It was a winning combination: Strip House steak with world class single malt aged Glenlivet scotch whisky. Add a charming, jovial, kilt-wearing Scotsman as brand ambassador and host of the evening, prizes for attendees, a cocktail reception to kickoff, a private dining room with outstanding service, and the evening was an unequivocal success.
Originally slated to be a small, intimate event, Strip House Houston doubled the size of the 45 person exclusive event to accommodate 90 patrons. Guests arriving for the event could pull up directly in front of the restaurant thanks to their new complimentary valet service. The kickoff cocktail reception began with a refreshing round of Glenlivet scotch cocktail mixed with apple, sweet and sour, and soda, allowing patrons to relax and unwind.
The dinner convened in Strip House’s private dining room, set amid lush red tones on the walls, ceiling and carpet. I was the token female at my table, where two groups of male friends were bonding for the night. In fact, the entire dinner party was predominantly male. Everyone was in a good spirits, which were only heightened as servers clad in white jackets with black bow ties entered the room with flourish, armed with trays of the first of the night’s whiskey tastings: Glenlivet 15 yr. Paired with an extremely fresh and flavorful smoked scottish salmon, endive, and potato chip, the 15 year old Glenlivet was strong and left a trail of heat down my throat. The kilt-wearing Scotsman explained some history about Glenlivet scotch, told some jokes, gave away a prize, then let the festivities proceed.
The 2nd course, roast bacon with cheddar custard and corn salad, paired with 16 year old Glenlivet scotch, was the undeniable standout of the night. Made from a thick cut of seasoned pork belly, fried to a crisp with a slight sweetness to balance out the saltiness, we were each served 2 thick strips of bacon that exploded with flavor. I didn’t leave a scrap on my plate. The dish was so good, one of my table companions later asked our server for leftovers.
The 3rd course, sheperd’s pie of lamb bordelaise, roasted carrots and peas, paired with 18 year Glenlivet, reminded me of quintessentially English pub fare, something hearty for a cold day.
My favorite Glenlivet of the night, the 21 year (~$100/bottle), was perfectly paired with a medium rare, signature Strip House filet mignon, potato oatmeal pancake, and mushroom sauce. The slight sweetness of the mushroom sauce richly complemented the smooth scotch, imparting an added boldness to the flavor of the steak.
The warm apple-buttermilk cake, with mulled cider and cinnamon ice cream, ended the night on a sweet note, but nothing was sweeter than experiencing the 25 year old Glenlivet (retail ~$275/bottle).
At the end of the night, I felt like I’d experienced a taste of Scotland. I imagined myself stocking my liquor cabinet with an 21 year old bottle to show off my knowledge of aged scotch whiskey. On a scotch and steak high, I looked around at our table and saw my sentiments reflected in the smiles around the table. It was truly a night to remember.
Strip House hosts quarterly spirit-themed tasting dinners. Recent dinners include a Woodford Reserve premium bourbon dinner and a St. Arnold's Beer dinner. Join their Facebook page and sign up for their email list on their website for upcoming event announcements.
Strip House. 1200 McKinney. Houston, TX 77010. (713) 659-6000
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