We went on a Thursday night. We arrived at 5:30 PM. Without a reservation, we had to wait about 25 minutes as the restaurant was busy. Everyone else knew to have a reservation…we will know better for next time. The restaurant has a rustic almost ‘Old West’ vibe. Tons of old photos on the walls. There was also a huge bar.
Once we were seated, we met our extremely friendly and knowledgeable waitress. She very easily knew how to make my meal dairy-free.
We started with an interesting salad that had beet strips. The dressings seemed homemade. We had French and Bleu Cheese which were both very good. Next, they brought warm rolls with a heaping dish of butter. Matt thought it was good! For dinner, Matt ordered the Center Cut Tenderloin Filet 10 oz with the Works that included shrimp, scallops & lobster meat blended with buttery bread crumbs, onion strings and a baked potato. I had the Manhattan Steak 8 oz with mushrooms, fries and bacon-wrapped asparagus.
We both like our steaks medium well – the waitress asked if it would be ok for the chef to butterfly the steaks to have it cook better. It was a nice touch that made the steaks just to our liking. To drink, I had a decaf coffee – our waitress brewed a fresh pot for me which was appreciated. We did not get any cocktails, but have been told that this restaurant has amazing Old Fashioneds.
There was lots of food so we got full fast with no room for dessert. They do have a delicious looking dessert menu the Merrill & Houston’s signature sundae with brownie , vanilla ice cream, hot fudge, pecans and whipped cream was especially tempting for next time for Matt. We took 2 boxes home to eat for lunch the next day.
Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint is attached to the Ironworks hotel. The restaurant has decent parking – we parked on the street. The pricing is more on the high range. On their website we learned, Orson Merrill and George Houston founded Merrill and Houston Iron Works in 1858, later named Beloit Ironworks in the 1890s and eventually renamed the Beloit Corporation. Very cool historical connection. Ironworks has a banquet area that overlooks the Rock River. You will be pleasantly surprised with Downtown Beloit and its gorgeous architecture. If you are looking to try something delicious and new… hop in your car for an easy drive to Beloit, We highly recommend you check out Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint.
Food Ratings:
Side Salads w/ French & Bleu Cheese Dressing – 9
Rolls & Butter – 9
Center Cut Tenderloin (10 oz) w/ the Works, onion strings & baked potato – 9
The Manhattan Steak (8 oz) w/ fries – 9
Bacon Wrapped Asparagus – 7