Seasoning the Steak

Shula's 347 Grill

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Football, steak and coach Don Shula are as American as apple pie. Since retiring from the game, Shula has built an empire around red meat. The latest addition is Shula’s 347 Grill. (And in case you haven’t figured it out, the 347 represents his number of NFL wins.) When I headed out to the brand-new Lake Mary restaurant just north of Orlando, I was expecting a sports bar with blaring TVs, but what I found was a sophisticated blend of low-key sports action with a sleek loungey vibe. Metallic banquettes and bar stools in shades from copper to silver are set apart from the deep black leather booths by a tall wine cabinet. Adding to the subtle glamour of the place was the waiter pouring our martinis from silver shakers. The 8-ounce filet mignon came with a loaded potato and grilled asparagus ($32)–no à la carte here--and the cobia special was accompanied by a lobster ravioli and wilted spinach ($24). Truly the meal ranked up there with the food served at the signature steakhouse—minus the oversize portions (think waistline) and higher prices (think pocketbook). I can happily live with that! www.donshula.com

Tags: food | orlando | Shula | steak | steakhouse