If you need a last minute steak, you can always run to your local grocery store, but unless it’s a Whole Foods, most cuts of steak to me aren’t worth the trip. Hopefully if you have a good bottle of wine, and even better company, you won’t skimp on a good cut of meat.
I always suggest Googling ‘butchers near me’ to scope out which butchers are a) close to home, and b) worth the price. You want to find somewhere you know you can always find a good steak, no matter what time frame you are working with. Develop a relationship with these people as they will be able to tell you the best and worst deals they have at the time. I lucked out with the butcher close to me since they ALWAYS seem to have Wagyu cuts.
However, if you live near or in the city, the best, and I mean BEST steak you can buy, granted you don’t mind dishing out the $$$$ for it, is Japan Premium Beef. Located in Manhattan’s NoHo neighborhood, you cannot miss this spot, as its exterior is covered in colorful graffiti. They are perhaps best known for Wagyu and Washugyu (Domestic Wagyu). Back in 2016 I decided to purchase a couple of Washugyu filets and was blown away. Each bite literally melted in your mouth. I believe they now have another location in Brooklyn. Definitely check them out for that special occasion dinner: http://japanpremiumbeef.com
The Chosen Vine 