Is Philly's BEST Steakhouse Worth The Hype? Barclay Prime Revisit
Barclay Prime is the most famous steakhouse in Philadelphia bar none. Many people may know of it from the viral social media reviews of its $120 Philly cheesesteak, but beyond the foie gras and truffle sauced cheesesteak Barclay Prime also boasts a pretty impressive steak selection! They are one of only 32 steakhouses in the entire USA that are licensed to sell real Kobe beef from Japan!
This is our last stop on our Philly series. We ate plenty of cheesesteaks during this trip, so it's only fitting that we end the trip eating a steak at a steakhouse. Barclay Prime is regarded as one of the best steakhouses in Philly, but some regard it as one of the best steakhouses in America! One of the best steaks in America is a pretty high bar so we will see if it lives up to that. As we have eaten many of the best steaks in NYC, I think we are a little qualified to speak to the quality of the steak at Barclay Prime. Is Barclay Prime in Rittenhouse Square worthy of being iconic or is it just coasting off its reputation and not worth the hype? We'll find out together!
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Restaurant Deets:
Barclay Prime
237 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Пікірлер: 556
This concludes the Philly series. Hope you enjoyed it, if so I'd love to do more! Expect one more vid in NYC then I'm off to make a few vids in the UK!
@dabearcub
21 күн бұрын
As a Philly resident, I’m hoping you come back. Try Borough Market in London, and St John.
@theboringchannel2027
21 күн бұрын
Go to TOKYO for food, not the UK. Much better steak in Tokyo.
@billymax9071
21 күн бұрын
I’m really not sure why you think you know food. It’s not Bread it’s called Yorkshire pudding. I guess it’s just KZreadrs thinking they know more than they do
@theboringchannel2027
21 күн бұрын
@@davidf798 As an American, I have never considered popover bread, same with most Americans.
@theboringchannel2027
21 күн бұрын
@@davidf798 PS> most Americans have never uttered the word popover either.
that fan was chill af
Nice to see UA finally being treated with some respect by the wait staff. That alone sold me on this restaurant considering some of the atrocities he has been through at other places.
@edntz
19 күн бұрын
Absolutely. Most staff are so rude to him or perhaps rude in general. I mean, you're a paying customer. Polite service should be the standard.
@trollzone1
18 күн бұрын
UA is inconsiderate of other diners and doesn't pay respect to the people, places, and restaurants he visits!
@edntz
18 күн бұрын
@@trollzone1 Username checks out.
@SeraphimLeo
17 күн бұрын
@@trollzone1 Really? How's that? He doesn't talk loud and usually doesn't even show faces of other diners in his vids. If by "show respect" you mean take into consideration the restaurant's phoney "reputation" and treats them objectively with an honest review based on the food he receives then yes, and nor should he.
@trollzone1
17 күн бұрын
@@SeraphimLeohe has zero understanding of food, wine, and service. Nor is he very observant, routinely he says he doesn’t know what’s in an item and it’s listed on the menu he shows. He also video records without the consent of people around him. He not like Mark W who shows respect and researches the restaurants and places he visits. Also UA’s videos are very amateur…poor editing, music, and the constant sound of his heavy breathing. Guy shouldn’t have quit his day job.
That wait staff was outstanding. This alone puts this place at the head of the pack and not to mention the ambiance, with that perfect music in the background. Remarkable.
@theboringchannel2027
21 күн бұрын
great waitstaff cant make up for mid level food.
@KatmanJazznBlues
21 күн бұрын
@@theboringchannel2027 true for sure, I wrote that before getting to the food. I trust UA's opinion, he seems like a very smart, honest person with a fairly experienced palate.
@infostudy101
21 күн бұрын
I would disagree a little bit. The server pushed the mushrooms but they are the kind of food that not everyone likes. I was hoping UA would take a potato option because he would have enjoyed the meal more. Server made a mistake, I think.
