This Retro-Themed Chain Proves Quality Steak Doesn't Have To Break The Bank

There are a lot of steakhouses in America, and fortunately, this also means you can find them offering different price points. If you're looking to dine at one of the best chain steakhouses on a budget, Quaker Steak & Lube is a great option for funky, retro motifs and a vast collection of motor vehicles, not to mention the food's flavor. Steak dishes ring up for less than $30, and we can't complain.​​ The Thunderbird — a $19.99 offering — is an 8-ounce, 25-day aged sirloin steak. Aged meat, whether wet or dry, has been a secret to flavorful steaks, which a lot of restaurants use, including Outback Steakhouse. As such, the Thunderbird sirloin has a nice complexity and an overall, well-rounded, robust taste. 

The 12-ounce choice ribeye, on the other hand, is known for its juiciness and hearty portion — a boneless classic for $28.99. The Smothered Steak Skillet for $18.99 is not for the purists, but it's certainly an interesting option of steak tips piled with mushrooms, red peppers, onions, and Golden Garlic sauce, which is Quaker Steak & Lube's in-house concoction. Each steak is also dusted with the chain's own seasoning, and each one also comes with your choice of two sides and garlic toast. With such an affordable menu featuring award-winning and homemade items, is it worth a try?

The Thunderbird sirloin steak seems to have its fair share of fans. However, it can be hit or miss. Some folks said it's delicious and tender, but it can be inconsistent — there was mention of chewiness and a lack of seasoning. That said, the price point might be enough to pull you in for a taste. The 12-ounce choice ribeye, albeit on the pricier side, had reviews that were a mixed bag, with one Yelper complaining about the unappetizing texture. On the flip side, some diners find it to be amazing. The quality might depend on which location you dine at, so it might be best to go without expectations.  

And since a steakhouse's sides can determine the quality of the whole menu, they're an important element to consider. At Quaker, you'll find sweet potato fries, house-made chips, bourbon baked beans, cinnamon apples, and more. Its car-inspired interior makes for a great dining setup, and its flashy, nostalgic vibe provides novelty that is likely to attract racing enthusiasts. Beyond steaks, award-winning wings and bottled hot sauces make it a potential pit stop, if you're so intrigued.

Overall, it seems the quality and prices of steaks at Quaker Steak & Lube make it a great bang for your buck. The steak might not be the same as what you can get from five-star restaurants, and the flavor might be inconsistent, but one thing is a net benefit: the affordable pricing.