A great steakhouse is more than just a restaurant; it is a theater of hospitality where the ritual of dining becomes the main event. In Chicago, a city built on meatpacking history and blue-collar grit, this experience is elevated to an art form. From the moment you walk through the door, the scent of dry-aged beef and sizzling butter signals that you are in for something special.
The Chicago steakhouse landscape is incredibly diverse, reflecting the city’s unique architectural and cultural neighborhoods. Whether you find yourself in a luxurious Gold Coast dining room or a dimly lit, wood-paneled hideaway in the West Loop, the common denominator is uncompromising quality. These establishments have survived decades of culinary trends by focusing on the essentials: prime cuts, precise fire, and generous hospitality.
Choosing the "best" steakhouse is a subjective endeavor, often tied to personal preferences regarding crust, marbling, and atmosphere. Some diners crave the theatrical tableside service and historic grandeur of the old guard, while others seek out modern interpretations featuring wagyu flights and innovative sides. Fortunately, the sheer density of world-class beef in the Windy City means there is a perfect match for every palate.
In curating this guide, we considered more than just the grade of the meat. We evaluated the mastery of the broiler, the consistency of service, the depth of the wine list, and the overall sense of place. These are the rooms where deals are closed, anniversaries are celebrated, and the city’s most discerning carnivores go to satisfy a primal craving.
The pursuit of the perfect steak is a serious business, and Chicago takes it more seriously than most. The local preference often leans toward a heavily charred exterior—the result of intense, radiant heat—juxtaposed with a cool, perfectly medium-rare center. It is a texture and temperature contrast that requires a kitchen staff operating with precision timing.
Beyond the beef, a true Chicago steakhouse must excel in the supporting cast. The classic accompaniments—a wedge salad with blue cheese, a massive baked potato loaded with sour cream, and a stiff martini—are non-negotiable pillars of the experience. We have weighed these elements heavily, ensuring that the restaurants listed below offer the complete package.
Whether you are a lifelong resident or a visitor looking to taste the city’s history, navigating the scene can be overwhelming. To help you cut through the noise, we have compiled a list of the definitive dining destinations that represent the pinnacle of Chicago’s steak culture.
Sophia Steak Chicago
| Address | 748 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:30 – 9:30 PM Tuesday: 4:30 – 9:30 PM Wednesday: 4:30 – 9:30 PM Thursday: 4:30 – 9:30 PM Friday: 4:30 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM |
| Phone | (773) 569-3522 |
We came in to celebrate a family birthday, and while the evening had some high points, the overall experience didn't quite match the premium price tag.
The Good:
Atmosphere & Service: The restaurant has a lovely, elegant, and relaxed vibe. We were seated promptly with a warm welcome. Our server, Eddie S., was incredibly kind, friendly, and helpful throughout the night.
The Food: The steak, salmon, lobster mac and cheese, and the birthday dessert were all flavorful and delicious.
The Not-So-Good:
Kitchen Pace & Mistakes: Things started off a bit disjointed when our daughter's drink order was missed initially. After that, service paced slowed down significantly. The drinks and appetizers took quite a while to arrive due to a heavily backed-up kitchen.
Appetizers: While the crab cake was decent, the bacon appetizer was disappointing, consisting of about 98% fat.
The Bill & Fees: Our biggest disappointment came with the bill. We were charged an automatic 20% service fee on a $366 check, despite only having a party of four. This was entirely unexpected.
While the food was mostly good and Eddie did his absolute best to take care of us, the slow kitchen pace and the unexpected automatic service fee made a $483 total bill (after taxes and fees) feel tough to justify.
Had a great meal with my family; two adult two toddlers. Our server Melissa had awesome suggestions and gave the kids stickers, thank you!
I would come back again.
Everything from the drinks and starters to dessert was a thumbs up!
Celebrated birthdays at this restaurant and the staff went above and beyond to accommodate us. We made a reso about a month in advance, and I informed on resy we were celebrating our birthdays. When we arrived at the restaurant they had printed printed personalized menus with our names saying happy birthday and were given complementary prosecco when we sat down.
For the appetizer we split the grilled octopus, the garnishes and sauce accompanying it really brought the flavours together although it was a bit fishy tasting.
The steak was amazing, melt in your mouth and the cognac sauce was so delicious.
For dessert our server brought out complimentary birthday desserts with sparklers, such a nice touch.
Expensive restaurant but worth it!
Phenomenal brunch. The food and drinks were incredible, but honestly the service is what set this place apart. Our server Kaya was absolutely the man!! Attentive, quick on refills, and genuinely made us feel welcome from the moment we walked in. We were celebrating a birthday and he made sure it was one to remember. They don’t pay him enough. Do yourself a favor and don’t sleep on the steak and eggs or the cinnamon roll flight. For brunch this place hits!
This place was such a vibe & SO welcoming!! This was my first time in Chicago with my besties. My friend made a reservation for us & I am so glad she did! This place has a cozy & intimate feel with the perfect low/ambient lighting (we hate a big light!!). We were immediately greeted with champagne & good energy. They added a cute, personal message on our menus that they gifted us to take home 💕 I ordered the grilled forza burger with fries, & my friends ordered the 10 oz flat iron steak. We also shared the truffle parm fries & they were 10/10! Everything tasted amazinggggg!! Not to mention, they accommodate if you have gluten sensitivities and/or allergies. I recommend coming here for truly any occasion! Coming back next time I visit, loved our experience here 🌃💫
Bavette's Bar & Boeuf
| Address | 218 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 10:30 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 10:30 PM Friday: 3:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 3:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 3:00 – 10:30 PM |
| Phone | (312) 624-8154 |
Absolutely worth the hype. Incredible ambience.
Food was 10/10- tasty, balanced. Our table got the NY strip, steak frites and Wagyu burger- all the meat we ordered was tasty and cooked to perfection. We loved the bread. Drinks were well made and strong. We enjoyed the prompt and professional service (I believe our servers name was Delaney- she did great). Book if you can !
It was difficult to get a reservation, but if you can, I couldn't recommend this place more.
Our server was amazing — attentive, knowledgeable, and perfectly timed throughout the entire evening.
