FEBRUARY 09

On my recent trip to the US, I sampled three very different steakhouses. Donovan's is allegedly the best steakhouse in San Diego. The rich mahogany interior and dim lighting exude old-school charm, and the menu is just old fashion. The Cut in Las Vegas, on the other hand, boasts a modern, airy atmosphere. Emphasis is more on appearance than taste, though the friendly and helpful service more than makes up for the mediocre steak. The elegant and stylish Prime, also in sin city, serves the best bone-in ribeye among the three, with four fabulous sauces on the side, and a lovely view of the Bellagio lake.

While I have little expectations for the steakhouses in Hong Kong, I am excited about Dakota Prime, which also does a mouthwatering lobster bisque (make sure it is extra hot) and a mean Reuben sandwich. My next stop? BLT Steak. I hope I won't be disappointed.

SP