Beef Beliefs No.3 | The Ribeye Rundown
On our menu, you’ll see Tom’s Choice — it’s the 16-ounce ribeye, and more often than not, we split it for dinner, cooked to a perfect medium rare. We love a juicy, beefy Certified Angus Beef ribeye — the internal marbling makes for one unforgettable steak. There’s so much to say about ribeyes — so let’s start here.
What’s the difference between Prime Rib and a Ribeye Steak?
Great question — and it’s all about the cut and the cook. Both come from the the rib primal. Prime rib is a larger roast, often slow-roasted and carved to order. It’s rich, tender, and full of flavor. It’s the whole loin, roasted, then sliced. A ribeye steak, on the other hand, is cut from that same roast — just portioned into individual steaks and grilled over high heat, often with a beautiful sear on both sides. Same source. Two very different eating experiences.
Do you know the Spinalis?
It’s time to meet the crown jewel of the ribeye. The spinalis dorsi — also known as the ribeye cap — is the outer edge of the ribeye and, in our opinion, the most tender, flavorful bite of beef on the plate. It’s buttery, rich, and melts in your mouth. Some folks go straight for it, leaving the center for last — others savor it slowly. Around here, we think it's a little slice of heaven.
The Cowboy Ribeye
A bone-in ribeye is often called a cowboy ribeye — and for good reason. We believe that cooking a steak with the bone still attached deepens the flavor and brings out the best in the beef. As Tom likes to put it: “A good ribeye doesn’t need much — just salt, fire, and someone you enjoy sitting next to.” And that’s exactly how we like to serve it.
The Tomahawk
Then there’s the showstopper — the Tomahawk Ribeye. Same cut as the cowboy, but with the full rib bone left long for presentation. It’s bold, dramatic, and perfect for sharing (or not — we won’t judge). If you’re looking to impress or celebrate, this steak brings the wow factor to the table.
Tom always says: the difference between a nice restaurant and a joint is whether it’s okay to pick up the bone and chew on it. At Perini Ranch Steakhouse, we’re proud to be a nice joint.
