Mastro's Steakhouse in Thousand Oaks

It was our 6th wedding anniversary. We usually don’t venture far for our anniversary because we have small children and prefer to be within close range. So my wife’s idea was Mastro’s Steakhouse, across from the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza. Mind you, I’m the kind of guy that if you put a blindfold on me, I probably couldn’t tell the difference between steaks from the Sizzler, Outback and Ruth’s Chris. I’m not a big meat eater. But boy, did we have quite a memorable meal at Mastro’s.

First off, don’t go to Mastro’s unless you’re willing to fork out a couple hundred bucks on a full blown meal with drinks. It seemed like a lot of $$$ but boy, was it a treat for us. Have a drink, relax, and enjoy the comfortable feel of this place. Once you step foot into this joint, you completely forget about the fact that it is next door to After Hours Pediatrics, where you brought your little one in a panic after he stuck a Hot Wheels tire up his nose. This place is worth the money for its atmosphere alone.

I quickly froze when I saw the price of mixed drinks (I believe what immediately came to mind was that I could buy a case of Corona, a bag of Doritos and salsa for that much money). But wow, was it great. Plus the portion was enough to make me quickly forget about money in general.

After that drink things became somewhat blurry, but what stood out the most was the “Bone in Filet” that we ordered. My wife said it was the most delicious, tender steak she ever ate. I have to agree it was incredible, once I got past the fact that I had to pay MORE money to have the bone still attached to the meat! (My wife informed me that leaving the bone in the filet adds to the flavor. So I just chewed and shut my mouth.) The steak melted in our mouths.  I could have eaten this filet without teeth.

We also shared lobster tails, crab stuffed mushrooms, tomato and mozzarella and sautéed spinach. We were in heaven the whole meal and thoroughly enjoyed it. My wife was happier than a clam after this meal and I also thought it was an incredible treat for us. We will be back soon.

Mastro's Steakhouse is at 2087 East Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks (805.418.1811). Visit their website at www.mastrosrestaurants.com.