What to Wear to a Steakhouse
Knowing what to wear to a steakhouse goes beyond looking good; it’s about looking the part and enhancing your dining experience.
This blog offers practical advice on how to dress appropriately for any type of steakhouse. Plus, you’ll know how to adapt your outfit for each season.

Why Steakhouses Have Dress Codes
Setting the Atmosphere
Steakhouses use dress codes to set the right mood. If a steakhouse wants to feel upscale, they might ask guests to dress formally.
Reflecting on the Brand
Each steakhouse has a unique style they want to present. A sophisticated steakhouse has a formal dress code whereas a casual one stresses more on relaxation to exude its relaxed persona.
Unifying the Experience
When diners follow the dress code, they neither overdress nor underdress. So, everyone feels in place.
Steakhouse Type | Description |
Casual Steakhouse | It has a laid-back vibe. |
Business Casual Steakhouse | The atmosphere is polished but not overly formal. It’s suitable for work-related dinners or meetings. |
Semi-Formal Steakhouse | It’s more refined than business casual. It’s suitable for celebrating work-related occasions. |
Formal Steakhouse | It’s a luxurious venue with an elegant setting. |
Steakhouse Dress Codes

Men: Dark jeans or chinos with a polo shirt or a casual button-down; sneakers or loafers.
Women: A casual dress or a pair of jeans with a blouse; flats or casual sandals.
Children: Clean jeans or shorts with a T-shirt or a casual dress; sneakers or casual shoes.

Business Casual Steakhouse
Men: Dress pants or chinos; a button-down shirt; and a blazer; leather shoes or loafers.
Women: Dress pants or a skirt with a blouse; closed-toe shoes or low heels.
Children: Dress pants or a skirt with a smart top; polished sneakers or casual shoes.

Semi-Formal Steakhouse
Men: A suit or blazer with dress pants; a dress shirt and optional tie; polished dress shoes.
Women: A cocktail dress, a smart blouse with a skirt, or a tailored suit; heels or elegant flats.
Children: Dress pants with a button-down shirt for boys; a smart dress for girls; polished shoes or dressy sandals.

Formal Steakhouse
Men: A full suit with tie, dress shirt and formal dress shoes.
Women: A formal dress or an elegant suit; high heels or sophisticated flats.
Children: A suit for boys; a formal dress or a smart skirt with a blouse for girls; dress shoes or formal sandals.
Additional Tips:
- Wear well-fitted and clean clothes.
- Keep accessories simple and suited to the occasion.
- Stay well-groomed. If you have facial hair, trim your moustache or beard. If not, ensure you’re clean-shaven.

Best Fabrics for Steakhouse Dining: Seasonal Guide
Spring
Casual Steakhouse: Lightweight cotton or linen.
Business Casual Steakhouse: Breathable cotton or linen blends.
Semi-Formal Steakhouse: Lightweight wool or linen.
Formal Steakhouse: Lightweight wool or fine blends.
Summer
Casual Steakhouse: Linen or lightweight cotton.
Business Casual Steakhouse: Light cotton or linen blends.
Semi-Formal Steakhouse: Light linen or lightweight cotton.
Formal Steakhouse: Lightweight wool or fine cotton blends.
Autumn
Casual Steakhouse: Cotton blends or lightweight knits.
Business Casual Steakhouse: Medium-weight wool blends or thicker cotton.
Semi-Formal Steakhouse: Medium-weight wool or heavier cotton.
Formal Steakhouse: Wool or heavier blends.
Winter
Casual Steakhouse: Wool blends or thicker knits.
Business Casual Steakhouse: Heavier wool or thicker blends.
Semi-Formal Steakhouse: Heavier wool or velvet.
Formal Steakhouse: Wool or cashmere blends.
Dressing for a Steakhouse: Considerations
Location Considerations
In cities, steakhouses usually have a formal vibe. Contrastingly, in smaller towns, steakhouses have relaxed dress codes. They accept smart casual outfits.
Cultural Considerations
- Local Customs:
Adapt your attire to local customs. If the area values modesty, dress conservatively even at casual steakhouses.
For example, in a city with strict dress norms, wearing a sleeveless top or short skirt at a casual steakhouse might not be appropriate. In contrast, in places with a more relaxed dress code, you might wear lighter, more casual clothing, but still aim to be neat and respectful.
- Tourist vs. Local:
Tourists usually need to dress more formally than locals.
For instance, if you’re dining in Paris, it’s important to know that even a casual steakhouse may expect tourists to wear dressier outfits. However, it’s fine for locals to dress down a bit.
- Religious or Ethical Influences:
In areas with strong religious guidelines, even upscale steakhouses may expect modest dressing. Avoid wearing flashy or overly luxurious outfits to a high-end steakhouse. Dressing modestly and simply aligns with the local values and shows respect for the community.
Dressing for a Steakhouse in Bali
Bali is warm and tropical, so you’ll want to wear light, breathable clothes. Good choices are fabrics like linen, cotton, or rayon. These help you stay cool while looking good.
Even though Bali is laid-back and casual, some fancy steakhouses might want you to dress a bit nicer.
Men can wear a light shirt with chinos or smart shorts, paired with loafers or nice sandals. Women can opt for a pretty sundress or a blouse with a skirt along with elegant flats or sandals.
Dress modestly when travelling around Bali. If you pass through more conservative areas, cover up with a light jacket.
For kids, pick comfy clothes that are good for the weather and the steakhouse. Light shorts or a cute dress with breathable fabrics are perfect and choose comfortable shoes.
What to Wear at Blossom Steakhouse in Bali?
Dress stylishly and comfortably to match our elegant setting. Opt for lightweight clothes that are both smart and relaxed.

