Bill Taylor knows a thing or two about quality meat. Taylor, owner of the iconic Willie's Burgers, recently opened Iron Steaks located in Land Park Sacramento neighborhood. 

"We wanted good quality that you can find at the best steakhouses, but price it reasonably," said Taylor. 

Meals are served in family-style portions to share.  A sample dinner can include crab cakes, seared Ahi crusted with toasted almonds for appetizers, a 48 oz. porterhouse (which serves up to 6) served on a cast iron platter for an entrée, and green beans and sautéed mushrooms with demi-glaze for sides. 

Each entrée is served with coleslaw and beignets, a type of fried dough. 

"A typical evening meal with three to four people with prime meat will cost maybe $25 per person," said Ron Henderson, banquet manager. 

Taylor wants his steakhouse to have the same reputation and quality as the famous Peter Luger Steakhouse in New York. The Brooklyn based steakhouse is reputed to be the discerning steak connoisseur, having been in business for over 100 years. 

"The concept is simple; generous family-style servings to share and enjoy at affordable prices in surroundings as comfortable as your own home," according to the Iron Steaks website. 

Atmosphere is just as important as the food served, Taylor said. Iron Steaks is located at the former Fuji restaurant building, which served the Sacramento community for 20 years. 

"It was important to keep the eclectic Asian feel," Taylor said. "This building is an important part of the community." 

Taylor wanted to incorporate the traditional look of a steakhouse along with his own vision. 

"I wanted to keep the wood, but give it a cross cultural approach," he said. "So we gave it a contemporary blend, and kept the feel and spirit of the building." 

The booths on the west wall of the restaurant are plush and comfortable.  Lighting reflects off the suspended ceiling, creating a warm ambiance. Traditional Asian-style patterns are throughout the restaurant. There is seating for large groups, as well as seating for just couples or smaller groups of three or four. 

Starting Oct. 13 Iron Steaks will be open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the lunch crowd. 

"This is a great place for state workers to have lunch," Taylor said.  Here they can enjoy a good meal in under an hour before heading back to the office, he said.

A typical lunch will cost under $14 and will include sliders, a 6 oz. steak, steak sandwiches, and the traditional Crab Louie salad just to name a few. 

Of course, he will also stay true to his roots. 

"People are expecting me to serve hamburgers for lunch," laughs Taylor. "And we will, with fresh quality meat, buns, and our own sauce." 

A premier item will be his half-inch-thick sweet and smokey bacon, he said. There will also be a tasty vegan burger for non-carnivores complete with chopped walnuts, soy cheese, pinto beans, and guacamole on a whole wheat bun. 

With no corkage fee for wine, Taylor said he is committed to reasonable prices and not cutting corners on the dining experience. 

"We realize it is tough for everyone right now," he said, "but if you still want to enjoy going out and have a fantastic dining experience, we can do it." 

Iron Steaks is located at 2422 13th St. in Sacramento.  It is open from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. for lunch starting Oct. 13. Evening dining hours are Monday through Thursday 5 to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 5 to 11 p.m., and Sunday 5 to 9 p.m. 

Photos courtesy the Iron Steaks website.