One of Rochester’s better steakhouses has a sophisticated new look.
Char Steak and Lounge, housed within the Strathallan Hotel and Spa, reopened with its new decor in February. It was one facet of a major renovation of the hotel, which opened in 1980. The Strathallan is now part of the Hilton hotel chain’s Tapestry Collection of unique independent boutique hotels.
Char Steak & Lounge adjoins the hotel’s lobby but new partial walls give it more of a separate vibe. A new spacious island bar with increased seating is the focal point of the space. The dining room has lines of tables and banquettes in various sizes; the color scheme is muted blues and neutrals.
Dan Hixon, executive chef, creates new eclectic seasonal menus four times a year. Roughly three-quarters of the dishes change each season, but steaks continue to be a mainstay. A new spring menu is scheduled to drop April 21.
The bar serves craft cocktails, local beers and wines. Wine has been a major focus of the restaurant for years; Wine Spectator magazine has recognized Char for its large wine list, which now counts 750 different bottles. Private wine lockers can be rented by the year, which brings free corkage, discounts on the wine list and member-only events.
Char has an inviting outdoor patio which has new patio furniture. It also has rooms for private events.
If you go
Char Steak and Lounge is in the Strathallan Hotel and Spa at 550 East Ave. in Rochester. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Find menus online at charsteakandlounge.com or call (585) 241-7100.
Tracy Schuhmacher is food, drink and dining reporter for the Democrat and Chronicle. Email her at tracys@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: One of Rochester’s high-end steakhouses has a sophisticated new look
Reporting by Tracy Schuhmacher, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
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