Meet Sam & Harry at National Airport

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I have to say that I was disappointed when the Legal Sea Foods outpost at Reagan National Airport (DCA) closed. It was a lovely end-of-the-business-day oasis before the shuttle flight offering real food (compared with the fast food fare on the other side of the security check point) and an excellent wine list. I was afraid that it would be replaced with yet another aero-pub offering burgers, Caesar salads — you know, the yadda-yadda fare of most terminal eateries.

Instead I found Sam & Harry’s, which proclaims itself to be in the classic steak house tradition. It didn’t feel it, but in a good way: the interior was airy and well-lit. The staff was friendly if a bit slow at first. I think that I chose a bar stool on the dividing line between the territories of two barkeeps. Once they worked out who was going to wait on me, the service was great.

My Coulotte steak ($14) was just the right size — about 6 oz — and cooked exactly as ordered. It was tender and flavorful. Dining in “the classic steak house tradition” means that you get meat and not much more on your plate unless you order sides. I had the broccolini which was nicely al dente. I refrained from ordering a starch in anticipation of an offering of bread that never materialized. That would be my most fervent recommendation to Sam & Harry: delicious bread is part of the classic steak house tradition.

The menu is quite reasonable with my steak just costing $2 more than the burger (although the burger came with fries that were $4 as a side order if you want them with the steak). There are salads and other sandwiches though it is clear that steak is the main thrust. There were, I believe, six variations on offer.

The by-the-glass wine list is adequate if not adventurous — this is a chain after all. I had a Tierra Secreta Malbec that paired nicely with the steak.

Sam & Harry’s was a good place to refuel before the flight home and would have been great for a business lunch or dinner. Still missing Legal’s? Not so much.

Looking to dine away from the airport? Fellow Nomads have some updated suggestions: Masa 14 for Latin and Asian small plates, Monmartre if French is what you crave, or The Oval Room for contemporary American.

Have you been to DC lately? Share your favorites for a business lunch or dinner.