Not out first time here. This was my birthday dinner. Advice to restaurants; your first impression is you menu. This one was pretty worn looking. We had no trouble getting the last booth a available and we were acknowledged quickly, They were busy and mid shift change, despite that we were served quickly. The menu is a 3 course meal. Appetizer, salad. And main course. The side potions are huge so don't order the same as your partner. My filet was like butter. The garlic mashed potatoes were a little thin and not too much garlic. I will go for loaded baked next time. And there will be a next time . read more

Recently visited this steakhouse for my boyfriend's birthday. It wasn't our first time here--we actually came before for a date and the food was amazing. This time we had a party of 10, which I know can be a little challenging for any restaurant. The service was still great. Everyone was super friendly and kept checking in to make sure we had everything we needed. I also love that they offer 3-course meal options--it makes ordering easy and quick. For starters, I ordered the stuffed mushrooms with shrimp and the sweet corn chowder. The stuffed mushrooms were incredible, packed with flavor in every bite. The soup didn't disappoint either, and the bread they serve with melted cheese on top was so good. For my main course, I had the filet mignon with truffle pasta. It was good, but a little dry--I wish it had been more juicy. My boyfriend got the ribeye with lobster, and unfortunately that one wasn't our favorite. Everything tasted a bit overcooked. I'm thinking it may have been because of the large party, since our previous visit was much better. Overall, I'd definitely come back--but probably for a date night instead of a big group. The inside is beautiful, quiet, and dimly lit, which makes it perfect for a cute romantic dinner. read more

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We had reservations for Christmas dinner. We arrived at 6pm to be told they could not serve us because their restaurant was flooded from the rains. We were sympathetic to their plight, but also realizing nothing is open Christmas Day. They never apologized for the extreme inconvenience and stated they called us. We checked our phone and NEVER received a call. We informed them we never received a call and like robots repeated "we called". Keep in mind, never at any point did the girl at the front or presumed manager ever give us eye contact or answer our questions. It was the rudest experience I had ever encountered for a restaurant whose job is hospitality!! Highly disappointed!!! Please learn to show some respect or close your doors read more

Came for happy hour with a large group and sat out on the covered patio, a really nice setting. We had a great server named Brandon, so welcoming, and really efficient. He was right there for everything we needed! Everyone enjoyed their food, really delicious! Definitely coming back again soon! read more

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Food was delicious, Clark, our server was awesome! The place is nice, didn't know "outside seating" was actually patio seating, lovely area. The only concern is that it takes a very long time to get food. We were there on a Thursday night, not too busy yet it took a very long time to get our food. read more

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Ok, we did happy hour this past Tuesday, it was pretty good, the margarita was tasty, but it was tall, so hard to taste the alcohol. We also had the steak quesadilla, it was buffed out and very good, my husband had the calamari, I liked it, but he didnt like all the veggies that were added for filler. There are a lot of items on the happy hour menu, so many things to try next time. So overall, it was a plus for happy hour for us. read more

Primes happy hour (every day from 5-7pm) can't be beat. You can enjoy A GIANT glass of red wine for $7 (maybe $8?!) and dine on elevated dishes for very modest prices. Things I've feasted on: Blackened shrimp scampi 5/5 - I'm obsessed with pappardelle and this dish comes with a solid serving of shrimp. A bit spicy and creamy. Filet chile relleno 5/5 - soooooooo cheesy and good with tender chunks of steak. Ribeye sandwich 5/5 - shareable portion, so good, especially when dipped in the horseradish sauce. Ravioli 4/5 - pillowy soft goodness. Blackened seared ahi 4/5 - I'm a sucker for mashed potatoes. The wasabi is no joke so will order the sauce on the side next visit. Fajita steak quesadilla 4/5 - huge portion, great meal. Prime baseball top sirloin Caesar salad 3.5/5 - added avocado and fries and made this a complete meal! Steak was a bit dry but my fault for ordering med well. I've had great servers every time...sometimes it can be hard to get their attention but only because they're juggling many tables. I usually venture in on a tues/wed/or thurs between 5-6pm and have no problem getting seated. You have to request the happy hour menu which is only available at the inside high top bar or outside on the patio. I like to sit outside because the interior is pretty dimly lit! There's ample parking on Anacapa, Thompson, or primes parking lot. read more

