A Steak House With Classic Renaissance Decor
submitted by First Impressions of International Dining
Restaurateurs-extraordinaire Ralph and Mike Viscuso have quite simply got it right.
Not so long ago, one thought of a steak house as the Mike Tyson of the restaurant industry. Masculine décor, dark oak tables with paper table tops, and steak knives that would intimidate even Jim Bowie...a let's get down to it approach.
But much has changed...J.J.'s Steak House on Pasadena's Restaurant row is new news.  Considered by many of it's regulars to be Southern California's best-kept secret, it is original in design, concept, and delivery. Who would have thought that at the top of the high tech elevators lies a Florentine escape? With classic Renaissance décor and Romanesque artifacts, elegance and sophistication abound...the soft classic touch of live piano music only adding to the ambiance.
The main dining room softly lit with intimate burgundy dining booths, is simple stunning-showing that no expense has been spared in these palatial surroundings. The attentive wait staff smartly attired in crisp white tunics exemplifies the quality of service.
And what a menu! Appetizers that include magnificent Sea Scallops in orange butter sauce; Portabella Mushrooms with sautéed wild mushrooms in champagne vinaigrette, and a wide selection of enterprising salads.
The entrees are indeed classics, comprising of seafood specialties, which include broiled Maine Lobster, a variety of fresh fish and real meat dishes including a 12oz Filet Mignon and a gargantuan Rack of Lamb served with their own tri-pepper jelly and roasted garlic. Other entrees, which mark J.J.'s originality, include a Double Breast of Duck-sautéed ad served wit port and Balsamic reduction, caramelized  onions and demi glace. And don't forget to enhance your meal with one of the selections of Side dishes that includes creamed spinach and garlic mashed potatoes.
With a wine list that is both compelling and informative and a totally indulgent dessert cart, JJ steak House is to the West what Ben Benson's and Peter Luger's are to the East!
Signature Recipe
Lobster Cream
: 6 Lobster heads
: 16oz heavy cream
: 1 celery stalk
: 1 Tsp. garlic chopped
: 1/2 bunch thyme
: 3 bay leaves
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: 3 carrots
: 1 Tbl. black pepper corn
: 1/2 cp tomato paste
: 1/2 cp. brandy
: 1/4 cp olive oil
: 1/2 gal. chicken stock
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Directions
Bake lobster, put in in a pot sauteed...add brandy, flame up, add all ingredient except cream, reduce flame. Add cream, reduce. |
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