As restaurants come and go, it is rare to find an establishment like Steve’s Sizzling Steaks that has not only survived but has thrived for 81 years. Since its inception in 1936, Steve’s has focused on excellent food, comfortable ambiance, and a friendly staff. The wood-paneled restaurant, from its ceiling and walls, gives the feeling of being in a rustic hunting lodge. Steve’s is authentic, affor
dable, and welcoming. Times have certainly changed since Steve’s was established 81 years ago. What has not, is the family atmosphere that makes Steve's so special. It has always been family serving family. Much of the staff has been part of the Steve’s family for more than two decades. Steve, the restaurant’s namesake, was working as a union carpenter until he was injured on the job in 1926. This was the twist of fate that led him into the bar and restaurant business. He got a job tending bar at a local establishment not far from Steve’s.His wife, Mary Venturini, heard a local tavern, Connie’s Place, was going to be available for rent. Its location on the two¬-lane Route 2, a dirt road that ended in Rutherford, was ideal. Today, Route 2 is super¬highway Route 17.Connie threw her last party on New Year’s Eve, 1935, and then turned the tavern over to Mary, who got busy cleaning up the festive mess. Tables were added, a kitchen was assembled, and Mary started serving her popular foot-¬long hotdogs, frog legs, hamburgers, and steaks. Steve joined Mary at the tavern a month later and they eventually bought the restaurant from Connie for $732.14.
