Michael Jordan’s Steak House Ilani Date Night!
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I was invited to Michael Jordan’s Steak House Ilani to enjoy a meal in exchange for my honest review.
All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Have I mentioned how much I love where I live recently? Not to brag, but the Pacific North West is a breathtaking area. From waterfalls to beaches and deserts to mountains. I live 15 minutes from an airport, and the nightlife is hopping. But, don’t get me started of the food! 😋
Okay, you got me. The food is honestly one of the reasons I absolutely LOVE where I live. Where else can you get a lavender beer, mac and cheese burger, and a vegan cheesecake all in one place?! And while Portland is especially known for our weird food, I am in it for the GOOD food.
My husband and I went out for a date night earlier this week, and let me tell you: we definitely got GOOD food! We stopped by our “local” casino, Ilani for an evening out. When I say local, I mean an hour and a half away- but it is worth the trip each time. I was invited out to Michael Jordan’s Steak House Ilani within the Ilani casino to try some of their menu items, and also take a peek at their happy hour in the bar. MJ’s Steakhouse now has Happy Hour from 4-6 Monday through Friday in the bar, instead of just twice a week!
My husband had never eaten at Michael Jordan’s Steak House Ilani, so he didn’t realize what a treat he was in for! As soon as you walk in, the faint smell of steak is just enough to get your stomach rumbling, and the ambiance is perfect. As soon as we were seated, they placed the largest Sangria I’ve ever seen in front of each of us, and we went out to their patio to enjoy the view and the sun. My husband tells me he absolutely hates wine, but I’ve never seen him love a drink more- so even if you question wine, it is worth a try!
The Triple Berry Sangria is their featured seasonal drink right now, and it is every bit as delicious as it is dangerous. Make sure to grab one (or two) the next time you are in the bar or stopping by for dinner.
As we started to feel warm and fuzzy, Chef Cory began to bring out appetizers and other tasty treats. On their happy hour menu, we received the what seemed like the world’s largest basket of onion rings and a garlic bread tower that came with a boat of blue cheese fondue. Being able to pour a giant boat of fondue over crispy garlic bread was definitely an Instagram-worthy moment, so make sure to have your camera ready!
The next appetizer we tried was a bruschetta with steak, oranges, and olives. Not only was it stunningly gorgeous and delicious, it came with a heartfelt story. This was the dish that Chef Cory made for his wife on their third date, and is still her favorite meal to this day. And after tasting it, I can see why she fell for him! 😉
Michael Jordan’s Steak House Ilani Main Courses:
After loosening our belts a little bit, it was time to order our main dishes. I looked at a list of a dozen different steaks, wondering how there could possibly be that many to choose from- and our waitress came over and was able to explain the different kinds of steak to me, something I should have learned long ago!We decided upon the MJ’s Delmonico, USDA Prime, dry-aged 45 days, ginger-balsamic jus, and the New York Strip, USDA Prime, wet-aged 28 days, for our steaks.
The side dishes were a totally different challenge since you will literally want to taste everything on the menu! The thing I love about MJ’s Steak House, is that everything is served family style and has large portions. So order plenty, and expect to share! Special shout out to everyone who helped us pick by taking my Instagram story polls- you helped make some really tough decisions- HA!
My husband and I almost never agree on cuts of steak or how it should be cooked, but 100% without a doubt we both fell in love with the MJ’s Delmontico cooked medium rare that night. I don’t think either of us truly realized that this was how steak should taste. There was just enough chew with each bite, a bit of flavorful crisp on all of the edges, and when you paired it with the ginger-balsamic jus….mind blown!
As for the side dishes, my absolute favorite was the Brussels Sprouts. But these were no ordinary Brussels sprouts…. they were made with bacon jam and pickled onions! I cannot stress to you enough, that you absolutely must order the Brussels sprouts!
Equally as delicious, was the Bacon Macaroni & Cheese and the Mashed Potato Trio. The mashed potato trio comes with three unique types of potatoes: Roasted Garlic, Crab & Old Bay Butter, and a Scallion & Goat Cheese. I can’t even choose a favorite, since they were all incredible in such different ways. The trio is definitely a great choice, especially for sharing.
Just when you think you can’t eat another bite, you will be tempted with this 23 layer chocolate cake…. You won’t think you can do it…. But I have complete faith in you.
And just like that, I realize we have been at Michael Jordan’s Steak House for three hours, and the couples across from us have been here just as long! And not once did any of us feel pressure to hurry up, order immediately, or anything of the sort. Service was incredible, and every question or comment was met with a smile. This was truly the most relaxing night I have had in months!
Everyone around us was laughing, smiling, and having an amazing time with great food. I simply cannot wait to come back, and hope you find yourself enjoying a meal there soon!
