Medium Rare has been on my radar since the time I saw them on social media for their NYC location opening. They originally started in DC years ago but have been opening up locations on the east coast and now making it's way down south. They opened up the Houston location in the Mix @ Midtown on the corner where Artisans used to be. There is street parking as well as the parking garage used for all the businesses used in the complex. At peak times, parking can be difficult so plan ahead. We made reservations in advance for a large party and it was pretty easy for us to make changes even on the day of. The restaurant isn't large but the tables are close together so they can accommodate the crowds. They also have a pretty spacious outdoor patio. We were seated right away and introduced us to Kayla. She did a great job handling our group with a smile on her face. It did get busy as the night progressed and getting the staff's attention took a little longer. What put Medium Rare on the map is their steak frites concept. Dinner is a one choice prix fix menu consisting of artisan rustic bread, mixed green salad, and culotte steak and fresh cut fries. If you're about the vegan or vegetarian life, they have a grilled Portobello mushroom option as well. They have a somewhat open kitchen option so you can see the staff plating and preparing alot of the items. They started us off with the bread. They have loaves stacked high and they throw it in some sort of oven to serve you fresh, hot bread. It was solid and served with a tasty butter. The salad was nothing to write home about, but good. What I came for was the steak and it was delicious. This particular cut of steak is not high end, but it was cooked to a perfect medium rare as I requested and topped with the most wonderful secret sauce. The sauce reminded me of a creamy peppercorn sauce was was absolutely delicious. They piled on the fresh cut fries which were perfectly crisp and seasoned. I'm all about the steak and fries combo and was happy with what I got. Another think they are known for is the second serving they give you. For the second round, they just pull up with steak and fries and plop it down into your plate. I felt my second round was more generous than the first and actually hotter. With the first plate I probably would have left hungry, but with the second serving I was almost at the overly full stage. They do let you box up leftovers which is a plus. One of my friends ordered the double chocolate layer cake and I got to try some. I really liked the cake. It was moist and it almost felt like the ganache between layers was warm. Great way to end the meal. I washed my meal down with a bourdeaux to pair with the red meat. They also have a cocktail menu on the wall by the hostess. Not alot to choose from, but it looked like everyone in our party liked their drinks. Overall, I enjoyed my meal here. You have to set your expectations correctly before coming in. I wouldn't rank it amongst high end steakhouses, but for the price they charge and what you get, I think it's a good value. I am also curious about their brunch menu. I'm sure I will be back at some point. read more