The House of Prime Rib
One of the few places around the city that specializes in, as the name suggests, prime rib. They take a classical approach. A standing rib roast carted out to your table in this silver domed contraption. For some reason, with that Hindenburg looking thing and the cozy wood trimmed atmosphere, I felt like I was transported back to the 1920’s. Not like I knew what it was like. But this felt the close. Aside from everyone snapping selfies with their smartphones and our futuristic attire, I’d say I traveled back in time. Okay, maybe I was a few drinks in already.
We were seated in a back room which catered to about eight different parties. Ours being one of the larger ones, but not a unique one. Seemed like everyone there was celebrating a birthday party, just like us. Not hating. Only observing. In fact, it was good to see this place as a go to for celebrations. It’s perfect for it.
Not sure why people say this place is a tourist trap. It’s not like you’re getting ripped off. The limitless sides and free extra slice of prime rib cries out customer satisfaction rather than thievery. This should be how restaurants are run. Come in hungry and leave stuffed. All that’s left, is for us to enjoy the food.
House of Prime Rib
1906 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94109
+1 (415) 885-4605
houseofprimerib.net
Verdict: Definitely coming back. Solid prime rib.
Here’s the meat cart. The cart you’ll constantly eye, waiting for that carver to show up. Because once he’s there, you know your meal is coming.
The artist at work. Pray all you can to get a bone-in cut. Word of advice, don’t stand there watching him like a drooling moron. It’s torture. I wonder if I should apply for this job one day. Sure, I’ll get fired within hours for eating everything. But it may be worth it.
The usual choice for first timers here. Other cuts are different takes on the same prime rib and if you’re lucky, you’ll get a bone-in cut with the house version. The meat was soft and fantastic. Exactly what you’d expect for good prime rib. There’s 3 intensities of horseradish that they bring out. Also, what makes House of Prime Rib so special are those sides that come for free and also that extra slice of prime rib, if for some reason, you’re still hungry. All for this price. $41.85USD
And the show begins! This was what people talk about, besides the second slice of prime rib. It was the dressing of the salad. Whirled in a bed of ice, the waiter masterfully prepares the salad. A good few minutes of entertainment.
No, this wasn’t my very own trough of salad. It was for the whole table, though I wouldn’t mind seconds. The flavors that came through were the beets and thousand island dressing. So refreshingly good.
Our light source here in the back room. Wish I had my fisheye lens to give you a sense of the room.