Just about a decade ago, the Upper West Side was known as a sort of wasteland when it cam to  dining options. The gravitas of cultural institutions like the Museum of Natural History, the New York Historical Society and Lincoln Center dwarfed the underdeveloped restaurant scene. Since then, however a number of eateries have popped up in this neighborhood, making it a true destination spot.

Places like Talia’s Steakhouse and Bar and PJ Clarke’s have been a staple  for the steak scene for sometime now, but there is a new steakhouse in the neighborhood. Recently, I had the chance to dine at Lincoln Square Steak.

Prior to this promising new arrival, the space was occupied by a Greek restaurant. I had planned to try it as the menu looked delicious, but the restaurant opened and closed so quickly that I never had the chance. As far as I could tell, it was a great place to dine, but the major complaint was that the pricing was ill-matched with the food.

Tucked away on the south side of 70th and Amsterdam, the newly painted-bold red exterior with a glass display featuring prime cuts of meat, draws on the passer by’s more primal instincts. And the interior does not disappoint.

From the time that I entered Lincoln Square Steak, I felt relaxed. From the decor, to the waitstaff to the manager, the environment at this restaurant is friendly and professional, and they feature a live jazz pianist. It couldn’t be a more inviting atmosphere.

As for the food, the pricing is a tad high, as was expected considering the location, but the food was delicious. The steaks  were perfect. I couldn’t have been happier with that choice. I also enjoyed the spinach appetizer. The popovers were great. The only part of the meal that I didn’t particularly care for was the dessert. I was not terribly impressed, however it didn’t bother me because I was still in awe of the steak.

I am already looking forward to returning to this new establishment soon.