In the go-go days of the 1980s, when cash was king in South Florida, a steakhouse named Christy's thrived. Over the years, the owners kept the business concept simple but consistent, offering choice cuts of meat, an interesting and varied wine list served by a staff who understood the restaurant's mission.

''We have been doing this for 30 years, and we have employees who are really good at what they do, who have been doing it a long time, and that really helps,'' said Charles Hauser, an original owner of the Coral Gables restaurant. ``We have tried to be consistent. We have never had big name chefs, but we have had really good cooks.''

The restaurant in October and November is celebrating 30 years in business in the same location, even with some of the same staff. It has created a special anniversary menu, which features the classics for which Christy's is known. Even the decor has remained the same, with its wooden panels and the dark, gentleman's club feel.

An owner behind the scenes, Hauser said he didn't realize that time had flown by. He can't recall whether the restaurant marked the 10- or 20-year milestones. But for the 30th year, the owners decided to go all out.

Spearheaded by managing director Chris Klaic, the restaurant will offer guests a prix fixe, three-course lunch or dinner of soup or salad, prime rib, filet mignon, snapper or chicken and dessert for $30. There are a total 11 vintaged bottles of red and white wines, mostly from Nappa Valley, that will be available for $30.

For any restaurant open for 30 years, there would be many stories to tell. But Christy's has a few more than some. It has fed presidents George Bush Sr. and Bill Clinton and touts numerous celebrities -- local and international -- as frequent clients, as well as several public servants. It has been the site of two well-known FBI stings to expose corrupt judges and even some lesser known ones. In those days, Dom Perignon flowed freely.

Coral Gables Vice Mayor Bill Kerdyk Jr., a frequent customer, said the restaurant is attractive to public servants, he thinks, because of the unhurried atmosphere. It helps that the restaurant is a part of the community, not just located here.

''They have always stepped up to the plate and have always been an intricate part of the community,'' Kerdyk said, as he reminised about eating what he called the best caesar salad in the country at Christy's.

Christy's opened in 1978, when the Gables was known for French restaurants, Hauser said. Later, competition arrived with major chain steakhouses setting up shop. Recently the Palm closed, but those that have remained include Ruth's Chris, Flemings and, most recently, Morton's.

Kerdyk said it's almost a feat to make it as a restaurant in the Gables.

``How many restaurants have come and gone? They have not only been able to thrive in the Gables, but they have managed to survive.''

Customers have been an integral part of the restaurant's staying power.

''That's how we stay in business,'' Hauser said. ``We put the advertising on the plate, offer good service and then we count on the clients to come back and bring their friends.''

Ralph Sanchez, who has been eating at Christy's for 25 years, is one of those customers. Sanchez, who is founder of Miami Grand Prix and the designer, builder and operator of the Homestead Miami Speedway, had lunch from the 30th anniversary menu Thursday. He had the fish. He gives high marks to the service by familiar wait staff.

''The waiters stay there for a long time, and each one becomes your friend,'' Sanchez said. ``They make you feel important.''

Partner Klaic praises his staff of 40, saying their loyality and experience help Christy's to stay consistent.

José ''Nacho'' Guarin started in 1986 as a dishwasher. He started serving tables after Hurricane Andrew in 1992.

He has stayed with the restaurant, he said, because management gave him a career and because it's a nice place to work.

''It's like my second home,'' he said.

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