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I have no clue why people have left less than stellar 5 star reviews of this place. First of all, ALL of the food was amazing and delicious. Including bread service. The pretzel bread and butter is what I wish Mastro's would serve. This is an incredible deal for the quality of food and service you will receive. If you are debating whether to come here or not, just come! You will not be disappointed. Special props to Michael our server! He was amazing. read more

Went for happy hour. Was seated in the patio area. What stood out immediately was everything was black, top to bottom. The dimly lit space can provide a romantic atmosphere if one was looking for such. Service was mostly good, but we did have a minor issue with drinks being forgotten and having to ask for them twice. The happy hour drinks menu offered a decent variety. We were a little confused about the happy hour food menu though because it was a small plates menu and didn't say happy hour on it. Some of the prices were quite high for it to be considered happy hour, but that may just be my frugal side talking. The drinks were pretty good. The food tasted ok but none of the food was hot (temperature wise), it was barely warm. Flavor wise all seemed to be on the mild side, even the sauces. I think the cool temperature affected the flavor so we might've enjoyed it more if the food was warm. It seems to be a hit or miss with all the mixed reviews but based on my experience I'm not rushing back any time soon. read more

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We went to Prime for New Years Eve. While the service was excellent the food was not. I ordered the baseball cut steak with shrimp which was very tough and 1 dried up shrimp on top. We were disappointed that the prices were so high and the food quality was not good. To make matters worse, I wrote this review in January and was asked to take it down by the owner if she sent us a gift card to try it again on a less busy holiday. I took the review down and gave her all my information. She told me she would send a gift card. We waited over a month and contacted her again and no answer. It's sad that she promises something and then does not follow through. We would have been willing to give it another try, but now no longer interested. There are plenty of other great restaurants in Ventura that offer quality food and service that we will continue to spend our money at! read more

I came here with my husband to celebrate my birthday! I am glad we came! This is one is the Nicest restaurants for steak in town with really nice vibe, live music. Service was great! Food was good and really good portions! First we started with salad, I had the beet salad, which was amazing then had. We went during happy hour but that was only on the bar so they allowed us to have drinks on the table. We had some appetizers which were good then got our steak! I will return here read more

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We have be going to Prime cut for over four years and have consistently had good meals. We took family from out of town there las Thursday night and had an awful meal. The Chilean sea bass that is a standard and excellent choice in the past was substituted with Black sea bass. The waiter told us about the change but told us they were similar so three of us ordered it. The Black sea bass was horrible and nothing like Chilean. The price was the same but the meal was ruined. A simple google search shows that these two fish are significantly different: "Black sea bass and Chilean sea bass differ significantly in species, taste, and texture. Black sea bass is a true, lean fish with firm, delicate white flesh found in the Atlantic. Chilean sea bass (Patagonian toothfish) is an oily, deep-sea fish with a rich, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture." It is unlikely that we will return to what was once a trusted, quality restaurant. read more

First timers last week - and honestly, Prime Steakhouse had us at hello. Once inside, we loved the almost dark bar seating area with each table having it's own dinner light! That is my favorite!!! There is also a regular lit dining area that looked nice, too. The next great thing that happened was Endy, the bartender and our server. Not only is he a great mixologist but well spoken, pleasant person/communicator. When we asked Endy about the Chef, he immediately replied with the Chef's background, and the highly recommended entrees as well. The "Small Plates" were not only AMAZING but priced well, too. (We prefer to sit in bar dining/small plates...the selection choices are very wide spread and so delish. We'll be back and we can't wait. PS. Endy deserves a reserved parking spot! read more

Prime Steakhouse - Loving the bar area vibe! - Steakhouses Near Me - Ventura, California

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Finally made it to Prime Steakhouse in Ventura (legendary among my Ojai friends) , celebrating my 68th birthday with family. Classic steak house atmosphere, muted lighting, but with very up to date decor & vibe. We were offered, and chose, the covered outdoor patio near a striking, modern fireplace. Bring an appetite: meal is value for price, with choices of yummy breads, hors d' oeuvres, soup or salad, sides accompanying a plate filling steak, cooked to perfection. It turns out bread pudding (coincidentally my first choice) dessert comes gratis for the birthday boy. Ryan was attentive as a server, and hip to the table of wife and daughters eager to razz the old man footing the bill. read more

Prime Steakhouse has been one of our favorite place for special outings since we were dating. The food is great and always prepare exquisitely. There staff are all very attentive making we are happy through the entire visit. They make use feel welcome and the relaxed atmosphere made use fell we did not have to rush and were welcome! One of our favorite places for an outing. read more

