Quick answer
Chicago isn't just a city; it's a statement, and nowhere is that more evident than in its legendary steakhouse scene. A pilgrimage for carnivores, the Windy City boasts a rich history of serving perfectly charred, dry-aged cuts that satisfy the most discerning palaks.
- Best overall
- Bavette's Bar & Boeuf
- Top pick
- Bavette's Bar & Boeuf
Top verdicts
- Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: An unforgettable romantic dinner or a celebratory occasion where ambiance and quality are paramount.
- Maple & Ash: A vibrant, upscale dining experience with a group of friends or a lively date night.
- RPM Steak: Impressing clients, a sophisticated date night, or when you crave a truly high-end steak with global flair.
The city's affinity for steak can be traced back to its roots as a major meatpacking hub in the 19th and early 20th centuries. This heritage fostered a culture of quality beef, leading to the establishment of grand steakhouses that became synonymous with Chicago dining. These establishments weren't just places to eat; they were places to conduct business, celebrate milestones, and experience true American luxury.
Today, Chicago's steakhouses offer a diverse array of experiences, from old-school, wood-paneled institutions exuding timeless charm to sleek, modern eateries pushing culinary boundaries with innovative preparations and upscale ambiance. You'll find everything from classic prime dry-aged ribeyes and tender filets to wagyu selections, complemented by decadent sides and extensive wine lists.
Area map
All 10 spots at a glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bavette's Bar & Boeuf | Traditional | luxury | River North |
| 2 | Maple & Ash | Modern American | luxury | Gold Coast |
| 3 | RPM Steak | Modern American | luxury | River North |
| 4 | Gibson's Bar & Steakhouse | Classic American | luxury | Gold Coast |
| 5 | Swift & Sons | Modern American | luxury | Fulton Market |
| 6 | Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Seafood-Focused | luxury | River North |
| 7 | Steak 48 | Contemporary | luxury | River North |
| 8 | Chicago Cut Steakhouse | Classic American | luxury | River North |
| 9 | Kinzie Chophouse | Traditional | mid | River North |
| 10 | Shula's Steak House | Classic American | mid | Loop |
1Bavette's Bar & Boeuf
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- An unforgettable romantic dinner or a celebratory occasion where ambiance and quality are paramount.
- Strengths
- River North
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Bavette's masterfully blends the charm of a Parisian steakhouse with the cozy intimacy of a speakeasy. Expect a dimly lit, sophisticated atmosphere where dry-aged steaks are the star, complemented by an impressive wine list and classic cocktails. It's an experience that transcends a mere meal, leaving a lasting impression.
- What to order
- The Dry-Aged Ribeye is a must, served perfectly charred with a rich, buttery interior. Don't skip the roasted bone marrow or the loaded baked potato.
🕐 Opening hours
2Maple & Ash
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- A vibrant, upscale dining experience with a group of friends or a lively date night.
- Strengths
- Gold Coast
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Maple & Ash is a glamorous and high-energy steakhouse that redefines the traditional experience with a modern, lively twist. Known for its 'I Don't Give a F*' menu, which lets the chef choose, it offers prime cuts and an impressive selection of seafood in a bustling, opulent setting. It's a place to see and be seen.
- What to order
- Their Bone-In Filet is exceptional, cooked to perfection. The Fire-Roasted Seafood Tower is also a showstopper, and don't miss their truffle creamed spinach.
🕐 Opening hours
3RPM Steak
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Impressing clients, a sophisticated date night, or when you crave a truly high-end steak with global flair.
- Strengths
- River North
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- RPM Steak, part of the Melman siblings' restaurant empire, offers a sleek and sophisticated take on the traditional steakhouse. With an emphasis on quality and variety, their menu features an extensive selection of prime, dry-aged, and Wagyu cuts sourced from around the globe, alongside fresh seafood and indulgent sides. The service is always polished and attentive.
- What to order
- Explore their Wagyu selection, or opt for a perfectly dry-aged Porterhouse. The Coal-Roasted King Crab is a fantastic starter, and the Millionaire's Potato is pure decadence.
