McKendrick’s Steak House in Atlanta: What to Know Before You Go

Atlanta has no shortage of places to eat, but McKendrick’s Steak House in Sandy Springs often stands out when people talk about classic, old‑school steakhouses in the city. Known for its traditional atmosphere, emphasis on steak, and location in the Perimeter area, it attracts business diners, locals celebrating milestones, and travelers looking for a reliable, upscale dinner.

This guide explores what to expect at McKendrick’s Restaurant in Atlanta, from the menu and atmosphere to dress expectations, price ranges, and practical tips for planning a visit.

Where McKendrick’s Fits in Atlanta’s Dining Scene

A classic steakhouse in the Perimeter area

McKendrick’s is located in the Sandy Springs / Perimeter area, a busy commercial zone just north of Buckhead. The surroundings include office buildings, hotels, and shopping, which makes the restaurant a frequent choice for:

• Business dinners and client meetings
• Pre‑ or post‑shopping meals at nearby retail centers
• Special occasions for residents in Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, and North Atlanta

Rather than focusing on experimental cuisine or trendy decor, McKendrick’s leans into the traditional steakhouse model: dark woods, white tablecloths, and a menu centered on steak, seafood, and classic sides.

Who it tends to appeal to

People commonly choose McKendrick’s when they want:

• A formal or semi‑formal dinner experience
• Familiar steakhouse staples rather than adventurous fusion dishes
• A setting suitable for anniversaries, promotions, or family celebrations
• A place to take out‑of‑town guests for a “nice dinner” that feels comfortably traditional

It is generally not positioned as a casual, drop‑in neighborhood spot. The overall feel is more refined and deliberate, which shapes what guests typically expect from the experience.

Atmosphere, Layout, and First Impressions

Dining room vibe

The interior of McKendrick’s tends to reflect the “classic American steakhouse” archetype:

• Dim, warm lighting
• Leather or upholstered seating
• Dark woods and neutral colors
• White tablecloths and polished place settings

The mood often feels quietly energetic rather than loud, with conversation at each table, but still suitable for business talk or date‑night conversation. The bar area may feel a bit more lively, especially on weekday evenings.

Noise, comfort, and seating

Guests commonly observe:

• A mix of booth and table seating, with some areas more private than others
• A pace of service designed for lingering multi‑course meals, not quick in‑and‑out dining
• Temperature and lighting calibrated toward comfort, though those who prefer bright, casual spaces may find it more formal than they’re used to

If someone values a quieter or more private table, many visitors find it helpful to mention that preference when reserving. While no restaurant can guarantee a specific spot, staff at traditional steakhouses often try to accommodate reasonable requests when possible.

McKendrick’s Menu: What You’ll Typically Find

Steak at the center of the experience

The heart of McKendrick’s Restaurant Atlanta is its steak selection. While specific offerings can change over time, guests can typically expect:

• Cuts such as filet mignon, ribeye, New York strip, and porterhouse
• Steaks prepared in a straightforward, traditional style (grilled or broiled, minimal embellishment)
• Options for temperature preferences (rare through well‑done), with staff generally prepared to explain the differences

Some diners prefer to ask their server for guidance on cuts, especially if they’re deciding between options like ribeye (more marbling) and filet (leaner and milder). Servers at classic steakhouses are often accustomed to these questions.

Beyond steak: seafood and other entrées

Although steak is the headline, the menu typically extends beyond beef, which can make the restaurant workable for mixed groups:

• Seafood options such as fish fillets, crab, or shellfish
• Poultry or other meats, depending on the current menu
• Occasionally, richer pasta or chef specials

Individuals who do not eat red meat often still find acceptable choices, though the selection may be narrower than at restaurants that are not steak‑focused.

Starters, sides, and shareables

A traditional steakhouse format usually means à la carte ordering:

• Appetizers like shrimp cocktail, crab cakes, salads, or soups
• Sides commonly including creamed spinach, potatoes (various preparations), grilled or sautéed vegetables, and sometimes mac and cheese or mushrooms

Many guests choose to share sides across the table, since portions at steakhouses are often designed with sharing in mind. This also allows a group to sample several dishes without overordering.

Drinks, Wine, and the Bar

Wine list and pairings

McKendrick’s typically maintains a broad wine list focused on labels that pair well with steak and seafood. Guests often find:

• A good range of red wines suitable for steak, from lighter styles to fuller‑bodied options
• White wines that complement seafood and lighter dishes
• Sparkling and rosé options for celebrations or appetizers

Those unsure what to order can generally:

• Mention their preferred taste profile (fruity, bold, lighter, etc.)
• State a rough budget range
• Ask staff to suggest bottles or glasses that fit both

This approach allows diners to navigate a long list without needing advanced wine knowledge.

Cocktails and spirits

The bar at McKendrick’s commonly offers:

• Classic cocktails (martinis, Manhattans, old fashioneds, etc.)
• A selection of whiskeys, bourbons, and other spirits
• Standard options for beer and nonalcoholic beverages

Many guests begin with a drink at the bar before being seated, especially for business dinners or date nights. This can also be a way to experience the ambiance without committing to a full multi‑course meal.

Dress Code and What to Wear

How formal is McKendrick’s?

