Some people know them as one of the best patios for Lake Travis sunsets. Or it might be for their jaw-droppingly huge steaks. Either way, if you have been on the search for the best steak in the Lake Travis area, look no further.
High atop lush green hills in the Steiner Ranch neighborhood sits the Steiner Ranch Steakhouse. The restaurant was opened by the Steiner Family as a symbol of all of the glory days of roping cattle, wrestling steer and riding bulls on the rodeo circuit. The steakhouse has become somewhat of a library and collector’s trove of the remnants of those golden years when Buck Steiner was king of cattle, running immensely popular Capitol Saddlery in downtown Austin.
Driving down the tree-line streets in Steiner Ranch now, it’s hard to imagine just what the land looked like back when the fields were covered with grazing livestock and horses. Buck Steiner made his living from a multitude of ways throughout his lifetime, but his one central love seemed to always be his cattle. A visit to the steakhouse is a great chance to take in a lot of the cherished artifacts the Steiner family has donated to carry on his legacy — which are lovingly housed in trophy cases in a special viewing room inside the restaurant.
One of the best parts about Steiner Ranch Steakhouse is their seriousness about the steaks. From Texan Ribeye to Filet Mignon, the menu does not disappoint if you are meat-minded. Up to 22 ounce porterhouse steaks are sure to please even the hungriest of eaters. And don’t worry if beef isn’t your taste. Buttery lobster, Gulf Coast Shrimp and Pistachio-crusted Seabass are just some of the other options that await you at the steakhouse.
Walking into the eatery, you are greeted by some of the original cowhide saddles that Buck’s saddlery was famous for. Leather straps worn soft with years of use, these luxury horse seats still stand the test of time, both in design and construction. To the left is the room where you can see rare photos of the family and all of their accomplishments throughout the 20th century. View pictures of Tommy Steiner and his cattle-riding sons and wife alongside trophies from those days on the rodeo circuit including belt buckles, awards and medals.
Another interesting feature of Steiner Ranch Steakhouse is the impressive wine cellar. This is a place that really knows the value of a good wine pairing. And when you are here prepare yourself to savor the finest in reds and whites.
The dining room is a classic example of the timeless Texas tradition the restaurant seeks to recreate in every detail. While you sample the finest in Texas steaks, take in the rich history of the ranching family in the framed pictures and decor. A perfect place for a large family gathering or a private dinner for two, there is plenty of space inside and on the patio.
Another popular reason for a stop at the eatery is a visit to their rooftop patio which happens to overlook some of the most choice views of Lake Travis. You have to experience it at sunset to fully take it in, but the views are spectacular. There is live music everyday — from Light Rock to Texas Country, check their events calendar for an updated schedule of who’s playing.
Private dining is available for parties, wedding, corporate events and more. The Travis Room features a fire pit, live music and wonderful views of the Lake Travis hillside. Buck’s Loft, located on the 3rd floor of the restaurant, harbors some of the most stunning lookouts around and gives you a penthouse view of Lake Travis. The observation deck/private patio is another great feature for those breezy summer afternoons.
Choose between an evening of fine dining or drinks and dancing on the patio. Either way, you’ll find the views and the steaks are some of the best in the Lake Travis area.
Steiner Ranch Steakhouse
5424 Steiner Ranch Blvd Austin, TX 78732 (map)
Sun: 11 am–10 pm
Mon-Thur: 4 pm–10 pm
Fri-Sat: 4 pm–11 pm