The ambiance is perfect for a late date night or for a business meeting with a very valuable client. Sophisticated, intimate, and quiet enough to actually have a conversation.
For food, I highly recommend the dry aged steak. Incredibly tender with beautiful nutty notes. The truffle mac & cheese is excellent, and above all else — the bone marrow. The bone marrow is to die for. I have never in my life had better bone marrow than at The Vet.
Worth the effort to get in. We will absolutely be back.
This is my favorite steakhouse in Chicago so far. The wait can be very long without a reservation, but it's definitely worth it. I ordered one of the dry-aged rib eyes with loaded baked potatoes and a side salad. The steak was extremely tender and perfectly seasoned for my taste. For dessert, I ordered the carrot cake which was a little too sweet for my palette.
4.5 experience rounding to 5!
Came by for my birthday meal! Tried to get a reservation right when they were available, but system glitched, and couldnt get any, seems like bots?
Was planning to walk in at 4:30 and just go from there. Checked reservations a few hours beforehand and seems like they opened up a few or people cancelled. Ended up booking a few hours prior for a guaranteed 5:15 seating...and paid the $5 booking fee online.
Two of us ordered:
barter GL $18
1/2 chopped wedge salad $13.99
carrot cake $15.99
dry aged bone in ribeye $99.99
pommes frites $10.99
crowes pasture oysters $8.50 for 2
wellfleet oysters $8.50 for 2
Comped an extra sorbet dessert for birthday.
Steak was cooked very well. Obviously, the protein was the star of the show and did not disappoint.
Overall, we really enjoyed our dinner at Bavette’s. This is bar none, the best atmosphere at a steakhouse I’ve ever been in. We were sat downstairs in this cozy room. The service was top notch. The wait staff made sure we were well taken care of. Now on to the food. All the the appetizers were AMAZING. Salads are big enough to share with 2 people. Shrimp and garlic bread was fantastic. Mashed potatoes were delicious. The only thing I wasn’t blown away by was my steak. The crust on it was cooked too much for my own personal taste. The steak on the inside was cooked perfectly however. I had a ribeye and my fiancé has the filet which she loved, and I also liked it more than my steak. Reservations here are difficult, but not impossible and if you get an opportunity to go, do it.
Hawksmoor Chicago
| Address | 500 N La Salle Dr, Chicago, IL 60654 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 10:30 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 10:30 PM Friday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (872) 272-4240 |
Honestly, I don’t know why this place isn’t more popular! We came back specifically for the seafood after our first visit, and it exceeded our expectations again. The $2 happy hour oysters are incredibly fresh, briny, and an amazing value. The seafood platter was the highlight—every item was fresh, flavorful, and cooked perfectly with just the right seasoning. The cold appetizers were also delicious and showed great attention to detail.
Beyond the amazing food, the service was outstanding. Elena was friendly, attentive, and made sure we had a wonderful experience, and Pedro, the general manager, was very welcoming and thoughtful.
Fresh, high-quality seafood, excellent flavors, and warm hospitality. We’ll definitely be back to explore more dishes!!
The vibe here was not what we expected, and didn't feel like the photos make it look online. It felt very casual and like we were sitting in a garage space because of the open ceiling revealing pipes, ducts, etc.
The ribeye steak was ok. Cooked perfectly, but definitely didn't feel it warranted a $10 per slice price tag. Would've happily paid more for a better quality steak. Didn't care for the mashed potatoes. They felt boxed.
The Publican sourdough was excellent along with the butter.
The hit, and why we came, was the Stickey Toffee cake. It was phenomenal! Would go grab that again any day!
Cocktails were very nicely done.
Went here with friends. Had the the shareable meat, our server was Tiara, she knew what food would taste the best and had recommendations for us. The salad threw me off a bit, it was full leaves of lettuce but it was delicious, the fried shrimp and scallops were delightful. The steak was good, soft enough to be cut using a butter knife, but was kinda on the dry side. The Mac and cheese was good too, mashed potatoes were good, the margarita was delicious, they put enough liquor in there. It's a a good experience to have for sure.
Steaks were delicious and cooked well. The publican sourdough was phenomenal the fried shrimp was a little bland but whatever the remoulade they paired it with was delish and balanced out perfectly. Cesar was a little anchovy heavy but still tasty. Dessert was amazing. The potato dishes were a little salty (fries not pictured) but still yummy. Hostess was friendly and welcoming and our server was knowledgeable and fun. Valet if you drive into the city is was quick and easy
Came by specifically for the happy hour! Runs 5-6 daily! Came on a Friday evening.
Two of us ordered:
pazo HH $12
argiano HH $12
HH natural oysters $2 ea, ordered 3 dozen
steak frites $25
pieropan HH $12
Julian was friendly taking care of us.
Relatively empty in the bar area.
Wine was good. Oysters were fresh (though small). Steak was cooked well too!
Also Hawksmoor is a part of the Open Table Chase Sapphire Reserve, so definitely can be used for the $150 credit!
Steak 48
| Address | 615 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60611 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 266-4848 |
Beautiful place to celebrate intimate occasions. My wife and I felt very welcomed and the service was amazing. The food was amazing as well. Literally had a reservation at another steakhouse but cancelled last minute and found this gem. Thank goodness 🙌🏽 Will be back when we come back to Chicago!
Classy! Cozy! Our waitress, Yazmin (Yaddy) set our evening on fire!! She provided SUPERIOR service! She made of feel like we were the only couple in the restaurant. She gave us her knowledge and detailed recommendations of every item we referenced. She was kind, humorous, patient, and knowledgeable!! It was my husband's 80th birthday 🎂 celebration and she made it SPECTACULAR! He was lavished with gifts!!! One of the gifts was his favorite... a huge key lime pie!!! It was big enough to serve 6 ppl.
Steak 48 delivered one of the most fabulous dinners I have ever had. I attended as part of a catered group, and everything was outstanding from start to finish. The private dining room was incredibly spacious and beautifully arranged for our group of about 40 to 45 people, which made the evening feel both elegant and comfortable.
