The Queen City boasts ample places to savor a steak dinner. But Dean's Italian Steakhouse within JW Marriott in Uptown offers more than just a meal. Prepare for an experience.

City Editors Jack and Maria recently attended "The Cut Wagyu Dinner Experience" — an intimate, four-course Wagyu dinner paired with Johnnie Walker cocktails.

Fun fact: Wagyu is the collective name for the four principal Japanese breeds of beef cattle.

Upon entering the restaurant, we were escorted into a private dining wing before taking our seats at a table, sitting just 15 people. Soft lighting provided an intimate aesthetic as chefs worked from the adjacent kitchen.

Thank you to Josh for your insightful knowledge of the history of Johnny Walker. | Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Our evening was guided by Josh Hiller, the senior manager of On-Premise Hospitality, who shared the history and craft behind the cocktails that accompanied the dishes. The chefs gave our party a story behind the inspiration of each dish, creating an aesthetic of culinary artistry.

Dean's Italian Steakhouse chefs prepare plates of seared scallops and A5 Strip-Loin Crudo. | Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

We began with 18-year old Johnnie Walker served with American Wagyu beef tartare. We blended surf and turf during course two with a seared scallop & A5 Striploin Crudo. Our main course was seared Australian Mayura Wagyu striploin matched with savory onion rings. Our final course ended on a sweet note: a peach and apricot tart capped off with a Golden Toddy.

Jack's menu favorite: seared Australian Mayura Wagyu striploin.
Maria's menu favorite: Wagyu beef tartare.

The table is set for anyone interested in having a private dining experience at Dean's Italian Steakhouse. The restaurant hosts similar dining experiences every few months. Keep an eye on our events page for the next experience.