Steak doneness is a hot topic among meat lovers. Whether you enjoy a juicy, red-centred cut or prefer your steak fully cooked through, the level of doneness dramatically affects the flavour, texture, and overall experience of your meal.
Understanding the different doneness levels can help you make the perfect choice when ordering at a restaurant or grilling at home. In this guide, we break down each doneness level, including its characteristics and the best cuts suited for each.
Rare – The Cool, Red Centre
Rare steak is for those who appreciate a soft, almost raw texture with a strong, natural beef flavour. This level of doneness is achieved by searing the outside while keeping the centre cool and red.
Internal Temperature:
- Approximately 49-52°C
Texture & Flavour:
- Soft, extremely juicy, and slightly warm
- Strong, beefy taste with a silky texture
Best for:
- Steak lovers who prefer a raw-like texture with intense flavour
Best Cuts for Rare:
- Eye fillet
- Sirloin
- Ribeye
Medium Rare – The Perfect Balance
Medium rare is often considered the ideal doneness for steak as it maintains a juicy, tender interior while allowing the meat’s natural flavours to shine. The centre remains red but is slightly warmer than a rare steak.
Internal Temperature:
- Approximately 54-57°C
Texture & Flavour:
- Tender, juicy, and full of flavour
- Slightly firmer than rare but still delicate
Best for:
- Those who enjoy a balance of tenderness and flavour
- The chef’s recommended doneness for most cuts
Best Cuts for Medium Rare:
- Ribeye
- Sirloin
- T-bone
- Wagyu
Medium – The Classic Choice
A medium steak has a warm, pink centre and a firmer texture than medium rare. It still retains some juiciness while being more structured and cooked through.
Internal Temperature:
- Approximately 60-63°C
Texture & Flavour:
- Balanced tenderness with a slightly firmer bite
- Retains some juiciness without being too soft
Best for:
- Those who want a steak that is cooked but not dry
- A popular choice for those who prefer a bit more firmness
Best Cuts for Medium:
- Rump
- Porterhouse
- Tomahawk
Medium Well – Slightly Pink, Mostly Cooked
Medium well steak has only a slight hint of pink in the centre but is mostly cooked through. While it loses some juiciness, it still retains a slight tenderness.
Internal Temperature:
- Approximately 65-69°C
Texture & Flavour:
- Less juicy, slightly drier, but still tender in the centre
- More of a roasted flavour rather than the raw beefiness of rarer cuts
Best for:
- Those who prefer minimal pink in their steak
- People who enjoy a firmer texture but don’t want it fully dry
Best Cuts for Medium Well:
- Rump
- Sirloin
- Porterhouse
Well Done – Fully Cooked, Firm Texture
A well-done steak is cooked entirely through with no pink remaining. While some argue that this level of doneness dries out the steak, the right cooking techniques can still produce a flavourful and tender meal.
Internal Temperature:
- 71°C+
Texture & Flavour:
- Firm and drier with a slightly chewy texture
- Strong charred and roasted flavours
Best for:
- Those who prefer a completely cooked steak with no pink
- Individuals who enjoy a firmer bite and a well-developed crust
Best Cuts for Well Done:
- Rump
- Sirloin (leaner cuts may become too dry)
How to Choose Your Preferred Doneness Level
With so many options, how do you decide which doneness level is right for you? Here are a few factors to consider:
- If you enjoy a very soft and juicy steak: Go for rare or medium rare.
- If you like a balance between tenderness and texture: Medium is the way to go.
- If you want minimal pink but still some juiciness: Choose medium well.
- If you prefer your steak fully cooked with no pink: Well done is your best bet.
No matter your preference, visiting top-rated steak restaurants ensures that your steak is cooked to perfection by expert chefs who know how to retain the meat’s flavour and tenderness.
Next Steps
Steak doneness is all about personal preference. Whether you prefer the rich juiciness of a rare cut or the well-developed texture of a well-done steak, understanding the differences can help you make the best choice.
The next time you order steak, try a different doneness level to explore new textures and flavours. And for the perfect steak experience, visit a high-quality steakhouse where your steak is prepared just the way you like it.