McKendrick’s generally aligns with upscale‑casual to business‑casual expectations. While policies can evolve, diners typically lean toward:

• Men: collared shirts, dress pants or dark jeans, closed‑toe shoes
• Women: blouses, dresses, skirts, or polished pants outfits

Overly casual attire, such as gym wear or heavily distressed clothing, may feel out of place in the overall setting, even if not explicitly prohibited.

Practical clothing tips

For most guests, a simple approach works:

• Think in terms of “nice dinner out” rather than formal black‑tie
• If coming straight from work in office attire, that usually aligns well with the crowd
• A light layer can be useful, as steakhouses sometimes keep the dining room cool

When in doubt, slightly more polished attire tends to blend in more comfortably than highly casual outfits.

Price Expectations and Value Considerations

General cost range

As with many traditional steakhouses in major cities, McKendrick’s prices reflect its upscale positioning. Guests commonly factor in:

• Steak entrées that cost noticeably more than everyday dining options
• À la carte sides, appetizers, and desserts that add to the check
• Beverages—especially wine—substantially influencing the final total

The overall experience is often reserved for special occasions, business meals, or nights when diners expect a higher bill than a standard casual restaurant.

How guests often manage cost

Many diners aim to balance enjoyment with budget by:

• Sharing appetizers and sides among the table
• Focusing on a main dish and one shared side per person
• Being intentional about wine or cocktails, possibly limiting to a glass rather than a bottle

This approach can still deliver a full experience while keeping costs from escalating unexpectedly.

Reservations, Timing, and Logistics

When to book

Because McKendrick’s operates in a busy commercial and residential corridor, demand can be stronger at certain times:

• Weeknights during peak business‑dinner hours
• Friday and Saturday evenings for date nights and celebrations
• Holidays and special dates (Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, etc.)

Reserving ahead is often considered a practical step, especially for:

• Larger groups
• Preferred time windows (e.g., 7:00–8:00 p.m.)
• Important events where predictability matters

Arrival, parking, and timing

The Sandy Springs / Perimeter area can experience heavier traffic during weekday rush hours, particularly on roads near office buildings and shopping centers. Guests often:

• Allow a buffer for traffic, especially if coming from downtown or midtown Atlanta
• Aim to arrive a bit early to settle in, check coats if needed, and enjoy a drink

Parking availability can depend on the property’s shared lots or garages; many diners find it helpful to check these details before heading out.

Service Style and Guest Experience

What diners often notice about service

McKendrick’s, as a traditional steakhouse, generally focuses on attentive, professional service. Common observations include:

• Staff who are familiar with the menu and wine list
• A pacing that allows for multiple courses and lingering conversation
• Willingness to explain steak cuts, preparation styles, and portion sizes

Those with specific preferences—for example, how they like steak cooked, or particular ingredient sensitivities—often benefit from mentioning them early in the interaction so staff can guide them to appropriate choices.

Accommodating different needs

While the restaurant is not marketed as a specialized dietary destination, many full‑service steakhouses can make reasonable adjustments, such as:

• Modifying seasoning or sauces upon request
• Recommending dishes that are simpler or more customizable

Guests with strict dietary restrictions or allergies typically contact the restaurant ahead of time to understand what can and cannot be accommodated. This proactive step helps avoid surprises at the table.

Tips for Making the Most of a Visit to McKendrick’s

Quick planning checklist 📝

Here is a concise overview of practical steps many diners find helpful:

Comparing McKendrick’s to Other Atlanta Dining Options

Traditional steakhouse vs. contemporary concepts

In a city where new restaurants open frequently, McKendrick’s maintains a more timeless approach. Compared with trendy or chef‑driven spots, guests usually find:

• Fewer experimental dishes, more emphasis on classics
• A consistent focus on steak and seafood rather than rotating seasonal themes
• A dining room that feels more formal than many casual Atlanta eateries

This makes it appealing for guests who want a dependable, traditional steakhouse rather than the latest food trend.

When McKendrick’s might be the right choice

Based on common patterns, McKendrick’s often aligns well with:

• A business dinner where a quiet, polished atmosphere is important
• A celebration meal (birthday, promotion, anniversary) in a familiar steakhouse setting
• Hosting out‑of‑town visitors who expect a classic American steakhouse experience

Those seeking very casual, low‑cost, or highly experimental dining may gravitate toward other Atlanta neighborhoods and concepts.

How to Decide if McKendrick’s Steak House Is Right for You

When considering McKendrick’s Restaurant in Atlanta, it can help to think through a few key questions:

• Do you enjoy classic steakhouse cuisine?
  If your ideal dinner revolves around steak, seafood, and traditional sides, the menu will likely align with your expectations.

• Is an upscale, somewhat formal atmosphere what you’re looking for?
  If you want a polished setting for a business meeting or special celebration, McKendrick’s generally fits that mood.

• Are you prepared for higher‑end pricing?
  Since it operates within the typical cost range of major‑city steakhouses, planning budget in advance can make the experience feel more comfortable.

• Do you value attentive service and a slower, multi‑course pace?
  Guests often treat a visit as an evening event rather than a quick meal.

Taken together, these factors can help you determine whether McKendrick’s matches the kind of evening you have in mind. For many diners in and around Atlanta, it occupies a clear niche: a traditional, reliable steakhouse where the focus stays on steak, classic sides, and a setting designed for occasions that feel a little more dressed up than the everyday.