Restaurant Finder

Ray's The Steaks

Cuisine: Steaks Neighborhoods: Court House Arlington

Based on 24 reviews.

Address	1725 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22209
Phone	(703) 841-7297

Rater Comments

These comments express the opinions of individual Restaurant Raters, not those of Washington City Paper.

Review by tom459 on September 30, 2009

Oh, heck, let's be honest. Excellent cuts of meat, complimentary sides, and very decent prices... Ray's is a very serious contender in the category of the best steakhouses in the Washington, DC area. Yes, you may have to deal with some long waits and a restrictive reservation policy. Once you get in, you should find out that all of it was worth it.

Review by discojing on September 3, 2009

We didn't have a reservation, but walked in and didn't have to wait. We were seated at a table right next to the back-side of the hosting table (sitting next to the hosts that were standing and talking to customers, pulling out menus, answering the phone, etc) and asked to be moved. We were then moved to a table next to a supply station, a stop in-between the kitchen and the tables where people go to get glasses and silverware rolls. The hostess asked if this was fine and I said "Well, they're both bad, but I guess we can sit here." In my opinion, you just shouldn't put tables in places people don't want to sit. It's okay to have one or two less tables, the diners will appreciate it in the end. I also didn't really know who our server was. We were being served by the hostess and two different waitresses at the same time, and they didn't seem to communicate with each other on what stage in our meal we were at. The hostess then came to us after about 5-10 minutes and asked if we wanted to move. At this point, we were all settled in (despite the constant bumping-into I was receiving by every waiter that walked by), so declined. After we placed our orders, another waitress came by and asked us for our drink orders. We told her we had already placed our order and munched on the bread and cashews. The spicy cashews were great, but the bread was thick, dense, and dry. Not to mention pretty much flavorless. The bread went mostly uneaten and was taken away when our food came.

So, yeah, the steak is cheap, but is it good? Honestly, I didn't order the steak here. I don't like steak, so I got the scallops. The appetizer portion for $9.95 was the size of an entree at any other restaurant and the scallops were the biggest I've ever seen. The scallops came served with onions (which didn't go with the dish at all) that were mostly inedible, and a mango chutney (which tasted like jelly and was good in moderation). The scallops themselves were good. They were almost 100% grit-free despite their size, but did have a bit of rubbery mouth-feel at times. I tried the Diablo steak served medium, and it too was alright. Nothing to right home about, and also served with the horrendous onions and with large chunks of garlic on top. Each steak entree comes with a side of mashed potatoes and creamed spinach. The mashed potatoes had pockets where I could taste butter, and the potatoes themselves had a slightly grainy texture at times. They didn't taste like instant potatoes, but reminded me of them. This was the first time I'd had creamed spinach, and it didn't make me a fan. It was interesting to taste, but too watery for me. Both were alright enough, but there was just too much of them. We don't need this much food, period! I ordered a small side of Macaroni & Cheese for $3.50 and it too was too large. After two bites, it went uneaten. The only thing worse than having a craving for macaroni and cheese is trying to fill that craving with an awful excuse for the dish. The macaroni lacked flavor all together, and tasted like pasta water. I could see some cheese in it, but there was absolutely no cheese taste. I've had better macaroni from frozen dinners.

These sides, paired with the size of the entree instantly made me realize, yet again, why America has an obesity issue. I chose the appetizer size of the scallops and a small size of the side, yet could not finish either. The steak and sides were taken as leftovers and eaten over a span of three days.

My boyfriend was "resting" part-way through his steak, placing his silverware down on the table, and I was still eating my scallops, fork and knife in hand, when a waitress came up to us and offered to box his food. I couldn't believe the constant pressure we were getting to finish quickly (while still obviously trying to up-sell), it was obvious that they were trying to turn tables quickly. When we were finished, they cleared the table, boxed my boyfriend's food and sides, but left my dirty plate on the table until we left. Little things like this, in service, really irk me. It can really put a damper on the whole experience.

I did like the little mini-desserts we received though-chocolate peanut butter squares. It tasted fresh because the peanut butter was refrigerator-cold and the chocolate was very warm. The contrast was interesting to me, though some might not like it.

The decor in Ray's is nicer than it's previous location. It looks like a clean seafood/steakhouse inside, with wood and white and windows. It did seem like a starker version of a downtown restaurant, with no personalization at all. I guess you pay for the cheap prices, not personality though. I'm glad that I went to this restaurant, but I shall not be visiting again.

Review by marser on March 3, 2008

Ray’s has good steaks at reasonable prices (definitely try the crab bisque if you go), but the dining experience was very unpleasant and made me wish I went elsewhere.