@buskerbusker8826
21 күн бұрын
@@infostudy101but that’s the restaurant biz for you, chefs or managers will sometimes push out menu items, some times to ease up the kitchen, often to boost sales for that item, but the server did offer 2 sides, so it’s an awesome service
@infostudy101
20 күн бұрын
@@buskerbusker8826 But do you want to ease up the kitchen or give the customer the best experience? The server could tell he wasn't so impressed with mushrooms and that is why he offered the potatoes as well. Yes, up to UA to decide but he would never have chosen mushrooms himself..
Matt and the waiter are so nice and very friendly. 100% customer service.
The waiter was dope, he knew his shit. I hope you tipped him well!
I've had a crazy week. Seeing UA's smiling face on the thumbnail brings me instant joy.
@lifutao3446
21 күн бұрын
Facts
@HerrBrutal-bl2fk
21 күн бұрын
Stop having these experiences. Continue watching UA.
@lifutao3446
21 күн бұрын
@@HerrBrutal-bl2fk yes
@byz513
21 күн бұрын
Facts
Dude your server was friggin amazing
I could be wrong, but I think the bread is actually Yorkshire pudding.
@phillymouse2033
21 күн бұрын
I was thinking the same thing.
@user-jd3us8io5e
21 күн бұрын
@@phillymouse2033 Or a "popover" in American.
@yeabuddy6070
21 күн бұрын
Something similar for sure. This seems more solid than Yorkshire pudding.
@SeraphimLeo
21 күн бұрын
It is, and a ridiculous way to serve it frankly. Yorkshire pudding batter is basically pancake batter. The shape of the yorkshire pudding is meant for gravy (or jam). Without gravy you're just eating a stale pancake with butter
@user-jd3us8io5e
21 күн бұрын
@@SeraphimLeo Yorkshire pudding is really tasty on its own. Still, I agree that gravy helps it out. Odd choice.
UA.. I was SO happy to see Matt say those few words to you because he described the same feelings I have for you. You make my wife and I so entertained whenever we watch your videos. Thank you for putting a smile on our faces! Barclay, you had amazing service all around- great job!
Some context on the steak knife you were given: It's made by a company called Chroma, but was designed by the Porsche Design Group, which is why it was given the "Type 301" designation...similar to the internal design codes & model designations Porsche uses for their cars. Chroma wanted to marry a Japanese-style blade with a euro-minimalist design. The stainless steel "button" on the knife serves to give you a physical sense of where the handle ends as well as marks the balance point of the knife. I do have a full Chroma Type 301 cutlery set & they are very nice knives, but the kinives' design is what really stands out. Great video as always!
@shavedaddy
19 күн бұрын
Type 301 most likely referring to the grade of stainless steel.
I would’ve dumped that entire bowl of mushrooms on the plate and mixed everything together. That meal looks delicious.. also needs a nice glass of red to go with.
@jojotwice8918
16 күн бұрын
yea the plating for such a fancy place sucks
That bread is what's called a 'Popover.'
@michaelanderson745
18 күн бұрын
Or Yorkshire pudding
Dude. Put the mushrooms on your plate and use your fork
Wow, service was awesome! That bread looked like a Yorkshire Pudding. Your face looked like "I wish I ordered the Ribeye" though. 😀
Youre getting recognized all the time now! LOVE to see it! Keep it goin!
I mean, who eats mushrooms without the steak? Might as well review the bbq sauce without the steak too.
"Smoke gets in your rye" is a play on a famous drink "Smoke gets in your eye" at a NYC speakeasy called Angel's Share which sadly shut down a number of years ago. I really miss that place. Pretty neat to see it on their menu, thanks for sharing
That looks good. But because I cook, I can make about 3 of those NY prime steaks at home for $60 and it turns out exactly how I like it. Keep up the good reviews!
