Rockefeller Center's Quick Steak Eatery Coming to Grand Central Updated July 12, 2011 8:40am

A Tri Tip sandwich with fries and au jus dipping sauce. (Facebook/Tri Tip Grill)

MANHATTAN — 30 Rock’s Tri Tip Grill is getting ready to bring its quick-serve sirloin to the commuters at Grand Central Terminal.

The new location, the second for the eatery, will replace the Central Market Grill on the lower-level Dining Concourse around Mid-October, said owner Dave Kassling, 27, who won the chance to open in the prime location through a competitive bidding war.

Just like its Rockefeller Center location, the new Tri Tip will offer a selection of steak sandwiches and other carnivore-friendly favorites served fast enough to take away for lunch.

“We’re offering high-quality steakhouse fare in five minutes or less,” said Kassling, who added that the secret to the speedy quality is a five-step preparation process using only certified Angus beef.

First, the meat is aged 21 days. Then it's seasoned with a special rub and charred on a fire grill. Later, the meat is put in a smoker with wood chips for two hours to give it a smoky flavor. It’s then finished in an oven and sliced on the spot.

The end product is charred on the outside and medium-rare on the inside.

“It’s delicious,” said Kassling, adding that, while Tri Tip is a popular cut on the West coast, it’s still relatively unknown in New York.

In addition to sandwiches in the $8-range, the eatery will also offers burgers, $7-$11 salads, soups, sides and breakfast options, as well as a selection of wine and beer.

Kassling said he’s also scouting other neighborhood locations in Manhattan, including the Financial District.

Trip Tip Grill will join a host of new eateries and shops in Grand Central, including the new Kidding Around Toy Store and Beer Table Pantry, all opening soon.

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By Jill Colvin, DNAinfo.com

Follow Jill on Twitter @colvinj