We were served four different appetizers, followed by a choice of two salads, and then our entrées. I chose the steak, and it was absolutely scrumptious. It was perfectly prepared and full of flavor. To top it all off, we were served their signature dessert, which was the perfect ending to an amazing meal.
This is truly a must-visit restaurant in Chicago. The food, atmosphere, and overall experience were exceptional. Do not miss it!
Very good. Steak was cooked impeccably, hint go one higher. Appetizers were very good. All dishes were good and we had a great time. Good cocktails, service was also good. Not a very high end steak house but they do try the best, price is good and would go there again.
Such a wonderful experience! The shrimp and calamari were so pillowy and delightful. Lovedddd the dipping sauces it came with. The bread was also really good but I didnt like that they took it away without asking while we were still eating. Our steaks were perfect and the truffle butter was excellent. I was sad they didnt pack it up to go or put it on top of my steak. Everything was a 10/10 though and we both fully enjoyed our experience!
Prime & Provisions Steakhouse
| Address | 222 N LaSalle St, Chicago, IL 60601 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM Saturday: 4:30 – 10:30 PM Sunday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 726-7777 |
Reuben was lovely, well versed on the menu, made helpful suggestions and overall delivered five star service. The food was very good! My only complaint would be it was FREEZING in the restaurant, but I was sitting right under the vent. For a last minute dinner after having to get up and leave our original reservation, (at a nearby well know steakhouse) this was a saving grace.
I arrived at the restaurant for my 5:00 PM reservation and was asked if I would be okay sitting on the patio. I agreed, but after sitting outside for about 20 minutes, my fiancé and I became very cold. At approximately 5:22 PM, I went to the front desk and asked if we could be moved inside. I was told that there was no availability indoors.
What happened next was extremely frustrating. I went online to OpenTable and, to my surprise, was able to book an indoor table for 5:30 PM at the same restaurant on the same day. I went back to the front desk and explained that I had just successfully made an indoor reservation. At that point, I was told that a manager would come speak with me.
A Hispanic male manager approached me and said that they could move us inside. He then told me to “grab my bottles” and move them to the other table. I found that comment very strange and unnecessary, especially considering I’ve dined at other steakhouses and have never experienced or been spoken to in that manner.
Unfortunately, the experience continued to decline once our food arrived. I ordered my steak medium-well to well-done, but it came out medium at best. I sent it back, expecting the steak to be properly prepared. Instead, they brought back the exact same steak after I had already cut into it, rather than preparing a fresh one. That was very disappointing and not what I would expect from a steakhouse, especially considering the price point.
Overall, the experience was frustrating from beginning to end. The handling of our seating request, the manager’s comment, and the way my steak was handled all contributed to a disappointing dining experience. I expected much better service and attention to detail.
Honestly, there’s a reason this appears to be the only steakhouse in the city of Chicago where you can consistently find last-minute reservations. After this experience, I completely understand why.
I have been to Prime and Provisions on numerous occasions. This particular day it was the grand reopening after being closed for 8 months. I believe I was the first guest to return as I tried to enter for my reservation but the door was locked. I waited a few minutes and a gentleman came to the side door stating they were open but needed a manager to unlock the other door. When I entered they were still setting up which surprised me after they had been closed for so long. I don't know why but I expected the grand opening to be a bit more lively. Not that I expected a ticker tape parade but the greeting was very lack luster. I sat in the bar area which was a little different after the renovations. The cocktail menus were not ready and still being printed. My server was great. She asked what type of spirit I liked and named the best options on the cocktail menu. For food, I ordered the grilled oysters which is a new item for them. They were okay. (Disclaimer, I just got back from New Orleans ... so 😂). I also ordered the crab cake, seared scallops and whipped potatoes which were all very good. The dirty martini was good as well. Food was good service was great but I expected more for a grand reopening. At some point during my meal a manager came over to thank me for being the first guest to return. She was very pleasant and did check on me before I left. I felt like the experience would have been better with some live music, maybe a glass of champagne, or some small gesture to welcome your returning guests. The energy picked up before I left but it was very flat when I arrived.
Prime & Provisions delivers a classic Chicago steakhouse experience with a modern, elevated touch. The atmosphere is stylish and energetic, making it perfect for a special night out or an impressive dinner spot.
The steaks are exceptional, perfectly seasoned, expertly cooked, and full of flavor. The appetizers and sides are just as strong, with great attention to detail and high-quality ingredients. The cocktail list is well crafted, and the drinks pair beautifully with the menu.
Service is warm, professional, and attentive without feeling rushed. From start to finish, the staff ensures the experience feels seamless and enjoyable.
Overall, Prime & Provisions stands out as one of Chicago’s top steakhouses with great food, great drinks, great ambiance, and consistently excellent service. Highly recommend.
Great selection of steaks and fun appetizers. We thoroughly enjoyed our meal, service and ambiance. Highly recommend.
Chicago Chop House
| Address | 60 W Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 787-7100 |
Shawn was our waiter, he was fantastic! The entire staff was very attentive, with the manager checking on us throughout our meal. The steak, pork chop and whipped mashed potatoes with the gravy, were all amazing. The chimichurri paired with the steak was divine, the apple butter sauce on the pork chop 🤌🏼 The baby wedge salad is certainly a great way to start the meal and the chocolate lava cake with a scoop of gelato, a perfect way to wrap it all up. The cocktails were also very well made! We loved the atmosphere and the speak easy feeling sitting downstairs near the bar. Was enjoyable and romantic. Will be back when we visit Chicago.
Fabulous steaks served in a classic building with great atmosphere. Not your cheapest option, but certainly worth the money. If you're into proper food (steaks) and you got an occasion to celebrate - look no further. Would go again.
We went out to celebrate new beginnings and they gave a special version of the menu that says congratulations as well as the delicious creme brulee. Our server, Grace, was very friendly and knowledgeable and all of the staff encountered were friendly and kind. She made wonderful recommendations like the lobster bisque instead of the French onion or the steak butter with herbs versus the garlic one. These were fantastic suggestions and were delicious. This was my second time here. Enjoyed the crab cakes and meatballs over the calamari. The brocolini was crisp and flavorful. The mains were both quite filling and satisfying. Took some carrot cake to go. Also tried both the mocktail and cocktail version of this berry drink and it was refreshing. Really looking forward to the next visit.
