Steak lovers unite! Chicago is home to some of the finest steakhouses in the nation, boasting a rich tradition of quality and excellence in every juicy bite. These temples of tenderloin, crown jewels of ribeye, and sanctuaries for sirloin offer a range of experiences from old-school elegance to modern culinary innovation. Each has its own character, history, and special flair that make it unique. We’ll carve into the heart of the Windy City’s carnivorous offerings to serve you the crème de la crème of steakhouses. Ready your appetites as we journey from number ten to the number one steakhouse that has Chicagoans and visitors raving.
#10: Gene & Georgetti
Nestled in the River North neighborhood, Gene & Georgetti is not only a steakhouse; it’s a Chicago institution. Founded in 1941, it bears the distinction of being the oldest steakhouse in the city. Walking into the establishment, you’ll be enveloped in an atmosphere rich with history, where the clink of glasses and the murmur of satisfied diners blend with the aroma of well-aged steaks. Their menu is a testament to tradition, with classics like the T-bone holding court. The ambiance here speaks to those who appreciate a steakhouse with a story as rich as its gravy.
#9: GT Prime Steakhouse
For a more contemporary twist on the classic steakhouse experience, GT Prime breaks the mold. The brainchild of Chef Giuseppe Tentori, this steakhouse steps away from the behemoth portions and instead focuses on a more curated approach to its meat. Offering a variety of cuts in smaller slices, diners can savor a sampling of flavors. This is the place for the indecisive connoisseur or the curious first-timer looking to discover their preferred cut. The sleek, modern decor complements the innovative menu, which has been carefully created to give each guest a memorable dining experience.
#8: Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf
Stepping into Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf feels like traveling back to a 1920s Parisian steakhouse. From its dark paneled wood, plush leather booths to the soft, sultry jazz playing in the background, the ambiance is as much a draw as the food. Chef Brendan Sodikoff offers a French twist on American steakhouse staples, serving up delectable bone-in ribeyes, dry-aged cuts, and an array of sumptuous sides. Don’t skip their cocktails either; their bartenders whip up concoctions that pair exquisitely with their hearty fare.
#7: RPM Steak
RPM Steak is the chic, modern counterpart to RPM Italian, brought to you by celebrity couple Bill and Giuliana Rancic alongside chef Doug Psaltis. The quality of the meat is top-tier, with a broad selection including Japanese Wagyu and bison elite. It boasts a sleek and stylish setting that feels both energetic and intimate. While the name says steak, seafood enthusiasts will also find plentiful options to delight their palate. Don’t forget to save room for dessert — the RPM Steak’s sugared bacon maple ice cream is divine.
#6: Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
Joe’s might have seafood in the name, but make no mistake, their steak is the real deal. Originally hailing from Miami, Joe’s has quickly become a Chicago favorite for steak aficionados. Known for its prime bone-in ribeye, filet mignon, and especially its stone crabs, it offers a surf and turf paradise that satisfies all cravings. With service as impressive as the food, Joe’s caters to its guests with meticulous attention and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
#5: Chicago Cut Steakhouse
Perched on the bank of the Chicago River, Chicago Cut Steakhouse enthralls with its impeccable city views and its equally awe-inspiring menu. Traditionalists will adore the USDA Prime aged steaks, which form the backbone of the menu, while adventurous eaters might gravitate towards the Australian Wagyu. At Chicago Cut, the staff complements the dining experience with an extensive wine list, ensuring your perfect steak is paired with an equally perfect glass of vino. The restaurant also supports a tech-savvy angle, offering iPads for wine selection, which adds a unique touch to the meal.
#4: Swift & Sons
Swift & Sons, a relative newcomer in the West Loop’s Fulton Market District, pays homage to Chicago’s meatpacking history with a modern take on the old steakhouse. With a classic mid-century design, the restaurant exudes a timeless charm. Executive Chef Chris Pandel serves up prime cuts ranging from a classic filet mignon to a lavish Wagyu tomahawk, as well as inventive appetizers and sides. An impressive cocktail program and extensive wine list round out the offerings at this sophisticated spot.
#3: Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse
Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse is steeped in as much fame as it is in flavor. It’s been a lively Gold Coast fixture since 1989, with a reputation for high-energy atmosphere and massive, mouth-watering steaks. Carnivores come here for the USDA Gibson’s Prime Angus beef, which is aged for a minimum of 40 days, ensuring that intensely rich taste for which they are renowned. The portions are generous, and the ambiance screams old-school Chicago, complete with a hall-of-fame showcasing celebrity patrons. If you’re craving a quintessential Chi-town steak experience, Gibson’s will deliver.
#2: Mastro’s Steakhouse
Mastro’s Steakhouse, an upscale chain, has a reputation that precedes itself, and its Chicago outlet does not disappoint. The ethos here is all about luxury, from the sumptuous, contemporary décor to the meticulously prepared, high-quality steaks. Diners often rave about the bone-in filet, a rarity on even the most diverse steakhouse menus. Top-notch service and an energetic vibe set the stage for a steak dinner that’s bound to make a lasting impression. And while Mastro’s is known for its meat, their seafood — particularly the iced seafood tower — garners its own acclaim.
#1: David Burke’s Primehouse
Now, carving its name at the top of our list, David Burke’s Primehouse redefines the steakhouse with a dash of innovation and a pinch of whimsy under the expert direction of Chef David Burke. Situated in The James Chicago Hotel, Primehouse ages its own steaks in a Himalayan salt-tiled aging room on the premises. This unique process imparts a depth of flavor to the meat that’s nearly impossible to find elsewhere. With a special dedication to its craft, Primehouse offers a varied selection of cuts, including the show-stopping 55-day aged ribeye that has locals and tourists alike singing its praises. While the steaks are undoubtedly the stars, the restaurant’s playful desserts and creative sides, such as the lobster “steak and eggs,” ensure every part of your meal at David Burke’s Primehouse is unforgettable.
Chicago’s steakhouses are as varied and flavorful as the city itself, offering everything from timeless recipes passed down through generations to modern interpretations that redefine what a steak can be. Each of these top ten destinations offers more than just a meal—they promise a culinary experience that reflects the heart and soul of this magnificent city. Whether you’re in search of a dry-aged masterpiece, a slice of Wagyu heaven, or a robust bone-in classic, these steakhouses guarantee you’ll leave with a full belly and a desire to return. Chicago, with its ever-evolving food scene, continues to honor its carnivorous roots by serving up some of the best steaks around. Enjoy your journey through this meat-lover’s paradise, one sizzling steak at a time.