Let’s break down the wild food scene of Chi-town! Chicago, the powerhouse of insane culinary creativity, is the steak capital of the USA, baby! With some of the best steakhouses in the United States, it’s a prime steak-cation for all you carnivorous darlings.

Are you a sucker for that buttery filet mignon, or do you dive straight for a thick, juicy ribeye? Or maybe you're all about that T-bone packing a punch of flavor? Well, let me tell you, the Windy City's got you covered in all the steak goodness you can dream of.

I've got the inside scoop on the top five star-studded steakhouses in Chicago. It's a meat lover's paradise where savage eats blend with top-notch service and a sexy vibe you won’t want to miss.

Chicago Cut Steakhouse

One of Chicago's premier steak houses, the Chicago Cut Steakhouse, is renowned for its prime cuts and commitment to quality.

With a sweeping view of the Chicago River, this swanky locale offers a unique dining experience that pairs a stunning vista with superb steaks. The bone-in ribeye, which is dry-aged on the premises, stands out, as does their Australian Wagyu.

The vibrant red and gold interior exudes an old-world charm that pairs excellently with their extensive wine list, which is available on an iPad for guests' perusal.

Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse

Located at 1028 N Rush St, Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, a Gold Coast neighborhood institution, prides itself on serving USDA Prime Angus beef. Their steaks are known for being juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. The Gibsons Prime Angus Tomahawk, a mouthwatering 48-ounce steak, is a true showstopper.

Additionally, Gibsons offers a rich menu of alternatives like fresh fish, oysters on the half shell, oversized king crab cocktails, and a dessert menu that is legendary in its own right, with the gigantic carrot cake and chocolate mousse pie standing out. Coupled with their unmatched service, Gibsons has truly earned its place among Chicago's best steakhouses.

Bavette's Bar & Boeuf

Located in the heart of River North, Bavette's Bar & Boeuf offers a seductive take on the classic American steakhouse. Combining 1920s French bistro design with low lighting and jazzy tunes, this place delivers an enchanting fine dining atmosphere.

Their dry-aged bone-in ribeye is a must-try, showcasing their commitment to superb meat quality and expert preparation. Or, consider their Roasted Bone Marrow from the butcher’s cuts menu. Pair it with a side of truffle mac and cheese or spicy fried chicken for an indulgent meal.

And to cap it off, Bavette's Hot Fudge Sundae Royale is an unforgettable sweet treat. Bavette’s also caters to our vegetarian friends with delicious salads and classic sides like mashed potatoes and Brussels sprouts. Whether you’re a long-time carnivore fiend or a vegetarian, this restaurant has something for you.

Prime & Provisions

On the edge of the Loop and the River North neighborhood at 222 N La Salle Dr, Prime & Provisions is a modern steakhouse that balances tradition with innovation. They are the first in Chicago to source their meats exclusively from Creekstone Farms, known for its premium, all-natural products.

Their 100% All-Natural Black Angus Beef is a testament to their commitment to high-quality ingredients. From the juicy, flavorful Delmonico to the succulent Porterhouse for two, the steak menu is simple but perfectly executed.

The sides are equally delightful, with the Lobster Mac & Cheese being a crowd-pleaser. The restaurant’s roaring '20s vibe and exceptional service contribute to an overall fantastic dining experience, perfect for a special occasion.

Gene & Georgetti

A true embodiment of Chicago's rich history, Gene & Georgetti, founded in 1941, has stood the test of time. This is the city's oldest steakhouse, offering a classic, no-frills steakhouse experience in the heart of River North. With a brunch, lunch, dinner, and wine menu, enjoy this Chicago classic.

Known for their exceptional service and homely ambiance, the restaurant has always stuck to its roots, serving traditional Italian dishes along with perfectly charred, high-quality steaks. Don't miss out on their entrees that include Broiled T-Bone steak and signature Garbage Salad, a concoction of salami, mozzarella, and various veggies, offering a refreshing balance to the rich, hearty meats.

5 Things To Order at a Chicago Steakhouse

When you visit one of Chicago's esteemed steakhouses, there are some traditional favorites that are absolutely worth trying. Here are the top five things you should order for a complete steakhouse experience:

Bone-In Ribeye

This cut is highly sought after for its flavorful qualities, thanks to the marbling and bone left intact. A dry-aged bone-in ribeye, in particular, boasts an enhanced flavor that pairs well with various sides. Look for this mouthwatering dish at the Chicago Cut Steakhouse and Bavette's Bar & Boeuf.

Tomahawk Steak

Also known as a bone-in ribeye or cowboy steak, the Tomahawk is a larger version that often serves two. The dramatic presentation with the long, frenched bone is just as impressive as the taste. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse's Prime Angus Tomahawk is a perfect choice.

Porterhouse

Often seen as the king of steaks, the porterhouse is a composite steak that's derived from the point where the tenderloin and top loin meet. It's essentially a two-for-one, featuring the succulent tenderness of the filet and the rich flavor of the strip. Prime & Provisions offers a sumptuous Porterhouse for two that is a must-try.

Truffle Mac and Cheese

This gourmet take on the classic comfort food is a popular side dish in many Chicago steakhouses. The combination of creamy cheese and earthy truffles takes this dish to a whole new level, especially when you pair it with a side of steak frites. Bavette's version is noteworthy and perfectly complements any steak.

