DC has it's share of chain meat houses. Palm, Ruth Chris, Morton's, Smith & Wollensky and a few non-chains... Prime Rib, Sam&Harry's, Blackie's, Bobby Van, for a few. For unique steak, go to Les Halles.

Of that bunch, I have only eaten in Les Halles, and find it just fine, and very casual(no american tourist turned away).

If you have seen one steak, you have seen them all.

If you do not mind noise, go to Marcel's or TenPenh or DC Coast.

My present preference is Signatures, and a second choice would be Melrose, third, Obelisk.