When it comes to fine steakhouses, there is one that truly stands above all others, 650 feet above all others to be precise. Edge Steakhouse is located at The Ritz Carlton Rancho Mirage sitting just above the city with jaw dropping panoramic views of our valley. Open for almost a year, Edge has been making headlines and creating buzz with locals and tourists from all over! I finally had the privilege of dining in this spectacular restaurant, feasting on the best quality steak one can find! The quality of food was equally matched by the service of the absolute finest ladies and gentlemen in the industry.
As we drove up the winding Frank Sinatra Drive, we instantly felt as though we were being transported out of the desert and into paradise! From the valet to the table, every employee had a genuine smile from ear to ear. The energy was high and so were our expectations. The appropriately named restaurant is located at the edge of the property, allowing us to pass through their lobby and signature restaurant, State Fare Bar and Kitchen, which opens for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a beautiful lounge featuring, “Social Hour” daily from 2pm to 6pm.
As we entered the restaurant, we marveled at the modern design of their elegant bar, where we enjoyed a cocktail before being seated. Our bartender/mixologist, Eric, is as welcoming as he is talented and if we had not reserved an amazing table with a view, we would have been quite happy having dinner in his company. We were seated and greeted promptly by our serving staff. Because Edge provides a team approach to service, we were spoiled by Vini, and the dynamic duo, Brian and Brian (made it easy to remember). I cannot say enough how incredibly attentive and cordial our servers were. We did not have to ask for anything, they simply provided for all of our needs, allowing us to relax and appreciate the luxury experience we had hoped for.
With some guidance from a highly trained Sommelier, Paul, we shared a decanted bottle of Brunello Di Montalcino, a rich and robust red wine that would ultimately complement our entrées. We began with appetizers. Foie Gras was seared and presented before us over a fresh huckleberry waffle as well as on the side, a small, creamy mousse-like cylinder with decorative accompaniment of meyer lemon curd and a tangy brown butter gastrique. The textures and flavors were perfection in my mouth.
We would also share Chilled Blue Prawns with crispy prosciutto and savory beads of caviar. These four jumbo prawns were finished with fresh herbs and edible flowers for garnish. Each ingredient was placed precisely with care, creating a stunning presentation. The prawns were fresh and each bite begged for another! We were off to a terrific start!
For our main course, we considered our servers’ suggestions and ordered a 14 oz. Prime Rib-Eye steak, dry aged 35 days as well as their Colorado Rack of Lamb! The steak, presented a la carte, was prepared a perfect medium rare and I can honestly say it was the best rib-eye I have ever had. The steak had just the right sear to it, giving a firm texture and very tender, red center. Simply mouthwatering! The Lamb was a large rack, very meaty and fairly lean with, once again, a perfect medium rare center. This was the juiciest, most flavorful rack of lamb I have had in our valley, hands down. The lamb was served over an eggplant puree with grilled eggplant and a healthy tobouleh of bulgar wheat. We paired our entrées with a peppercorn sauce and a red wine sauce, both of which were exquisite!
To accompany our entrees, we shared a few side dishes and because it was our first time, we went for variety. For our vegetables, we selected Creamed Corn and a sweet, Maple Roasted Butternut Squash. The corn was both sweet and savory with a little more texture than one would expect, making it a favorite. The squash was a seasonal favorite, sparking ideas for holiday home cooking. We would also share the mini Baked Potatoes with all the toppings. These four mini potatoes were a little different from the standard large baked potato and definitely easier for sharing.
Each dish was truly a work of art to be marveled. But the true talent and elegance arrived with our dessert. A trio of desserts to include flavors of fresh berries and rich chocolate with sorbets and ice cream was just what an indecisive person like myself needed! It was beyond description, forcing me to take yet another photograph of this amazing experience. We finished our meal with a complimentary aperitif. We chose the grand marnier and sambucca to toast to an amazing meal and Ritz Carlton experience.
Now it should be noted that this is a lavish dining experience that would be best considered for special occasions. One must remember that you get what you pay for in most cases and in this one, Edge certainly provides the finest quality food and service our valley has to offer! Edge is open for dinner only Wednesday through Sunday from 5pm to 10pm and reservations are a must! We had to book weeks in advance for prime time seating. Fortunately, this intimate restaurant allows for a spectacular view from any table! Edge Steakhouse is on Open Table and reservations can also be made by calling The Ritz Carlton Rancho Mirage at 760-321-8282. Edge will also be open for Thanksgiving if you would like to leave the cooking and cleaning to the professionals.
