatoes. Replaced with mashed. not what we had in mind. Overall bill with dinner, drinks and tip $375. Not the quality expected or delivered. NO plans to ever return.
Once was enough.

[LateBoomer]

Went there last night with party of five. While the service was very good the food was not at all. Filet had to be returned - ordered med rare and was served well done. Why it ever was allowed to leave the kitchen is beyond me. Took forever to be replaced. When meals were being placed on the table we were informed at that time that they had no more baked potatoes. Replaced with mashed. not what we had in mind. Overall bill with dinner, drinks and tip $375. Not the quality expected or delivered. NO plans to ever return.

Chop House is not cheap, but honestly, our meals have always been superb there. Compare it to Prima - the prices for steak were about the same, but the quality was far worse. Chop House may not be the best restaurant in Florida, but it's probably the best one inside TV. It's a problem here. The quality of food for the most part everywhere in TV is just "meh". Chop House and Legacy, to us, are the only ones with very very good meals, but you pay for it too

[JSR22]

I wouldn’t pay $54 for dinner. The one time we ate there we had the filet for $29 I think.

We split it so it is $27 which is cheaper then the filet.

[Ben Franklin]

What's wrong with Outback? I like it.

If you like Outback, then there is nothing wrong with it.

[JSR22]

Please post about your experience on the holiday. Will be looking for your "review". Thanks.

Five of us dined at Chop House in Sumter Landing. They had a special Thanksgiving menu. Three of us ordered the Beef Wellington and all 3 rated it excellent. It was served medium rare with Bordelaise and 2 sides. The other entree's were the Turkey dinner and scallops over risotto. You were able to order dark meat turkey which made my husband happy. My BIL was very happy with his scallop dinner. I ordered the chocolate spoon to go, my favorite dessert on the menu.
Service was perfect. There were plenty of servers and bussers. There were 4 managers working to ensure that all customers were happy. We will definitely be there Christmas Eve.

[swooner]

Don't complain here, ask for the manager right then and there. How can a manager be expected to maintain quality service if he doesn't get feedback? If I don't receive the service or quality of food I'm paying for I always get the manager and air my complaint. I also ask for the manager if I get excellent service/food and tell him/her how much I appreciate it. Remember, the squeaky wheel gets the grease.

If the Manager was worth a lick he would know what’s happening before people need to complain. Why wait till after dinner to tell the Manager he is doing a sloppy job that enables such problems to happen.

[JSR22]

If the Manager was worth a lick he would know what’s happening before people need to complain. Why wait till after dinner to tell the Manager he is doing a sloppy job that enables such problems to happen.

There managers are excellent. They are always on the floor talking to customers. They are not mind readers. Communication is essential!

[kkingston57]

Recently we went to Codys in Lake Sumter and food was not cooked properly. We discussed with manager and she worked with us.

Noted you wanted a medium rare steak. Cooked entire life and worked as cook in restaurant for 2 years and this is one of the hardest to reach. Recently had several problems with food ordered rare and it was well done. You can not undue overcooked but you can re cook something underdone.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

I enjoy Chop House, Blue Fin,Legacy and Bone fish , not just for the food but for the good service and the ambiance of the places , Bone Fish is like a second home for me stopping in many nights after 9 for burger , I’m home in Boston quite a lot and yes the food maybe different from here but that doesn’t mean that the quality here is lacking , I sometimes wonder if a lot of the people who bad mouth restaurant here actually go to them

[mtdjed]

Good for you, Charlie. We eat out almost every night because we don't like to cook OR clean up. To each his own, right?

Never been to the Chop House but we'll be going soon to celebrate a relative's milestone birthday. I notice on the menu that all the steaks are "market priced". What are the going market prices for their steaks these days? Thx.

kathy

For a steakhouse to have "Market Price" on a menu for a $54 steak is a copout. If their steak is so good as to merit a $54 price, be proud to show the price. I don't think I should have to call a manager to complain about not having baked potatoes and substituting mashed potatoes. If they are so inept that they allow this to happen, they know it and should comp the whole meal.
If they have "B" cooks on Monday night, they know that. If their cooks serve a well-done steak when medium rare was ordered, they have just ruined the whole dining experience, not only for the one person, but the entire party. Suggestions that one should contact the manager instead of mentioning on TOTV may be someone's way of handling the situation, but comping for poor service never changes the dining experience. Quality control after the fact is wrong. Training cooks, servers and managers to do it right is the answer. A server who takes the order should be able to distinguish between medium rare and well done, as should the cook and manager.

Poor service is just that, and if the poster chooses to share that, it is valid even if not brought to managements attention.

