Cuisine Corner Featuring Del Frisco’s Steakhouse
with Lake Forest Resident T. N. Wampler, II
Del Frisco’s Steakhouse: Louisville’s Premier Destination for Steak Lovers
Ambiance & Ownership
In a city known for its rich culinary heritage and Southern hospitality, Del Frisco’s Steakhouse in Louisville stands tall as the pinnacle of steakhouse excellence. Nestled in a cozy East End strip on Whittington Parkway, Del Frisco’s exudes polished elegance with low lighting, crisp linens, and a relaxed lounge. Many locals remember the original Kentwood location that closed after a roof collapse—the current site rebuilt later in 2020 following that incident. It’s a family-owned staple, run by Cathy Woods (President/Owner) alongside Vince Woods (Manager), a West Virginia University alum and Louisville native. This classic American steakhouse has been serving unforgettable meals and timeless experiences for decades, earning its reputation as “The Best Steakhouse in Louisville.”
In a city known for its rich culinary heritage and Southern hospitality, Del Frisco’s Steakhouse in Louisville stands tall as the pinnacle of steakhouse excellence. Nestled in a cozy East End strip on Whittington Parkway, Del Frisco’s exudes polished elegance with low lighting, crisp linens, and a relaxed lounge. Many locals remember the original Kentwood location that closed after a roof collapse—the current site rebuilt later in 2020 following that incident. It’s a family-owned staple, run by Cathy Woods (President/Owner) alongside Vince Woods (Manager), a West Virginia University alum and Louisville native. This classic American steakhouse has been serving unforgettable meals and timeless experiences for decades, earning its reputation as “The Best Steakhouse in Louisville.”
Steaks – The Real Deal
Expect six prime-cut steaks, all cooked to perfection. The filet mignon is a crowd-pleaser: tender, buttery, and expertly seasoned. The New York Strip, available in 12–14 oz or 16–18 oz, delivers rich beefy flavor with just the right char. Swordfish steak is a chef’s nod to seafood lovers, offering a meaty alternative with delicate flavor.
Expect six prime-cut steaks, all cooked to perfection. The filet mignon is a crowd-pleaser: tender, buttery, and expertly seasoned. The New York Strip, available in 12–14 oz or 16–18 oz, delivers rich beefy flavor with just the right char. Swordfish steak is a chef’s nod to seafood lovers, offering a meaty alternative with delicate flavor.
Starters & Seafood
The appetizers shine: escargot arrives garlicky and indulgent, oysters fresh and briny, and crab cakes crisp outside with succulent crab inside. On OpenTable, several mentions rave that “lobster bisque” and seafood starters are top tier. The swordfish also dazzles for a lighter entrée.
The appetizers shine: escargot arrives garlicky and indulgent, oysters fresh and briny, and crab cakes crisp outside with succulent crab inside. On OpenTable, several mentions rave that “lobster bisque” and seafood starters are top tier. The swordfish also dazzles for a lighter entrée.
Sides & Bites
Classic steakhouse sides ~ creamy mashed potatoes, crisp asparagus, stuffed baked potato, decadent mac & cheese, and a very special Green Phunque Casserole that is a spinach, cheese, and mushroom combination that’s creamy and rich round out the meal. Sides are shareable.
Classic steakhouse sides ~ creamy mashed potatoes, crisp asparagus, stuffed baked potato, decadent mac & cheese, and a very special Green Phunque Casserole that is a spinach, cheese, and mushroom combination that’s creamy and rich round out the meal. Sides are shareable.
Service & Experience
Service is polished, professional, and well-informed. The attentive staff is well-versed in their wine and cocktail knowledge.
Service is polished, professional, and well-informed. The attentive staff is well-versed in their wine and cocktail knowledge.
Local Reputation
Regular visitors vote Del Frisco’s among the top Louisville steakhouses. Consistency, great food, service, and ambiance support this.
Regular visitors vote Del Frisco’s among the top Louisville steakhouses. Consistency, great food, service, and ambiance support this.
Why Del Frisco’s Is the Best Steakhouse in Louisville
- Unmatched steak quality with USDA Prime cuts and precise preparation
- Family-owned legacy that values tradition and hospitality
- Exquisite service that makes every guest feel like a VIP
- Versatile menu with fine wines, seafood, and classic sides
- Atmosphere of elegance that sets the perfect tone for any occasion
Final Take
Del Frisco’s delivers a refined steakhouse experience: top-quality steaks, innovative seafood starters (escargot, oysters, crab cakes, lobster bisque), and a curated side dish menu. Cathy and Vince Woods have restored and elevated the restaurant’s legacy, offering consistency, warmth, and a locally-run feel. Yes, it's priced at $50+ a head, but for celebrations or power meals, it hits the mark.
Tip: Reserve ahead as Del Frisco’s is popular for special occasions. Mention your reason (anniversary, business dinner) and you will have a truly special experience.
Cuisine Corner Ratings
Menu & Variety: *****
(Wide range of choices from Seafood, Wings, Sandwiches, & Pasta)
Food Quality: *****
(Most menu items are tasty and delivered in a timely manner. A little attention to details like not serving lettuce with brown spots or not overcooking some items would increase this rating.)
Plating: ****
(Average)
Value for Money: ****
(Portions are good but menu is a pricey.)
Consistency: *****
(Most menu items are of good consistency, but sometimes the shrimp is overcooked as are the new potatoes.)
Service: *****
(Service has always been attentive and friendly.)
Accessibility: *****
(Bathrooms are a little tight to maneuver for handicapped people. Some lanes are tight for patrons in wheelchairs.)
Family Friendly: ****
(Lots of smiles on patrons and service staff. Children enjoy the video games.)
Ambiance: *****
(Great friend & family atmosphere.)
Cleanliness: *****
(The bathrooms could be checked on more often and cleaned.)
Total: 47/50 *’s.