Overpriced -poor service -bait and switch on menu - informs me tip is added after we sit down- way too dark inside- will never go again

I wanted to take my husband out for a delicious dinner for his birthday. I had been here before and remembered it being the perfect intimate atmosphere to enjoy dinner. I am so glad I brought him here because it was just perfect. I made a dinner reservation the day of and I was able get in with no issues. Service was very attentive and personal which allowed us to enjoy our dining experience. We started with the spinach wontons and tuna tartare which I simply believe all their appetizers are the best. The lobster and shrimp pasta was what I ordered and I would simply go back just for the pasta. They offer great drinks. Overall a great experience and cannot wait to come back. read more

Prime Steakhouse - Steakhouses Near Me - Ventura, California

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Ray was excellent! Very knowledgeable of how to throw axes and was open to teaching and giving advice when we asked. Great location, ask for Ray!! read more

Prime Steakhouse - Steakhouses Near Me - Ventura, California

The dinner was delicious...we ordered the delicious baseball steak. .We felt it was great value for the money. The wonderful waitress personally made my whiskey sour from scratch, and it was so superior to those made with bought mixes. She also gave my birthday guest a delicious birthday desert.When next in Ventura, we look forward to our return visit. read more

I stumbled on this steakhouse while I was on business in Ventura. This place has so much charm. It's a nice dimly lit restaurant. I was completely embarrassed when I swung the door open because I was wearing flip flops, sweatpants and a t-shirt. I whispered to the hostess and checked to see if they would serve a scrub like me. She laughed and said it's fine! No dress code! It was a relief as I was super hungry and craving steaks, but everyone in the restaurant was dressed up and coupled up. The hostess sat me at my table. I looked around and saw a lot of senior citizens making out with their dates... literally saw a dude with his tongue in granny's ear. It was the last time I looked around that evening. Thankfully, I happened to roll up on a Tuesday, where they had a live singer doing Frank Sinatra covers. It kept my attention forward, so I didn't have to watch the x-rated shows around me. I reviewed the menu and wanted to figure out what I wanted to eat. It was a little confusing at first, but I figured out that this place does a set pre-fixe menu. You pick an appetizer, entree and side and the prices range from about 39 to 75 dollars per meal. It was a little more food than I wanted, but that's okay! I opt'ed for a tuna tartare starter with a baseball cut steak and a side of saulated vegetables. Food was great. Service was fantastic. On top of that... price was super reasonable. I think for my pre-fixe meal I spent about $52 bucks tax/tip and no alcohol. I was definitely stuffed. The whole experience and vibe of this place was so nostalgic. From inside/out the restaurant comes off as the "fancy" neighborhood joint that people came to celebrate a special occasion. It would have totally been my go-to restaurant for prom, if I went to school here locally and was able to find a date. I'll definitely come back next time I'm in town. read more

I can't believe I last reviewed Prime 7 years ago! I go there quite often...so here's my update. Prime has expanded into their "temporary " pandemic space, and it really opens up the restaurant. The lovely addition adds a 3rd area to Prime. There's the cozy neighborhood bar area, the dimly lit dining area, and now the open, bright fireplace area. All 3 areas offer access to Prime's quality menu, warm and friendly service, and wonderfully crafted cocktails. I just went to their happy hour tonight, and the delicious small plate menu reminded me what a jewel Prime is for Ventura! read more

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We had a reservation today Christmas Day we got dressed up to go have a nice dinner. We showed up and were told the restaurant was flooded due to rains which is understandable and out of their control. The employee said we tried calling everyone which we didn't get a phone call she said Merry Christmas how about call everyone next time there were employees just sitting around. Will probably never return could have offered some type of gift card or something. read more

Great happy hour menu with a variety of mixed drinks beer and wine. My friend had the beef sliders which she loved and I had the beet salad and blackened shrimp tacos. My other friend had the beef tacos. Everything was delicious! The servers were very attentive and kept our drinks refilled. The cabernet and the pinot were both excellent wines with a generous pour. Our large group sat on the spacious, dog friendly patio graced by a lovely fireplace. The only drawback is the parking lot is a little small so you might have to park in the neighborhood. All in all though the food is great and the ambiance is lovely. read more

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My daughter and I had a perfect experience for a Mother's Day Dinner, Martini, Rib Eye Med Rare, all the trimmings, and dessert. We are foodies, and we were very pleased with our evening. read more

