Chophouse on Broad Street — Restaurant in Rome

It was a fortunate "accident" that led us to Chophouse, and one that turned out so well! We were supposed to go to another restaurant, but their credit card system was down and I didn't have cash. So, I Googled, "best restaurant Rome" and Chophouse was the first listing. I checked Opentable and it said the first available reservation was at 8:15 (it was now about 4:45 and we were about 30 minutes drive away from Rome). On a chance, I called the restaurant - the receptionist was nice, polite, and helpful - not the "attitude" you get at some high-end places when calling to make a reservation, especially a last-minute one. She said they had a table, but that we had to be out of it by 7:30 as it was reserved then for another couple (I appreciate the transparency). No problem - we were seated at our table by 5:20. Within five minutes of sitting, we were greeted by the owner, Mr. Hellier. Impressive! Incredibly nice person and what a story about going from engineering to restauranteur! Started with cocktails - I had the Smoked Old Fashioned and my wife had the Strawberry Dream - both were well done and delicious. Great menu selection and Mr. Hellier told us about a couple of "off menu" selections. We each had a wedge salad, and then split the Cowboy Ribeye (I am a firm believer that bone-in steaks are the best steaks), creamed spinach, and loaded baked potato. The wedge was well executed and delicious. We ordered our steak "medium" (you would not believe how few people can get this basic temperature point right), and it came out to perfection. Maybe one of the best prepared steaks I have ever had. The steak was very high quality meat, delicious and perfect - you could cut it with a fork. I rarely get steak at a restaurant because I have found that I can prepare a much better steak at home than what I get at most restaurants. I could not prepare a better steak than this one. I sincerely believe that it was the best steak I have ever received at a restaurant. The sides were delicious and the perfect size for two to share. The creamed spinach was not the usual mushy overcooked spinach swimming in cream and cheese that you get at most steakhouses - it was fresh, not overly creamy, with a light dusting of toasted parmesan. Delicious! Service was fine, though with a new restaurant you could tell they were still gaining experience and working out some of the kinks. Bar service was great, definitely some top-shelf bourbons, but they do need to add a Bloody Mary to the lineup! Good dessert selection, and the sugar-free options are a great (and needed) addition. Mr. Hellier stopped by our table several times - the most important aspect to me was that you could tell he really cared and wanted you to have an enjoyable experience. Less than halfway through our meal, we were making plans to come back for our anniversary (September) and to bring our family when everyone comes in for Christmas. Could not be happier with a dining experience. And, as proved here, not all accidents are bad ones...

Addendum - after reading some of the other reviews, a couple of things. We are not from Rome and had never been to "downtown" Rome before, but after circling the block we quickly found ample parking in the free public parking garage behind the building. Also, if a steakhouse uses anything other than a little salt and pepper on a steak (and, as in the case, here, fresh rosemary), they are "hiding" something about the steak. A good steak should not be "well seasoned," the meat is the star...

Ever feel like Rome needs a place as nice as the people in it? Well (drumroll please) Here it is!!!

(Atmosphere)As you walk in the door you are greeted by two sweet smiling faces, in front of a frosted glass wall, asking if you have a reservation. The tables all with white linen tablecloths are far enough apart that you don't hear the conversation of the person sitting next to you. The exposed brick walls in the clean lines throughout the restaurant both speak upscale and homey. From the light jazz playing in the background to the quick service for drinks it's a wonderful start to a lovely evening!

(Service) Michelle our server was both respectful and complimentary! I always have a hard time deciding and Michelle was great at helping me decide which entrees to choose. Even the owner, Helier, came over and had a quick chat with us We are so excited for his new restaurant!

(Food) I chose the wedge salad with the cowboy steak mashed potatoes and broccoli My husband had the filet. Perfectly cooked I ordered a medium minus and it came out exactly as I liked! This steak was melt in your mouth great! The star of the show though was not the steak but the port wine reduction! Wow wow wow I can't say enough good things about how much I liked the way the demigloss went from a playful sweet to a rich savory all while showcasing the steak itself as well!

I have had a lot of steak at a lot of high end steak houses this one is definitely top five!!

No more need to drive to Marietta I'm sure we'll have a usual at some point soon!

Thank you Helier and God bless your restaurant may he deeply enrich your life as you enrich the...

My lovely companion and I had the pleasure of dining at this wonderful establishment in the quaint town of Rome, GA. The menu, assortment, and ambiance were top notch.

The Chophouse rivaled some of the finest eateries I've had the pleasure of dining at -receiving Michelin stars, gaining notoriety, and abundance of praise in culinary magazines and featured reviews. This little gem is on par, if not greater, than those establishments.

My companion had the ribeye. I treated myself to the filet. Along with the creamed spinach, brussel sprouts, and the pork belly appetizer, the entire meal was a delicious treat for even the most discerning palate.

The prices are a bit on the higher side; but definitely less than those restaurants receiving countless accolades in larger cities. The food was just as satisfying. It truly wasn't a meal. It was an experience.

What set the Chophouse apart, however, was the proprietor, Mr. Hellier, an engaging, sincere and truly affable gentleman who sincerely welcomed his guests with warmth, appreciation, and the utmost gratitude. The ambiance was truly welcoming, yet exudes class and distinction in every corner. The staff was attentive but not disruptive on any level.

If one finds themselves in the nearby vicinity, and wants to celebrate a special occasion, or merely treat themselves to a wonderful meal and a memorable experience, I wholeheartedly recommend the Chophouse on Broad Street.

Go... you'll be...