I’ve been coming here on my visits to Chicago for over 20 years… it’s always a wonderful experience! Excellent food, service and atmosphere, the upper rooms are my favorite as I’m not all that into the bar atmosphere on the first floor. I always order prime rib and it is always fabulous… I especially like the weekend prime rip meal deal, great food with excellent value. If you’re looking for a cozy too notch local steak house this is definitely an excellent choice! I highly recommend them!!
Chicago Chop House is simply the best! I celebrated my birthday here, and they went above and beyond to make it unforgettable. They even customized the menu with my name, which was such a thoughtful touch. Special thanks to Fanny for the exceptional service! The Manhattan was perfect, the medium-rare tomahawk steak was cooked to perfection, and the dessert was delicious. Thank you for making my birthday so special—I can’t wait to come back!
STK Steakhouse
| Address | 9 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 340-5636 |
Nathan was an amazing server from the moment we arrived. He greeted us with a warm smile, was patient, thorough, and consistently attentive throughout our visit. He checked on our table several times to make sure we had everything we needed, which made the experience even more enjoyable. We truly appreciated the excellent service he provided. The STK happy hour was delicious, and we'll definitely be back. Highly recommend!
I had a really nice time.. this was my second time coming here and it didn't disappoint.. I had a birthday dinner here in July and it was the same 10 out of 10 very nice cocktail the food is great and the waiters are very nice and patient and wasn't overbearing. happy hour was great price from 3pm to 5:30pm. of course the appetizers was on the small side but they was filling and affordable.. the atmosphere was great.I would feel uncomfortable if I would have wore sneakers.. nice and casual place. Definitely looking forward to going back
Don't believe the hype. I rarely make a bad review, but this place deserves it. My husband and I drove 2 hours for our anniversary dinner here to experiencegood food and a good atmosphere. Although we informed the staff it was our anniversary when we made the reservation, we were stuck in a back corner by the bar, which is quite the distance away from the fun atmosphere section we were hoping to sit in. Despite the disappointment, we were still excited try the food. Unfortunately, the tray with our food was dropped, which we absolutely understand to be a normal mistake and weren't upset at all. At least, not initially. We did become upset when it took over an hour for our new tray of food to come out. In that time, we weren't given an appetizer or drinks to hold us over and we had to sit tight as we watched the other tables around us be served first and leave before we even got our food. When The food finally came, it was room temperature at best. I ordered the filet medium cooked, which was one of the driest steaks I've ever eaten. We ordered several sides, but had to take them to go because they weren't hot enough to eat. The only decent thing about the evening was the chocolate cake we took to go. After our horrible experience, not only were we not comped a single dish but none of the staff checked on us or showed any care. We're so disappointed in every aspect of our dinner from service to taste to quality. We will not be back. What a bummer!
Had a great time! Food was very good. Our server Christian was awesome, thank you sir! The restaurant itself seemed to have reserved too many people for the time slots. It was packed and we waited 40 minutes after our reservation time. That was the only bad point. Pack your patience. It pays off, expensively, in the end.
Wow, yes those steakhouses are pricey and upscale, but I must say the steak was mind-blowing, outstanding. It was not only perfectly spiced and cooked, but the garlic butter on it was an experience I loved. Was definitely worth the visit! The staff was really nice and the design was so beautiful, like in many places in Chicago!
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
| Address | 1028 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (312) 266-8999 |
Great classic sophisticated pub feel. Perfect ambiance; piano, chatter, people watching and mingling. Classy and unpretentious. Had the most reasonable Filet Mignon steak salad dinner to round out a long day. The staff are friendly and the cocktails generous. Lots of locals and revelers here for special occasions. The upstairs bathroom stop was worthwhile; you could feel the history in the walls. One of my favorite type of places to stop; especially in a big city. Don’t be afraid to stop here even if you’re not ready for a 4-course steak dinner; but even better if you are.
The prime steak here are pretty good. Clam chowder was not bad. Creamy spinach was acceptable. Portion size here is American portion size. Service wise is so so, staff was not really friendly, helpful or to kin to serve, they give out a vibe that they just want you to finish your food and go………..Atmosphere is nice, seats are comfortable enough, table is a bit small consider their portion size.
This was such a fun birthday dinner. Great for special occasions.
The waitstaff were super attentive and had great energy all night. Our server did not lead us astray when he suggested the Chicago Cut or the Filet Mignon, and the sides were all amazing. The twice-baked potato was large enough to share between two and very delicious and rich. The olives in my marinti appeared to be hand stuffed with blue cheese. We loved our experience here; Thanks Gibsons!
I’ll keep this as short as possible but there will be some good points here.
I would like to preface with stating that I spent 13 years in fine dining as a chef.
FOOD:
Let’s get right to the point here as i know that is why you are reading this review. Mediocre for the price point.
Pros: HUGE portion sizes for the sides. The double baked potato is easily enough for 4 people. The crab cake was easily the best I have ever had and the single best thing we ate. Large portion of real lump crab and perfectly cooked. Split pea soup was also great.
Cons: For the price point we expected much higher quality of ingredients. The caesar salad dressing was lacking flavor, depth, and anchovy flavor. The croutons seemed store bought and the cheese was either store bought or shredded in house far too long ago.
Finally we get to the STEAK. We had the “Chicago cut” which is just a ribeye with a tiny chunk of bone left. It was well cooked but severely lacking seasoning. At a price point of $91, we were disappointed to say the least. It would have been a great $35 steak at a chain restaurant.
DRINKS: The drinks were perfect in every way.
SERVICE: Excellent in every way, all be it a bit old fashioned and over the top with their white coats.
ATMOSPHERE: Old but classic steakhouse.
My son and I wrapped up our epic weekend in the Windy City with a delicious steak dinner! Our server and the entire staff were friendly, attentive and the whole place is run efficiently without ever making anyone feel rushed. Steak presentation table side was a bonus. Steaks were perfectly cooked and the whole experience was the cherry on top or in this case, the bada bing cherry in my Manhattan!