Parking, ambiance, and décor are all non-existent, and although your food will come out very quickly (really, you’ll be surprised), you are expected (and reminded) to eat quickly and make room for waiting patrons. Be prepared to fight through crowds waiting at the door and endure shockingly rude service from the condescending hostesses. Arrive hours early to request a specific dining time (even though Ray’s “doesn’t take reservations”) or be prepared to wait 2 hours (3 to 4 hours on Friday or Saturday) before getting a table.

Review by chelledc on November 27, 2007

I brought my boyfriend here for his birthday dinner and from some of the reviews I was expecting snobby service as soon as I hit the door. I was pleasantly surprised as the women who seated us as well as the waitress were very kind. We told her we were first-timers and she went over the menu with us and the various options. She even recommended a lovely pinot noir after I told her that I was a red wine novice. It along with everything else was delcious.

The sherry crab bisque was so rich and they did not skimp on the crab. I am normally a medium-well fan as I've alwaus been a bit squeamish about the color of a well done steak but per the recommendation on the menu I went along with it. The steak was so tender and flavorful. It was so large that I've been able to make three meals out of it. His steak was the Entrecote.

The prices are on par or better than other steak places. Some may be turned off by the lack of sides but I love creamed spinach and mashed potatoes so you get no complaints from me.

The caramel fudge type dessert I had was all yummy. My date's strawberries and cream was simple and fresh. I didn't think strawberries could be so good out of season.

I'll definitely be going back.

Review by skrelnick23 on September 25, 2007

There was much said about this place so as a red meat eater, I was excited. I went in at 5pm to put my name down as they don't take reservations. How is this any different?? Anyhow, I came when I was told to and we were seated quickly as the restaurant wasn't really busy at 8 first turn being completed. Ordered a bottle of lovely Bordeaux for a very reasonable price and two filet mignons with burgundy cream sauce. The steaks came extremely quickly, even too quickly I thought. It appears that my steak was probably par cooked HOURS ago. I ordered a rare filet and when I cut into it, there was not a drop of blood. Parcooked and under reheated as my steak was luke warm. I understand this may pass for many who don't know anything about food, but does not fly with me. And at 29 dollars, it was a huge disappointment. I would rather pay 3-5 dollars more for better ambiance, and a perfectly cooked steak rather than one that has been sitting on a shelf over the stove for 2 hours. The service was pleasant however though I do think the hostess would have just drop dead if she were to smile. So, tonight, I am going to buy an aged steak from whole foods for 20 dollars and eat it with my red wine peppercorn sauce. It's way better than their thick out of a can burgundy cream.

Review by exactto on September 16, 2007

You go here for the quality of the food. The service was very good, especially as our sever assisted us in selecting our wines by giving us a small taste beforehand.

Since we got there at 8:30 pm on a Tuesday, we were seated after 10 minutes and never felt rushed to finish our meal.

Review by cstrother on September 15, 2007

Great restaurant. A destination place, for sure. This is what a steak should be. Those that think they can do a steak at home are simply wrong. Ambience is plan, but all the better to focus on the food. Atmosphere is lively. Service was very good. Reasonably priced wine list with well-selected items a big plus. Very nice to be able to get a Mark West pinot for $6. Had the cowboy rib eye and the sirlion diablo, with soup appetizer (truly wonderful) and Key Lime Pie and berries for dessert. Former excellent. Latter very weak. Rib eye shockingly good. Get the extra garlic. Spinach and potatoes better than three years ago, and just so, especially the spinach. Bang for the buck is extraordinary. DC area is blessed to have this place.

Review by edepsiz1 on August 29, 2007

Dekicious meal for a fraction of what you'd have to pay at Mortons or Ruth's Chris. Expense account meal quality without the price!

Review by gopher_girl on April 18, 2007

The best steak I've ever had. The downside is that if you're seated by the door, you have people waiting for their tables basically on top of you, but for food this good, it's worth it.

Review by phosky on October 20, 2006

The food is, as Zagat promised, truly delicious. The experience is very lacking. Meals were brought out as each dish was ready, so it was a staggered affair -- two entrees; later the next two entrees; mushroom, than 5 minutes later, broccoli...you get the idea. The check was brought and returned for every 2 minutes several times, despite the fact that we were eating dessert. We were not only being rushed; we were being railroaded. If you're looking for a lingering dinner and chat with friends, look very much elsewhere. The entrees were around $28 apiece -- very high for a no-frills, rushed environment. We arrived exactly at 6 when Ray's opens and so had no wait; as the minutes ticked by, the line got longer and learing through the window (there is no waiting inside due to cramped quarters.) I'd definitely skip it, except for carry-out because the food is delicious.

