Philadelphia, PA - Barclay Prime, the renowned upscale steakhouse in Philadelphia, has been a culinary destination since its establishment in 2004 by acclaimed restaurateur Stephen Starr. Operating under the ownership of STARR Restaurants, the steakhouse continues to impress with its impeccable service and delectable offerings. Spearheaded by the talented head chef Benjamin Moore, Barclay Prime has become synonymous with exceptional quality and unparalleled dining experiences.Benjamin Moore
The Barclay Prime Cheesesteak: A $140 Indulgence Redefining Philly's Icon
In a city renowned for its fiercely debated and often humbly priced cheesesteaks, one establishment dares to elevate this beloved street food to an entirely new level of luxury. Barclay Prime, the opulent steakhouse nestled in Philadelphia's Rittenhouse Square, offers a cheesesteak experience unlike any other. Priced at a staggering $140, this isn't your average "Whiz Wit." Instead, it's a meticulously crafted indulgence featuring premium ingredients like hand-cut wagyu beef, black truffle, and foie gras, all served with a celebratory half-bottle of champagne. This is a deep dive into the Barclay Prime Cheesesteak – a decadent reimagining of a Philadelphia classic.
Deconstructing the Decadence:
Every element of the Barclay Prime Cheesesteak is a testament to quality and luxury:
- Hand-Cut Wagyu: Forget thinly sliced rib-eye. Barclay Prime utilizes succulent, hand-cut wagyu beef. Known for its intense marbling, exceptional tenderness, and rich flavor, wagyu provides a depth of taste far beyond traditional cheesesteak fare. Each bite promises a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Black Truffle: The inclusion of black truffle shavings introduces an earthy, aromatic, and undeniably luxurious dimension. The truffle's pungent notes perfectly complement the richness of the wagyu, adding a layer of sophistication rarely associated with a cheesesteak.
- Foie Gras: Adding to the opulent profile is a generous shaving of foie gras, the rich and buttery liver of a fattened duck or goose. Its smooth, decadent texture and unique flavor create an unforgettable contrast with the savory beef.
- Fried Onions: While a classic cheesesteak staple, Barclay Prime's fried onions are likely prepared with the same attention to detail, offering a touch of sweetness and crispy texture to balance the richness of the other ingredients.
- Cooper Sharp Cheese: A Philadelphia favorite, Cooper Sharp cheese is a highly flavorful, aged cheddar cheese known for its sharp and slightly tangy bite. Its inclusion provides a familiar yet elevated cheesy element that cuts through the richness of the wagyu and foie gras.
- Freshly Baked Sesame Roll: The foundation of any great sandwich, Barclay Prime's sesame roll is freshly baked, ensuring a soft yet sturdy structure to hold the generous and luxurious filling.
- The Champagne Pairing: Elevating the entire experience is the inclusion of a half-bottle of champagne. The crisp acidity and celebratory bubbles of champagne act as a perfect counterpoint to the richness of the cheesesteak, cleansing the palate and enhancing the overall indulgence.
Is it Worth the Price Tag?
The $140 price point of the Barclay Prime Cheesesteak undoubtedly raises eyebrows in a city where a traditional cheesesteak can be had for under $15. This isn't meant to be an everyday lunch; it's an experience. It's a statement. It's a playful yet serious reimagining of a beloved classic using some of the world's most luxurious ingredients.
Whether it's "worth it" is subjective and depends entirely on the diner's priorities. For those seeking a unique, over-the-top culinary adventure and a taste of the high life, the Barclay Prime Cheesesteak offers an unparalleled and memorable experience. It's an opportunity to indulge in premium ingredients prepared with the expertise of a high-end steakhouse, all within the familiar framework of Philadelphia's most iconic sandwich.
The Barclay Prime Cheesesteak is not just a sandwich; it's a conversation starter, a culinary experiment, and a testament to the versatility of a Philadelphia staple. It boldly asks the question: what happens when luxury meets tradition? The answer is a $140 indulgence that redefines the very notion of a cheesesteak, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for those willing to splurge.