Adalina Prime
| Address | 360 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 11:30 AM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 690-3333 |
⭐️
My experience at Adelina Prime was very disappointing. The food looks beautiful and well-presented, but unfortunately, the taste does not match the appearance. The food was not good, and the quality was far below what I expected.
I actually ordered several different dishes because I wanted to find at least one that I would enjoy, but unfortunately, each dish was worse than the previous one. Nothing stood out in terms of flavor or quality.
To make matters worse, I was charged extra fees on my bill for items that I did not order. I found this extremely frustrating and believe customers should carefully review their bills to make sure they are only being charged for what they actually ordered.
I also noticed that some of the dishes shown in photos from older reviews are no longer available on the menu. From my experience, it seems these items may have been removed because they did not meet the level of quality expected. If certain dishes are no longer being offered, I think the restaurant should update its photos and menu so customers know exactly what to expect.
I expected much more from this restaurant, especially considering the presentation and the prices. Unfortunately, the food, quality, and overall experience were not worth it for me.
I would not recommend Adelina Prime, and I would not return.
We had an amazing experience. We went to celebrate my husband’s citizenship they have us as courtesy sparkling wine to start the celebration! We order some appetizers and for the main course we ordered different two steaks: Japanese and Australian and we are still dreaming about the flavor. It was incredible soft and tasty. The also offer a variety of home made salts to have a different experience with every bite of steak. It was really good. Server was super nice and also gave to my husband a celebration dessert that was the cherry on the top! Definitely be back again
This is an excellent new steakhouse, with an amazing atmosphere and great decor. The staff was personable. The food was excellent, we loved the different steaks we had, and the salt options really were a nice touch. The miso camel apple pie was to die for! They had crayons for our toddler, and it was easy to find things for him (steak and fries) as well. Great wine selection too.
My fiancè & I went to Adalina Prime for the first time yesterday. Since the second we walked in, the atmosphere was absolutely amazing. Our server, Jimmy, gave us the best service we've honestly ever had. He went over the entire menu with us & gave us great recommendations. He was very personable & professional, but also gave us some amazing laughs. The food was SO good, everything we ordered had the best flavor. The steaks & the lobster cream corn were the stars of the show. The salt library they offer is such an amazing touch. I tried a handful of different ones, and each bite of steak tasted like a totally different amazing steak due to all the different salt flavors they offer. The sauce on the side add ons for the steaks were also very delicious. We finished the meal off with coconut strawberry swirl soft serve (we thought we were full already, but managed to finish the entire thing because it was so tasty lol). Overall, one of the best dining experiences in terms of food, service & atmosphere that we've ever had. Also amazingly priced for the quality of food & service that they offer (I've paid way more for way less at other places). I'd give 10 stars if I could. We will definitely be back soon!
Adalina Prime has the look and service of a high-end restaurant, but unfortunately, the food did not match that level at all.
Let’s start with the positives — the interior is beautiful, and the service was truly excellent. Our server was professional, attentive, and made the experience feel elevated. This is honestly the main reason I’m giving 3 stars.
However, the food was a major disappointment.
We ordered a steak medium, and it came out very well-done — which is unacceptable for a restaurant positioning itself at this level. That alone says a lot about the kitchen standards.
The caviar service also lacked the luxury presentation you would expect. It felt basic and underwhelming rather than refined.
Other dishes didn’t improve the experience:
The eggplant parmesan was extremely oily and overly fried — not enjoyable at all
The fish was okay, but mainly because of the caviar on top, not because of the dish itself
We honestly arrived hungry and left still hungry, simply because the food wasn’t worth eating.
To make things worse, even basic details were missed — the restroom didn’t have toilet paper, which should never happen in a place like this.
Overall, this restaurant feels overpriced and overhyped. It tries to position itself as luxury, but the execution — especially from the kitchen — is far from it.
RPM Steak
| Address | 66 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 3:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 284-4990 |
We were overall happy with our takeout order.
Our Wagyu burgers with blue cheese and crispy onion stripes were enjoyable but a bit too far on the well done side for our taste, which didn’t let the quality of the meat shine through enough. The skin-on fries were a tad too dark and came with a heavy load of salt. The portion sizes were generous, though.
The same can be said for the dessert, which we ate only the next day. Even reheated, the vanilla sugar doughnuts with Boston cream were still tasty.
So, RPM is one of my favorite restaurants. One of my favorite bites of all time in any Resturant is the coal-roasted king crab. Believe me, it's a must-have for anyone who loves seafood. Oysters are always on point. Can't forget the Cesar salad, either. My go-to steak-wise is always the Westholme tomahawk with extra peppers on the side; they're not spicy at all, which brings out the steak flavor very well. The spicy miso lobster is amazing. For the sides, you can't go wrong with any of them. Personally, my favorite is the Japanese sweet potato by far. For dessert, the donuts are classic, and the chocolate cake is some of the best you will ever taste. Service is always top-notch. I highly recommend RPM steak.
★★★★★ Beyond Amazing!
We came to RPM Steak for an early dinner, and the entire experience was absolutely flawless from start to finish.
The atmosphere is sleek, sophisticated, and incredibly welcoming. Because we arrived on the earlier side, we got to enjoy the beautiful space as it perfectly set the tone for a fantastic evening.
The food was beyond amazing. Every cut of steak was prepared to absolute perfection, melt-in-your-mouth tender, and seasoned beautifully. The sides and appetizers were just as spectacular, showing incredible attention to detail in every single dish.
