When Family Destinations Guide released its roundup, “14 Iconic Restaurants in New York That Locals Swear Have the Best Steaks,” few expected Olean to shine as brightly as it did.

Yet three hometown favorites — Century Manor Grillhouse, Beef-N-Barrel, and Grand Slam Grill — earned major recognition.

For a small Western New York community, that’s a big achievement and a powerful indicator of the culinary talent right here in Olean.

Below, we break down why each of these beloved restaurants earned a spot on the statewide list, based on the details highlighted in the original guide.

Century Manor Grillhouse: Olean’s Historic Home for Premium Steaks

Century Manor Grillhouse, ranked No. 1 in the article, is celebrated for both its atmosphere and its steaks.

Housed in a beautifully preserved Victorian manor on East State Street, the restaurant’s wraparound porch and historic details make it one of the most charming dining settings in the region.

Inside, the experience only gets better.

The guide praises Century Manor’s steaks as “modern masterpieces,” perfectly seared on the outside and tender inside. The signature ribeye, seasoned with a house blend, stands out as a local favorite.

With its mix of historic charm and high-end steakhouse technique, Century Manor continues to be one of Olean’s most iconic dining destinations.

Beef-N-Barrel: Comfort Food, Classic Style, and Legendary Prime Rib

Featured at No. 11, Beef-N-Barrel remains a cornerstone of the Olean dining scene.

Its simple navy-blue exterior hides a warm and familiar interior with wood-paneled walls and a welcoming community feel.

According to the guide, the restaurant’s slow-roasted prime rib is what makes it unforgettable — tender, flavorful, and generously portioned.

The article describes the experience as embodying “Upstate generosity,” praising both quality and value.

Grand Slam Grill: Neighborhood Dining With Big-City Steak Quality

Ranked at No. 14, Grand Slam Grill shows that great steak doesn’t require a white-tablecloth setting.

The guide describes its stone exterior as unassuming, but once inside, diners find steaks that rival those in far larger and more expensive steakhouses.

The New York strip receives special praise for striking the perfect balance between a flavorful sear and a juicy center.

The simple dining room keeps the focus on the food, and the guide notes that even the sides are thoughtfully prepared.

Serving high-quality meals at neighborhood-friendly prices, Grand Slam Grill continues to surprise and impress visitors and locals alike.

Why Olean’s Steak Scene Stands Out in New York State

Having three restaurants appear in a statewide best-steak ranking says a lot about Olean’s food culture.

Century Manor offers elegance and history, Beef-N-Barrel delivers comfort and tradition, and Grand Slam Grill brings straightforward, high-quality cooking.

Together, they give Olean a diverse — and impressive — culinary identity that holds its own against much larger cities.

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