Review by rhartogs on October 6, 2006

WOW, I haven't been this satisfied from a meal in a long time. Three of us went. I had the tender hanger steak. Another got the Fillet, and the other got the Ribeye. The Fillte and Hanger were awesome. Perfectly cooked. The char taste on all the steaks was really good. Service was great too. It didn't hurt that our waitress was stunning looking too. We shared a nice bottle of Pinot Noir that was very good and desert too. We had the dark chocolate mouse. The candy given out at the end was spectacular. This is a new favorite of mine. When I think steaks, it is Ray's or nothing. No need to go to Morton's or anything like that anymore!

Review by dhartogs on September 29, 2006

My girlfriend took me here for my first time on my birthday and we both loved it, and she is a vegetarian. Few places offer the Hanger Steak which I got, and loved, though it's one of the least expensive steaks on the menu it's a huge portion and delicious. I ordered two sauces on the side, the pepper corn with blue cheese. It was tasty though after a while the strong blue cheese was too much. This is a good problem to have though. T he other sauce, was the mushroom and burgundy sauce, I think. It was spectacular. The side dishes were damn good and filling. My girlfriend ordered the token vegetarian platter which was 6 bug grilled portabella mushroom caps. She really enjoyed it and would go back. Thank you Ray's for having this dish so I can enjoy the restaurant more often. The wine list was good and candy they give you at the end of the meal is worth it alone. I can't wait to go back. Though I have only been there once it is now one of my all time favorite restaurants.

Review by cstrother on February 15, 2006

Finally got into this place during the snow storm, because there were cancellations. I thought this was as good a steak as I have ever had and the sides were excellent. (A bit heavy on the nutmeg on the creamed spinach, but excellent texture.) I was too full for dessert, but I will save room next time. Wines were good and available by the glass. A very lively atmosphere. Very friendly. If you like steak, I think you will love this. Not to be missed, and a huge bargain. Simple surroundings, but that is part of the charm.

Review by reesie on December 12, 2005

There should be a Ray's in every city, as long as it wouldn't ruin his cred.

This restaurant is everything that a steakhouse requires, without any of the other BS. Your grilled steak arrives stag on a white stoneware charger. The complimentary creamed spinach and mashed potatoes are perfect. Nice silverware, nice wineglasses, a glass of red wine served at the perfect temperature. And nothing else. As everyone else has stated, the decor is minimum. Mostly tables and chairs, and maybe three or four leather booths along one wall. The walls are stark white, the woods are dark brown, and there is nothing pretentious about the place. Exactly the ambience I prefer on my Friday nights. But the steaks are as good as I've had anywhere, and I've worked in a couple upscale steakhouses. Commendable restaurant, now one of my favorites, please go visit Ray. I suppose you could bring children, but why ruin it for everyone else? I can't remember what options there are for vegetarians. The service wasn't bad--he was a good waiter, but had a kind of annoying personality, I guess. We arrived on a Friday without reservations, had one drink at a neighboring restaurant, and were seated within 15 minutes. But I believe they do take reservations.

Review by hahn74 on November 4, 2005

Good steaks. I've had better but I've had much worse. Giant portions of prime beef with tasty sauces that don't overpower the meat. mashed potatoes and spinach come with the steaks instead of off the a la carte menu, which was a bonus. wine was excellent. the restaurant is white-walled and made me feel like i was eating in a church basement but i guess that didn't matter much once my vision went blurry from beef-overdose. for the price, it's hard to beat.

Review by gastronaut on May 27, 2005

Outstanding steaks, good wine selection, excellent value. Been three times in the past few months with consistent quality and service. I really like the flavorful French cuts you can't find elsewhere: onglet, coulet, and something else that wasn't even on the menu -- try these. Split a chateubriand the most recent time: tender (but not soft) which contrasted nicely with a well seared crust. I prefer such excellent steaks unadorned but the blue cheese and cream sauces are tastey. The wine selection is surprisingly good and affordable, including some very good Spanish bottles. The staff is attentive and helpful but not in your face, chirpy and annoying.

Other places tend to hype their 1500 degree ovens and 500 degree plates (never mind this would catch the tablecloth on fire), then rip you off with poorly prepared sides and overpriced wine. Not Rays: it's all about the steaks. It's become a favorite. Just don't tell anyone, it's not easy to get in on a whim!

