Chefs are assigned in chain restaurants to taste and prepare lamb to order.
Lamb chops are one of those dishes that instantly feel like a treat. People love them for their soft, buttery texture and rich flavor that is different from the more common steak or chicken orders. And because lamb cuts, especially rib-eye cuts, tend to come at a higher price, they’ve long been associated with celebrations, date nights, and special occasions. Although lamb isn’t a staple on the menu, you can find this dish at several chains, but not all places get it right. However, there are a few restaurants that say it’s worth going out of your way Melanie Portmanchef and recipe developer at Droolrecipes.com. Here are the top four chains for getting the best lamb.
Fogo de Chao
Fogo de Chao is an experience that you do not get in your typical steakhouse. The uninterrupted table service, flame-grilled meats and lively atmosphere of Brazilian churrasco make it a popular destination for celebrations, group dinners and special occasions. This is for lamb chops. “Fogo de Chao’s lamb chops are carved tableside, and they come to the perfect temperature every time,” says Chef Melanie. “Churrasco’s preparation—salted and flame-roasted—gives the lamb a crust that locks in the juices and creates a smokiness you don’t find in most steakhouses.” He adds, “For a piece of lamb that really tastes like it’s been cooked with intent, it’s an order.”
Texas de Brazil
While similar to Fogo de Chao, Texas de Brazil varies for various reasons. Both serve Brazilian-style rodízio (eat all the meat carved at the table), but there are some key differences in style, pace, and overall experience. Tejas de Brasil relies on variety and abundance, while Fogo de Chao relies on refinement and consistency – both offer the same authentic Churrascaria experience in slightly different ways. It is also a place for great lambs. “Texas de Brasilia lamb is seasoned and flame-grilled with the same care as their signature cut,” says Chef Melanie. “The meat is tender without being overcooked, and the gauchos cut it to order so you always get a fresh cut. At the price of rodizio, the lamb chops alone are worth it.”
Morton’s Steakhouse
Morton’s Steakhouse Offering a classic steakhouse experience that feels reliable, hearty and consistent in all locations. While steak is the obvious choice, the rack of lamb should not be overlooked.
“Morton’s lamb rack is a special choice,” says Chef Melanie. “Herb glaces, perfectly French, served with a mint demi-glace that doesn’t mask the flavor of the meat. Morton’s approach to this is the way serious dining should be—as one of the best cuts on the menu, not a steakhouse.”
STK Steakhouse
STK Steakhouse is, your average is not washed out. It is designed to create a high energy experience around food. The biggest attraction is the vibe dining concept. STK combines a modern steakhouse menu with a lounge-like atmosphere: dim lighting, DJs, upbeat music and a club-style interior. According to Chef Melanie, the roasted rack of lamb is a must. “STK’s Mutton Dance features the ultimate steakhouse treatment with a modern twist,” says Chef Melanie. “The preparation is meticulous and the lamb is sourced quality. For a chain that relies on nightlife and dining crossover, the food stands up to serious scrutiny.” He adds, “lamb is the dish I would order here if I wanted to impress someone.”
Heather Newgen
Heather Newgen has two decades of experience reporting and writing about health, fitness, entertainment and travel. Heather is now freelance in several publications. Read more about Heather
