Originally a log cabin home built in 1864 by the Gaskin family, the Gaskins Steakhouse is now the oldest standing property of Carroll County. Home now to a traditional restaurant, it remains as a gathering place with a cozy fire and the warm ambience of authentic log walls.
Gaskins is located north of Eureka Springs on an easy and short drive on Highway 23. Heading north from Eureka, the restaurant is on the right and is on a curve so you might (like we did) miss it in the dark.
Staff were all friendly, accomodating and waited on us without interrupting our dinner conversation with lots of inane questions (i.e. “how’s your meal?” for the fifth time while you are in conversation with your table companion). There is a substantial bar in the front area of the restaurant, however, we did not sample, so this review cannot comment on those offerings.
Cozy up and hold hands by the soft glow of the fire, or look deeply into the eyes of your loved one lit only by the glow from the tables votive candle. The Gaskins’ authentic, 145 year old walls of split logs and chinking provide enough ambience on their own and the hunting gear decor is done with a light hand and is not intrustive (a common fault with chain restaurants trying too hard for atmosphere).
Tables are strong and heavy, along with good serviceable silverware, which suits the cabin atmosphere and hearty portioned meals. I doubt that many restauranteurs understand the pyschological impact of sitting down to a steak dinner and having a wimpy knive and fork set!
If you are a traditional meat and potatoes wanting extraordinary good fare then you have picked the right place. We both had steaks: the Prime Rib and the New York Steak. The steaks were incredibly tender – incredible! as they melted in our mouths. Both were perfectly cooked to our direction (which is not easily done considering how many restaurants screw this up!).
The warm baked bread was so soft and tender and it accompanies your order. Serving size is substantial – no skimping here! and you will leave well filled and may have to open your belt another notch.
I can see this being the favorite of groups as they are bound to find something to please anyone, the older crowd, those with more conservative taste in fare, or those seeking comfort food.
However, Gaskins may be a bit too traditional. The salad for the meal as well as the shrimp were nothing out of the ordinary. The dessert selection was also a bit too narrow. If you are dieting or needing to “eat healthy’ forget having any real selection (although Salmon or Trout would do in a pinch – though the delicious bread will doom you!).
Gaskins does have limited hours and days they are closed so check ahead of time for the schedule.
Reviewed from our December 08 visit.
