If you’re a lover of great food, top-notch service, and a dining experience that leaves you speechless, you might want to make your way to Old Hickory Steakhouse at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee, Florida. Trust me, I know it’s tempting to roll your eyes when a restaurant gets rave reviews. But here’s the thing: this place is the real deal.
I’ve been to more steakhouses than I can count. From casual joints with questionable lighting to luxurious spots where you almost feel out of place in a T-shirt. But there’s something uniquely special about Old Hickory that just clicks. From the moment I walked into the restaurant, it was clear this wasn’t just about food—it was about an experience.
Setting the Scene: A Stunning Atrium Escape
The Gaylord Palms Resort is already a destination on its own. When you step into the atrium, it feels almost like you’ve entered a tropical paradise. The towering trees, lush greenery, and the calming sound of water fountains surround you, making everything feel a little bit magical. Old Hickory Steakhouse is nestled in this oasis, offering a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere. It’s warm, inviting, and surprisingly intimate, even with the bustling energy of the resort around you.
You can sit in a plush booth, or if you’re feeling a little fancy, settle into one of their elegantly designed tables that look out into the atrium. The lighting is soft and soothing—nothing too harsh, just enough to make you feel like you’re dining in a hidden gem somewhere far from the world outside. It’s the perfect place for a special night out, but you won’t feel out of place for a casual meal, either.
Service That Makes You Feel Like a VIP
Now, let’s talk service. I’ve been to plenty of places where you get great food, but the service is either rushed or nonexistent. Old Hickory? Completely different story. From the moment my server greeted me, I felt like I was treated with the utmost respect and attention. They were knowledgeable about the menu without sounding rehearsed, and every time I had a question, they were quick to answer, offering suggestions without being pushy.
There’s something about being served with genuine care that makes a huge difference in your dining experience. They have that “service with a smile” thing down, but it’s the way they anticipate your needs before you even have to ask that really sets them apart. It’s rare these days, but I could feel that they truly care about the experience they’re giving you.
A Meal to Remember: The Steak
Alright, let’s get to the star of the show—steak. I went with the Prime Dry-Aged (45 days) New York strip, and let me tell you, it was cooked to absolute perfection. This wasn’t just a piece of meat; this was an experience. The steak was tender, juicy, and full of flavor, with a subtle char on the outside that brought out an incredible depth. It was so perfectly seasoned that I didn’t even need steak sauce (and I’m a sauce person).
I’ve had dry-aged steaks before, but this one stood out. The 45 days of aging gave it a complexity that was simply mind-blowing. I can’t say enough about how the meat was melt-in-your-mouth tender without losing that satisfying, slightly chewy texture that you want in a good steak. If you’re a fan of steak, you have to try this.
And let’s not forget the lobster tail I paired it with. It was a beautiful addition—sweet, succulent, and cooked just right. The delicate sweetness of the lobster paired beautifully with the richness of the steak, creating the kind of flavor combination that makes you pause mid-bite and think, Wow, this is so good.
The Sides: Perfect Companions
It’s easy to get excited about the main course, but let’s talk about the sides, because they were just as incredible. I had the Potatoes au Gratin, which were creamy, cheesy, and perfectly crispy on top. Every bite was comforting, rich, and packed with flavor—definitely not your average side dish. The Crispy Brussels Sprouts & Cauliflower were a pleasant surprise. The Brussels sprouts were crispy without being overly fried, and the cauliflower was tender yet had a slight crunch. It’s the kind of side that you find yourself sneaking bites of even after you’re full.
But my favorite part? The Caesar salad. I know, I know, Caesar salads are pretty basic, right? But when you’re sitting down to a meal like this, sometimes simplicity is the key to perfection. The dressing was tangy without being overpowering, and the croutons had that satisfying crunch that balanced out the creamy goodness of the dressing. It was the perfect start to the meal, and honestly, I was a little sad when it was gone.
The Wine: A Toast to the Experience
As someone who enjoys a good glass of wine with dinner, I was thrilled with the wine list at Old Hickory. They have a selection that caters to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs, with bottles ranging from affordable options to premium labels. I opted for a nice red that paired wonderfully with the steak, enhancing the flavors without taking over the show. It’s the kind of wine that makes you want to sip slowly and savor every drop.
Price: Worth Every Penny
Now, I know what you’re thinking: this all sounds amazing, but what’s the damage? Here’s the thing—given the level of service, food quality, and the overall experience, I’d say the price is more than reasonable. A meal at Old Hickory is an investment in your dining experience, but it’s not so high that it feels like you’re being gouged. For what you get, it’s absolutely worth it. The kind of meal where you walk away feeling like you got more than your money’s worth.
Final Thoughts
In a world full of dining options, it’s rare to find a place that checks all the boxes: incredible food, impeccable service, and a setting that makes you feel like you’re part of something special. Old Hickory Steakhouse at the Gaylord Palms Resort does just that. It’s a restaurant that goes beyond the meal, offering a complete experience from start to finish. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply in the mood for an unforgettable steak, Old Hickory is the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again.
If you’re ever in the Kissimmee area, do yourself a favor and give it a try. You won’t regret it.