The Cherokee Steakhouse and Marina is a beloved destination nestled along the serene waterfront, offering guests an unforgettable dining experience infused with rustic charm and exceptional flavors. Known for its spectacular views and warm hospitality, the steakhouse presents a menu that caters to both traditionalists and adventurous food lovers alike.
Whether you’re craving a perfectly grilled steak, fresh seafood, or creative sides, the menu is thoughtfully crafted to highlight quality ingredients and bold tastes. Diners can expect more than just a meal here; it’s a celebration of regional flavors, skillful preparation, and a laid-back ambiance that invites relaxation and connection.
Each dish at Cherokee Steakhouse and Marina reflects a commitment to freshness and authenticity, capturing the essence of the local culinary heritage. From hearty appetizers to decadent desserts, the selections are designed to satisfy a wide range of palates.
The menu’s variety ensures that every visit can bring a new discovery, whether you’re a regular or a first-time guest. Beyond the food, the marina setting adds an extra layer of enjoyment, making it an ideal spot for casual lunches, romantic dinners, or lively gatherings.
Exploring the Cherokee Steakhouse and Marina menu reveals a thoughtful balance of classic American steakhouse fare paired with innovative dishes that highlight the bounty of the nearby waters and the rich agricultural surroundings.
This balance is part of what makes dining here such a rewarding experience, appealing to diverse tastes while maintaining an unwavering standard of excellence.
Signature Steaks and Grilled Specialties
The heart of the Cherokee Steakhouse menu lies in its expertly prepared steaks and grilled specialties. These dishes emphasize premium cuts and meticulous cooking techniques, ensuring every steak is juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor.
Whether you prefer a thick ribeye or a delicate filet mignon, the selection offers something for every steak lover.
Steaks are sourced from trusted suppliers, with a focus on quality and sustainable practices. Each cut is aged to perfection, enhancing its natural tenderness and depth of flavor.
The grilling process is carefully monitored to achieve the ideal sear and doneness, often complemented by house-made marinades or seasoning blends that elevate the meat’s inherent richness.
Complementing the steaks are grilled specialties such as marinated chicken breasts, smoked pork chops, and savory sausages. Each is prepared with the same attention to detail and served alongside thoughtfully paired sides to complete the meal.
Steak Varieties and Cooking Options
| Steak Cut | Description | Recommended Cooking |
| Ribeye | Well-marbled with rich flavor and tender texture | Medium Rare to Medium |
| Filet Mignon | Lean, exceptionally tender, mild flavor | Medium Rare |
| New York Strip | Firm texture with a robust flavor | Medium |
| Porterhouse | Combination of filet and strip in one cut | Medium Rare to Medium |
“A perfectly cooked steak is not just a meal; it’s an experience—a harmony of texture, flavor, and aroma that lingers long after the last bite.”
- Seasonal steak specials often showcase unique marinades or locally inspired rubs.
- Grilled to order with options ranging from rare to well-done for personalized satisfaction.
- Accompanied by house-made sauces such as peppercorn, béarnaise, and chimichurri.
Freshwater and Seafood Delights
Situated on the water, Cherokee Steakhouse and Marina takes full advantage of its location by offering a diverse selection of fresh seafood. From freshwater fish caught nearby to ocean-inspired dishes, the menu features options prepared with a light hand that highlights the natural flavors.
The seafood offerings are perfect for diners seeking a lighter alternative to steak without sacrificing taste or satisfaction. Each dish is crafted using sustainable practices, ensuring that the delicate balance of the ecosystem is respected while delivering high-quality ingredients.
Popular choices include grilled catfish, pan-seared trout, and shrimp skewers, all served with complementary sides and sauces that enhance their subtle flavor profiles.
Seafood Preparation Styles
- Blackened: A bold, spicy crust created with Cajun seasonings.
- Grilled: Lightly brushed with olive oil and herbs, preserving freshness.
- Fried: Crispy, golden batter that adds texture without overpowering.
- Broiled: Cooked under high heat for a caramelized finish.
