9 Best Steakhouse Appetizers Ranked By Popularity

Steakhouses are built around perfectly cooked cuts of meat, but the appetizers often steal the spotlight before the main course even arrives. These first bites prepare the palate, set the tone for the meal, and sometimes become just as memorable as the steak itself. From classic shrimp cocktails to comforting French onion soup, the best steakhouse starters deliver big flavor in small portions. Here are nine of the most popular steakhouse appetizers, ranked by their lasting appeal and universal fan base.

1. Shrimp Cocktail

The shrimp cocktail is the ultimate steakhouse classic, prized for its simplicity and elegance. Plump, chilled shrimp are arranged around a tangy cocktail sauce made from ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and Worcestershire. The sauce’s sharp, spicy flavor balances the sweetness of the shrimp and awakens the appetite. Many steakhouses upgrade the dish with jumbo shrimp or a splash of fresh citrus. Refreshing, refined, and perfectly portioned, it remains the gold standard for seafood lovers and steakhouse traditionalists alike.

2. French Onion Soup

French onion soup delivers old-world comfort in a single bowl. Caramelized onions are slowly cooked until sweet and golden, then simmered in beef broth for depth and richness. The soup is topped with toasted bread and a thick layer of melted Gruyère or Swiss cheese before being broiled to bubbling perfection. It is served piping hot and pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine. This warm, savory starter sets the stage for any hearty entrée and remains a year-round favorite among steakhouse guests.

3. Crab Cakes

Crab cakes bring a taste of the coast to landlocked steakhouse menus. Made from fresh lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, and light seasoning, they are pan-seared until crisp on the outside and tender inside. A good crab cake relies on quality seafood and minimal filler, allowing the natural sweetness of the crab to shine. Served with lemon and a tangy remoulade or tartar sauce, they add a touch of sophistication to the meal. Their blend of richness and freshness makes them a top seafood starter nationwide.

4. Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are small in size but full of flavor. Each cap is filled with a savory mix of breadcrumbs, garlic, herbs, and cheese, sometimes enhanced with sausage or crab. They are baked until golden and aromatic, creating a perfect balance between the tender mushroom and the crunchy filling. The earthy flavor pairs beautifully with red wine or a steak entrée. Easy to share and deeply satisfying, stuffed mushrooms deliver the cozy, nostalgic taste that steakhouse diners love.

5. Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Spinach and artichoke dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer that has earned its place on nearly every steakhouse menu. It combines spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, and Parmesan into a hot, bubbling dip served with bread, crackers, or tortilla chips. Its rich texture and mild flavor make it ideal for sharing, especially with cocktails or wine. It strikes a balance between indulgent and approachable, offering comfort without being heavy. This crowd-pleaser is often the first dish to disappear at any table.

6. Calamari

Crispy fried calamari is one of the most popular seafood starters in steakhouses. Rings of tender squid are lightly coated in flour and fried until golden brown, then served with marinara sauce, lemon wedges, or garlic aioli. When prepared properly, calamari is delicate rather than rubbery, offering a perfect crunch with each bite. The combination of crisp coating, mild seafood flavor, and zesty dipping sauce makes it a versatile favorite. It is equally at home in upscale dining rooms and casual chain steakhouses.

7. Loaded Potato Skins

Loaded potato skins deliver the ultimate comfort bite before a steak dinner. Crispy potato shells are filled with melted cheddar cheese, bacon crumbles, and green onions, then topped with a spoonful of sour cream. The contrast between crunchy skins and creamy fillings makes them irresistible. They pair perfectly with a cold beer or cocktail, adding a casual touch to the otherwise refined steakhouse experience. Their hearty flavor and shareable format keep them high on the list of crowd favorites.

8. Bacon-Wrapped Scallops

Bacon-wrapped scallops combine smoky and sweet flavors in one luxurious bite. Tender scallops are wrapped in bacon and broiled or grilled until crisp outside and juicy inside. The saltiness of the bacon enhances the delicate flavor of the scallops, creating a perfectly balanced appetizer. Often served with a light glaze or butter drizzle, they bring elegance without pretense. This surf-and-turf-inspired starter appeals to those who want a little indulgence before the main course.

9. Wedge Salad

The wedge salad is a steakhouse staple that has stood the test of time. A crisp wedge of iceberg lettuce is drizzled with blue cheese dressing, sprinkled with bacon bits, and topped with diced tomatoes and sometimes onions. The combination of creamy, smoky, and crunchy textures makes it refreshing yet satisfying. The salad’s coolness prepares the palate for the richness of steak, while its simplicity highlights fresh ingredients. It is proof that even a salad can feel indulgent in a steakhouse setting.