Sirloin V's Ribeye: What's The Difference? | Ask The Butcher

Sirloin versus Ribeye: What's the difference?

Being butchers we obviously get asked a lot about steaks, but by far and away the most frequently asked steak question we get is; What's the difference between sirloin and ribeye. Now, to us they are two very different steaks, but we understand that not everyone can be a steak expert, and have put together this article to outline the differences. Hopefully this will give you all the information you might need to choose the right steak for your next steak night. Having said that, is there ever really a wrong steak? We don't think so. 

The Sirloin

Sirloin steak is a real British favourite and certainly one of our most popular steaks. It is cut from the loin, which is situated on the hindquarter of the animal, behind the ribs and next too the rump. Due to the position of the loin muscle, sirloin steaks are lean and only usually have a small amount of fat on the outside edge. A delicious, high protein, low fat steak that lends itself to any manor of cooking, from rare to well done, but best cooked medium-rare in our opinion.

Current cost: £19.78/KG*

The Ribeye

Ribeye steak is often considered one of the tastiest and most sophisticated flavoured steaks. It is cut from the tender centre muscle of the forerib, which is situated on the forequarter of the animal next to the sirloin moving towards the chuck shoulder. Due to the position of the muscle, ribeye steaks tend to contain much more internal fat when compared to other steak. It's distinct marbling of fat helps provide its uniquely rich flavour, which real steak lovers can't get enough of. Best cooked medium-rare in our opinion. 

Current cost: £22.86/KG*

The Difference 

So, sirloin or ribeye, which is better? Well, it really depends on your taste and how much you want to spend. Ribeye will cost you a bit more per steak, but if you're a real steak lover looking for that distinctly rich flavour, and you like a bit of fat, then ribeye is really the one for you. Sirloin will save you a few pennies, and being a much leaner cut, will give you a more gentle flavour, and still provide you with a tender delicious steak. The choice is yours... 

 *prices correct as of 30/07/2019. Prices are subject to change at any time.