Chicago is a bustling city known for its towering skyscrapers, contribution to jazz, and iconic deep-dish pizza. Thanks to the show The Bear, the Italian Beef has also gained some well-deserved traction, but Chicago’s rich culinary history spans even further. For example, did you know that Chicago is home to some of the finest steakhouses in the country? From historic establishments that have been serving prime cuts for over a century to modern restaurants that push the boundaries of flavor and presentation, Chicago’s steakhouses offer a dining experience as diverse as the city itself. To help you navigate the steak capital of the Midwest, we’ve put together a guide on some of the most iconic steakhouses in the windy city.
1. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
Since opening its doors in 1989, Gibsons has become synonymous with Chicago’s steak scene. The restaurant was the first in the country to receive its own USDA Prime Certification, a testament to the quality of its beef. What started as a singular restaurant on Rush Street has grown to three distinguished steakhouses with 11 other concepts owned by the Gibson Restaurant Group.
The classic menu features large portions of perfectly aged steaks, including the famous W.R. Chicago Cut, a 22-ounce bone-in ribeye that is a must-try for any steak lover. Gibsons also offers an old-school ambiance with dark wood paneling, leather booths, and walls adorned with photos of celebrities who have dined there.
2. Chicago Chop House
Established in 1986 by Henry Norton, this iconic River North restaurant transports diners back to the early 20th century, with its walls adorned with over 1,400 photos of Chicago’s storied past. The Chicago Chop House is renowned for its commitment to serving only the finest USDA Prime beef, but in the past, they offered a wide variety of meats and game. Some of which included moose, bear, buffalo, and elk!
Today, their menu features an impressive selection of steaks, including the signature 64-ounce porterhouse, which is aged for a minimum of five weeks to ensure optimal flavor and tenderness. The ambiance is cozy yet elegant, with live piano music enhancing the nostalgic atmosphere, making The Chicago Chop House a must-visit for those seeking a quintessential Chicago dining experience.
3. Maple & Ash
Maple & Ash is a contemporary steakhouse in the Gold Coast neighborhood that redefines what you know about steakhouse experiences. While originating in Chicago, there are now locations in Scottsdale and Miami as well. With its vibrant, modern design and playful menu, Maple & Ash offers a dining experience that is both luxurious and fun.
The restaurant’s signature dish is the “I Don’t Give a F*@k” option, a chef’s tasting menu that takes diners on a culinary journey through the best the kitchen has to offer. Maple & Ash also features a wood-fired grill that imparts a smoky flavor to its prime cuts, including the 28-day dry-aged bone-in ribeye and the 16-ounce New York strip. The restaurant’s lively atmosphere, complete with a DJ on weekends, makes it a popular spot for special occasions and celebrations.
4. Gene & Georgetti
No list of Chicago steakhouses would be complete without mentioning Gene & Georgetti, the city’s oldest steakhouse. Founded in 1941 by Gene Michelotti and Alfredo Federighi (nicknamed Georgetti), this River North staple has served classic Italian American dishes and prime steaks for over 80 years.
The menu at Gene & Georgetti is timeless, featuring favorites like the bone-in T-bone, filet mignon, and the hearty skirt steak, all cooked to perfection. The restaurant’s old-school charm, with its white tablecloths, wood-paneled walls, and black-and-white photos of famous patrons, transports diners back to a bygone era.
5. Chicago Cut Steakhouse
Situated along the Chicago River, Chicago Cut Steakhouse is a newer addition to the city’s steakhouse landscape, but it has quickly risen to fame since its opening in 2010. The restaurant boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the city, making it an ideal spot for both locals and tourists. Chicago Cut is known for its in-house dry-aged steaks, which are cut to order and cooked to perfection. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list, with over 600 selections from around the world.
6. Mastro’s Steakhouse
Mastro’s Steakhouse is another popular steakhouse in the River North district, known for its luxurious atmosphere and world-class steaks. Part of the Mastro’s Restaurants chain, the Chicago location stands out for its elegant interior, live music, and impeccable service.
Mastro’s menu is a carnivore’s dream, offering a wide range of USDA Prime steaks, including their signature 24-ounce porterhouse and the buttery Wagyu Tomahawk chop. Mastro’s is also quite famous for its seafood tower, an impressive display of fresh shellfish that perfectly complements a night of indulgence.
7. Swift & Sons
Swift & Sons is a modern steakhouse in the trendy West Loop neighborhood that pays homage to Chicago’s meatpacking history. The restaurant is housed in a building that once belonged to the Fulton Market Cold Storage Company, and its design reflects a blend of industrial chic and classic elegance.
Swift & Sons offers a menu focusing on locally sourced, high-quality ingredients. The steaks, including the 24-ounce bone-in ribeye and the 32-ounce Tomahawk, are cooked to perfection in a custom-made wood-burning grill. The restaurant also features a seafood menu for a well-rounded dining experience that everyone will enjoy.
8. Michael Jordan’s Steak House
Named after the legendary Chicago Bulls player, Michael Jordan’s Steak House is a must-visit for sports fans and steak enthusiasts alike. Located on Michigan Avenue in the InterContinental Hotel, the restaurant offers a sleek, modern setting with a menu that pays tribute to Michael Jordan’s winning legacy. The restaurant also offers a selection of craft cocktails and a wine list curated to complement the rich flavors of the steak.
The city of Chicago has thousands of things to offer, and food is definitely at the top of that list. Chicago’s steakhouse scene is a reflection of the city’s diverse and vibrant culinary culture. From historic institutions that have stood the test of time to contemporary establishments that push the boundaries of what a steakhouse can be, each restaurant offers a unique experience. Whether you’re gearing up for a business trip or looking for a short-term rental to explore the city, there’s an endless number of things to fill your calendar in Chicago. In addition to touring Chicago’s iconic steakhouses, try your hand at one of the hundreds of different attractions and events at any time of the year.
If you’re still in the process of moving to Chicago or are planning to come for an upcoming work project, corporate housing is a great way to make the most out of your time in this cultural city. Corporate Suites Network has several properties spread throughout the different neighborhoods in Chicago and the Chicagoland suburbs. Our prime locations and luxury amenities provide our residents with everything they need to take advantage of their spare time in this city without causing disruptions to their work. Call or email us today to learn more about our property locations or to request more information about Corporate Suites Network’s properties.