Walking into Sundance is like stepping into a man’s dream home, where the décor is heavy on mahogany and leather accents, hunting-lodge motifs and vintage sports memorabilia, and juicy steaks are served for dinner every night.
While unabashedly
masculine, this upscale eatery holds universal appeal and is a choice destination for all occasions, from business dinners and special events to evenings out with friends, family or that special someone. A Palo Alto institution for more than 35 years, Sundance is as renowned for its menu as it is for its top-notch service.
Established in 1974 by Robert Fletcher, Sundance continues to be operated by sons Galen and Aron—hence the unique atmosphere here that chain steakhouses often lack. All of the décor comes from the Fletcher patriach’s personal collection; oil paintings and glass cabinets displaying old books, photographs and antiques give off a sense of nostalgia. Subtly lit by fires in stone fireplaces, tabletop candles and stylish lighting fixtures, Sundance offers an intimate, warm environment that’s the perfect escape from chilly December nights.
From the first appetizer to the last dessert, a Sundance meal is one to be savored, not rushed. After enjoying a classic Manhattan or a glass of vino from the award-winning wine list, try the Sonoma salad, with lettuce tossed with balsamic vinaigrette, feta, pine nuts and tomatoes, followed by the homemade New England clam chowder, a customer favorite.
The entrée menu is a carnivore’s dream: aged center-cut top sirloin, Prime filet mignon and bone-in ribeye steak, for starters. All steaks are certified Angus beef and are aged 28 days before being hand-cut and charbroiled to order. The crown jewel for many, however, is the Prime rib, which is slow-roasted for more than 8 hours and served with au jus and horseradish on the side. As the tender meat seems to melt in your mouth, it’s hard to remember the last time you’ve had beef that tasted so good.
Seafood lovers won’t be disappointed, either—from wild Northern Salmon to sea scallops, the choices are abundant. The ultimate piscatorial entree, though, is the succulent, cold-water Western Australian lobster tail, steamed to perfection and served with melted butter. One bite sends your tastebuds soaring to new heights.
Sundance goes the whole nine yards with its dessert selection, too. Choices might include butterscotch crème brùlée, amaretto pumpkin pie or fresh berries with cream. Whatever you order, you’re sure to join the legion of Sundance fans by the end of your experience. —Stephanie Soong
Hours:
Lunch: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2pm. Dinner: Mon-Thurs, 5-10pm; Fri-Sat, 5-10 pm; Sun, 5-9pm
Location:
1921 El Camino Real, Palo Alto
More Info:
650/321-6798
www.sundancethesteakhouse.com
