An American visitor planning a trip to Dublin for St. Patrick’s Festival wondered why Irish restaurants seem to serve smaller 7-ounce steaks compared to the larger cuts common in the US. While it’s true that portions can vary, here’s some insight on steak sizes in Ireland:
Understanding Trimmed Weight
Pre- and Post-Trimming: Butchers often advertise steaks by their untrimmed weight. An 8-ounce (half-pound) steak might weigh closer to 7 ounces after removing excess fat and sinew, making 7 ounces an accurate depiction of the final cooked portion. Reasons for Smaller Steaks in Ireland
Dining Habits: Irish cuisine traditionally favours balanced meals with multiple components, rather than centring on a single, large cut of meat. Quality Emphasis: Irish restaurants often prioritise locally-sourced, premium quality meats. Smaller steaks help maintain this focus while keeping meals affordable. Health Awareness: There’s increasing awareness of portion control and red meat intake. Modest steak sizes align with this trend.
It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All
Variety Exists: While not the absolute standard, 7-ounce steaks can be found, especially in fine dining settings. Steakhouse chains and restaurants catering to American tastes will likely offer those larger “giant” steaks.
I also received the following from a second source:
A 7-ounce steak wouldn’t be considered the standard serving size in Ireland, but it’s also not uncommon. Here’s why:
Portion Sizes Vary: Steak portion sizes in Ireland depend on the type of establishment, the cut of meat, and the overall menu design. Typical Range: You’re more likely to find steaks in the 8-12 ounce range in most restaurants. Smaller Portions Possible: Some fine dining places may offer smaller steaks as part of tasting menus or multi-course dining experiences. 7 ounces could certainly be found in this context. Larger Options, Too: Steakhouses specialising in large cuts of meat will definitely cater to those seeking the ‘giant steak’ experience. Overall: It’s better to think of steak serving sizes in Ireland as existing on a spectrum rather than having a single, rigid standard.