Why would a restaurant that's been around for over forty years now be reviewed? The answer is simple: It's that good.

Steak and Ale in Altamonte Springs (Photograph by Jennifer Smith/Knightwire)

Steak and Ale, which was first established in 1966 in Dallas, Texas, definitely lives up to their reputation when they claim to be a "timeless casual steakhouse brand known for great-tasting steaks, Signature Herb Roasted Prime Rib and a market-fresh salad bar, as well as a relaxed casual dining atmosphere."

Another reason to review a restaurant that has been around awhile is the fact that Steak and Ale has recently come out with a new menu. The updated menu came out at the end of the summer and has a few new items on it, along with a new design.

How was my dining experience, you ask?

Steak and Ale's Hawaiian Chicken with Red Skinned Mashed Potatoes (Photograph by Jennifer Smith/Knightwire)

Well, it was oddly interesting yet pleasant. My date and I were both pleased to see that when we walked up to the restaurant (located at 234 W. Highway 436 in Altamonte Springs), someone had taken the time to place a large American flag in the entryway, along with a few smaller flags here and there. I know that has nothing to do with the food, but it made me happy to see the patriotism.

Before I talk about just exactly how that food was, I just wanted it to be known that there are actually a number of Steak and Ale locations all over central Florida, not just that particular one. There are actually 107 total locations all around the country, but six of them happen to be in the central Florida area.

Besides the patriotic décor, there was also Halloween décor (those fake spider web things mostly). On the night that we went, in particular, all of the employees and servers were dressed up for Halloween, which turned out to be humorous. Also on the night that we went, it happened to be Homecoming for a local high school, which meant added entertainment while we ate (boy, did that bring back memories).

After being seated to our table (which was incredibly spacious with big comfy chairs), our server, Kevin, came for our drink orders. Kevin was dressed up as-I'm actually not quiet sure what Kevin was dressed up as-but he had on a long black cloak and had a large cross hanging around his neck, with his hair slicked back.

The menu at Steak and Ale consists of a variety of choices, ranging from steaks and prime rib (of course), chicken and seafood dishes, soups and salads, and an assortment of appetizers and desserts.

The prices aren't too bad, either. My meal (the Hawaiian Chicken) cost $9.59 plus $1.99 for the salad bar (which is incredibly delicious and if Kevin hadn't talked me into getting a meal, I would have been content with just getting the salad bar). My date's meal (Prime Rib) cost $12.99, which considering how delicious it was, it was worth every cent (I'm not a steak eater but he's a chef and he said how good it was so I'm going to take his word for it). My meal was also tasty, spiced perfectly and the red skinned mashed potatoes that came with it were made just right.

Some of the Appetizers that Steak and Ale has to offer are Baked Stuffed Mushrooms, Baked Mozzarella & Provolone, and Escargot. If you'd rather not have the salad bar, there is also a Caesar salad or a Blue Cheese Iceberg Wedge to choose from.

Steak and Ale Salad Bar (Photograph by Jennifer Smith/Knightwire)

Kevin brought us our meals while we were still munching on our salads, which was perfect timing. He kept checking up on us and making sure we were doing okay, and by the looks of it, the quality of the servers seemed to be the same. Most appeared upbeat and friendly, and seemed to enjoy their jobs.

The desserts, which we didn't have room for but I had sampled a couple in the past, include Mud Pie, French Silk Pie, Brownie Sundae, Cheesecake, 1001 Chocolate Chip Cake (Yum!!!) and Apple Cinnamon Cobbler.

The mood inside of the restaurant is set by the tavern-like surroundings, artwork and architecture. It is undoubtedly a peaceful and romantic place to dine.

If you've never been to a Steak and Ale before, love tender and juicy steaks, want to find a great date place, or just want a peaceful and delicious dinner, then I suggest you give Steak and Ale a try.

For more information, you can visit their website (www.SteakandAle.com).