Finding a steakhouse in any town USA isn’t a hard task. The well known chain’s offer great cuts of meat and a reliable experience. They are also easy to find when the craving hits. When you want to go beyond the familiar to find locally sourced steaks and a unique experiences, we’ve rounded up our favorites places to #eatlocal.
Chicago is a meat and potatoes, steakhouse loving kind of town. So much so, there are plentiful options regardless your preferred mood, vibe, and price range. It’s hard to go wrong, so when you are craving a big slab of meat, a big glass of red, and sides, and sides for days-- here’s a roundup of where to go to get your fix.
Sophisticated and trendy, a see and be seen establishment, and you can always expect a crowd. The atmosphere alone will weed out many looking for something more laid back and quiet, but if you are up for a fun night out, and for a great steak to be on the menu, this is your spot. The experience wows from cocktails to dessert with larger than average portions and a lively atmosphere. The menu crafted by two-Michelin-star chef, Danny Grant and with a wine program named one of "America's Best" by Wine Spectator, it’s no secret why Maple and Ash tops our list of best local steakhouses.
Photo courtesy of Maple & Ash
Steakhouse 101, but not in a bland way. Chicago Cut is what you think of when you picture a steakhouse. Upscale vibe, serious waiters, mahogany, white table clothes and rich white people. What sets it apart are those views. Stare out onto the Chicago River from the ritzy interior or grab a seat on the patio. During warmer months the patio is always packed and a happy hour favorite. The food is top notch, the steaks are the star of the show and well worth the splurge. If you are a fan of creme brulee, theirs is not to be missed.
Chic, sexy and straight out of Mad Men. RPM Steak is the sister restaurant to Bill and Guiliana Rancic’s popular RPM Italian next door. A fresh face on the steakhouse scene, the interior is more trendy than old world, with music that makes you feel like you might be in the club a few hours too early. The menu highlights include the massive 42-oz Waygu Mishima Tomahawk, the truffled up Millionaire potatoes and the 14-k gold chocolate cake. The menu doesn’t just stop at beef, it’s well thought out with new twists to old steakhouse standards and the cocktails are great. This is a great choice to start a fun night out with friends or take a group.
Photo courtesy of RPM Steak
If traditional steakhouses aren’t your thing, let the French show you how it’s done. Bavette’s oozes romance and fun with red leather banquettes, low lighting and jazz. The cocktails are perfection, so don’t skip one before ordering that luscious Red Burgundy. The appetizers all hit the mark, highlighted by fresh seafood and oysters and traditional French staples like beef tartare. The steaks are simplistic and always cooked to perfection. The only problem is ensuring you save room for dessert. Trust us, this is a place to save room for dessert. Choosing between the carrot cake and the chocolate cream pie can be like picking a favorite child. God Speed.
Photo courtesy of Bavette's Bar & Bouef
Old school Chicago at it’s finest and as iconic as the Sears Tower (ok fine, Willis Tower). Indulge yourself in the comfortable atmosphere, order a bottle of red, or a dirty martini and indulge in nostalgia from this River North gem. Start your meal with their famous crab legs, before moving on to your favorite cut of meat. Joe’s is the perfect place to take your family, grandparents, or boss for a quiet and delightful meal that won’t include struggling to hear your neighbor speak.
Photo courtesy of Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak and Stone Crab.