Our boy UA made it! Haha it was cool to see them recognize you
Another Philly guy here, who has just recently discovered your channel, and I love your attitude, my friend! I would highly recommend an extended tour of some more South Philly spots, and you will love the Passyunk Avenue strip of bars and restaurants, which start up just a block or so south of the Pat's and Geno's intersection. Would love also to see another visit to the Reading Terminal and (just a block away) Chinatown. Great work, my friend!
Of all the steaks you've eaten and showed us, this one (IMO) had the most eye appeal AND, to me, it seemed to be the prefect rendition of what Medium Rare should look like.
You need to dump the mushrooms and all their juice on the plate with the steak. It's a great combo.
UA, that roll is a Yorkshire pudding. Me and the wife made some, it was a new experience on how they cook it.
You shoulda coated the steak and mushrooms with that yummy butter, and used the bread to mop up those wonderful steak juices...YUM!!!
@theboringchannel2027
21 күн бұрын
when you need to put butter on a steak, it means you have a poor quality cut of meat.
@altapp702
21 күн бұрын
@@theboringchannel2027 No it doesn't. It means added flavour. Butter makes everything better.
@theboringchannel2027
21 күн бұрын
@@altapp702 why do you need to add flavor to a dry aged steak? a good quality steak, especially dry aged is very flavorful, and you use SALT to enhance flavor, as butter MASKS flavor. Real high end steak places do not put butter on their steaks.
@truth4004
21 күн бұрын
Gordon Ramsay has his steaks basted in butter. He is high end. Don't be a snob 😅
@theboringchannel2027
20 күн бұрын
@@truth4004 has nothing to do with being a snob. look at steak cooking competitions, nobody finishes with butter. real high end steak places that add something, spread goose fat on the steak a couple of minutes before its finished, goose fat tastes MEATY, butter does not.
You can get a 16oz,n.y strip at Texas Roadhouse for $30 bucks with a,salad and potato .for 2 bucks extra you can get the mushrooms. Try it. It's very good!
The free appetizer is an amuse bouche, usually given out at fine dining restaurants without asking. Thanks so much for all your honest reviews!
@HerrBrutal-bl2fk
21 күн бұрын
Interesting. What is its origin?
@minyu5612
21 күн бұрын
@@HerrBrutal-bl2fk from French cuisine. It’s a sample of the meal to come.
@trollzone1
17 күн бұрын
UA doesn’t have a sophisticated enough dinning experience and knowledge to know that. He really should consider another career.
@neonxouqbaso
17 күн бұрын
@@trollzone1 Hating for no reason. 😂 Enjoy life
@minyu5612
17 күн бұрын
@@trollzone1 82 nasty comments on one channel. Hey, maybe UA is paying you to troll him for higher engagement. The more you comment the higher his algorithm gets and the more money he makes. I hope you reply.
The bread looks like a popover which I love.
On your next trip to Philadelphia, I hope you will seek out Laser Wolf and give it a try. We recently visited my son and his wife, and they took us to Laser Wolf. The salad (Hummus with Fresh Pita and various other sides) that comes with each entrée was fantastic. The lamb and the ribeye were incredible. Take a look; you will enjoy it!
@sundaybest27
21 күн бұрын
No, Zahav in Philly! I think Laser Wolf in Brooklyn is nicer... those views of the skyline
The mushrooms should be on the plate with the steak so the juices from the steak go into the mushrooms.. also, need to order ribeye instead of NY strip or filet
Probably the most A Quality Type of restaurant service I've ever watched throughout your videos. Loved the server!!!
The service i am seeing is OUTSTANDING!!!
Hands down this dude is one of the best in the world. Deep facts. Respectfully.
Thank you for showing the drink menu! That has been a welcome addition and provides a lot more context to the restaurant.
I enjoy your videos because you are so honest and unapologetic. You say it how it is. You give your audience the facts. Just because some people like it doesn’t mean your taste buds will like it. I appreciate your videos. Thank you ☺️
Your content is on fire! Love the rapid videos.