Each seafood dish is thoughtfully paired with sides such as rice pilaf, steamed vegetables, or fresh garden salads, providing balance and variety to the plate.
| Dish | Main Ingredient | Preparation | Price Range |
| Grilled Catfish | Freshwater Catfish | Grilled with lemon butter sauce | $18 – $22 |
| Shrimp Skewers | Jumbo Shrimp | Blackened with Cajun spices | $20 – $24 |
| Pan-Seared Trout | Rainbow Trout | Pan-seared with herbs and garlic | $19 – $23 |
“The freshness of our seafood is key to delivering a meal that feels vibrant and nourishing, connecting diners to the waters that surround us.”
Appetizers and Starters
Beginning your meal at Cherokee Steakhouse and Marina with an appetizer sets the tone for an indulgent dining experience. The starters are crafted to stimulate the palate with a mix of textures and bold flavors, perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
Options range from classic steakhouse staples like shrimp cocktail and loaded potato skins to creative offerings such as smoked salmon flatbreads and house-made crab cakes. Each appetizer is prepared with fresh ingredients and presented attractively to invite immediate enjoyment.
These dishes are ideal for pairing with cocktails or the extensive wine list, enhancing the overall dining journey from the very first bite.
Popular Starters
- Crab Cakes: Lightly breaded, served with tangy remoulade sauce.
- Loaded Potato Skins: Topped with cheese, bacon, sour cream, and chives.
- Smoked Salmon Flatbread: Garnished with capers, red onion, and fresh dill.
- Shrimp Cocktail: Chilled shrimp served with zesty cocktail sauce.
Appetizers can serve as a light start or a shared experience among friends and family, making them a versatile component of the menu.
| Appetizer | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Crab Cakes | Crab meat, bread crumbs, spices | Savory, slightly spicy, creamy remoulade |
| Loaded Potato Skins | Potatoes, cheddar cheese, bacon | Rich, salty, creamy |
| Smoked Salmon Flatbread | Smoked salmon, flatbread, capers | Smoky, tangy, fresh |
“A great appetizer is an invitation—a promise of deliciousness to come and a celebration of flavors that awaken the senses early.”
Salads and Light Fare
For guests seeking lighter options, the Cherokee Steakhouse and Marina menu offers an array of fresh salads and light plates. These dishes are thoughtfully prepared to provide nourishment without heaviness, perfect for midday meals or complementing heartier entrees.
Salads feature vibrant vegetables, house-made dressings, and optional protein add-ons such as grilled chicken or shrimp. The combinations are designed to be both satisfying and refreshing, showcasing seasonal produce and balanced flavors.
Light fare selections also include soups and sandwiches that are crafted with the same dedication to quality, making them excellent choices for a casual yet refined dining experience.
Signature Salads
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, parmesan, croutons, and traditional Caesar dressing.
- Harvest Salad: Mixed greens, candied pecans, cranberries, goat cheese, and balsamic glaze.
- Grilled Chicken Salad: Tender chicken breast atop fresh greens with seasonal vegetables.
Soups rotate seasonally, with favorites including creamy tomato basil and hearty vegetable beef, each served with fresh bread.
| Dish | Main Components | Calories (Approx.) |
| Caesar Salad | Romaine, parmesan, croutons | 350 |
| Harvest Salad | Mixed greens, pecans, cranberries | 420 |
| Grilled Chicken Salad | Chicken, mixed greens, vegetables | 450 |
“Lighter dishes at Cherokee offer balance—delivering vibrant flavors that satiate without overwhelming, perfect for any time of day.”
Hearty Sides and Accompaniments
No steakhouse meal is complete without a selection of thoughtfully prepared sides, and Cherokee Steakhouse and Marina excels in this area. The side dishes complement the main courses, adding texture, flavor, and variety to every plate.
From creamy mashed potatoes to grilled seasonal vegetables, each side is crafted to enhance the dining experience without overpowering the main attraction. Many sides showcase locally sourced ingredients, ensuring freshness and supporting regional producers.
Guests can mix and match sides to customize their meal, allowing for a personalized and satisfying experience at every visit.
