Old Range Steakhouse brings Chicago style to Tahoe shores

By Samantha Shankle, Outpost Staff

The Old Range Steakhouse is one of the newer restaurants on the norhthern shores of Lake Tahoe. The ambiance is casual yet romantic, some patrons arrive with kids in tote, and others take advantage of the low lighting and jazz music to huddle quietly in a corner. With only nine tables, seating can be limited on a busy weekend, yet the quality of food is well worth the wait. On an early evening, patrons can enjoy a stunning lakeview with dinner.

The owners of this establishment come from Chicago, bringing with them the knowledge of outstanding presentation. The amount of food served is unfathomable, leaving no man or woman hungry. A doggie bag is under the arm of almost every group that walks out the door after dinner.

Fresh bread is whisked to the table immediately after being seated. Silverware is wrapped in a red and white plaid napkin, reminiscent of the Mid-west influence of the owners. All of the entrees are served with a crisp, freshly tossed Caesar salad and new red potatoes. Beverages include sodas, beer and wine. The house wine is Burlwood, with other selections of wine constantly rotating so a new glass or bottle can be tried every visit.

The specialty of the restaurant has to be the Prime Rib, though any of the steak dishes are beyond expectations. The Prime Rib is the largest cut imaginable. The owners won't reveal the exact size of the cut, yet the weight of the Tankermans cut(the larger size) would have to

Prime rib with lake views. Photo by Samantha Shankle

be estimated at about 30 oz. It is served with a creamed horseradish sauce cooked to your exact specifications; the meat lover's dream. The garlic steak is another local favorite, perfect for the hardiest garlic lover. Huge chunks of whole cloves are stuffed throughout the meat. The most enticing dish to sample is the London Broil, sliced thinly into a fan of mouth-watering sirloin. The meat is smothered in a rich mushroom bordelaise saucethat complements the flavors perfectly. Though the focus of the steakhouse is of coarse steak, non-red meat eaters can select from a variety of different dishes. Tasty chicken, pasta, shrimp and even alaskan king crab legs are served as a main coarse. Vegetarians will be happy with a plate full of delicious, fresh veggies. The choice of dessert seems to be the most difficult decision to make, they too vary frequently, yet on average they may carry a homemade cheescake or a flourless chocolate cake. Coffee can be ordered also after dinner, a good idea for those people that feel they're going to pass out from over-consumption.

The restaurant is closed Tuesdays, and will be closed all of May for vacation.No reservations are accepted, except for extrodinarily large parties. So try to arrive early or sip a few drinks at the inviting, intimate bar while waiting for a table. Hours are 5-10 p.m.

 

 

Old Range Steakhouse
North Lake Tahoe Blvd.
Tahoe Vista, Calif.

HOURS: 5-10 pm daily, closed Tuesdays
DINING AREA: Only nine tables
PAYMENT: Visa, Master Card, American Express and Diners Club credit cards

 

Posted April 9, 1998
Copyright 1
999 Nevada Outpost

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