Review by Luckiefourteen on March 22, 2005

We'd heard so much about this place and had been trying for months to remember to make a reservation far enough in advance for mini celebrations. We finally made it! And it was oh so worth it. I highly recommend the brandy mushroom cream sauce on the filet. It sounds rich, but it's perfect. And since it was our anniversary, the chocolate mousse was on the house and though neither of us are big sweet eaters, we were really impressed. We were practically sitting in the kitchen, but it was fun to watch the staff at work. We can't wait to go again!

Review by emily on August 4, 2004

After weeks of anticipation, I finally had the oppportunity to try Ray's -- and it was well worth the wait! The filot mignon with brandy mushroom cream sauce is amazing, the meat cooked to perfection. The caesar salad and crab sherry bisque are solid starters, and if you have room left for dessert, try the chocolate mousse or key lime pie. What sets Ray's apart from the crowd though is the personal attention you get from the staff and chef/owner Michael -- his passion for quality ingredients and dedicated service make for superb dining.

Review by janet on June 21, 2004

Sides are okay and not always served hot enough, but the meat...ah, the meat is to die for. Ray knows his animal flesh.

Review by hoopak on June 16, 2004

Ray's is a find. It's a destination spot. It's out of the way. And it requires a reservation a week in advance. But what you get when you finally sit down to dinner is an honest-to-goodness fantastic steak and an affordable, 120 bottle wine list. If you're not a steak eater, you're almost completely out of luck with the menu - you might get a few side salads. Rays serves steak about 12-15 ways, and has a grilled taste that's tough, tough to beat. The portions are more managable than Mortons, and the price is basically 1/3 less than a traditional steakhouse. For a local restaurant, this place rocks.

Review by twelveosprey on April 30, 2004

For someone who doesn't like steak I seem to be at this resturaunt a lot. My carniverous boyfriend and his friends rave about the steak here--they like the NY strip simply grilled. I love the scallops wrapped in bacon and the garlic mashed potatos. The atmosphere is dull--as is the waitstaff. The prices are reasonable. The Key Lime Pie is also tasty.

Review by SweetMer26 on April 23, 2004

The restaurant is excellent! I went there for a special occasion and when I made my reservation, they asked if there was anything special and made note of it. When we arrived, our table was ready and waiting for us and we were seated by the owner himself. After dinner, the staff brought out a dessert for our guest of honor on the house, with no prompting at all from me. On top of the great staff, the food was delicious - so much that I was wiping my plate clean (I probably would have licked it if I thought no one was watching). They have a very affordable wine list, including numerous wines by the glass. The only caveat I would ever have is the noise - not a great place for a quiet, romantic night out...

Review by strawberryfrog on January 14, 2004

Ray's the Steaks is by far my favorite restaurant in Arlington. The hand-cut steaks are always perfectly grilled and the accompanying mashed potatoes and creamed spinach (served family style on small cast iron griddles) are delicious. The place is hardly decorated at all, but that's fine--allows you to focus your attention on the gorgeous and tender cut of meat in front of you. Excellent homemade desserts top off the meal and, on a recent visit, we were given complimentary demitasses of the best hot chocolate I've ever had--made with love according to our waitress. The staff are friendly and very helfpul and the chef frequently visits the dining room to see how diners like their meals. At around $20-$25 for a steak with any number of amazing sauces, Ray's is the best steak deal in the DC metro area.

Review by kathenstein on December 23, 2003

As soon as we sat down we knew we'd found a winner: everything reminded us of our favorite restaurants in New Orleans-- this was a place about the food. I'd heard complaints about the sparse decor and the barely adequate service, but that only serves to direct your attention to the meal, where it should be. (The service actually was perfect. Our waitress watched over us without interupting every five minutes to ask how the food was or to snatch a plate away before we were finished. The chef came out and earnestly asked each table how their meal was.) Our steaks were thick and well sized and prepared precisely as ordered, the customary sides (mashed potatoes and creamed spinach) were creamy and delicious, and the demitasse of real cocoa was a perfect apertif on a chilly night. The menu is almost exclusively steak, but that does include a mushroom "steak," and is reasonably priced. Reservations are required, and the restaurant is between Rosslyn and Courthouse (not Courthouse and Clarendon). I would recommend this restaurant for every occasion.

Review by pen on December 14, 2003

The in-house aged steaks were tender, lean, and wonderfully savory, one was the NY strip and the other was the daily butcher's cut special ("hotel"). The mashed potatoes (passable, but gloppy) and creamed spinach (very good flavor - nutmeg with some cream - and texture, tasted like spinach and not wallpaper paste) were complimentary. Several wines were available by the glass.