The $25 Steak Frites That Became New York City’s Latest Obsession
In a city where a decent steak frites can easily set you back $45 or more, a modest Bushwick dive bar has sparked an unlikely culinary frenzy with a version that costs just $25—and delivers far beyond its price tag.
At Lori Jayne, the unassuming kitchen tucked inside Alphaville—a dimly lit bar and music venue on Broadway near Myrtle—chef Sam Braverman has turned a classic bistro staple into the dish New Yorkers can’t stop ordering. Juicy, perfectly cooked hanger steak (or a similar flavorful cut) arrives sliced alongside a towering pile of crisp, golden fries, accompanied by a choice of house-made sauces that elevate the plate to something truly memorable.
What started as a low-key menu item has exploded into a full-blown phenomenon. On busy nights, the kitchen churns out hundreds of orders, with customers willingly lining up for a chance at the deal. Social media feeds overflow with photos and glowing testimonials, praising not just the value but the sheer quality: tender meat with a deep sear, fries that stay crunchy to the last bite, and sauces that keep people coming back to try every variation.
The buzz reached a new peak when Eater NY spotlighted Lori Jayne’s steak frites as the debut feature in its “Most-Ordered” series—a column dedicated to the dishes New Yorkers crave above all others. The recognition confirmed what locals already knew: this isn’t just a bargain; it’s one of the best versions of the dish in the city, served in a no-frills setting that somehow makes it taste even better.
Part of the appeal lies in the contrast. In an era of polished steakhouses and inflated menus, Lori Jayne offers something refreshingly straightforward: great food at a price that feels almost rebellious in today’s NYC dining landscape. You won’t find white tablecloths or elaborate plating here—just a plate of steak frites that overdelivers in every way.
Word of caution for anyone planning a visit: arrive early. Once the rush hits, waits are inevitable, and the dish occasionally sells out. But for those who make it to the counter, the reward is clear—a $25 plate that has rightfully earned its status as one of the city’s most obsession-worthy meals.
About The Author