Classic Steakhouse Desserts

While the steak is the star of the show, the end of the meal should not be overlooked. Try the decadent Hot Fudge Sundae Royale at Bavette's or the gigantic carrot cake or chocolate mousse pie at Gibson’s. They're the perfect way to wrap up a delicious steakhouse dinner.

When dining at a Chicago steakhouse, these five items epitomize the city's rich culinary tradition. They embody the perfect blend of hearty meat, comforting sides, and sweet indulgences, making for an unforgettable dining experience.

Chicago’s Prime Rib Real Estate

Chicago's steak house scene is a paradise for meat lovers. These top-rated venues offer not only high-quality, delicious cuts of beef but also an experience that will make your evening out truly memorable.

Whether you're a long-time local or a tourist in the Windy City, make sure to stop by one of these steak houses to taste some of the finest meats the city has to offer.

How To Tell If a Chicago Steakhouse Is High-Quality

Evaluating the quality of a steakhouse can be crucial to ensure a satisfying dining experience. Here are key factors to help identify a high-quality steakhouse in Chicago, or anywhere else:

1. Quality of Beef

This is the heart and soul of any steakhouse. Whether you’re dining at a Brazilian or Japanese Steakhouse, the best establishments will be transparent about their sourcing, typically opting for USDA Prime or other high-grade cuts of beef. Steakhouses like Prime & Provisions, which sources exclusively from Creekstone Farms, exemplify this commitment to quality.

2. Dry-Aging Process

A high-quality steakhouse will usually offer dry-aged steaks. This process intensifies the flavor and tenderness of the meat. Look for mentions of dry-aging on the menu, as found at Chicago Cut Steakhouse and Bavette's Bar & Boeuf.

3. Cooking Technique

Good steakhouses have mastered the art of cooking steaks to the requested degree of doneness, be it rare or well-done. They should also finish steaks with a sear to create a flavorful crust.

4. Service

A top-tier steakhouse will have knowledgeable and attentive staff. They should be able to guide you through the menu, answer questions about the sourcing and preparation of the steaks, and help pair wines or suggest side dishes, offering excellent table-side service.

5. Ambiance

While this may seem secondary to the food, the dining environment contributes to the overall experience. Whether it's a classic decor reminiscent of old Chicago, like Gene & Georgetti, or the modern, roaring '20s vibe of Prime & Provisions, a high-quality steakhouse typically puts thought into creating an appealing dining room and overall vibe.

6. Wine and Beverage Selection

High-quality steakhouses generally have an extensive wine list, with offerings that pair well with the rich flavors of their steaks. Many will also offer a range of craft beers and a selection of classic and innovative cocktails.

7. Reviews and Reputation

Word of mouth and online reviews can provide valuable insights. Steakhouses with consistently high ratings and rave reviews about their steaks, sides, and service often indicate a high-quality establishment.

8. Versatile Menu

Even though the focus is on steaks, a great steakhouse should cater to varying tastes. Look for a range of seafood options, vegetarian dishes, and a diverse selection of appetizers and sides.

By considering these factors, you can better ensure your Chicago steakhouse experience is truly top-notch.

Why Is Chicago Steak Famous?

The fame of Chicago steak has roots in the city's rich history and the quality of its beef. In the late 19th century, Chicago was known as the meatpacking hub of America, with the Union Stock Yards being one of the busiest livestock markets in the world. This connection to high-quality livestock, particularly beef, helped establish Chicago as a culinary center for meat.

Over time, Chicago's reputation for steak has been nurtured by the city's world-class steakhouses that pride themselves on serving exceptional cuts of beef. They take great care in sourcing their beef, often opting for USDA Prime-grade, which represents the top two to three percent of all beef in the United States.

The expertise involved in preparing Chicago steak also contributes to its fame. Dry-aging, a process that tenderizes the meat and enhances its flavor, is common among Chicago steakhouses. Additionally, the city's chefs have mastered the art of cooking steak to the perfect degree of doneness, achieving a delightful crust that seals in the juices and flavors.

Honorable Mentions

• RPM Steak — 66 W. Kinzie St.
• Swift & Sons — 1000 W. Fulton Market.
• GT Prime Steakhouse — 707 North Wells St, this steakhouse boasts a seafood tower, Angus Wagyu, and a sexy ambiance.
• The Barn Steakhouse – Chef Amy Morton’s steakhouse located at 1016 Church St Rear.
• Mastro —  520 N Dearborn St.
• Steak 48 — 615 North Wabash Avenue.
• Maple & Ash — 8 W Maple St.
• Boeufhaus — 1012 N Western Ave.
• Chicago Chop House — 60 W Ontario St.
• El Che Steakhouse — Located at 845 W Washington Blvd, this Argentinean-American steakhouse with South American cocktails is a must-visit.
• Tango Sur — 3763 N Southport Ave.

Savor the Sizzle! 

Chicago's got more meat than a butcher's shop! Whether you're craving a dry-aged bone-in ribeye that's more mature than your last date (Hello, Chicago Cut Steakhouse!), or you're swooning over the classic Italian allure of Gene & Georgetti, Chicago's got you, honey! It's a steak lover's dream, with a menu to match every mood and craving.

Get ready, because Chi-town is serving the best steak realness, darling!