Towne Lake Diner- Iron Horse Steakhouse
 The TowneLaker - October 2006

The interior of The Iron Horse Steakhouse.

Sometimes, nothing will do except a good steak.  It could be a Filet, a Rib Eye or a New York Strip, but it has to be done right because in my world, steak is a treat — there are no second chances with steak and me.  Nestled in the Kroger shopping center on Highway 5 is an absolute find for those who enjoy a good steak, Iron Horse Steakhouse, where "got it right" steaks, fresh seafood dishes plus a myriad of other tempting dishes await diners.

Iron Horse Steakhouse is first and foremost a unique, non-chain restaurant.  The restaurant has been the dream of owners and Woodstock residents Diane and John Griffin.  John is an honors graduate of the Culinary Art Institute of Atlanta and his resumé is impressive with stints at Bones, Blue Ridge Grill and Van Gogh's.  Diane is a professional interior designer with experience in staff training and running the front of a restaurant.  Diane and John wanted to bring their vision of a steakhouse to the Holly Springs/Woodstock area, which included a relaxing, cozy atmosphere where diners could enjoy quality dining without the fancy trappings and the expense of comparable restaurants in Atlanta.  The Griffin's blood, sweat and tears are in the restaurant from the well crafted menu to the hand-built tables and chairs to the bar in the back.  No detail was left untouched. 

When diners first enter the Iron Horse, a friendly, approachable staff welcomes them.  The décor is warm and inviting and the service is impeccable with a knowledgeable wait staff ready to answer any and all questions or rattle off the extensive list of nightly specials.  I went there for steak, and had to try what is fast becoming their classic dish, New York Strip Au Poivre, which is topped with a cognac peppercorn cream sauce and tumbleweed onions.  If you love pepper, this is the steak for you!  The steaks all come with bread, salad and one side item such as baked potato, steamed asparagus, spinach or baked sweet potato, to name a few.  As I mentioned before, the menu choices are extensive.  There are soups, salads, fresh catch, seafood, sandwiches and pastas.  The Iron Horse also has four "entreés" such as fish and chips, shrimp and grits and bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin.  And speaking of bacon, the house salad with the House bacon vinaigrette is something to write home (or an article) about!

And just when you think there's nothing more that can impress you, you will discover they serve Sunday brunch, and from the looks of it, it's not your ordinary Sunday brunch.  There are omelets, homemade quiche, four kinds of Benedicts and even steak and eggs.  Children are accommodated with their own menus for lunch, dinner and brunch.  It can definitely be a family affair! 

On Friday and Saturday nights, the Iron Horse offers live entertainment, and never a cover charge!  Additionally, they have weekly specials such as Prime Rib night on Mondays and $4 well drinks on Wednesdays, and with several 32 inch TVs, it's a great place to watch the games on the weekends.  The Iron Horse has a full pouring license, and the bar is set away from the dining area, which is a nice feature. 

When it comes to steak, it's nice to have another choice in the Towne Lake/ Woodstock area.  Check out their website for a complete menu and event schedule.

Iron Horse Steakhouse
5343 Old Highway 5
(Toonigh Village Shopping Center)
Holly Springs, GA 30188
(770) 592-3966
www.theironhorsesteakhouse.com

Payment accepted:
Cash and major credit cards

Menu:
Appetizers:  $5 — $9
Soups/Salads  $4 — $13
Signature Steaks  $15 — $26
Fresh Catch/Seafood $16 — $23
Sandwiches  $7 — $10
Entreés   $15 — $17
Sunday Brunch  $7 — $12