Made reservations on Open Table for Christmas dinner. We were greeted right away, had an amazing table that out looked to the main dining area and patio (yes, I have to people watch, even at a steakhouse). I love the lighting and ambiance inside, makes for nice vibes. Our server was super sweet and attentive... I am kicking myself for not remembering her name because she definitely deserves a shout out. We ordered the bacon wrapped shrimp, spinach wontons, wedge salad, prime rib, lobster, chicken parm, mashed potatoes and creamed spinach. The chicken parm was just okay but everything else was outstanding. The prime rib was absolutely wonderful, perfectly cooked... and that damn horseradish sauce is beyond comprehension. I was nervous about going out on a holiday because I used to work in the restaurant industry (it's usually hell) but everything was well orchestrated and an amazing time out. Thank you to all the staff who worked on Christmas. I felt guilty being there but I appreciate you! This was my first year not having to cook and it was just phenomenal. read more

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Parking is right next to the restaurant. They have indoor/outdoor seating areas. I came for happy hour and the drink and food prices were really good! You need to either sit at the bar or high top table for happy hour. We did not sit at the booth for this reason but that was fine. The burger and ribeye were good. We went and they were playing the MLB playoffs which was good addition to our dinner. read more

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We were there on one the worst nights a restaurant could have. Too many people and not enough staff. We had reservations and yet it took 30 minutes for anyone to come see us. We went to the bar just to get a drink. One of the servers announced quitting and a staff member was called in. We could only order appetizers since an hour passed since our reservation. I was shocked no comp dessert or anything. Left a huge tip for the server who came in. But no one called to apologize. Nothing from management or owners!!!! read more

Great cuisine all around especially the tuna tartare! Service was spot on. They were very attentive and accommodating.

Super cute steakhouse on Thompson near downtown Ventura. I've seen this place for quite some time and finally decided to stop by and have a dinner date with my girlfriend and we are so happy that we picked this place! The ambiance on the inside is so cute. Very cute decor, dark/ dim lighting, and the vibe was awesome. We sat at the bar and it was happy hour and the menu was pretty good and extensive. A variety of everything so that's a big plus. We ordered the Kobe Beef Bacon Burger and the Chicken Sandiwch and they were both pretty good. Would have to rate both sandwiches a 8 out of 10. Portions was large and each dish was $17-$19 bucks so not bad on the price either considering your at a very nice resteraunt. The best part of our experience were the cocktails. The bartender who was our server was great! He made killer lemon drop martinis and we will defenitly be back for those! A 10 out of 10. Overall very please with our visit. If your looking for a nice spot to bring your significant other or just to have a nice dinner somewhere, be sure to consider PRIME. They're so worth it. read more

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First time here ABSOLUTELY loved everything! Shout out to our server Ryan! He was great! The over all service was too! From serving food to clearing plates, definitely a well organized team! Our drinks were amazing! Very strong but didn't "taste" strong! My Prime Manhattan was sooo yummy! (Be careful-2 is too many!) aunt, my husband really loved his Cadillac margarita! Appetizers were so good! My husband absolutely loved the bacon, wrapped shrimp, and my tuna tartare was bombalicious! The side Caesar salad was perfect! They really know how to do a tasty Caesar, The subtle hint of anchovy and garlic were perfect! Our entrées were excellent! my blackened salmon was absolutely delicious and the sautéed vegetables perfectly seasoned as well! I loved his New York steak and lobster tail. Unfortunately, the lobster tail came out slightly raw in the middle. Our poor waiter was mortified, and so kind about replacing it. It's OK it didn't ruin our meal. It came out perfectly cooked 2nd round! Overall, our Valentine's Day, anniversary dinner celebration was wonderful so glad we made reservations here! Highly recommend this restaurant for special occasions, as it is very expensive, but worth every penny! Thank you Prime Steakhouse for an excellent dining experience! read more

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We arranged a Meetup Happy Hour event here with more than a couple of dozen friends. The managers Courtney and Clarke could not have been more helpful in arranging it - setting up larger tables on a section of their patio beside the cheery fireplace. This large patio is classily designed and has a pleasant view of the green hills on one side. The background music added to the ambiance, although it could have been a bit louder for our tastes. The service was fast and attentive. Everyone enjoyed their food and thought it great value. We appreciated the elegance of this place, with comfortable chairs and touches like black napkins on white table-cloths. Overall it was a great experience. We highly recommend and look to a return event. read more