Popular Side Dishes
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery, and infused with roasted garlic.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred with olive oil and sea salt.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, slightly sweet, served with a house dipping sauce.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Fresh and simply prepared to showcase natural flavors.
| Side Dish | Ingredients | Preparation Style |
| Garlic Mashed Potatoes | Potatoes, roasted garlic, cream, butter | Whipped and creamy |
| Grilled Asparagus | Asparagus, olive oil, sea salt | Grilled with light seasoning |
| Sweet Potato Fries | Sweet potatoes, seasoning blend | Fried to crisp perfection |
“Sides at Cherokee are not an afterthought—they are deliberate companions that elevate the main dish and complete the plate.”
Decadent Desserts
The perfect conclusion to any meal at Cherokee Steakhouse and Marina is found in its dessert offerings. These sweet treats provide a satisfying end to a hearty dinner or a delightful complement to a casual lunch.
Desserts range from classic favorites like rich chocolate cake and creamy cheesecakes to inventive seasonal creations that incorporate fresh fruits and local ingredients. Each dessert is prepared in-house, promising freshness and care in every bite.
The dessert menu also includes options for those with dietary considerations, ensuring everyone can indulge without compromise.
Dessert Highlights
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm, gooey center with a side of vanilla ice cream.
- New York Style Cheesecake: Smooth, creamy, topped with fresh berries.
- Seasonal Fruit Crisp: Made with local fruits and a crunchy oat topping.
- Gluten-Free Brownie: Rich and fudgy, perfect for special diets.
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Calories (Approx.) |
| Chocolate Lava Cake | Chocolate, eggs, butter, sugar | 560 |
| New York Cheesecake | Cream cheese, sugar, eggs, graham cracker crust | 480 |
| Seasonal Fruit Crisp | Fresh fruit, oats, butter, brown sugar | 400 |
“Desserts at Cherokee are a celebration of sweetness and texture—a final flourish to a memorable meal.”
Beverage Selection and Pairings
Complementing the rich and varied menu, Cherokee Steakhouse and Marina offers an extensive beverage program that enhances every dining experience. From fine wines to craft beers and handcrafted cocktails, the selection caters to diverse tastes and occasions.
The wine list includes both regional and international bottles, thoughtfully curated to pair perfectly with steak, seafood, and lighter fare. Sommeliers are available to assist guests in selecting the ideal wine to match their meal, enhancing flavor profiles and dining satisfaction.
Craft cocktails feature fresh ingredients and creative combinations, ranging from smoky bourbons to refreshing citrus blends. Non-alcoholic options also abound, including specialty lemonades, iced teas, and mocktails.
Popular Beverage Pairings
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Ideal with ribeye and porterhouse steaks for its bold tannins.
- Chardonnay: Pairs beautifully with grilled seafood and creamy dishes.
- IPA Craft Beer: Complements spicy and smoked flavors on the menu.
- Signature Cocktails: Featuring house infusions like bourbon peach smash and cucumber mint cooler.
| Beverage | Suggested Pairing | Flavor Notes |
| Cabernet Sauvignon | Ribeye Steak | Full-bodied, dark fruit, tannic |
| Chardonnay | Pan-Seared Trout | Buttery, oaky, citrus |
| IPA Craft Beer | Blackened Shrimp | Hoppy, bitter, floral |
“The right beverage can transform a meal into a symphony of flavors, bringing out nuances in every bite.”
Conclusion
The Cherokee Steakhouse and Marina menu is a testament to the art of thoughtful dining. Every item—from the signature steaks to the light salads and decadent desserts—is crafted with care, quality, and a deep respect for flavor.
The menu’s diversity ensures that whether you’re seeking a hearty meal or a light bite, there’s something to satisfy your appetite and elevate your dining experience.
What sets Cherokee apart is its ability to seamlessly blend traditional steakhouse classics with fresh, locally inspired dishes that reflect its unique waterfront location. The inclusion of expertly paired beverages and a welcoming atmosphere completes the experience, making each visit memorable.
Whether you’re a steak aficionado, seafood lover, or someone who appreciates a well-rounded meal with thoughtful sides and desserts, Cherokee Steakhouse and Marina offers a menu designed to impress and delight.
Visiting Cherokee is more than just eating out—it’s indulging in a culinary journey that honors quality and creativity, served alongside stunning marina views and warm hospitality. This combination of great food, drink, and setting ensures that every meal here is not merely consumed but fully enjoyed and remembered.