[JSR22]

For a steakhouse to have "Market Price" on a menu for a $54 steak is a copout. If their steak is so good as to merit a $54 price, be proud to show the price. I don't think I should have to call a manager to complain about not having baked potatoes and substituting mashed potatoes. If they are so inept that they allow this to happen, they know it and should comp the whole meal.
If they have "B" cooks on Monday night, they know that. If their cooks serve a well-done steak when medium rare was ordered, they have just ruined the whole dining experience, not only for the one person, but the entire party. Suggestions that one should contact the manager instead of mentioning on TOTV may be someone's way of handling the situation, but comping for poor service never changes the dining experience. Quality control after the fact is wrong. Training cooks, servers and managers to do it right is the answer. A server who takes the order should be able to distinguish between medium rare and well done, as should the cook and manager.

Poor service is just that, and if the poster chooses to share that, it is valid even if not brought to managements attention.


Market price is not a cop out with prime meat. The price fluctuates and they are not going to redo their menu's every week. Comping an entire meal because the potato is different is not realistic. Maybe a dessert. I have had the prime aged 21 day Delmonico a half dozen times and it is well worth the price in the low $50s. We eat at Chop House weekly. I think their management and staff are outstanding.

[ChicagoNative]

We recently went to the Chop House for the first time, and expectations were a lot higher than they would be for a more casual place. We loved the atmosphere and the meal was good, but not great. For $54, I expect every bite of my steak to be melt-in-your-mouth delicious without gristle, and the baked potato was slightly undercooked and forgettable. Other sides, desserts, and martinis were superb. I agree about the “market price” gimmick: just stop it!

Just remember that top dollar doesn’t always equate to top quality, even with an upscale ambiance.

That said, would we go back? Yes, but only for a special occasion.

[mtdjed]

Market price is not a cop out with prime meat. The price fluctuates and they are not going to redo their menu's every week. Comping an entire meal because the potato is different is not realistic. Maybe a dessert. I have had the prime aged 21 day Delmonico a half dozen times and it is well worth the price in the low $50s. We eat at Chop House weekly. I think their management and staff are outstanding.

My point is that a good restaurant of that quality should not ever run out of something as simple as a baked potato, should never overcook a steak from medium rare to well done. That ruins the experience. If management allows that, they are not good. If you have to reprint your menu to show actual price, do it. It is a cost of doing business. Like the cost of an insert.

[thelegges]

[I]For a steakhouse to have "Market Price" on a menu for a $54 steak is a copout. If their steak is so good as to merit a $54 price, be proud to show the price. I don't think I should have to call a manager to complain about not having baked potatoes and substituting mashed potatoes. If they are so inept that they allow this to happen, they know it and should comp the whole meal.
If they have "B" cooks on Monday night, they know that. If their cooks serve a well-done steak when medium rare was ordered, they have just ruined the whole dining experience, not only for the one person, but the entire party. Suggestions that one should contact the manager instead of mentioning on TOTV may be someone's way of handling the situation, but comping for poor service never changes the dining experience. Quality control after the fact is wrong. Training cooks, servers and managers to do it right is the answer. A server who takes the order should be able to distinguish between medium rare and well done, as should the cook and manager.

Poor service is just that, and if the poster chooses to share that, it is valid even if not brought to managements attention.

So you want your server to use a thermometer, place their finger on your steak to feel how the steak bounces back, and then have the manger do the same all before you cut into the steak. Or is the server that talented she can just look at a steak to gage if it’s mid rare. We must have some very talented waitstaff. Maybe they can guess everyone’s weight while their at it.

[JMintzer]

[I]

So you want your server to use a thermometer, place their finger on your steak to feel how the steak bounces back, and then have the manger do the same all before you cut into the steak. Or is the server that talented she can just look at a steak to gage if it’s mid rare. We must have some very talented waitstaff. Maybe they can guess everyone’s weight while their at it.

No, but you can certainly train the cook (as he specifically mentioned and you specifically ignored) to do that...

[JSR22]

[I]

So you want your server to use a thermometer, place their finger on your steak to feel how the steak bounces back, and then have the manger do the same all before you cut into the steak. Or is the server that talented she can just look at a steak to gage if it’s mid rare. We must have some very talented waitstaff. Maybe they can guess everyone’s weight while their at it.

I completely agree. I totally understand why the service people in TV are disgusted with the way they are treated. These are not 5 star restaurants. If something has to be corrected that's okay with me.

[JMintzer]

I completely agree. I totally understand why the service people in TV are disgusted with the way they are treated. These are not 5 star restaurants. If something has to be corrected that's okay with me.

Well, some of them charge like a 4-5 star restaurant, so if the menu fits...

[JSR22]

Well, some of them charge like a 4-5 star restaurant, so if the menu fits...

They are not charging anywhere near a 5 star restaurant. The shoe does not fit!

[valuemkt]

I had the same experience as the OP some time back and got ripped on here for mentioning it. The meal sucked. Fortunately, it was just one time and we were going there a whole lot until Covid hit. Not ready yet.

