Steakhouses near Shandaken

“This one goes out to anyone who would genuinely enjoy a low-key meal with inexpensive prices at that! Think log cabin feel, comforting food and super nice service- sitting directly on Route 28 in Shandanken. JRocco's accommodated us in no time. And since it had just stopped raining buckets and the weather was crisp out, coming here about 15ish minutes from where we're at, seemed fine for dinner. Even calling ahead of time to find out what time their kitchen closes, was cordial. I had a feeling we'd be in good hands. Gravel parking lot is big and so is Rocco's. Sizable bar on right and dining room to the left. Just look at their large upright blackboard listing their menu items and order before sitting(?). Our server who tripled as that, bartender AND helping in the kitchen mentioned we can sit down and order from the table because it wasn't so busy. I honestly took a picture of another blackboard resting on the floor and dissected the menu from our seats comfortably. 'Steakhouse' is in their description- but the look is farm from it- lumberjack design is better off. The music in the background sounded like Bluegrass and didn't intrude. We started with the mozzarella triangles that had major melt factor. Not extravagant- but they were gooey alright. Hubs ordered a NY Strip in Medium and loved it more than a steak he had the night before! He'd mentioned the steak at Rocco's had tons of flavor and the char cinched everything. My Black Bean Burger was delicious with a wonderful heat kick in the end. The pepper jack cheese (as my selection) didn't melt- but that's alright- because the flavor was all there. And if that wasn't enough, tater tots sealed the deal in my dish. And their cocktails? Don't be fooled by Rocco's appearance- they were nicely done- especially the 2 Lemon Drops I had. They don't have a 'cocktail menu'- so come prepare and know what you want. A Lemon Drop is classic and our server knew it- just don't come in with an artisanal list of cocktails and expect a entire lab process. The reviews are 100% correct: the service is beyond incredible and so pleasant. The food? Wholesome and so tasty. This isn't high-end whatsoever- J Rocco's is about minimum fuss and maximum satisfaction.“

“My wife and I returned to The Phoenician after being away for several months. Everything was excellent as we remembered, awesome drinks, great service and of course delicious food. We had the French Onion soup which was amazing, and the warm kale salad to begin. Never knew kale could be made to taste so good! Then my wife had the pasta special and I had the risotto. Both were really good and filling. To top it off, we shared the almond joy ice cream dessert which we remembered from last time, and it was delicious. And of course the wine, The Phoenician always has a great selection of wines, reasonably priced. Thanks again!“