If steak is what you want on your plate, you’ve come to the right city. Chicago has always catered to carnivores, whether you’re in the mood for an old-school joint or somewhere sleek and modern. There are dozens of different steak temples to choose from, most of them right in the downtown area.
Classic Chicago steakhouses
Gene & Georgetti
Chicago’s oldest steak mecca. Serving legends like Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope since 1941, along with today’s Russell Crowe, Vince Vaughn, and Will Ferrell, Gene & Georgetti is a comfort zone like no other. Wander off the steak menu and discover Robert Duvall’s favorite: garbage salad. 500 N. Franklin St.
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
Another favorite for catching local celebs along with their hearty appetites. Gibson’s is truly a “meat and greet” kind of place, with eight classic cuts and their own USDA Prime Black Angus beef. A Chicago institution that’s approaching its 30-year anniversary in 2020, they will treat you like family. 1028 N. Rush St.
Chicago Chop House
Part restaurant, part journey through Chicago’s colorful past, Chicago Chop House takes the phrase, “eat, drink, and be merry” seriously. With more than 30 wines by the glass, the Chop House is the perfect place to sip a different blend with each mouthwatering course. 60 W. Ontario St.
Kinzie Chophouse
An understated classic, Kinzie Chophouse will greet you with warm decor, photographs of old Chicago, and a menu carrying everything from a 12-ounce New York Strip to a 48-ounce porterhouse. 400 N. Wells St.
Modern newcomers
RPM Steak
This River North hotspot made a splash when it joined Chicago’s beef-filled landscape in early 2015. RPM Steak is a modern stunner with celebrity ties (TV powerhouse couple Giuliana and Bill Rancic are behind it), it has the culinary cred to back it up. 66 W. Kinzie St.
Steak 48
This upscale steakhouse in River North features a contemporary menu, prime steaks, and a fine dining atmosphere. At Steak 48, diners can enjoy a raw bar, creative appetizers (like the Chef’s PB&J made of paté, fig jam, and bourbon), elegant entrées, and an extensive wine list.
Prime & Provisions
Reminiscent of swanky Chicago supper clubs, Prime & Provisions is both approachable and innovative. The timeless feel of the space is integrated seamlessly with a fresh design and a unique menu that features all-natural black angus beef. 222 N. LaSalle St.
Mastro’s Steakhouse
At this luxe locale, you’re likely to see just as many seafood towers as steak dinners. Mastro’s Steakhouse is excellent at both. Don’t skimp on dessert either: the signature warm butter cake is a requirement. 520 N. Dearborn St.
El Che Steakhouse & Bar
This contemporary spot brings a bit of Buenos Aires vibe to Chicago. Located in the trendy West Loop neighborhood, El Che Steakhouse & Bar has a sultry and sophisticated vibe with a focus on South American-inspired fare. You’ll find seafood seared on custom-built grills and meats pulled from the restaurant’s dramatic open hearth. Get a seat at the chef’s counter for a truly unique experience. 845 Washington Blvd.
STK Chicago
STK Chicago brings together modern steakhouse fare and chic lounge vibes into one unforgettable fine dining experience. The menu includes a wide range of steak options, including naturally raised options and high-end selections like Wagyu and Kobe. A live DJ and servers with sparklers add to the party vibes. 9 W. Kinzie St.
Chicago Cut Steakhouse
With a commanding view of the river, Chicago Cut was voted one of America’s Best New Restaurants by Esquire Magazine. Come for the Certified USDA Prime beef that has been dry aged for 35 days and butchered on site — or make it over for the ultimate power breakfast: Prime New York Strip & two poached eggs. 300 N. LaSalle Drive
Maple & Ash
In a city full of carnivorous options, Maple & Ash seeks to reinvent the steakhouse experience. The posh spot, situated in the Gold Coast neighborhood, offers the classic white table cloth experience with a contemporary twist. 8 W. Maple St.
Steak & sports
Ditka’s
Keep it casual, but make out like a champ when you stop by Ditka’s. Yes, famed Bears legend “Da Coach” knows how to cook up a mean piece of meat. He also has pretty sophisticated tastes in wine and cigars. Try his Kick Ass Red. 100 E. Chestnut St.
Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse
Named for the beloved Chicago Cubs Hall of Fame baseball announcer, Harry Caray’s signature steaks are selected from the finest USDA Prime beef and are aged 3 to 4 weeks to ensure maximum tenderness. 33 W. Kinzie St.
Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse
Chicago sports history and steak continue to go hand in hand at Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse. Voted in the Top 10 of the Best Steak Houses by Chicago Magazine, this Magnificent Mile restaurant keeps the exclusive corner booth just for “His Airness.” Naturally, it’s Table No. 23. 505 N. Michigan Ave.
Other Chicago steakhouses
If you have a favorite national steak house chain, they’re all here: The Capital Grille, Morton’s, Ruth’s Chris, Lawry’s, and Smith & Wollensky. Specialty steak restaurants add their own flare: Texas de Brazil serves up endless carvings as a Brazilian-American “churrascaria,” Roka Akor Steak & Sushi features Robatayaki-style cuisine, and Ron of Japan is Chicago’s Japanese steakhouse and the premier Teppanyaki experience.