I wouldn't give up on the place from one bad experience.

Experiences there seem to be mixed and of course objective. I've seen numerous complaints about steak being cooked poorly.. generally overdone. Complaining to the manager might get you the dinner comped, or might get you a free dessert, but having to often send a meal back makes for a very unpleasant dining experience, and should not happen at a place that calls itself a "chop house" or steak place. I find the quality of steaks there to be of poor quality (no way its prime, and probably not choice). Drive an extra half hour (yes by car and not cart) and you get a real steakhouse experience at Marks in Ocala, or Flemings (and others) in Orlando. The reason for posting here is to alert people that there are continual problems there and that there are plenty of alternatives, albeit a bit outside the bubble.

[JSR22]

Experiences there seem to be mixed and of course objective. I've seen numerous complaints about steak being cooked poorly.. generally overdone. Complaining to the manager might get you the dinner comped, or might get you a free dessert, but having to often send a meal back makes for a very unpleasant dining experience, and should not happen at a place that calls itself a "chop house" or steak place. I find the quality of steaks there to be of poor quality (no way its prime, and probably not choice). Drive an extra half hour (yes by car and not cart) and you get a real steakhouse experience at Marks in Ocala, or Flemings (and others) in Orlando. The reason for posting here is to alert people that there are continual problems there and that there are plenty of alternatives, albeit a bit outside the bubble.

I eat there weekly and have NEVER had a problem with steaks. If you want a high end steak house go to Stirrups at the World Equestrian Center, far superior to Mark' or Flemings.

[Babubhat]

They could walk to Winn Dixie to buy potatoes. Just lazy

[fdpaq0580]

They could walk to Winn Dixie to buy potatoes. Just lazy

And just what is "market price" on the baked potato today? 😀

[fdpaq0580]

And just what is "market price" on the baked potato today? 😀

I have had lousy steaks at expensive restaurants and absolutely marvelous steaks at small country diners. I always order my steak "bloody rare". I want it to "moo" when I stick my fork in it.
Finding a great steak is kind of like fishing. Never know what is going to snag your line.

[tc1963]

The sign of a good restaurant is one that does not require intervention by the manager after a problem. Hopefully he has set an atmosphere and service model that gets it right from the beginning.

Well spoken!

[gdennis317]

So the manager is tasting food before it’s served? Makes no sense.

No, a quality Restaurant would have someone checking each dish as it is placed to go out. They can usually tell if Well Done vs Rare

[Babubhat]

How many of these chefs have actually gone to culinary school. I rarely see any restaurant publicize credentials.

[carolfrancescad]

Chop House is not cheap, but honestly, our meals have always been superb there. Compare it to Prima - the prices for steak were about the same, but the quality was far worse. Chop House may not be the best restaurant in Florida, but it's probably the best one inside TV. It's a problem here. The quality of food for the most part everywhere in TV is just "meh". Chop House and Legacy, to us, are the only ones with very very good meals, but you pay for it too

Recently had a duck dinner there, and it was not good...dried out, tasteless, and expensive. Side of mushrooms were like out of a can and flavorless. My husband did not care for his meal either. We did tell management, but we don't intend to return there

[ThirdOfFive]

Recently had a duck dinner there, and it was not good...dried out, tasteless, and expensive. Side of mushrooms were like out of a can and flavorless. My husband did not care for his meal either. We did tell management, but we don't intend to return there
I've never eaten at the Chop House, but in my experience at a couple of the moderate-to higher-end restaurants around here (Bluefin, Sam's St. John's), quality seems to fluctuate based on when you visit them. There seems to be a noticeable difference in quality when the "A" team is working (Saturday evening, say, vs. Tuesday late afternoon) as compared to when they are not. Prices are the same, I know, so customers should have the same expectation of quality no matter when they visit, but with the difficulty in getting qualified help, my thought is that there are some people working at these places who wouldn't be, were there more qualified applicants available.

[JMintzer]

They are not charging anywhere near a 5 star restaurant. The shoe does not fit!

They are charging the same (if not more) than Morton's, Ruth's Chris or the Capitol Grille, and I've never had a problem with an improperly cooked steak at any of them...

[JSR22]

They are charging the same (if not more) than Morton's, Ruth's Chris or the Capitol Grille, and I've never had a problem with an improperly cooked steak at any of them...

I have never had an improperly cooked steak at Chop House have you? They are not more expensive then the restaurants you listed. Actually, they are less and come with 2 sides that would run 12 or 13 each at Capitol.

[JMintzer]

I have never had an improperly cooked steak at Chop House have you? They are not more expensive then the restaurants you listed. Actually, they are less and come with 2 sides that would run 12 or 13 each at Capitol.

Good for you. Unfortunately, others have. Hence the point of this thread...

Are you familiar with the phrase "if not more"? It is not a statement of fact. It is a guesstimate...