To top it all off, the service was top-notch. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and made us feel entirely taken care of throughout the night. If you are looking for an exceptional dining experience in downtown Chicago, RPM Steak
My husband and I visited RPM for the first time yesterday. He's a true steak lover and RPM was one of the few restaurants we had yet to try. Let's start with the ambiance. Our reservations were made for 5:15pm which was a tad bit after opening, so the volume wasn't as high. Great ambiance. Multiple celebrity pictures on the wall as you walk in. While waiting it was fun naming those who we recognized. We were seated right in front of the displayed motorcycle. For a starter, we shared the RPM Ceasar. In my opinion it was average. Honestly, we've had better. For our meals, my husband ordered the bone in rib eye accompanied with rosemary garlic butter and a side of whipped mashed that included blue cheese crumbles. I ordered the crab cake, and it was delicious. It was very lumpy and fulfilling. The house made remoulade really complimented the cake with the perfect blend of lemon hint. Of course we shared the whipped mash. I loved that they served a Limon instead of a Lemon for garnish with the cake. For dessert we chose the special occasion carrot cake. It was okay. It was not as moist as I would have liked. Overall, I give RPM a 7/10.
RPM Steak was hands down one of my favorite steakhouses ever! Every single dish was exceptional from start to finish. The tuna tartare was an incredible appetizer, the Caesar salad was fresh and perfectly prepared, the truffle fries were absolutely addictive, and the bone-in steak was cooked to perfection, tender, flavorful, and unforgettable. Every bite exceeded our expectations, and the service and atmosphere made the experience even better. If you’re in Chicago and looking for an outstanding steakhouse, RPM Steak is an absolute must-visit. We can’t wait to come back!
Swift & Sons
| Address | 1000 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:30 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 4:30 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 4:30 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 4:30 – 10:00 PM Friday: 4:30 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 4:30 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 4:30 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 733-9420 |
Amazing experience! Our family went here last night for our last dinner in Chicago and it was wonderful. We were celebrating two graduations and a birthday and all recieved personalized notes from the staff congratulating them. Ryan was our primary server and he was extremely helpful and kind. Out of the 3 steaks we ordered, the 22oz bone-in ribeye was the best. I took off one star for atmosphere because the dining room was quite noisy for most of the dinner, but other than that the entire experience was above reproach. Thank you so much for making the night special for all of us.
An amazing meal from start to end. And I loved the private table and how they accommodated us.
We loved the simplicity of the cheese bread with salted butter, the pasta, pierogi, and crab cakes were delicious and fresh.
Both salads were good, though the Caesar had a lot of cheese (not a bad thing).
I loved the burger, it was meaty and filling, and the fries had a nice seasoning and were so fresh.
Finally the Wellington - the star of the show. Every bite was magnificent, it was cooked perfectly and I loved how it cut and served table side.
I wouldn’t recommend the Australian Wagyu ribeye, but I enjoyed the Mac, asparagus, and creamed spinach.
A notch below Bavettes for me, but certainly easier to get a reservation!
We had a wonderful meal here to celebrate my husband’s graduation. The food was excellent and all the staff were very attentive.
They were also very coordinated and organized, bringing all our drinks and beverages together, so no one had to wait without food while others were eating. Excellent attention to detail.
I ordered the scallops with fava beans and morels and thoroughly enjoyed it! Fava beans are often overcooked, but these were perfect. The flavor of the scallops was delicious, with excellent texture.
The cheddar biscuits they bring with bread at the start of the meal were delicious. I wish I would bring a box home.
I can't even begin to explain how awesome the food AND the service was here. Austin, Shannon, the host team, bussers, food runners, all were very welcoming and kind. Everything -steaks, sides, sundae trolley, cocktails - even down to the bread was phenomenal, would definitely come back again. 100/10 experience ✨️ thank you to all who made this belated father's day dinner an unforgettable experience 🙏🏼
I went to Swift & Sons for my birthday, and it was hands down the best dinner experience I’ve ever had. From start to finish, they made the night feel incredibly special.
They even helped make a special request happen we were able to have the magician come by on one of his off days, and he was amazing. If you ever have the chance to experience that, I highly recommend it. He was fun, engaging, and made the night feel really personal.
What really stood out was the attention to detail. They wrote and signed me a birthday card and even personalized the menus, which was such a thoughtful touch and made the night feel even more special.
The food was just as impressive. I had the filet mignon, and it was easily the best I’ve ever had perfectly cooked, incredibly tender, and full of flavor. We also ordered several seafood appetizers, and everything was outstanding.
Between the service, the attention to detail, and the quality of the food, this was truly a standout experience. I would absolutely recommend Swift & Sons for any special occasion.
Maple & Ash
| Address | 8 W Maple St, Chicago, IL 60610 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 5:00 – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 5:00 – 10:30 PM Thursday: 5:00 – 10:30 PM Friday: 4:30 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 4:30 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:30 PM |
| Phone | (312) 944-8888 |
The breakfast buffet was outstanding! Very fresh and flavorful sushi - even the sour sauce is much better than average-, cooked to order omelets with ingredients marinated, sautéed and seasoned to perfection. Perfectly seasoned and rested beef was flavorful and juicy. Sensational espresso martinis were the perfect pairing to a leisurely and decadent brunch.
The staff were so attentive and helpful, anticipating our next need long before we knew ourselves what we'd need. 10/10. Highly recommend.
This place was good. Very. Very. Loud. Food was impressive. I would love to come back for more. We went for the caviar hot dog tower deal they had going on but I would love to dive into these steaks. The service was a little slow at the table, but the bar was a show. Great cocktails. Get ready to spend some cash, but afterward I still want to go back. So that says something.
I expected a better experience from Maple & Ash, especially since we chose it to celebrate our anniversary and had seen so much positive attention about it on social media.
Unfortunately, I was disappointed with my filet mignon. I ordered it medium, but it arrived quite rare—I could see blue when I cut into the steak. Our server promptly took it back to be cooked further, but when it returned a few minutes later, it had a charred top and wasn't very appetizing. The server kindly offered to have a new steak prepared, which I appreciated, but we had other plans afterward and didn't have enough time to wait for another replacement.That said, the rest of the food was very good, and our server handled the situation professionally. While I appreciate the effort to correct the issue, the steak ultimately fell short of my expectations. I've had better steaks at other restaurants, especially considering the reputation and price point of this establishment.
Maple & Ash is a great restaurant for special occasions. A dinner for our family of four—2 adults and 2 kids—usually costs around $500–$600, which I consider a little expensive, but the food is so delicious that it’s definitely worth it.