Thanks for a good video buddy. Keep it up. Love your work.👍🇺🇸
On the road to 100k well deserved man.
Rib eye is the steak to go for.
This place is such a vibe thank you for sharing
This place was beautiful and the service was amazing and then on top of that getting recognized and people saying how wonderful you are love your videos have a great day ❤😊
Your humility gives credibility…keep doing what you’re doin’ bro!!!!!
Hey buddy, best regards We enjoy your work Stay well
Great review!!!!! Super cool to see fans come up to you, but there’s a time and a place.. or Atleast keep it short. I guess it’s the price of fame UA! You’re always so nice, thank you for the content!
UA is the best! Thanks for the amazing video! Need to try this spot.
One of the best parts was your homage to Shogun and Toranaga-Sama. Great review!
Decades Ago I was in Philadelphia and Had a CheeseSteak, It Was An Euphoric Experience!!!
@Onetwothreepeanuts
20 күн бұрын
What's up with your capitalizations? It seems to be both random yet thoughtful. It makes you come across as a nut job.
Wow what fantastic service. The waiter knew his stuff. Makes all the difference when the service is this good. Im from the UK and I would love to visit all these amazing famous steak houses on the east coast 🤌 You guys across the pond have some superb restaurants.
Awesome review once again. I love Barclay Prime. You should try striphouse NYC on 12th street for strip steak with truffle creamed spinach and duck fat potatoes
Wish you would order bone in ribeye once in awhile, it's the best cut to me.
Keep up the awesome job I love your Chanel.
Another fantastic video! Surprised you didn’t get dessert!
I usually don’t watch restaurant reviews on KZread but I’m really drawn to UA’s videos. He might not be the most sophisticated but he’s so genuine, guileless, and sincere - how can you not like the guy.
@ABLwAmazing
21 күн бұрын
Yea, he's just so pleasant. As my gmom has always said, a good attitude will take you far in life.
@humdumdiggdy
20 күн бұрын
He is a genuinely nice guy
Love the ambiance. Intimate setting.
Incredible staff! Very nice and personal
UA, if you ever come to Washington, D.C. area, Randy's Prime Steak and Seafood in Tyson's Corner is terrific. Their 16oz ribeye is so soft and tender, it's like eating filet. Before Pandemic, it was $49. Now $72 The price is somewhat on par with Barclay Prime. Randy's Prime is owned by Great American Restaurants Group that has several restaurants in Northern Virginia. They also have the corn brulee with smoked bacon on top and sea salt.
Sushi is also frozen to kill parasites
Mushrooms looked amazing, love them with steak, great review
Barclay Prime looks incredible! Great video, UA!
@theboringchannel2027
21 күн бұрын
food looks mid at best, and tastes that way, as UA was hinting at.
I wasn’t expecting a full cereal bowl of mushrooms. Lol
I really like your steakhouse reviews.
Looks perfect. You can always get well cooked and delicious food in Philly.
Thanks!
@uaeats
21 күн бұрын
Thank you! So generous!
LOL about the whole lamp ordeal because I just bought one of these lamps for home after eating at a high-end steakhouse that had a similar table lamp and loved it.
Great video! The roll is a popover. It's designed to be airy inside. You can put cheese inside. OR you can put a scoop of vanilla ice cream inside........YUM!
The wife & I are big steak-lovers & I’ve been grillin for decades. That said, am I the ONLY ONE here who _doesnt_ prefer dry-aged steaks?? 🤷♂️ I’ve paid ransoms for the ones I’ve had, and always wound up sayin, “Yeah, I’ll stick with regular USDA Prime all day,” regardless of age duration or cut. Anyone else? They taste like feet smell. 🤔
How nice that you are getting recognized... ❤❤❤
Ciao UA from Italy. Loving the content. Next time you are in Italy, I'll show you a good steak house.
Rib Steaks are king of steak cuts..would be good to see you rate them instead of ny strip.
