Vintage Steakhouse: St. James, NY

When I first heard the name "Vintage" I thought of the definition - "The yield of wine or grapes from a vineyard or district during one season".  After several visits to Vintage Steakhouse in St. James NY, I quickly realized that the appropriate definition use of "Vintage" is "outmoded". 

When I first walked in, my first thought was - "old and outdated".  The bar drink menu - outdated.  Wines to yawn at and over-priced, predictable cocktails.   The menu also - bland and predictable.  The appetizers included all of the standards: clams casino, oysters Rockefeller, crab cakes, Caesar salads, house chopped salads.  The menu was reflective of a traditional diner entrée menu. 

We chose the 2 special appetizers just out of the shear blah of the regular menu.  Soft shell crab appetizer was generic, served with a remoulade and mesclun. ($14).  We also had the seared scallops ($14), served in a bland "phlegm" broth.  Entree choices included filet medallions with gorgonzola, filet mignon topped with crabmeat, duck, chicken, lobster, salmon - all preparations common and lacking flair.  We chose the filet medallions with straw onions. ($32) This dish was covered and swimming in a pinot noir reduction.  This preparation left nothing but the taste of the reduction.  I chose the duck with mashed sweet potatoes, at the servers recommendation($29).  I wish the menu listed "excessive bones" and "flavorless sweet potato".  Somehow they managed to take the sweet from the potato.  Many entrees surpased $50. 

Just as lack luster as the first and second courses, dessert was dull.  Cheesecake, flourless cake, crème brulee – we chose a pecan pie.  Average.   On a positive, they do make a delicious cappuccino. 

The Recommendation: If you like the older feel and stale options or safe choices, try it.

The Reality: There is much better within walking distance. If your comfortable with dusty stuffed Bison heads and dustier food, you'll love it.  Food Buddha Rating: 2.9.

Food Buddha Rating System:

1: Poor, I would rather eat dog food.  2: Fair, it is a miracle it stays open.  3: Average, a dime a dozen.  4: Good, ok in a pinch.  5: Great, a definite repeat.  6: Excellent, share it with your friends and family.  7: Awesome, delicious in every way spread the word.  8: Spectacular,!!!