As someone who has dined at Peter Luger Steakhouse several times, I can attest to the fact that their dress code is a bit complicated. The restaurant has been around since 1887 and has a reputation for serving some of the best steaks in the world. So, it’s no surprise that people want to know what to wear when dining there.
After doing some research and speaking with staff members, I can say that there is no strict dress code at Peter Luger Steakhouse. However, it is recommended that guests dress in upscale casual or smart casual attire. This means that you can wear a nice shirt or blouse, slacks or a skirt, and dress shoes. Shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops, and beachwear are generally not suitable.
It’s important to note that while there isn’t a strict dress code, Peter Luger Steakhouse does have a certain level of formality. The restaurant has a classic ambiance, and many guests choose to dress up for the occasion. Ultimately, the dress code is more about showing respect for the establishment and the other diners than anything else.
Peter Luger History
Peter Luger Steak House, located in Brooklyn, New York, boasts a rich history dating back to 1887 when German immigrant Peter Luger first opened a small establishment known as “Carl Luger’s Café, Billiards, and Bowling Alley.” It was a neighborhood spot offering beer, sausages, and German fare. In 1913, Peter Luger’s son, Peter Jr., took over and transformed it into a steakhouse, focusing on top-quality steaks, especially USDA Prime beef that was dry-aged on-site. This shift marked the beginning of Peter Luger’s rise to fame as a premier steakhouse.
Over the years, Peter Luger Steak House earned a stellar reputation, drawing in both locals and celebrities. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition, including its signature Luger Steak Sauce, contributed to its enduring popularity. Awards and recognition followed, including Michelin’s Bib Gourmand designation. Although the restaurant expanded to a second location in Great Neck, Long Island, the original Brooklyn flagship remains the heart of this iconic establishment.
In the early 1950s, the Forman family, close friends of the Luger family, acquired the restaurant, maintaining its traditions and reputation for excellence. Today, Peter Luger Steak House continues to be celebrated as one of the finest steakhouses in the United States, lauded for its exceptional steaks, classic atmosphere, and unwavering commitment to preserving its rich culinary legacy.
What To Wear To Peter Luger
When I first went to Peter Luger, I wasn’t sure what to wear. I wanted to look nice, but I didn’t want to be overdressed. After a bit of research and personal experience, I’ve come up with some guidelines for what to wear to Peter Luger.
Dress Code For Men
For men, the dress code at Peter Luger is usually upscale-casual or smart-casual. This means that you don’t have to wear a suit and tie, but you should avoid wearing shorts, t-shirts, and sandals. Instead, opt for a collared shirt, dress pants, and dress shoes. A blazer or sport coat is also a good choice, especially if you want to dress up a bit more.
If you’re not sure what to wear, it’s always better to err on the side of being too dressed up rather than too casual. You don’t want to show up underdressed and feel uncomfortable the whole time.
Dress Code For Women
For women, the dress code is similar to men’s. You don’t have to wear a formal dress, but you should avoid wearing anything too casual. A nice blouse or dressy top paired with dress pants or a skirt is a good choice. Dress shoes or sandals are both acceptable, but avoid anything too casual like flip-flops or sneakers.
One thing to keep in mind is that Peter Luger is a steakhouse, so you may want to avoid wearing anything that’s too tight or restrictive. You want to be able to enjoy your meal without feeling uncomfortable.
The key is to dress nicely without going overboard. You want to feel comfortable and confident, but you also want to respect the restaurant’s dress code. By following these guidelines, you should be able to find the perfect outfit for your next visit to Peter Luger.
How Strict Is Their Dress Code?
From my experience dining at Peter Luger Steak House, I would say that their dress code is relatively relaxed. While they do have a dress code, it is not as strict as some other upscale restaurants.
When I visited, I saw a range of attire from casual to semi-formal. Men were wearing slacks and collared shirts, while women were wearing dresses or skirts. Some men even wore jackets, but I did not see anyone wearing a tie.
That being said, I would still recommend dressing up a bit when dining at Peter Luger. It is a renowned steakhouse, and you want to make sure you look presentable. Plus, dressing up a bit can make the dining experience feel more special.
If you are unsure of what to wear, you can always check their website or call ahead to ask about their dress code. It is better to be safe than sorry, and you do not want to be turned away at the door for not meeting the dress code requirements.
Clothing You Cannot Wear To Peter Luger
There are certain clothing items that you cannot wear to the restaurant. While the dress code is not overly strict, it’s important to dress appropriately to avoid any embarrassment or being turned away at the door.
First and foremost, you cannot wear any clothing that is overly casual or beachwear. This includes shorts, tank tops, flip-flops, and beach sandals. While you may be tempted to wear something comfortable on a hot summer day, it’s best to err on the side of caution and dress up a bit more.
In addition, you cannot wear any clothing that is torn, dirty, or has excessive holes. This includes ripped jeans, torn t-shirts, and dirty sneakers. It’s important to look presentable when dining at Peter Luger, and wearing clothing that is in good condition is a must.
Another item of clothing that you cannot wear to Peter Luger is a hat. While hats may be fashionable and trendy, they are not appropriate for a fine dining establishment like Peter Luger. It’s best to leave your hat at home or in the car when dining at the restaurant.
Lastly, you cannot wear any clothing that is offensive or inappropriate. This includes clothing with vulgar language, offensive graphics, or anything that may offend other diners. It’s important to be respectful of others when dining at Peter Luger and wearing appropriate clothing is a part of that.
Conclusion
In summary, while Peter Luger Steakhouse does not have a formal dress code, guests should dress up out of respect for the establishment.
Avoid torn, dirty, offensive, or excessively casual clothing. Though you need not wear a suit and tie, err on the side of dressing nicely. For men, a collared shirt and dress pants are suitable; for women, a blouse and skirt or dress pants.
Ultimately, use common sense and dress reasonably nicely to complement the steakhouse’s sophisticated ambiance. If you align your attire with the venue’s reputation, you can fully enjoy the complete Peter Luger experience.
My name is Jeyn Dashner and I am the founder of WanderFever. I have worked as a travel journalist for many years, and exploring new places is my greatest pleasure in life.
