Peoria, Illinois, is home to a captivating dining experience at the Lariat Steakhouse, a destination that masterfully combines rustic charm with sophisticated flavors. Renowned for its dedication to quality and exceptional service, Lariat Steakhouse has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Whether you’re craving a tender, juicy cut of steak, fresh seafood, or flavorful sides, the menu offers an array of mouthwatering options that cater to a variety of palates. The warm, inviting atmosphere perfectly complements the culinary journey, making every visit memorable.
From the moment you step inside, the aroma of perfectly grilled meats and savory spices sets the tone for a remarkable meal. The chefs at Lariat Steakhouse pride themselves on sourcing premium ingredients and employing classic cooking techniques that highlight the natural flavors of each dish.
With a menu that balances traditional steakhouse favorites and innovative creations, guests can enjoy a true taste of Peoria’s vibrant food scene. This combination of quality, creativity, and ambiance ensures that dining at Lariat Steakhouse is more than just a meal—it’s an experience.
Signature Steak Selections
The heart of Lariat Steakhouse’s menu lies in its impressive steak offerings. Each steak is carefully selected and prepared to showcase the rich, robust flavors that steak lovers crave.
The menu features a variety of cuts, each with unique characteristics and cooking options, ensuring there is something for every preference.
Steaks are aged to perfection and grilled over an open flame, which imparts a smoky char while keeping the interior tender and juicy. Diners can choose from traditional cuts like ribeye and New York strip to more specialized options such as filet mignon and T-bone.
Seasonings and marinades are thoughtfully crafted to enhance—but never overpower—the natural beef flavor.
“The perfect steak is a balance of quality meat, precise cooking, and a touch of seasoning that elevates the experience without masking the natural taste.” – Executive Chef at Lariat Steakhouse
Popular Steak Cuts
- Ribeye: Known for its rich marbling, delivering a juicy, flavorful bite.
- Filet Mignon: The most tender cut, ideal for those who favor a buttery texture.
- New York Strip: A well-balanced cut with a sturdy texture and bold beefy flavor.
- T-Bone: Combines the tenderness of filet with the robustness of strip steak.
Cooking Preferences
Understanding the importance of perfect doneness, Lariat Steakhouse accommodates a range of cooking preferences. Guests can request steaks cooked rare, medium-rare, medium, medium-well, or well-done.
The chefs use precise temperature control to ensure each steak is served exactly as requested, preserving its juiciness and flavor.
For those seeking something special, the kitchen offers a dry-aged steak option, which intensifies flavor and tenderness through extended aging. This premium choice guarantees a unique experience for discerning steak aficionados.
Steak Comparison Table
| Steak Cut | Texture | Flavor Profile | Recommended Doneness |
| Ribeye | Marbled, Tender | Rich, Beefy | Medium Rare |
| Filet Mignon | Soft, Buttery | Mild, Subtle | Medium |
| New York Strip | Firm, Chewy | Bold, Savory | Medium Rare to Medium |
| T-Bone | Combination | Robust, Balanced | Medium Rare |
Seafood Delights
While the steaks steal the spotlight, Lariat Steakhouse’s seafood selections provide an equally enticing alternative. Freshness is paramount, with daily catches and carefully selected ingredients ensuring every plate showcases the ocean’s bounty at its best.
From delicate fish fillets to hearty shellfish dishes, the seafood menu caters to a variety of tastes and textures.
The preparation styles range from grilled and pan-seared to broiled and fried, each method designed to preserve the natural flavors and provide a satisfying culinary experience. The kitchen complements these dishes with house-made sauces and seasonings that enhance rather than overwhelm the seafood’s freshness.
Featured Seafood Dishes
- Grilled Salmon: Served with a citrus herb butter, offering a bright, flavorful finish.
- Shrimp Scampi: Sautéed in garlic and white wine, served over linguine pasta.
- Fried Catfish: Crispy and golden, paired with tangy tartar sauce and coleslaw.