FAQs
- How can I find out which dress code a steakhouse follows?
You can check the restaurant’s website. Restaurants usually list their dress code guidelines under the “About Us” or “FAQs” sections.
If you’re unable to find the information on the website, call the restaurant directly. The staff will be glad to assist you with details. They might even appreciate you asking about the dress code. They may even update their website with this information for future guests.
You can also browse reviews and photos on sites like Google, TripAdvisor, or Yelp to see what other diners typically wear.
As a general tip: Steakhouses in hotels or well-known chains often have more formal dress codes. Standalone or casual venues usually have more relaxed guidelines.
- Is the dress code for a steakhouse the same as fine dining?
The dress code for a steakhouse can vary by location. Some upscale steakhouses may require formal or semi-formal attire. Many steakhouses have more flexible dress codes.
- How can I dress modestly while still looking stylish at a Balinese steakhouse?
We suggest these tips:
Men: Wear a short-sleeve shirt or polo with chinos or smart trousers. Go for simple or patterned shirts that are both comfortable and stylish. Choose light fabrics like cotton or linen to stay cool in Bali’s warm weather.
Women: Choose a maxi dress or blouse with a long skirt. These options cover your shoulders and knees while keeping you cool. Pick dresses with bright or elegant patterns to look stylish. Add a light shawl or cardigan for extra coverage, if needed.
- How can I stay comfortable and chic in the heat while still following a semi-formal dress code in Bali?
You can try these tips:
- Choose breathable materials like linen or cotton. These fabrics let air flow through, keeping you cool. Light colours, like pastels or light shades, reflect sunlight and help you stay cooler.
- Avoid heavy or bulky accessories. Stick to simple, lightweight jewellery to keep cool and comfortable.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially in the heat.
- Is it necessary to wear a tie at a formal steakhouse in Bali?
Wearing a tie at a formal steakhouse in Bali is optional, considering the warm climate. However, if the steakhouse has a strict formal dress code, you will need to wear one.
If you’re unsure about the steakhouse’s dress code and are visiting it for evening dining, we suggest you bring a tie along.
- Can I wear flip-flops or sandals to a steakhouse in Bali?
No, flip-flops are generally too informal for any steakhouse in Bali, including casual ones. Even in a casual steakhouse, you should opt for dressier sandals or closed-toe shoes.
- Can I wear traditional clothes to a steakhouse in Bali?
Yes. Just make sure to check with the steakhouse beforehand to ensure they’re okay with it. Traditional attire can be stylish and culturally respectful.
- Can I wear a swimsuit to a steakhouse in Bali if I’m heading to dinner straight from the beach?
No, a swimsuit is not suitable for a steakhouse, even in Bali. Please dress appropriately before eating.
- What should I do if I arrive at a steakhouse in Bali and realise my outfit doesn’t meet the dress code?
If this happens, politely explain the situation to the staff.
Many steakhouses in Bali are accommodating and may offer solutions like providing a light cover-up or suggesting nearby stores. But, it’s always good to check the dress code in advance to avoid such situations.