Celebrating at Rays the Steaks

It was my better half's birthday recently. I thought long and hard about where to take him to celebrate. He's a pretty laidback guy, so I chose an old favorite with good food, great prices and a relaxed atmosphere. We went to Ray's the Steaks in Arlington, a nontraditional steakhouse.

Rosemary foccacia bread. Super soft and delicious.

Spicy cashew nuts.
Cup of Sherried Crab Bisque.
The cup is loaded with sweet lump crab meat, and the bisque is incredibly rich. It was so good I encouraged him to order his own, mostly because I was not capable of sharing.
We did share a light caesar salad.
Blackened Jumbo Scallops with carmelized onions and garlic.
These were sweet and spicy from the blackening seasoning, and cooked around medium-rare.
T-Bone steak special. The filet side was meltingly tender, while the strip side had a nice chew.
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Along with our entrees came cast iron pans of creamed spinach and mashed potatoes that are free to every table. Both were very rich and creamy. Rays takes reservations for half of their tables, and they ask if you are celebrating a birthday or anniversary when you call to make a reservation. A nice gesture was the free dessert of his choice.

Our server was energetic and helpful, without hovering. The sommelier was very kind and suggested three options for a red wine that would suit both the scallops and the steak. I choose the Layer Cake shiraz from Australia, priced at $29. For wine lovers, Rays has an extensive list of interesting varietals at very reasonable prices.

One of the best things is the ABC recorking rule that you can take your bottle of wine home if you're unable to finish it at the restaurant. http://www.winedoggybag.com/statelaws.htm I feel this allows restaurants patrons to drink and drive more responsibly.