One Of The Most Underrated Steakhouse Restaurants In The US Is Hiding In A Los Angeles Neighborhood
Though Los Angeles' steakhouse scene is dominated by centenarian heavy hitters like Tam O'Shanter in Atwater and Musso & Frank in Hollywood, one newcomer has quietly earned a spot among the top underrated steakhouses in the U.S. Despite only opening in 2019, American Beauty in Venice has already carved out an impressive reputation. While many high-end steakhouses are simply not worth the money (L.A. eateries in particular frequently charge more for location than quality), American Beauty stands out by delivering exceptional steaks without the unnecessary frills.
Tucked away on bustling Rose Avenue in close proximity to Venice Beach, American Beauty is easy to overlook at first glance. Its unassuming exterior retains the charm of the building's previous life as a casual Mexican market and taco shop, giving it a laid-back, neighborhood feel. Inside, the restaurant strikes a balance between classic steakhouse tradition and Venice's signature casual cool. While the restaurant's dry-aging techniques and wood fire cooking attract seasoned steak aficionados, its focus on ranch-sourced and grass-fed beef appeals to a younger, health-conscious, and environmentally aware crowd.
What to order at American Beauty
Unlike many steakhouses that overwhelm diners with an endless list of cuts and sizes, American Beauty keeps it simple with just six expertly curated steak options. While some might see the limited selection as a drawback, the restaurant's thoughtful approach ensures that every cut is carefully chosen for its quality and flavor. The Santa Carota Grass Fed New York Strip delivers a leaner, earthier bite, while the Flannery 15-day Dry Aged Prime Ribeye showcases the depth of American Beauty's craftsmanship, boasting an irresistibly nutty, umami-rich flavor. For those with lighter appetites, the Creekstone Filet Mignon is a perfectly portioned 7-ounce option. The Flannery 30-day Dry Aged Prime Porterhouse is a feast-worthy indulgence at a massive 32 ounces, great for those who prefer to go big or go home.
Aside from steaks, the team at American Beauty gives just as much attention to the side dishes, swapping out traditional steakhouse staples like mashed potatoes for vibrant choices like glazed carrots, hen-of-the-wood mushrooms, and charred broccolini. These accommodating options are a testament to the restaurant's commitment to serving a well-rounded, balanced meal. And if you're in the neighborhood but craving a quicker bite, head to the adjacent sister restaurant, The Win~Dow, where you can find smash burgers for just a few bucks. The cheeseburger (as of April 2025) is just $4.35, an unbeatable price, especially for the quality and area. However, if you're far from the West Coast and craving steak, a classic chain like Outback or LongHorn might be your best bet. To help you decide, we took a pass at ranking iconic steakhouses.