PorterHouse known for quality, value

Step into the PorterHouse and know that you’ll be well taken care of. In the tradition of that great American institution, the steakhouse, this restaurant provides a relaxing dining experience featuring traditional favorites.

While many locals count on the Porterhouse for quality and value, visitors find themselves delighted by the restaurant as well. For 13 years, Jerry and Marie Arenas graciously have welcomed guests to the PorterHouse.

At 800 W. Layton, the PorterHouse is close to General Mitchell International Airport. In fact, the PorterHouse is convenient to all of the Milwaukee area. Exit I-94 just south of downtown at the Layton Avenue exit, and go several blocks east to the restaurant.

A remodeling this summer gave the PorterHouse a décor that is still warm and inviting but brighter and more contemporary. Booths were added to the dining room in response to customer requests. But the main focus always is on the menu.

The extensive list of appetizers will make your mouth water. Shrimp Cocktail is big and beautiful. Mozzarella marinara, jalapeno poppers, and chicken wings (regular or hot) help set the stage for the entrees to come. Scungilli (conch), a challenge to prepare is tender and tasty. 

While there are a number of beef entrees, the menu includes seafood, fish, poultry and pork entrees as well.

For example, the charcoal-grilled ribs are one pound of meaty loin pork ribs, and the lamb chops are seven-ounce Choice center cuts. A craving for comfort food can be satisfied with the one-half roast duck, served with stuffing and orange sauce.

Those seafood choices include walleye pike, jumbo shrimp, Alaskan king crab legs, and charcoal broiled swordfish. On the steak side, there is a porterhouse, prime rib of beef, New York strip, filet mignon, and rib eye. Thoughtfully, the menu offers several cuts for each steak–select the junior, queen or king cut, depending on your appetite.

Specials at the PorterHouse take advantage of the best fresh and seasonal ingredients available. Every night, there are two meat and two seafood specials offered. For those special occasion dinners for the family, there is a kid’s menu that offers a steak option as well as chicken fingers and pasta.

The recent remodeling successfully balance fine dining with the entertainment offered in the bar and lounge area. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night, live entertainment adds to the fun at the PorterHouse. Depending on the entertainer, you may find yourself relaxing to smooth jazz or dancing the night away. And for those times when a big sports event is happening (think Green Bay Packers or NBA playoffs) fans can watch the action on two plasma screen TVs.

Those planning everything from a small meeting to a large party can find exactly what they need at the PorterHouse. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner groups from 25-200. There are two party rooms available, and meals can be served by wait staff or buffet style.

The PorterHouse is open 5-10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 5-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 4-9 p.m. Sunday. Phone for directions and reservations at 414-744-1750.