🕐 Opening hours
4Gibson's Bar & Steakhouse
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Experiencing a true Chicago classic, a boisterous group dinner, or when you're craving generous portions of prime beef.
- Strengths
- Gold Coast
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Gibson's Bar & Steakhouse is a Chicago institution, a place where tradition reigns supreme and the portions are legendary. Expect a bustling, old-school atmosphere filled with locals, tourists, and celebrities alike. Known for its consistently excellent USDA Prime beef, massive cuts, and a vibrant bar scene, Gibson's embodies the classic American steakhouse experience.
- What to order
- The Bone-In Ribeye is a hallmark, famously huge and perfectly cooked. Don't forget a slice of their equally enormous turtle pie for dessert.
🕐 Opening hours
5Swift & Sons
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- A modern, stylish steak dinner in a hip neighborhood, suitable for both business and pleasure.
- Strengths
- Fulton Market
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Located in the trendy Fulton Market district, Swift & Sons offers a polished, contemporary steakhouse experience in a stunning, industrial-chic space. It pays homage to the area's meatpacking history while delivering a refined menu of dry-aged steaks, inventive appetizers, and decadent sides. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet vibrant, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
- What to order
- Their dry-aged New York Strip is a standout, alongside innovative starters like the Beef Wellington ravioli. Don't overlook their excellent selection of raw bar items.
🕐 Opening hours
6Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- A luxurious meal where you want the option of both outstanding steak and world-class seafood.
- Strengths
- River North
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Joe's seamlessly merges the best of both worlds: prime steaks and exquisite seafood, particularly their famous Florida stone crab claws during season. Housed in a beautiful, upscale setting, Joe's offers a refined dining experience with attentive service and a menu that guarantees fresh, high-quality ingredients. It's a classic choice for those who love both land and sea.
- What to order
- During stone crab season (October-May), the Medium Stone Crab Claws are non-negotiable. For steak, the Prime Bone-In Ribeye is a magnificent choice.
🕐 Opening hours
7Steak 48
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- A stylish and energetic dinner with friends, or a celebratory meal where you want a trendy ambiance.
- Strengths
- River North
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Steak 48 brings a chic, modern, and lively energy to the Chicago steakhouse scene. With its sleek decor, glass-enclosed kitchen, and vibrant atmosphere, it offers an elevated dining experience. The menu features USDA Prime steaks, a raw bar, and an array of creative side dishes, all designed for a memorable and indulgent night out.
- What to order
- The '48' Prime Bone-In Ribeye is a popular choice, known for its intense flavor. The King Crab & Rock Shrimp Mac & Cheese is an incredibly rich and satisfying side.
🕐 Opening hours
8Chicago Cut Steakhouse
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Business dinners, celebrating with a view, or a classic steakhouse experience with a sophisticated edge.
- Strengths
- River North
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Boasting stunning river views, Chicago Cut Steakhouse combines classic steakhouse elegance with a prime waterfront location. It's a favorite for business diners, special occasions, and anyone seeking a high-quality steak with a scenic backdrop. They dry-age their beef in-house and offer a vast wine selection, ensuring a refined and memorable meal.
- What to order
- Their 35-Day Dry-Aged Bone-In Ribeye is a house specialty. Pair it with the truffle mashed potatoes and a selection from their impressive wine list.
🕐 Opening hours
9Kinzie Chophouse
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- A classic, no-frills steakhouse experience that feels welcoming and offers great value.
- Strengths
- River North
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Kinzie Chophouse offers a charming, historic ambiance with a more accessible price point than many of its upscale counterparts, without compromising on quality. This River North gem has been serving Chicago for decades, known for its generous portions of prime cuts, warm service, and a welcoming, less formal atmosphere. It's a reliable choice for a great steak.
- What to order
- Their New York Strip is consistently praised for its flavor and tenderness. The Greek-style Saganaki cheese appetizer is a fun and tasty starter.
🕐 Opening hours
10Shula's Steak House
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- A reliable, high-quality steak dinner in the Loop, especially convenient for hotel guests or business meals.