[JSR22]

Good for you. Unfortunately, others have. Hence the point of this thread...

Are you familiar with the phrase "if not more"? It is not a statement of fact. It is a guesstimate...

I deal with facts not guesses. You should try Chop House and find out if the negative posts are true. I had Beef Wellington on Thanksgiving and it was cooked to a perfect medium rare.

[JMintzer]

I deal with facts not guesses. You should try Chop House and find out if the negative posts are true. I had Beef Wellington on Thanksgiving and it was cooked to a perfect medium rare.

Once again, good for you. Others have had a different experience.

And I never said that their experience will stop me from going.

I was only commenting on the ridiculous comment that the "servers" should be checking the cooking temp of the food. That is the job of the chef...

[spd2918]

They are charging the same (if not more) than Morton's, Ruth's Chris or the Capitol Grille, and I've never had a problem with an improperly cooked steak at any of them...

From this post it is clear you have never been to a Ruth's Chris Steakhouse. Their steaks are $50 to over $100 each (alone, sides are extra).

[Babubhat]

Ruth’s classics menu gives a complete meal for about 60 dollars. Excellent value and its prime steak

[JMintzer]

trade tested?
From this post it is clear you have never been to a Ruth's Chris Steakhouse. Their steaks are $50 to over $100 each (alone, sides are extra).

Odd, I just ate there 3 weeks ago, in Bethesda, MD...

[JMintzer]

trade tested?
From this post it is clear you have never been to a Ruth's Chris Steakhouse. Their steaks are $50 to over $100 each (alone, sides are extra).

And I just checked...

Their steaks go from $39-$60 (for what normal people eat, not the $109 Porterhouse, for two people, or the massive 40 oz tomahawk ribeye for $136). Yes you can get a tomahawk chop or a huge T-Bone for more, but that's not what's being discussed...

And sides are enough for 2-4 people, so cut that price in half...

So yeah, they are comparable in price to the Chop House...

[valuemkt]

I deal with facts not guesses. You should try Chop House and find out if the negative posts are true. I had Beef Wellington on Thanksgiving and it was cooked to a perfect medium rare.

Again .. facts .. yes, I've tried the Chop House. Found the quality of meat and the cuts offered to be inferior. I am glad you are pleased with them .. Would much rather see an open business at the location than an empty building. But there is no need to berate someone that doesn't like the place .. as there appears to be a split reading this thread

[Catalina36]

I can say the Chop House looks inviting driving by in the golf cart. The inside & outside ambience is very nice. We went with a couple visiting from out of town and wanted to got out to a special place. Yes, service was good. I don't mind paying a high price for any meal as long as the quality is great. When I go out to dinner and I am paying a high price I expect to be wowed. I have to say I was not impressed with my steak and No I did not talk to a manager. I expect a place like the Chop House to get my order right to perfection every time NO EXCUSES!! I have dined out at the Long Horn Steak House in Florida, North Carolina, and Long Island a total of at least a dozen or more times and I must say the Rib Eye, the Porterhouse what ever we would order was perfect every time. May not have the ambience of the Chop House but if the Long Horn Steak House can get it right every time then I expect the Chop House to do the same. Especially when the Chop House is costing double the price.

[Babubhat]

Likely because the cooks lack culinary training. That raises payroll in a low margin business. The place is always busy so nothing will change. Dining in TV is a form of entertainment and convenience

[golfing eagles]

Likely because the cooks lack culinary training. That raises payroll in a low margin business. The place is always busy so nothing will change. Dining in TV is a form of entertainment and convenience

I would tend to call a "cook" with culinary training a "chef":1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

And I doubt the "cooks" at Texas Longhorn have culinary training either.

[krick093]

We were there 2 months ago. Our overall assessment was that if we're going to be charged like a Morton's or Ruth's Chris we should expect similar quality and service. It was not even close. We might give it one more shot, but we've found other choices that are simply better relative to cost/quality/service so maybe not.

[bilcon]

My family and I (7 people) ate at the Chop House for Christmas Eve. We had reservations and were seated immediately. Our server was Megan, and she was excellent. She really made us feel special. Our food was delicious and cooked just as we preferred. Even though we were one of the last groups there, we were not rushed. Thank you for a very nice Christmas Eve.

[JSR22]

We ate dinner at Chop House Christmas Eve and it was a 100% positive experience. Food and service were excellent. Taylor our server did a terrific job. IMO the best restaurant in TV.

[ex34449]

Remember, the squeaky wheel gets the grease.
Better squeek after you got served or you'll wish you got grease. lol

[Northwoods]

To each his own, but I Love the Chop House, have never had bad service nor a bad meal. While a bit more pricey than the chain restaurants we have all over, my personal opinion is that it is worth it for a great meal.

Agree. Love Chop House. Probably my favorite restaurant in The Villages. So... to each his own..