Cheba Hut owner and founder Scott Jennings knows how to create impression. His new restaurant The Still Whiskey Steaks is no exception: the steakhouse made a seemingly strange combination, whiskey-marinated steak, a delicious experience. 

I began my meal with an appetizer: bacon-wrapped shrimp with a bourbon-maple sauce. It was a heavy start to a meal that I expected to be filling, but I decided to indulge anyway. The taste was worth it; sweet, salty and even a little zesty, the shrimp was the best thing I ordered at the restaurant. At about $10, the appetizer was already more than a typical meal that I’d order, but I was glad that I did. 

I was a little hesitant to try the steak. Whiskey isn’t my thing, and I questioned how it would work steak. Because of this, I ordered a 10 oz prime rib that was cooked perfectly without any special marination. While it was good, I quickly realized I was missing out. My date ordered one of their New York cut’s whiskey-marinated steak — the whiskey was not overpowering, but rather brought out the meat’s natural flavors and juices. The larger the cut, the less marinated the steak will be, so I recommend a 10 or 12 oz cut (which is still plenty of food). The Still also offers non-steak options, like salmon and chicken. 

The meal came with a choice of side. My date selected creamy asparagus, which was delicious. However, the mashed potatoes that I ordered tasted like they came from an instant box recipe. They were too dry, and I only ended up eating a few bites. I was already feeling full, so this did not seem to take away from the meal.

The environment of the restaurant matches the rustic and intense vibes of steak and whiskey; from wooden panels and somewhat dark lighting to paintings of whiskey stills, the decor is appropriate. It maintains a clean, high-class feel without sacrificing its aesthetic. The staff was very knowledgeable about the steak’s preparation and was quick to answer any of our questions; they delivered our food quickly. 

Currently, The Still is not open for lunch. According to my waiter, they are trying to fine-tune the dinner menu before adding other options for guests.  

My main complaint with The Still is the high cost, which is to be expected at a steakhouse. At about $30 depending on your choice, this is no cheap meal. However, for a very special occasion, the food is worth the money. 

The Still is located at 151 N College Ave and is open daily from 3 to 9 p.m. 

Collegian Digital Managing Editor Hannah Ditzenberger can be reached at hditzenberger@collegian.com.