Delmonico Steak vs Ribeye Steak: What’s The Difference

Delmonico steak and ribeye steak are two cuts of meat that are very popular amongst those who enjoy steak. While ribeye steak is much more well-known, it can also be a bit more expensive for those who are looking to eat well but save money. Both steaks are cut from similar areas of the cow. However, they come prepared differently and also have different flavor patterns and textures. Overall, there is a big difference between a Delmonico steak and a ribeye steak.

What is a Delmonico Steak

Delmonico steak is a boneless steak that comes from the “ribeye” section of the cow. This section is between the shoulder blade and the spine of the cow, which holds a big chunk of meat. The name Delmonico is actually quite telling for the history of the steak itself. Delmonico steak got its name from where it was first served, at Delmonico's in New York City. The restaurant coined this specific steak by serving it in a butter and garlic sauce. Today, many restaurants serve the steak this way, as well.

What is a Ribeye Steak

A ribeye steak is also cut from the ribeye section of a cow. However, specifically, it is usually from the 6th to 12th rib of the cow itself. Ribeyes are mostly bone-in when purchased or ordered at a restaurant, which increases the flavor pallet. This cut of steak happens to be a large cut of steak and is usually pan-seared or grilled for the best flavor.

What Makes Them Different

Cost

The cost of a Delmonico steak and a ribeye steak are subtly different. The ribeye steak happens to be more expensive than a Delmonico steak by far. While they both come from a similar section of the cow, they are not the same size or price.

Texture

Delmonico steak happens to be a heavier steak than a ribeye steak. It also is larger in size, as it doesn't have a bone, there is more meat on it. Delmonico steak also has less marbling than a ribeye steak does.

Taste

When it comes to taste, ribeye is soft and buttery. Despite being served on the bone in most restaurants and kitchens, this keeps the juices in and helps to create this rich flavor. Delmonico steaks, on the other hand, have a beefier and heavier taste than that of ribeye. They happen to be a more filling steak because of this.

Fat Content

A Delmonico steak has much more fat on it than a ribeye steak does. Many people do not enjoy steaks with that much fat, as they tend to cut the fat away. This would make the ribeye a better choice for them. A ribeye steak is a “leaner” steak and has less fat.

Cooking

Both Delmonico steaks and ribeye steaks can be grilled, however, ribeyes are much easier to cook than Delmonico steaks. In fact, because Delmonico steaks are so heavy and thick, they don't always render their flavor content when grilling. Both can also be cooked in a commercial kitchen pan-seared, as well.

The Rundown

Both Delmonico steaks and ribeye steaks are cut from the same area of a cow but have very different tastes and textures. Delmonico steaks are thicker, heavier, and always come boneless. Ribeye steaks are tender, less fatty, and oftentimes come on the bone. Delmonico steaks are less expensive than ribeye steaks, however, ribeye steaks tend to be more popular amongst steak lovers.