The Perfect Steak Tops Off a Great Night Out

The Clawson Steakhouse has been a community staple since 1958, known for its friendly service and generous servings of steak, seafood, poultry and pasta.

My first experience at Clawson Steakhouse transported me back to another era. Even though the décor doesn't look like it has been changed in 30 years, it has a classic atmosphere that makes guests feel welcome.

The Alexopoulos family has owned Clawson Steakhouse from day one, and family members have helped keep business thriving.

Nick, Jim and Kosta Alexopoulos run the front of the house, and John Alexopoulos is the head chef.

"No matter where you are, you have someone who cares," said Nick, whose father and uncle started the restaurant.

"We cut and dry-age all of our steaks in-house and have fresh fish delivered six days a week," Nick said, adding that fish is the entrée of choice for 40 percent of the restaurant's customers.

Value and tradition are very important to the owners, which is why they work to keep their prices are more reasonable than you may find in other steakhouses. Appetizers cost $4 to $9; entrées start at $11 for pasta or a salad, $15 for seafood and $12 to $34 for steaks.

The Mark James Band plays at Clawson Steakhouse every Wednesday through Saturday, inviting diners to dance the night away to all kinds of music, from oldies to jazz to Christmas favorites.

Waitress Susie Thielen, who has worked at the restaurant for 13 years, said the steakhouse has always offered an enjoyable experience for diners.

"Some customers even get on stage and sing with them, they just want everyone to have a good time," Theilen said.

My parents and I decided to split the New Yorker and the Pan Fried Lake Perch on our visit to Clawson Steakhouse on Friday evening. It was plenty of food for the three of us: Entrées come with a cup of soup, a side salad, vegetables and your choice of rice, steak fries, baked potato or a twice-baked potato (the latter for an extra charge).

Our soups left something to be desired. We tried the French onion and the New England clam chowder, which both lacked flavor. The salads were nothing special, though the house Greek dressing was very good.

But any hint of mediocrity ended when our entrées came. The steak was cooked perfectly and was served with a really tasty zip sauce. The perch was very fresh and delicious as well, served simply with vegetables and a lemon wedge.

I think the twice-baked potato was my favorite part of the meal, though. If you're not on a diet, I highly suggest you try it.

Nick Alexopoulos was kind enough to send us a complimentary dessert, and we chose the hot caramel brownie with ice cream. Though it was enough to feed five people, it was delicious: a warm brownie, vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, caramel and pecans — how could you go wrong?

Overall, my parents and I had a very good experience at Clawson Steakhouse. It is no wonder why it has been a staple around town for so many years.

4/5 stars