Red Horse SteakhouseDining Review:
A must try spot in Rumson, NJ
Red Horse Steakhouse
26 Ridge Road
Rumson, NJ
Red Horse by David Burke is a modern American steakhouse that blends culinary innovation with timeless elegance, helmed by a celebrity chef and set in a historic Victorian mansion. It’s a destination for upscale dining, special occasions, and refined palates.
🐎 History & Vision
Red Horse by David Burke opened in 2021, reclaiming the iconic space once home to the legendary Fromagerie in Rumson, NJ. The restaurant is the brainchild of James Beard Award-winning Chef David Burke, a culinary innovator known for his whimsical yet refined approach to modern American cuisine. Burke’s vision for Red Horse is to create a sophisticated yet approachable steakhouse that fuses classic techniques with bold, global flavors—especially Asian influences
🥩 Food & Cuisine
Red Horse offers a modern American steakhouse menu with Asian flair, featuring:
- Himalayan salt dry-aged steaks—a Burke signature
- Sushi and small plates served in the upstairs Loft
- Creative starters like lobster dumplings, tuna crudo, and crispy shrimp spring rolls
- Mains such as tomahawk steaks, pork chops, and seafood specials
Ingredients are locally sourced when possible, with a focus on freshness and presentation. The menu is seasonal and inventive, appealing to both traditional steak lovers and adventurous diners
👨🍳 The Chef: David Burke
Chef Burke is a culinary powerhouse with over 18 restaurants globally. His accolades include:
- James Beard Award for Best Chef
- Culinary Hall of Fame inductee
- Patents for his dry-aging techniques
He’s known for playful, artful presentations and a fearless fusion of flavors, making Red Horse a showcase of his signature style
🪑 Ambiance & Décor
Set in a Victorian-era mansion, Red Horse exudes casual elegance with:
- Equestrian-themed art and rich wood accents
- A blend of classic and contemporary design
- Spacious table layouts and a comfortable noise level
- Outdoor dining available in warmer months
- Background music that complements the upscale yet relaxed vibe
The Loft upstairs offers a more intimate, lounge-like sushi experience
🤝 Service
The staff are attentive, knowledgeable, with warm hospitality. Service is described as:
- Consistent and polished
- Well-paced for fine dining
- Accommodating to dietary needs and special occasions
🍸 Other Features & Policies
- Full bar with craft cocktails and an extensive wine list
- Child-friendly but best suited for older children or special family occasions
- Recommended for: date nights, celebrations, business dinners, foodies
- Not recommended for: casual family meals with young kids, budget dining
- Parking: On-site and street parking available
- Dress code: Smart casual to business casual
- Holiday hours: Open on Mother’s Day and other major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas
🔧 What Could Improve
Limited vegetarian options on the main menu
🌟 What Sets Red Horse Apart
- Chef Burke’s culinary artistry and patented techniques
- The fusion of steakhouse and sushi bar under one roof
- A storied location with deep local roots and modern flair
- Equestrian-themed ambiance that’s both elegant and unique
For those seeking a refined yet imaginative dining experience in Monmouth County, Red Horse by David Burke is a standout. Whether you're celebrating a milestone or indulging in a memorable meal, this Rumson gem delivers on flavor, flair, and finesse.
Updated October 2025
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