There is an article in today's New York Times about prime steaks and their price. The writer claims Choice New York Strips cost $17 a pound and Prime steaks as much as 50% more (though in Boston, I just purchased some excellent Choice Porterhouses from Costco for $7.99 a pound, strips are slightly cheaper).

Here's my question, is Prime really worth it? It may be better than choice, but is it really worth the price differential?

On the occasions I dine at top steakhouses (Mortons, The Palm, etc) - the meal is always so overtop (in addition to Prime steaks, hash browns, crab cocktail, and a souflee) - that I'm not sure if my great meal is because of the Prime steaks - or the abundance of richness.

I've ordered Prime Strips from Lobels, and yes they tasted more meaty (dry aging) and were more marbeled - but when it comes right down to it, I'm not sure whether the price for prime is worth it.

Of course, everyone has different tastes - I'd love to hear your opinions.

Thanks!