Southern Living names two West Texas steakhouses as 'most legendary' in the South

Four Texas steakhouses have finally been labeled as "legendary" by Southern Living, reminding readers that the Lone Star State does not skimp when it comes to taste.

Here's a look at those four, starting with two West Texas wins.

Big Texan Steak Ranch, Amarillo

The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo was named the most "delicious" steakhouse on Route 66.

The original Big Texan Steak House was established on Route 66 in 1960.
The original Big Texan Steak House was established on Route 66 in 1960.

"You can’t miss the giant lemon-yellow building on a seven-acre property that also includes a brewery, ranch, RV park, 300-person banquet hall, arcade, gift shop, and motel," the publication stated. "The Big Texan is best known for its world-famous 72-ounce steak challenge."

Only 10,000 have eaten a shrimp cocktail, baked potato, salad, roll, and 72-ounce steak within one-hour with over 90,000 people attempting the challenge. The steakhouse, and the challenge, also appeared on The Great Food Truck Race in season 6, episode 4.

More: Ahead of its 100th, here's a brief history of Route 66 and some notable Amarillo spots

Perini Ranch Steakhouse, Buffalo Gap

Just south of Abilene, in the small town of Buffalo Gap, sits Perini Ranch Steakhouse. Honored as an America’s Classic by the James Beard Foundation, the steakhouse sits in a converted barn and has been serving steaks since the 1970s.

The steakhouse is best known for its Ranch Burger — a half-pound of 100% ground chuck with cheddar cheese, grilled mushrooms, green chiles, and onions — or a 12-ounce center-cut lean strip crusted with black peppercorns called the Peppered Strip, according to Southern Living.

More: James Beard Foundation names East Austin restaurant an 'American Classic'

Nick & Sam’s, Dallas

Over in Dallas, Nick & Sam’s upscale steak house is known for its primed aged steak with its signature sauce.

"There’s also a huge selection of Japanese Wagyu, an excellent sushi menu, and several tantalizing flavors of Nick & Sam’s famous seven-layer cake," the publication stated. "This is a special occasion restaurant that knows how to help its diners celebrate properly."

Rainbow Lodge, Houston

Finally, in Houston lies the Rainbow Lodge.

Considered a non-traditional steakhouse, according to Rainbow Lodge, patrons will find wild game meats on the menu like elk or bison.

"The expansive restaurant has been open in Houston since 1977 and is a popular spot for celebrations," stated the publication.

This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: West Texas steakhouses named "most legendary" by Southern Living