National steakhouse chain Smith & Wollensky opened its doors in Wellesley with an official rib-eye cutting ceremony and a veritable groaning board of steak, seafood, cheese, rolls and more set out for a hungry press corps. The 225-seat restaurant had a soft opening starting last weekend and senior Vice President of Marketing Kim Giguere-Lapine said, “Friday and Saturday were packed, Sunday was just about the same, and Monday was very good considering it was a Monday.” They’re fully ready for all comers now, so when you’ve got those classic steakhouse cravings, you know where to go…

Photo credits to Duncan Brown, except where noted.

Smith & Wollensky, Wellesley — Smith & Wollensky steakhouse chose Wellesley as its first foray into the suburban market. They’re counting on the locals to have an appetite for dry-aged and hand-butchered USDA Prime steaks and premium seafood washed down with plenty of fine wine. I think they’ve come to the right place.

The steakhouse spreads across one floor for an open concept plan, and the decor features dark mahogany woods, green, saddle and black leathers. The 225-seat main dining room is surrounded by a 24-seat bar, with bar dining, and there are three private dining rooms that combined can seat up to 100. There’s also patio dining on the Washington St. entrance side. Photo credit: S&W

The rib-eye cutting ceremony was a nice touch. Some menu items: USDA Prime steaks and filets (duh), lobster tail, Alaskan king crab, organic chickens; lamb; jumbo shrimp, oysters and clams; raw bar selections; barbecue yellowfin tuna; salads; burgers.

The hospitality and warm welcome on press night were spot on, the place abuzz with marketing types and their special brand of happy energy, and everything looked and smelled delicious. “So,” you ask, “How was the food?” Tragically, I had to get to yet another event and couldn’t stick around until the buffet was ready for us media chowhounds. S & W gave everybody a nice swag bag with a $20 gift card included, so maybe I’ll stop in for a roll or something sometime. All I can say for sure is the place is looking good and it’s nice to see a once-empty storefront bustling with activity.

Welcome to Wellesley, Smith & Wollensky.