When it comes to finding a standout steak in the suburbs, there is only one place that comes to mind time and time again.
Consistently delivering superb service and steaks cooked to perfection, it’s no wonder why Coach Grill continues to receive accolades year after year.
Located on Route 20 in Wayland just a few minutes off Route 95, the restaurant is easily discernible from the prominent sign out front. The iconic red coach offers a nod to its past when the site formerly housed the beloved Red Coach Grill collection of restaurants. When this outpost burned down in the late 70s, Coach Grill emerged in its place.
Today, the restaurant has become not only a neighborhood favorite but also a dining destination serving up dinner every night and brunch on the weekends.
While we came for a late lunch/early dinner on Saturday, our friendly server insisted we indulge (or overindulge as the case may be) in their decadent brunch bread. Topped with cinnamon sugar, three pillowy rolls arrived in a warm dish fresh from the oven.
Be sure not to fill up on them though because there are plenty more offerings you will want to be sure to save some room for. Our server told us the day’s specials included a blackened halibut, which sounded appealing.
We got started with the jumbo shrimp cocktail. Four enormous shrimp arrived alongside fresh lemon and a spicy cocktail sauce, kicked up to our liking with the addition of extra horseradish sauce.
As in old school steakhouse fashion, we opted to share the iceberg wedge salad. Topped with Nueske’s bacon lardon, fresh tomato and chopped red onion, the plentiful salad was finished off with a delicious blue cheese dressing.
When it comes to main events, we would be remiss visiting Coach Grill without sampling their steaks. A 20-ounce, bone-in ribeye was extra flavorful. They also offer a 16-ounce boneless ribeye, a 12-ounce New York strip, and an 8-ounce filet mignon.
The standout was a jaw-dropping slice of prime rib. An 18-ounce, slow roasted cut served medium rare was large enough for 2-3 meals. Pair it all up with a glass of their house Tavistock cabernet for an unforgettable meal.
Steaks here are served a la carte, so be sure to order up a couple of sides like the fresh broccoli sauteed with garlic, Brussels sprouts and bacon, or sauteed mushrooms. Starches include lobster macaroni and cheese, smashed fingerling potatoes, hand-cut fries, and a jumbo baked potato.
You will want to save room for a sampling of their famous seven-layer chocolate cake topped with chocolate ganache and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Originally offered at their sister restaurant, Abe & Louie’s, this sweet ending has become a staple here,and for good reason. If you can't finish it, they will gladly package it up to take home.
Next month, keep an eye out for their “Music x Mixology” series. Offered every Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m. in their outdoor “melody tent,' they offer a combination of live music paired up with themed categories of wines and spirits as well as beers from Lord Hobo Brewing. Upcoming events include Summer Made Cocktails, a Taste of Japan, and a World of Whiskey celebration.
Coach Grill is located at 55 Boston Post Road in Wayland, MA.