- Strengths
- Loop
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Located within the Hyatt Regency Chicago, Shula's Steak House offers a consistent and high-quality steakhouse experience inspired by NFL coaching legend Don Shula. The ambiance is classic and refined, with a focus on perfectly prepared premium black angus beef. It's a dependable choice for business travelers and those staying downtown, offering solid service and a traditional menu.
- What to order
- The 22oz Cowboy Ribeye is a robust and flavorful choice. Their Maryland Crab Cakes are also a notable appetizer.
🕐 Opening hours
Frequently asked questions
What is the average price for a steak dinner in Chicago?
The average price for a quality steak dinner in Chicago can vary widely. For a mid-range steakhouse like Kinzie Chophouse or Shula's Steak House, expect to pay around $75-$150 per person including a main course, side, and drink. For high-end establishments like Bavette's or Maple & Ash, prices typically range from $120 to $250+ per person, especially if you opt for appetizers, desserts, and a robust wine selection. Many steakhouses offer prix fixe menus or lunch specials that can be more budget-friendly.
Do Chicago steakhouses typically have a dress code?
Yes, most upscale Chicago steakhouses have a dress code, typically 'smart casual' or 'business casual.' This usually means collared shirts and slacks for men, and dresses, skirts, or nice pants for women. Jackets are often preferred but rarely required. Avoid t-shirts, shorts, athletic wear, and flip-flops, especially in places like Bavette's, RPM Steak, or Maple & Ash. It's always best to check the specific restaurant's website beforehand if you're unsure.
Are Chicago steakhouses family-friendly?
While many steakhouses welcome families, especially for early dinner seatings, they are generally geared towards adult dining experiences. The ambiance, pricing, and menu focus on sophisticated palates. Some establishments might offer children's menus or be more accommodating than others, but it's best to call ahead. Places like Gibson's or Joe's might be more accustomed to larger family groups, but quiet, intimate venues like Bavette's might not be ideal for very young children.
What is 'dry-aged' beef and why is it popular in Chicago?
Dry-aged beef refers to a process where cuts of meat are hung in a temperature and humidity-controlled environment for several weeks. This process allows natural enzymes to break down muscle fibers, tenderizing the meat, and moisture evaporation concentrates the flavor, resulting in a richer, more intense, and nutty taste. Chicago steakhouses, with their historical connection to the meat industry, have long embraced dry-aging as a hallmark of quality, offering a superior depth of flavor that many connoisseurs seek.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options at Chicago steakhouses?
Most Chicago steakhouses, while meat-focused, do offer a selection of vegetarian side dishes such as creamed spinach, roasted asparagus, or various potato preparations. Many also have seafood options that can cater to pescatarians. Fully vegan entrees are less common but becoming more prevalent; it's advisable to check the menu online or call ahead to inquire about specific plant-based options if a member of your party has strict dietary requirements.
What's the best steak cut to order for a first-timer?
For a first-timer, a classic cut like a Prime Ribeye (bone-in for maximum flavor) or a Filet Mignon is often recommended. A Ribeye offers a rich, marbled flavor and tender texture, while a Filet Mignon is known for its exceptional tenderness and lean profile. If you're feeling adventurous and want to experience the dry-aged flavor profile, a dry-aged New York Strip is also an excellent choice, offering a good balance of tenderness and robust taste.
Do Chicago steakhouses offer private dining rooms?
Yes, many of Chicago's premier steakhouses offer private dining rooms, making them excellent venues for business meetings, corporate events, or large family celebrations. Establishments like RPM Steak, Swift & Sons, and Chicago Cut Steakhouse are particularly well-equipped with various private and semi-private spaces that can accommodate different group sizes and needs. It's best to contact the restaurant directly well in advance to discuss availability and menu options.
Is it customary to tip at Chicago steakhouses?
Yes, it is customary and expected to tip at Chicago steakhouses, just like at most full-service restaurants in the United States. A standard gratuity for good service typically ranges from 18% to 20% of the total bill. For exceptional service, 22% or more is often given. For large parties (usually 6 or more guests), an automatic gratuity of 18-20% may be added to your bill, so always check before adding an additional tip.