If you want to know what a high-end American restaurant serves and what it costs, this American Gourmet Menu with Prices guide breaks it down for you. You will see typical dishes, price ranges, and how to plan your meal without surprises.
Gourmet American food goes beyond burgers and fries. It focuses on quality cuts, fresh seafood, seasonal sides, and classic desserts done right.
What Is An American Gourmet Menu?
An American gourmet menu is a selection of premium dishes rooted in U.S. cooking styles. Think steaks, lobster, crab cakes, and rich desserts. Portions are often smaller but the ingredients are better.
Prices run higher than a casual diner. You pay for sourcing, technique, and service. Most plates range from $18 to $65 depending on the protein and the city.
American Gourmet Menu With Prices
Below is a sample menu you might find at a mid-to-upscale American restaurant. Prices are averages and can change by location.
Starters And Appetizers
- Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail – $16
- Maryland Crab Cakes – $22
- Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese – $14
- New England Clam Chowder – $12
- Fried Calamari with Lemon Aioli – $15
Main Courses
- Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce – $52
- Ribeye Steak with Herb Butter – $48
- Grilled Atlantic Salmon – $32
- Roasted Half Chicken – $28
- Lobster Tail with Drawn Butter – $58
- BBQ Short Ribs – $34
Side Dishes
- Truffle Mac and Cheese – $12
- Creamed Spinach – $10
- Grilled Asparagus – $11
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – $9
- Seasonal Vegetables – $10
Desserts
- New York Cheesecake – $12
- Apple Pie with Vanilla Ice Cream – $11
- Chocolate Lava Cake – $13
- Key Lime Pie – $11
Drinks
- Craft Cocktails – $14 to $18
- House Wine by the Glass – $12
- Craft Beer – $8
- Coffee or Tea – $4
How To Read Gourmet Prices Correctly
Menu prices rarely tell the full story. You need to check a few extra charges before you order.
- Look for a shared plate fee. Some places charge $5 to split a dish.
- Check if sides come included. Many steakhouses sell them separate.
- Ask about market price items. Lobster and crab change daily.
- Confirm the auto gratuity. Large parties often get 18 to 20 percent added.
- Watch for a kitchen or service charge on the final bill.
What Affects The Final Price
Two restaurants can list the same steak at very different prices. Here is why.
Location And City
A filet in New York City costs more than the same cut in a small town. Rent and labor drive the number up.
Ingredient Quality
USDA Prime beef costs more than Choice. Wild salmon costs more then farmed. These choices show up on your bill.
Time Of Day
Dinner prices are higher than lunch. Many gourmet spots offer a smaller lunch menu at 30 to 40 percent less.
Tips To Save Money On A Gourmet Meal
- Go at lunch instead of dinner.
- Order the prix fixe menu if they have one.
- Share an appetizer and a dessert.
- Skip the cocktail and pick a house wine.
- Check for happy hour small plates at the bar.
Most people spend $60 to $90 per person at a gourmet American restaurant. That includes a starter, a main, and one drink. Add tax and tip and the total climbs fast.
Use this guide as a budget tool. Pick your dishes with the prices in mind and you will enjoy the meal without a shock at the end.