145 degrees / medium rare. Still nice and red inside but the extra cooking (from rare) allows those nice hot salimander broilers to get a git more carmelization going on the outside

Fairway is a good option as is Esposito's on 9th Ave. They bill themselves as a "Pork" market, but all cuts of meat are available (call in advance & order) & their prices are good

For Tao like experience (but better food and more "up-to-date" vibe, Buddikan is probably the place. The decor is outstanding, food pretty good & an incredible "scene" that I'd imagine is a good part of what makes a special night in NY (not to mention ending up in the meat packing district where after dinner fun is steps away). While Keens is one of the best "traditional" NY steak houses, I find Wolfgang's in Tribeca to have better food & is a great (if not less "old NY") room

Dinner service scheduled to start Nov. 15. Same Chef & Mgt as Clinton Street Bakery... CAN"T WAIT!!!