Sometimes the best ideas are the simplest ones: Drench a steak in butter and eat up. A favorite classic steakhouse, Ruth's Chris is a good choice for diners who want their meal to be a meal. Steaks range from petit filet to ribeye to porterhouse for two, and should be sided with potatoes (choose from eight preparations, including shoestring and Lyonnaise) and vegetables (we love the creamed spinach).

Average cost: $31+