- Seafood Platter: A combination of shrimp, scallops, and fish, ideal for sharing.
Enhancing Your Seafood Experience
Lariat Steakhouse emphasizes pairing seafood dishes with thoughtfully selected sides and sauces. The fresh flavors of the ocean are complemented by light, zesty accompaniments such as lemon aioli or dill cream sauce.
Seasonal vegetables and rice pilaf are common side choices that balance the meal beautifully.
The restaurant also offers wine pairings tailored to seafood, including crisp whites and sparkling options that elevate the meal. Knowledgeable staff provide recommendations to enhance your dining experience, ensuring each bite is perfectly matched to your beverage choice.
“Seafood at Lariat is treated with the utmost respect — clean flavors, fresh ingredients, and expert preparation come together for a dish that delights every palate.”
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizers at Lariat Steakhouse serve as a perfect introduction to the meal, offering bold flavors and enticing textures that whet the appetite. Designed for sharing or as a light start, these dishes highlight fresh ingredients and creative combinations that set the tone for the courses ahead.
From classic steakhouse staples to inventive new options, the appetizer menu is diverse and thoughtfully crafted. Many starters incorporate local produce and house-made components that reflect the kitchen’s commitment to quality and authenticity.
Popular Starters
- Loaded Potato Skins: Crisp skins filled with cheddar, bacon, sour cream, and chives.
- Crab Cakes: Golden brown with a delicate crab filling, served with remoulade.
- Beef Carpaccio: Thinly sliced raw beef with arugula, parmesan, and balsamic glaze.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Filled with a savory blend of cheeses and herbs.
Sharing Platters
For groups or those who enjoy sampling multiple flavors, sharing platters are a popular choice. These selections combine several appetizers into one satisfying dish, perfect for starting a meal or enjoying as a light dinner.
The platters often include a mix of seafood, meat, and vegetarian options, ensuring variety and balance.
Sharing platters encourage convivial dining and are ideal for encouraging conversation and exploration of the menu’s breadth.
Salads and Soups
Balancing the hearty main dishes, Lariat Steakhouse offers a selection of fresh salads and comforting soups. These options provide lighter fare without compromising on flavor or quality.
Each salad is crafted with crisp greens, vibrant vegetables, and distinctive dressings that complement the main menu.
Soups are made daily, often featuring seasonal ingredients and regional favorites. Whether you seek a warm starter or a refreshing side, the soups and salads menu has something to suit every mood and preference.
Signature Salads
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, parmesan, croutons, and house-made Caesar dressing.
- Wedge Salad: Iceberg lettuce with blue cheese, bacon, tomato, and ranch dressing.
- Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: Roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, walnuts, and mixed greens.
Daily Soup Selections
The soup offerings rotate regularly to highlight fresh ingredients and seasonal flavors. Popular choices include classic French onion, creamy tomato basil, and hearty beef stew.
Each soup is made from scratch, ensuring a rich and satisfying taste.
“Our soups and salads are the perfect balance to our bold, robust entrees, offering freshness and comfort in every bite.”
Side Dishes and Accompaniments
No steakhouse meal is complete without carefully chosen sides that complement the main course. Lariat Steakhouse offers an array of side dishes designed to enhance the dining experience through texture, flavor, and presentation.
These accompaniments range from traditional favorites to creative vegetable preparations.
The side dishes are crafted to provide balance and contrast, offering both comfort and sophistication. Many are prepared using local ingredients, underscoring the restaurant’s commitment to freshness and quality.
Classic and Creative Sides
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and smooth with a subtle garlic undertone.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and charred for a smoky flavor.
- Mac and Cheese: A rich, cheesy casserole with a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, with a touch of sea salt.
