San Carlos CA: Iron Gate

Graham and Alexis introduced me to a wonderful, old-style steak restaurant in San Carlos, the Iron Gate. Its roots go back both to fine Continental dining and an earlier, less hectic California.

The meal started, of course, with excellent bread.

Our appetizers were classic: oysters rockefeller, escargot, and stuffed zucchini florets. My florets were rich with seafood and a great blend of textures.

A quick palate cleansing prepared us for the main course.

Alexis and I both ordered flamed steaks, which brought out the flambe table. The show was spectacular and our server very charming.

My steak au poivre was superb. The flamed sauce was smooth, meaty, and creamy, with a touch of pepper.

We ended with souffles. My chocolate version was perfectly executed and downright decadent. The chocolate sauce was smooth and rich, perfectly complementing the souffle interior.

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