Prime Steakhouse - Decor bordering on art! - Steakhouses Near Me - Ventura, California

I have been back a couple times since my last review, including last night to celebrate my birthday. We were able to grab a nice large table on the patio, which is truly a beautiful setting. It was exactly what I was looking for to celebrate the occasion with my parents and best friend. Clark, our server and the manager of the restaurant provided excellent service and was so accommodating to my questions and requested substitutions, which I really appreciated. I don't like blue cheese so he happily gave me the pinot noir sauce for my steak. There was warm foccacia bread and butter provided and it was tasty but the bread basket I had previously with the pretzel bread was definitely way better - I hope they bring that back! I opted for the caesar and tartar wonton as I did the past two times because I really enjoy them and they were consistently good. This time I decided to order the baseball cut steak with the premium loaded garlic mashed potatoes side. The baseball cut steak came with a little cheesy potato latke type thing on top and it was super tasty. The mashed potatoes were not bad but they looked better than they tasted IMO. I tried some of my dad's creamed spinach and it was very good but also rich. The disappointment came with the baseball cut steaks. My father and I both got the baseball cut steaks medium rare and they were definitely rare, which normally wouldn't be an issue but they were unfortunately both quite tough and had quite a bit of gristle. The flavor of the steak and sauce was very good but the meat quality itself was disappointing. I did let Clark know and he did acknowledge there was more gristle than usual but also tried to say it was the nature of the sirloin steak but I have had countless sirloins in my life and rarely have gristle. I would not get the baseball cut steak again. However, I would get the filet again and I do really enjoy the rest of the food , for the most part. My mother got the pasta with the filet again and while she did enjoy it and would get it again, she said the filet was not as tender and buttery as what she generally has at other restaurants. For dessert they brought out a complimentary apple bourbon bread pudding a la mode and it was probably the highlight of the meal - SO GOOD. I was pretty full so I shared some with my family but I honestly could have eaten the whole thing to myself because it was that good. Overall, Prime is a solid restaurant with a beautiful setting and good service. They have a happy hour that seems pretty popular and offers more affordable options and they also have a steak and lobster pre fixe which could run you upwards of $100 a person so there really is something for everyone. There is room for improvement on a few things but I would definitely still return and had a great birthday. read more

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Prime consistently delivers excellent food and service! We last went on Thanksgiving and had a tremendous meal in a packed house. Our top place in Ventura County for a high-end and special occasion meal. Steals are cooked to perfection. The Almond-crusted Chilean sea bass is one of our favorites. Apple bread pudding - chef's kiss! My only knock is the expanded dining area where plastic covers the windows. It's often not been fully covered and leave some drafts. Fix that and no complaints! read more

I love there happy hour. I love the patio. the inside bar is too dark for me. Their food is amazing...Most of the staff are extremely pleasant. On my birthday week, I ended up going there 3 times with different folks. I will never get tired of their beet salad and their bacon-wrapped shrimp. YUM! read more

We have enjoyed your restaurant the two times we have visited. I am interested in knowing if you will be serving a Thanksgiving dinner.

Snobby service, low quality steaks, high prices! I had been wanting to try this place for some time, sadly i had high expectations.

Rib eye 18oz and lobster tail 10oz for 2 was out of this world Excellent service from beginning until end. Very comfortable atmosphere. We will definitely return! read more

The food is excellent and a great selection and we always return always appreciate the service of Endy who is a bartender & waiter. The ambience is lovely! read more

We had a great experience at Prime Steakhouse yesterday (5 Sep 25). We were celebrating an Anniversary & Birthday and Michael (our waiter) made it even better! Michael was very attentive, courteous, professional and friendly. He made our experience that much better. The food was outstanding! New York strip, Rib Eye & Fillet Mignon with garlic mashed potatoes, grilled mixed vegetables, Cesar salad & wedge salad. Oh, I forgot . . . We also had the stuffed mushrooms and spinach wontons. The restaurant itself was very nice and clean. We couldn't have asked for a better experience, thank you Michael for the great service and we look forward to coming back. read more

Prime used to be our "go to" place for an early supper. Life moved on and we started visiting other places. Tonight we dropped in at +/-5:10pm and the place was filling up fast (we had no reservation but were quickly seated--I would recommend a reservation). Service was good (it was too busy for great service, but Clark did a nice job). We ordered from the Happy Hour menu and were very pleased with the choices, the food, and the Martini CEO ($10). We will be going back soon. read more