When we dashed into the already packed Kayne Prime Steakhouse in Nashville, Tennessee, (rushing because we were a bit tardy!), the smartly dressed patrons spilling out the door onto the steps was our first clue that we had just walked into a must-try local. We snuck around the hostess stand and happily joined our party mid-drink. I was part of a group dinner hosted by the very dignified Jeffrey Manning and was thrilled to accept the swanky dinner invite the moment I received it.
Kayne is not your typical steakhouse. The interior is more intimate with horizontal wide plank walls and globe pin lighting tableside. And although they do cater to larger parties, even our ninetop felt cozy nestled into a generous square table posing as a sumptuous leather booth. I liked the vibe already. We exchanged pleasantries and introductions and got down to the business of ordering.
The first delectable that caught my trained culinary eye was the Popcorn Buttered Lobster. Say whaaat? We had to bring the waitress over for a full explanation of this yet undiscovered gem. You could tell her mouth watered as she smiled through the details. “We begin with lobster knuckle and claw meat. The lobster is then cooked sous vide and bathed in a beurre monte reduction. Morsels are then placed on tasting spoons and topped by buttery, salted popcorn.” I was already fanning myself from the buttery hot flash I hoped to experience! Needless to say we requested more than one order.
Let’s just say that I’ve never tasted anything like it! The tender kernel topping was still crisp, never succumbing to the pool of liquid beneath. And the mostly obscured lobster bite was ethereal– smooth, warm, luxurious and oh so buttery with a just a hint of sweetness. It was truly a one bite wonder. So I have to admit that I ate two! And honey, cue the hot flash! This Popcorn Buttered Lobster was exceptional.
We didn’t stop there. Our crew ordered mostly beef, with a single fish exception in the corner. Under the 1200 Degree column of entrees, I opted into the Mishima Reserve (Seattle, Washington) Wagyu Filet Mignon six ouncer and Kayne did not disappoint. This was probably the best piece of steak I have ever eaten– tender, soft and melt in your mouth delicious; I could have used a butter knife to cut it. Our sides were standouts as well. The Risotto Tater Tots were mind-blowingly cheesy tasting tidbits of heaven on earth. Even the Charred Broccoli was a table favorite.
We finished up with big, warm, sharable chocolate chunk cookies peppered with shards of sea salt and a wide mouth pool of inviting milk in which to dunk– we were all smiling, happy campers!
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