For more than 50 years, The Best Steak House has been a cornerstone of Hillcrest Shopping Center and the Greater East Side neighborhood. Founded in 1973, the proudly family-owned restaurant has earned a loyal following by staying true to a simple promise: serve high-quality steaks at honest, affordable prices and make sure everyone feels welcome.

Current owner Viktor and his family took over the business in 2017 after years of working alongside his father-in-law (the business’s founder), continuing a legacy rooted in hard work, consistency and personal connection.

“We like what we do,” Viktor says simply. “We’re here every day. We know our customers by name.”

Built to Last

The longevity of The Best Steak House isn’t accidental. Customers return again and again for dependable quality, friendly service and a comfortable, down-to-earth atmosphere that feels like home. Many diners who grew up on the Greater East Side and moved away still make the trip back, often bringing friends and family or with them.

Investing Through Adversity

Like many long-time businesses, The Best Steak House has weathered its share of challenges. The team adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic, like many restaurants, and then faced a major fire in 2022. During reconstruction, Best Steak was closed for months, and the building went days without power.

Instead of stepping back, the owners doubled down, upgrading the space, improving safety systems and reinvesting in the space themselves. Today, the restaurant reflects that commitment, standing stronger and more welcoming than ever.

“When we were closed, people stopped by constantly asking when we’d reopen,” Viktor recalls. “That support meant everything.”

Why the Greater East Side

Ask Viktor what he values most about doing business on the Greater East Side, and the answer comes easily: the people.

“Our customers treat us well. We care about them, and they care about us,” he says.

Many employees also live nearby, reinforcing the restaurant’s role as a true neighborhood employer and gathering place.

The Best Steak House has become a place where the food is good and affordable, ownership is present every day, families — both customers and staff — feel welcomed and well looked after.”

Looking Ahead

Viktor hopes The Best Steak House will be here for another 50 years. His children already help out, and he describes the restaurant as a big family, one that’s deeply invested in the future of White Bear Avenue.

He’s optimistic about continued investment along the corridor and wants growth that supports the people and businesses already here. Viktor believes clear communication, practical support during construction, and continued investment along the corridor are key to sustaining success.

“If there is a commitment to help this community — to really help the people who are here — the future can be bright,” Viktor says.

A Model for the Bear + Larp District

The Best Steak House is living proof that local investment pays off. Its success reflects the strength of the Bear + Larp District: a place where family-owned businesses endure, adapt and thrive, anchoring the corridor with trust, value and a deep sense of belonging.

As new investment and energy come to White Bear Avenue, businesses like The Best Steak House show what’s possible when commitment to community and commitment to quality go hand in hand.