Grades
Let's talk grading.
Only the top three grades are sold in U.S. markets. Grading is based on several factors blah blah blah, but it's primarily determined by the amount of marbling. The higher the grade, the more marbling and therefore the more flavorful the cut should be. The lower the grade, the leaner and tougher the beef.
Prime, the Highest Grade Prime has the most marbling and is so hard to find, they usually come attached to a French waiter with a pencil-thin mustache and big bill.
Choice, the Next Highest Grade
Most filets are rated Choice, so it's hard to call this grade second best. While these cuts have less marbling than Prime, they're still of exceptional quality. Generally, this is what you'd find at your local butcher shop.
Select, the Short Bus Grade
Still in the top three, Select has the least amount of marbling, making it leaner but also less flavorful. This grade is typically found in the self-service meat department at your local supermarket.