Nice Review!
I'm heading to Philly in a week, and I'm going to Angelo's after watching your review. Even if it's an hour wait, I have to try that cheesesteak. Then going to NYC after that and really want to try L'Industrie Pizza.
Safe travels across the pond, UA. Have a great trip.
Honestly, that second piece you bit into, looked like gristle.
I love how ua kept In the fan experience. Although nice, it’s makes it obvious that a quick compliment is better.
I was waiting for UA to say that Tater Tot was Ore Ida !!
Great review. Moving to the DC area in a month so will have to cruise up to Philly to try it. My favorite steak of all time is the tomahawk ribeye from St. Anselm in Brooklyn.
Thank you 🙏
Looked really great. Made me wanna eat it all.
BP is one of my faves. Great memories there.
I'm surprised you didn't get the ribeye like you usually do.
@brandoncarpenter9681
21 күн бұрын
He was trying to go light after pounding cheesesteaks in Philly
My biggest take away from this is UA's best joke ever about Germany and Japan joining forces😂
The service was on point. I will be visiting soon.
Matt was so nice! Love when you get recognized 👏
Thanks for coming to Philly UA, happy to have you in town. We happen to have one of the most dynamic food scenes in the USA right now, winning more James Beard awards in 2023 than New York or Los Angeles. Next time you’re in town, you should try Mawn, Kalaya, My Loup, Her Place Supper Club, El Chingon, Gabriella’s Vietnam, Tabachoy…and many more. I love cheesesteaks and a good cut of steak from Barclay, but Philly has grown into a culinary capital! Come back soon! PS, you blew it not getting one of the American Wagyu cuts on the Barclay Menu. I lived in New York for many years, and ate at most of the best steak houses, and the American Wagyu Ribeye from Barclay Prime was one of the best steaks I’ve ever had.
@RFSpartan
20 күн бұрын
Ain't nobody going to pay 200 for a piece of steak in this shitty economy unless it's going to make me shit gold
Dope they’re serving Yorkshire puddings as the breads course :)
Great reviews your blowing up brother stay organic unscripted and genuine people starting to recognize UAeats
I worked in that space when it was the Barclay Hotel in the late eighties and that was their dining room.
Your a good guy.....I love your videos
me and my friends love the bread there. Cheesesteak was a hit/miss for us as well. We love the service there and the steaks and sides are really good for us.
You’re soooo right. Just looking at the mushrooms, I feel that they taste like very good quality mushrooms but then again tastes like regular mushrooms lol
Haven't been to Barclay Prime in years. If I remember correctly, they started with dry aged beef when they first opened--loved it. Then for a period of time, they went to wet aged beef and dropped off the radar. The last time I was there, they went back to dry aged. If I remember correctly, they used to bring out a tray of knives for you to pick your weapon... The last steak house I went to was Alpen Rose--had the tomahawk, amazing. Also DelFrisco's, although a chain, is very good in Philly.
Took my family to BP for my son’s bday a couple years ago. The service was great the food was very good. I wouldn’t rank it in my top five steakhouse but they are certainly very good.
That IS some great service. Should be recognized.
Thanks for another steak review. I watch UA for entertainment purposes, to see where he eats next, and the funny facial expressions.
bro you are a legend. people are coming up to you! wow! hell yeah! lets goo!! hard work pays off. LETS GO UAEATS!
Philly has great restaurants UA pretty underrated!!! Next time you're in Philly and craving steak again I would recommend Del-Frisco's Steakhouse ;-)
You just passed by Parc at 2:10 and that's one of my favorites. You need to review that one. It's a Philly institution.
LOL Matt took the words out of my mouth.
Harris' steakhouse in San Francisco blows this away !
The bread is what the British refer to as a yorkshire pudding. Its a huge draw for me when it comes to barclay prime. I love the crispy on the outside and almost savory, bread pudding texture inside.