Spencer's for Steaks & Chops

02/08/09

Reviews scared me away

by Point2Click at Citysearch

I used CitySearch to look at reviews before making a Valentine's Day reservation. How can an establishment have a 5-star rating with CitySearch when they haven't gotten a good review since 2006? I like what I have read about the atmosphere and ambiance but I am looking for a good steak ably served. I am thankful for the posted reviews and wonder about the high ranking. I guess I'll keep looking.

• Pros: Good Promotion
• Cons: Bad Reviews

12/29/08

Spencer's food can not compete with Houston's other steakhouse alternatives.

by DinnerNight08 at Citysearch

My wife and I frequent upscale steakhouses, but until yesterday, we had never been to Spencer?s. The restaurant and bar ambience is nice with bright, open, modern lounge flair. We did not have reservations, and though the restaurant was only half-full, they would not seat us. However, the bar area offered full-service; we actually like dining in the bar area, so this was not a problem. After sitting at a bar table for about 15 minutes without the waiter taking our drink order, we moved to sit at the bar. Once there, the service from the bartenders was fine, and we ordered dinner. The Spencer and Wedge salads were average. The fillets were cooked to order, but the quality of the meat was poor for this level of restaurant ? think Outback steak at Ruth Chris? prices. For a side we tried the hashbrowns au gratin, and it was indescribably bad. When served, it looked like a cold cheese pancake drowning in oil; it tasted like one, too, with enough bacon bits to completely destroy any other flavors. A note on presentation: other than the potatoes just slapped on a random plate, the steaks were just plopped on a plain white plate with nary a sprinkling of parsley or drizzle of juices. I got the distinct impression the restaurant was attempting the bare minimum. I kid you not ? I overheard a gentlemen at the table behind us exclaim about his meal, ?Could they at least TRY on the presentation?? They should at these prices.

I am not one for extremisms, but after last night, Spencer?s has forced me into it. How this place can survive is beyond me ? it must be captive diners from the hotel. I recommend going to Outback for a more flavorful meal at half the price, or go to Vic & Anthony?s, Fleming?s, Pappas Bros, Strip House, or a number of other, better top steakhouses in Houston. For additional info, read the Fearless Critic?s review on Spencer?s; it?s spot-on with our experience. I just wish I had heeded their advice.

• Pros: Ambience, decor
• Cons: Food, service, possibility of intoxicated and boisterous sports fans in jeans and caps

09/22/08

Great food and excellent staff

by AshleyKnows at Citysearch

This place is beautiful. I brought my boyfriend here for our anniversary and we both thought the food was great. The staff was very accommodating and attentive. This was a great experience and I would suggest Spencer's to all of my friends.