Side Dish Pairing Suggestions
| Main Dish | Recommended Side | Flavor Balance |
| Ribeye Steak | Garlic Mashed Potatoes | Rich and creamy to complement bold beef flavor |
| Grilled Salmon | Grilled Asparagus | Fresh and slightly smoky to enhance the fish |
| Fried Catfish | Sweet Potato Fries | Sweet and crispy for a delightful contrast |
| Filet Mignon | Mac and Cheese | Comforting and indulgent to match tender texture |
Desserts and Sweet Endings
Lariat Steakhouse rounds out the dining experience with a thoughtfully curated dessert menu that offers indulgent treats to satisfy any sweet tooth. The desserts are crafted with the same attention to detail and quality as the savory dishes, ensuring a memorable conclusion to your meal.
Selections include classic favorites and unique creations, often featuring seasonal fruits, rich chocolates, and creamy textures. These desserts provide a perfect balance of sweetness and sophistication, making them ideal for sharing or enjoying solo.
Featured Desserts
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm, rich cake with a molten chocolate center, served with vanilla ice cream.
- New York Cheesecake: Smooth and creamy with a graham cracker crust and fresh berry topping.
- Apple Crisp: Baked apples with cinnamon and a crunchy oat topping, paired with whipped cream.
- Seasonal Sorbet: Light and refreshing, made with fresh, seasonal fruits.
Pairing Desserts with Drinks
To elevate the dessert experience, Lariat Steakhouse offers a selection of dessert wines, coffee blends, and after-dinner cocktails. These pairings are designed to complement the flavors and textures of the sweets, enhancing the overall satisfaction of your meal.
“A great dessert is more than just sweetness—it’s the final note that lingers and leaves a lasting impression.”
Beverage Selection and Wine List
A carefully curated beverage menu complements the culinary delights at Lariat Steakhouse. From robust reds to crisp whites, the wine list is designed to pair beautifully with the diverse menu offerings.
The bar also features classic cocktails, craft beers, and non-alcoholic options to suit every preference.
Expert sommeliers and bartenders are available to guide guests through the selection process, ensuring that each drink enhances the flavors of the meal. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual dinner, the beverage program adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the dining experience.
Wine Highlights
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Full-bodied red, perfect for rich steaks.
- Chardonnay: Buttery and oaky, pairs well with seafood and chicken.
- Pinot Noir: Light and fruity, versatile for various dishes.
- Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp and refreshing, excellent with salads and lighter fare.
Cocktail and Beer Options
The cocktail menu features traditional favorites alongside innovative creations that reflect seasonal ingredients and local trends. Craft beers from Illinois breweries are also highlighted, offering a taste of the region’s brewing excellence.
| Beverage Type | Example | Pairing Suggestion |
| Red Wine | Cabernet Sauvignon | Ribeye Steak, T-Bone |
| White Wine | Chardonnay | Grilled Salmon, Shrimp Scampi |
| Cocktail | Old Fashioned | Filet Mignon, Mac and Cheese |
| Craft Beer | Local IPA | Fried Catfish, Loaded Potato Skins |
“Our beverage offerings are as thoughtfully crafted as our menu, designed to create perfect harmony in every sip and bite.”
Conclusion
Lariat Steakhouse in Peoria, Illinois, stands out as a premier dining destination where quality, flavor, and atmosphere converge. The menu showcases a masterful selection of steaks, fresh seafood, and thoughtfully prepared sides, all crafted with precision and passion.
Every dish reflects the restaurant’s commitment to excellence, from the sourcing of ingredients to the presentation on the plate.
Whether you’re a seasoned steak connoisseur or exploring new flavors, the diverse offerings ensure an unforgettable experience. The attentive service and inviting ambiance further enhance the enjoyment, making each visit feel special.
Coupled with an extensive wine list and expertly mixed cocktails, Lariat Steakhouse offers a complete dining adventure that satisfies both the palate and the soul.
For those seeking a refined yet welcoming environment to celebrate milestones, enjoy a night out, or simply indulge in exceptional cuisine, Lariat Steakhouse delivers consistently. It is a true gem in Peoria’s culinary landscape, promising memorable meals and an elevated steakhouse experience that will entice you to return time and again.
