Chicago holds a storied place in America’s culinary history, especially when it comes to the art of the steakhouse. Rooted in its meatpacking heritage, the city’s commitment to prime cuts, expert preparation, and opulent dining experiences remains unmatched. From legendary establishments that have defined the genre for decades to innovative newcomers, Chicago offers a truly exceptional array of options for the discerning carnivore. This guide highlights five phenomenal steakhouses in Chicago, showcasing where to find some of the best prime steak in the Windy City for an unforgettable dining experience.
Established Icons: Defining Chicago’s Steakhouse Legacy
RPM Steak
In the heart of Chicago’s River North neighborhood, RPM Steak offers a modern and glamorous take on the classic steakhouse experience. Known for its extensive selection of USDA Prime and Japanese A5 Wagyu steaks, RPM Steak also features a robust raw bar and a selection of luxurious appetizers and sides. The restaurant emphasizes quality sourcing and expert preparation, serving impeccably cooked steaks in a chic and lively atmosphere. It is a top choice for a sophisticated Chicago steak dinner.
Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
A beloved Chicago institution, Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab seamlessly blends the best of a traditional steakhouse with an exceptional seafood program, particularly famous for its seasonal Florida stone crab. Beyond the iconic crab, Joe’s offers a wide array of top-tier prime steaks, including various cuts of filet mignon, New York strip, and ribeye, all cooked to perfection. The elegant ambiance and unparalleled service make Joe’s a premier destination for a classic Chicago surf and turf experience.
Wildfire Restaurant
Wildfire Restaurant delivers a quintessential 1940s-style supper club experience, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere alongside its impressive menu of steaks, chops, and seafood. Known for its wood-roasted preparations, Wildfire specializes in broiled steaks that are hand-cut by Chicago’s own Stock Yards Packing and aged 28-35 days for ultimate tenderness and flavor. Signature dishes include the horseradish-crusted filet and Char Crust Bone-In Ribeye, making it a reliable spot for a traditional Chicago steakhouse meal with a nostalgic charm.
New Horizons: Evolving the Steakhouse Scene
The Oakville Grill & Cellar
Bringing a taste of California wine country to Chicago’s Fulton Market, The Oakville Grill & Cellar offers a fresh and sophisticated approach to grilled meats. While its extensive wine program is a major draw, featuring a vast selection from Napa Valley, The Oakville also excels with its oak wood grilled steaks. Their menu includes prime cuts like the Center-Cut Creekstone Filet and Wagyu Hanger Steak, prepared with a focus on simple, high-quality ingredients that allow the natural flavors to shine. It presents a refined option for modern Chicago steak dining with an emphasis on wine pairings.
Prime Meats
Launching in June 2025, Prime Meats by Lettuce Entertain You is poised to redefine the Chicago steak experience by bringing restaurant-quality cuts directly to your home. This innovative concept from one of Chicago’s most renowned restaurant groups offers a delivery-only butcher shop featuring premium dry-aged cuts, globally sourced Wagyu, and bone-in chops curated by chefs from Lettuce’s top steakhouses. While not a traditional dine-in restaurant, Prime Meats offers a unique opportunity to recreate a luxury steakhouse experience at home in Chicago, providing access to top-tier cuts perfect for grilling season.
Chicago’s steakhouse scene continues to thrive, balancing time-honored traditions with exciting new concepts. Whether you seek a classic, white-tablecloth experience, a modern culinary adventure, or the convenience of gourmet cuts at home, these five phenomenal establishments represent the very best of Chicago’s premier steak restaurants.
