Eddie Merlot’s - Cincinnati
Eddie Merlot is named after a real person, but not after the owner. Famed wine connoisseur Bill Humphries pays homage to one of his most loyal clients, a guy named Ed who happens to obsess over merlot, with this steak, wine and seafood-focused establishment with locations across the country.
Read MoreEddie Merlot's aims to offer guests a classic steakhouse experience, with some surprises along the way. Beginning with the appetizer menu, the restaurant turns up the notch on everyday items, from the sweet and spicy tempura shrimp that come with a tangy sriracha sauce to filet mignon potstickers.
Steaks are USDA prime and offer an admirable price range. There's the signature burger that consists of a patty made from filet, New York strip, and ribeye for $17. There's also the New Orleans-style mixed grill, which is the chef's favorite. It's a four-ounce filet mignon, blackened shrimp, andouille, and mashed potatoes for $33.
And those looking for something more decadent may indulge in seven ounces of filet mignon or 16 ounces of ribeye from Tarpoly Creek Ranch wagyu; it's $90 and $99, respectively. The Australian beef is only available at Eddie Merlot restaurants in the United States.
