When you visit a local seafood restaurant or steakhouse, it can be hard to choose between the seafood options and juicy steak. With surf and turf, you don't have to decide. This delicious tradition will help satisfy all your cravings in one meal, just as it's been doing for almost a century.

A Guide to Surf & Turf

What is it?

Surf and turf is an entree option that combines one seafood choice—traditionally a lobster tail—with one land-based meat, which is usually beef. These combo meals are often more affordable than ordering the components separately. You'll find them across the country, but especially on the coast, since it’s easier for restaurants to order lobster, crab, and other seafood to pair with steak.

Where does it come from?

Steak and lobster combo meals date back to at least the early 1930s, but they weren't common back then. It was only in the 1960s, when imported seafood became more common, that surf and turf became popular. It started being served under that name, or variations, such as "beef and reef."

What combos are available?

The most classic surf and turf combo is a beef filet mignon paired with a lobster tail. However, there are other varieties.

Many seafood restaurants offer options such as crab legs, shrimp, or scallops. They may serve steak instead of the filet, such as a T-bone or ribeye.

Where should I go for surf & turf?

Like any dish involving seafood, the best restaurants for this combo are found on the coast. Fish doesn't travel as well as beef, so you want to go where you can get fresh seafood. New York's coastline produces a wide selection of seafood, including lobster that pairs beautifully with a quality steak.

Look for a restaurant that prides itself on serving fresh seafood daily, as these places typically receive fresh weekly or bi-weekly shipments of sea fare.

For New York City's best surf and turf, check out Lolo's Seafood Shack. Serving Harlem, Manhattan, since 2014, this seafood restaurant has offered fresh crab, shrimp, lobster, and steak to create a delicious surf and turf platter. Chef Raymon Mohan draws upon his childhood experiences in the street markets of Guyana to create flavorful, varied dishes with explosive flavors. Call (646) 649-3356 or visit the website to browse their menu.