Since establishing its first location in Naples in 1993, Andre’s has drawn loyal crowds of discriminating diners who don’t mind paying a little more, and in some cases, waiting a little longer, to enjoy prime, dry-aged beef and other top-shelf selections. Now, diners are discovering Andre’s newest and largest location in south Fort Myers and giving it similar rave reviews.

Like its Collier County predecessors, the Fort Myers Andre’s offers a sophisticated dining experience against a comfortable, casual backdrop. However, unlike the Naples and Marco Island locations, the Fort Myers restaurant is in a freestanding building, situated on the east side of U.S. 41 just north of San Carlos Park.

Previously occupied by a church, the building has been extensively remodeled and expanded to twice its original size to accommodate up to 168 patrons. In addition to smoking and non-smoking dining rooms, there is a cozy lounge complete with a sizable bar, several tables and a TV. There is also a third dining room which may be used for private parties, special functions or additional seating as needed.

The interior features a relatively masculine décor punctuated with elegant touches such as leaded-glass double entry doors, granite countertops, a barrel ceiling in the hallway, and stunning faux-painted walls and ceilings. Subdued lighting along with dark wood flooring and furnishings complete the club-like atmosphere.

While the redesigned structure bears little resemblance to the church it replaced, visitors will likely feel a little closer to heaven after just one dinner.

At the very least, they’ll find that Andre’s compares favorably with Ruth Chris’ and other world-class steakhouses including Peter Luger’s, the legendary Brooklyn, New York-based restaurant that inspired Andre’s.

The menu is limited but varied, with a well-rounded selection of entrees, appetizers, salads and side dishes. In addition to Sliced Tomatoes (with or without onions) and the House Salad, appetizers include a Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail, Skinless & Boneless Sardines and Marinated Herring with onion.

For the main course, Andre’s prime beef shares the stage with Pork and Veal Chops, as well as Lamb Chops (two double loins, extra large), Broiled Chicken (one-half) and Fresh Fish of the Day. The spotlight, however, is on the House Specialties, which feature four cuts of steak unlike any you’ve ever tasted.

For one thing, Andre’s serves only the thickest, dry-aged cuts of Midwest, grain-fed beef, which steak lovers will attest is far tastier than grass-fed beef. Also, the dry-aging process removes the water from the meat, ensuring exceptional tenderness. Andre’s broiler further enhances the natural flavors and juices of each steak - elements often lost when grilling over an open flame. The results are phenomenal, regardless of the cut.

Choices range from a New York Strip for one ($25.95) to a T-Bone for four ($103.80). There are also two Porterhouse steaks, cut for two ($51.90) or three ($77.85). All steaks are broiled to order and served on a sizzling platter suitable for sharing and hot enough to resear the thoughtfully pre-sliced Porterhouses and T-Bones.

Side dishes are also served family-style, and range from oversized portions of SautŽed Mushrooms, Fried Shoestring Onions and Creamed Spinach to French Fries (for one or two) and Baked Idaho Potato. But by far the most popular extra is Andre’s signature side, the German Fried Potato Platter (for two), with diced potatoes, onions, peppers and spices. Prices range from $3.25 - $7.95.

To accompany your dinner, Andre’s offers an extensive list of 228 wines, including domestic and imported reds, whites, champagnes and sparkling wines. In fact, Andre’s was recently honored by Wine Spectator for having one of the most outstanding restaurant wine lists in the world. In addition, the restaurant offers various non-alcoholic beverages and coffees, including cappuccino and espresso.

If possible, save room for dessert. The homemade apple/cherry strudel is especially delicious, although it would be hard to miss with any of the freshly-made cakes, pies or other temptations presented tableside.

At first glance, the price of some items may seem a bit high. However, the steaks and other dishes that Andre’s serves typically are much larger on the plate than they appear on the menu. Considering the generous portions and peerless quality, any meal at Andre’s really is a bargain.