We were immediately met with a packed, excited energy when we entered DOX Grillhouse at 25225 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores. The atmosphere was loud, with no background music to soften the constant chatter and the hum of dozens of televisions and each playing sports games. The absence of background music left the space feeling more like a school cafeteria than a welcoming dining spot. The walls were covered in art, but with so much activity, the decor faded into the background. As steak lovers, we were eager to try their New York Strip, since it is one of the top options on the menu.
Despite the chaotic ambiance, the staff was a highlight of the experience. They were warm and welcoming, offering friendly conversation and refilling our drinks without us having to ask. Their attentiveness helped offset the moderately long wait times. It took us about 25 minutes just to get a table, even though we called to make a reservation beforehand. Once seated, it took an additional 20 to 30 minutes for our food to even arrive, which felt like an eternity in the noisy environment.
DOX Grillhouse has a full menu beyond steak, however, we decided to stick to a classic order. When the food finally arrived, it was tasty but not exceptional. The meal offered a mix of comforting classics and refreshing sides. While juicy and flavorful, the New York Strip wasn’t anything new or unique and is something you could get anywhere. On the other hand, the fries delivered exactly what they should—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, a simple but well-executed staple. The mashed potatoes, which were rich and buttery, stood out with their smooth texture, but they did have a strangely sweet aftertaste. Cutting through the rich flavors of the steak and potatoes, the cucumber salad along with the green beans added a crisp, refreshing bite, both bringing balance to the plate.
Even with generously portioned sizes, we didn’t leave feeling overly full. However, for the $72 price tag for two, the overall experience didn’t justify the cost. While DOX Grillhouse offers a decent meal and friendly service, the loud atmosphere and long wait times made it feel more like a casual hangout spot than a restaurant that we would be eager to revisit. We rate this restaurant a 3/5.
