There’s no denying – I’m a meat and potatoes kind of girl. This past weekend I was in meat and potatoes heaven – a.k.a. Clearman’s Steak ‘n Stein Inn. I was fed like I was family and, honestly, I think I’m still full, three days later. This rustic steakhouse, open since 1946, serves steak, seafood, hamburgers, and much more with incredible class and comfort.

Clearman’s Steak ‘n Stein Inn
9545 E Whittier Boulevard
Pico Rivera, CA 90660
http://clearmansrestaurants.com/steaknstein/

I started my meal by choosing a beverage from the extensive drink menu. Boy did I have a hard time choosing from the long list of interesting and whimsical cocktails. I could hardly decide between the French Toast, Thin Mint and Orange Julius martinis. In the end I landed on the Caramel Apple Martini. How could I resist a caramel drizzle right in the glass?! Aptly named, it’s rich and tart flavor did not disappoint.

Next, was my appetizer – Shrimp Diablo. That’s shrimp, with a chile pepper wrapped in bacon. The flavors came in one after another like a well planned attack  – a delicious, delicious attack. Classic shrimp, followed by a spicy kick all brought together by the familiar and always welcome taste of bacon. The creamy yet tangy southwest sauce tampered down any lingering heat. All together, an exceptional appetizer.

I had ordered the Steak and Scallops “dinner” but a more appropriate name would have been the Steak and Scallops FEAST. As I enjoyed my Shrimp Diablo, my waitress wheeled over Part I of my epic meal.

First, a side salad with my choice of three dressings – French, bleu cheese, and their house dressing, sour cream and chives – all made in-house, all delicious. And the croutons!!! I can’t think of a salad I’ve ever had where the croutons were worth mentioning let alone taking home in a to-go box (both of which I’ve done). They were light, crispy and flavorful.

Then, a heaping serving of red cabbage that had been marinated overnight in Clearman’s secret recipe (umm I think these people are serious about their food).

And then, what my waitress described as “the good stuff” – the cheese bread. Four beautiful slices of the warmest, softest, cheesiest cheese bread you’ve ever had in your life.

And it was only the beginning…

My waitress wheeled over another tray of Steak ‘n Stein bounty and explained that entrees are always prepared table side at Clearman’s. Then she proceeded to set my filet and scallops ablaze.

What was great about Clearman’s was the amount of freedom I had creating the best surf ‘n turf pairing of my choice. I chose the Filet among the Top Sirloin, New York, and Rib Eye cuts and the Scallops among Shrimp, Crab Legs and Lobster.

In case the first cart of goodies wasn’t enough, my filet and scallops were served along with generous portions of loaded mashed potatoes and onion rings. The onion rings had a tasty flaky and crisp breading and would be perfect for a true lover of onions. And the loaded mashed potatoes were to die for – perfectly buttery and garlicky topped with cheddar and bacon with sour cream, chives and cheese sauce on the side. I actually subbed the mashed potatoes for the standard baked potato which I was told comes with all the same fixings.

Of all I had to eat that day, the filet was rightfully the star of the show. I prefer mine on the rarer side but of course they will cook to order. It was everything a great steak should be – juicy, tender, and great tasting.

Just like all my food, I thought I might have to be wheeled out of the place when I was through. As I left with every morsel of food that was left on my table (including the croutons) the friendly staffed joked “yeah, it’s a lot of food isn’t it?”. It certainly was but where their quantity was great, their quality was even better. I will be back soon!