Midtown Lunch

When we got a tip from a reader about the new Steak Freak cart parked on 52nd and 6th Avenue, I became very interested. Lots of carts serve beef, but I’m not aware of any that specialize in steak. Could this be a “steak house” on wheels that serves steak frites for under $10? Was I expecting too much?

The cart is just over two weeks old and the menu is mostly comprised of different steak preparations, marinades, and accompaniments. I asked the guys on the cart which they recommend and took them up on the suggestion for Steak Kimchi. I was especially interested in this since they are parked right next to the Gobuki cart, which does both kimchi and steak pretty well.

I’m not sure exactly what cut of beef was used, but it was definitely one of the cheaper and less flavorful cuts. In my mind, flavorful and fatty short rib (galbi) would have been the obvious choice here. Instead, I got strips of chewy and flavorless overcooked beef. Aside from some sesame seeds, I’m not sure it was seasoned at all. The kimchi added some spice, but even that was a bit oily.

On the bright side, there was a decent amount of beef mixed in with the kimchi. It wasn’t the worst plate of steak I’ve tasted, but I’m not sure I’m willing to spend $8 for this when there are more tasty steak options available at other nearby carts for similar prices.

Perhaps the other steak plates at Steak Freak are better (maybe I’m too accustomed to sweet and smoky Korean galbi) or this cart will improve over time. But for now, I’m still waiting for when we get a legit steak cart serving peppery medium rare steaks. Now that will be a Midtown Lunch.

Steak Freak, SW Corner of 52nd and 6th Avenue