The cocktails are great, and the food is always amazing. At the top of my list is definitely the beef carpaccio. I had never tried a combination of beef, crab, and black caviar before, and it’s absolutely delicious! The seafood tower is another must-try.
I also really love the concept of creating personalized menus for birthdays. It’s a small detail that makes you feel special on your birthday, and that’s one of the reasons we enjoy celebrating our birthdays there. Great atmosphere, delicious food, and a beautiful experience overall! ❤️
The reason why I put five stars is because my son's steak was cooked well. But I had to have that redo my steak. It's nice because in the beginning, they give us complementary veggie dip and alcohol beverage. Ricotta pasta was good. Cheesy potatoes good. Very dark in there but nice atmosphere
Chicago Cut Steakhouse
| Address | 300 N La Salle Dr, Chicago, IL 60654 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (312) 329-1800 |
We visited Chicago Cut Steakhouse for my sister’s birthday with a group of four. Our server, Jenny was great!!! She was absolutely wonderful. The restaurant was packed, yet she remained attentive, friendly, and professional the entire time. She reviewed the menu with us, answered all of our questions, made everyone at the table feel included, and gave us great recommendations. She also took the time to have lively, genuine conversations with us even though she was clearly very busy. Jenny truly made the experience feel special. The steaks were excellent, flavorful, and cooked beautifully. The chocolate cake was also a 10/10 and one of the best parts of the meal. On the down side, the dining room was very loud, which made the atmosphere feel a bit chaotic. Overall, the food and service were very good, especially the steaks and dessert. The biggest praise goes to Jenny. She handled an incredibly busy and crowded room with grace and made our birthday dinner much more enjoyable.
Managed to get a last-minute reservation as we were craving steak. Overall, the food was good, but the experience didn't quite justify the price.
We ordered the beef stew & salad to start, with Bone-In Prime Rib, Filet, Lobster Mac & Cheese, Miso Black Cod, Asparagus, and a chocolate cake for dessert. Everything was enjoyable, but nothing particularly memorable for 400$.
Unfortunately, the service was a letdown. Our server kept making comments while I was taking photos of the food, which honestly wasn't appreciated. When I asked whether our order would be enough for the table, hoping for some guidance, the response was simply, "I don't know, you tell me." It may have been meant as a joke, but it came across as unhelpful. He also wasn't able to recommend a wine or share much about the wine list, which was surprising for a restaurant of this calibre.
Overall, the atmosphere and food were decent, but considering the price, I expected much better. If you're looking for a steak, there are better options elsewhere.
The tuna tartare was fresh and flavorful, and the sliders were tasty. Service was good overall, though not quite at the level I expected for a high-end steakhouse. The atmosphere was pleasant, but it didn’t fully wow me. Still, a solid dining experience and worth a visit.
Wonderful. Food was excellent. Steak had a light char nice salt seasoning. Wedge was crisp the dressing was nice. Tuna tartare was fresh, grilled fish was delicate and buttery
Chocolate cake was huge, rich and the crust was hazelnut. View outside was stunning. Chicago’s top steakhouse
10/10 across the board! Incredible place to dine at! We had a last minute dinner reservation here during our trip to Chicago, this was the best meal we had in the city! The food was scrumptious! The service was outstanding! Julian, our server was fantastic! A definite must go to place and not if, but when we will be back in Chicago, we are coming back! The steaks were delicious, the cocktails hit the spot! The lobstercargo was incredible! The carrot cake was so, so good!
Mastro's Steakhouse
| Address | 520 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 521-5100 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ An Unforgettable Dining Experience!
Mastro's in Chicago never disappoints, but this recent visit truly blew me away. The ambiance was upscale and lively, and the service was absolutely top-notch from start to finish. While they are famous for their steaks, the real stars of our night were from the chicken and sides menu:
The Lemon Pepper Chicken: Absolutely incredible. It was perfectly cooked, juicy, and packed with a bright, savory flavor that had me wanting more.
The Lobster Mashed Potatoes: Pure perfection. Rich, creamy, and loaded with generous, decadent chunks of fresh lobster. It’s worth the trip alone!
If you are looking for an exceptional meal in the city with incredible food and a fantastic vibe, Mastro's is the place to go. I can't wait to come back!
Danny took great care of my friend and I!
We made a reservation for 2 during the happy hour on a Sunday afternoon and got the Wagyu Sliders, 3 piece Oysters, and Fried Calamari. I’m personally a big fan of calamari and it was amazing when paired with the red chili sauce. The wagyu sliders were my next favorite, my only complaint was them being mostly bread, not a lot of meat. I’m personally not interested in oysters, but my friend was a fan 🙂↕️
Drinks were amazing too. They had a lovely sweet berry drink that I couldn’t find the name of, and the El Traditional was nice and refreshing.
This place is delicious the steak the chicken and let’s not forget the warm butter cake phenomenal! our server OMAR He is AMAZING!!!!!!! we will return just for OMAR and that delicious butter cake! Thank you Omar for an unforgettable 1st anniversary dios los bendiga
Incredible eating experience! Incredible service. Staff walking up and down to ensure no one ever had an empty glass. Servers were very knowledgeable about menu items and ensuring the experience I had was top tier.
The bone in ribeye was exceptional. Gorgeous crust and beautifully cooked medium rare. Lobster Mac and cheese was spectacular!
This has definitely gone into the book of “best experiences ever!” Our server Tabby was absolutely AMAZING! Seriously one of the best!!! She was so informative, helpful, and welcoming and deserves everything good that’s coming to her. I’ll come back just for her services alone! You definitely get what you pay for and more! The food was exactly how I expected it to be! I honestly think that this is the first restaurant that has truly ever satisfied my palette the way it did. I found myself a bit tipsy after only one(tasty and strong) drink. My partner enjoyed his food and drink and had 0 complaints!(That means a lot coming from picky ol’ him!) When booking our reservations, I included in the comments section “celebrating Rashaan and Tashi’s birthday” and to our surprise, they had our names printed on the menu and complimentary desserts after dinner. That was a small gesture that meant so much to us. So thank you to EVERYONE that made this night beautiful and unforgettable for us, no one went unnoticed!❤️
Side note: valet parking was available for $15 but we parked on the side of the restaurant and paid $9.50 for two hours at the box.
Ok, now let me go and hit the lottery so that I can experience this forever because I don’t want to go back😩
Enjoy!!!!
Smith & Wollensky - Chicago
| Address | 318 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 8:30 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 8:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 8:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 8:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 8:30 PM |
| Phone | (312) 670-9900 |
We had a wonderful table indoors but overlooking the Chicago River. Our server was attentive but not over the top... a good balance of attentive service. We were in a room with a bar at the center so had a huge group of people hanging out after work or an organized business function that were a bit loud so it interfered a bit in having our own conversation. They left after about 45 minutes into our dinner. We had crab cake app, wagyu fillet, asparagus, sautéed mushrooms, 8 oz filet mignon, 2 glass of wine, and butter cake. Everything was delicious.
Visited with colleagues during a work trip and had a nice overall experience, but with a few mixed feelings. The location and river walk views were definitely a highlight and made for a great atmosphere. Service was professional and friendly.
The food itself was decent, but for the price point I expected more. The steak was good, though I’ve honestly had better steaks at less expensive chain restaurants. My biggest disappointment was the ‘Gorgonzola crusted’ steak. Based on the description, I expected an actual crust or sear, but it was really just a creamy Gorgonzola sauce poured over the top. Tasty enough, but definitely not what was advertised.
Overall, it’s a good spot for the ambiance and service, especially if you’re entertaining clients or coworkers, but the value didn’t quite match the premium pricing for me.
Visited 3 months ago, was memorable so I came back again today. Very disappointing... they had many trainees job shadowing. It was around 7pm, restaurant wasn't busy so wait staff were side chatting, killed the professional atmosphere abit.
Ordered a pea soup that arrived in a push cart, soup was badly presented probably cus of the 'vehicle' it arrived in. Side of bowl was stained by soup sloshing its way to the table, it had drips on the side and the base of the plate had soup on it that left a mark on the table. Felt like I was eating at apple bees?
Oysters were paper thin. Lobster was dry, sides were heavy on the salt.
Overall experience today was really meh. What I once thought was the best steakhouse in chicago, now has set me looking for another contender elsewhere.
Had an outstanding experience at Smith & Wollensky. From the moment we walked in, everything felt elevated without feeling stiff. The steaks were cooked perfectly, seasoned just right, and served sizzling like they were making a grand entrance. Every bite was rich, tender, and exactly what you hope for when you order a proper steak.
The sides were just as impressive and the service was attentive without hovering. You can tell the team takes real pride in what they do.
A special thank you to Teresa, the manager, who truly made the experience exceptional. She was warm, professional, and made sure everything ran flawlessly. It’s rare to see leadership that present and engaged. She set the tone for the entire evening.
If you’re looking for a classic steakhouse experience done right, this is the spot. We’ll definitely be back. 🥩🔥
If you’re looking for a beautiful atmosphere, come here and sit outside. But I wouldn’t say it’s the best steak or meal I’ve ever had. The host assigned us a table and when we were taken to it, it was dirty. Not a huge deal, just clean it but the girl that took us there didn’t have a clue. She said she’d bring someone to clean it and never did. We had to ask a waiter and he looked at us and said it wasn’t ready yet. Okay then why were we brought here? That left a not so great taste in my mouth. The food wasn’t bad but our steak for 2 was a little dry and flavorless. Sides were solid. Cocktails weren’t bad. The best thing we had was the butter cake. Omg so good.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Chicago Steakhouse
Before you make a reservation, it is important to understand that not all steakhouse experiences are created equal. The right choice depends heavily on the occasion, your budget, and your specific preferences regarding meat sourcing and preparation. Here are some expert tips to help you navigate the menu and the room like a seasoned regular.
Understand the Difference Between Prime and Dry-Aged
Most top-tier establishments serve USDA Prime beef, which boasts superior marbling. However, the true depth of flavor often comes from dry-aging. This process dehydrates the meat, concentrating its flavor and tenderizing the tissue. If you see a "Dry-Aged" option on the menu, it is usually worth the premium price for the nutty, intense flavor profile it provides.
Don’t Sleep on the "Butcher’s Cuts"
While the filet mignon and ribeye are the undisputed kings of the steakhouse menu, the hanger steak, flat iron, or bavette often deliver the most robust flavor per dollar. These cuts are frequently sourced from the same prime cattle but require a bit more skill to cook perfectly, making them a favorite among chefs and industry insiders.
Navigate the Temperature Scale Wisely
Steakhouses in Chicago are known for cooking "hot." This means a medium-rare order often arrives closer to medium due to the intense heat of the broilers and the carryover cooking that occurs on the hot plate. If you are particular about your doneness, it is safer to order one level rarer than you typically prefer to ensure you get the juicy, red center you want.
Plan Your Sides Strategically
Portions in Chicago steakhouses are famously generous and designed for sharing. Ordering one potato dish and one vegetable is usually sufficient for two to three people. Avoid over-ordering; the focus should remain on the beef, and you want to save room for a slice of key lime pie or a chocolate cake for dessert.
Consider the Bar Menu for a Lighter Experience
If you want to experience a legendary steakhouse without the formality of a two-hour dinner, ask about the bar menu. Many of the city’s best rooms offer a "steak frites" or a burger made from the trimmings of their prime steaks in the lounge. It is an excellent way to taste the quality of the kitchen at a fraction of the price.
The beauty of Chicago’s steakhouse scene lies in its refusal to cut corners. In a city that values authenticity and substance over flash, these establishments stand as monuments to the idea that a great meal can be both a comfort and a celebration. The clinking of glasses, the sound of a knife slicing through a perfectly rendered crust, and the warm, clubby atmosphere are part of the city’s soul.
When you sit down at one of these tables, you are not just eating dinner; you are participating in a tradition that has defined Chicago for over a century. Whether you opt for a massive porterhouse meant for two or a delicate filet, you are guaranteed a meal executed with precision and served with pride. Trust the waitstaff, order a bold red wine, and enjoy the show.
