We asked 60k Locals For The Best Steakhouse In Chicago – The Winner Was Clear!

First, let’s get one thing clear: Chicago has a LOT of really good steakhouses.

And you don’t have to go to the absolute best to have a good experience.

But when you a Facebook page of 60k+ locals where they would send friends, there are some clear favorites.

If you’re planning a trip to Chicago soon, here’s where Chicagoans go when they want a steakhouse that delivers.

1. Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf

Hands down the runaway winner.

If Chicago had a single steakhouse champion, this is it.

Locals call it the best overall experience—steaks with perfect char and seasoning, killer sides, cocktails that slap, and that dim, sexy, old-school vibe that makes you feel like you’re in on a secret (even though everyone knows about it).

The 42-day dry-aged bone-in ribeye gets mentioned constantly. The beef Wellington is legendary.

Even the fried chicken and burger are worth ordering. The catch? Reservations disappear the second they drop (21 days out, 9 a.m. on the dot).

Pro moves: set an alarm, make an account ahead of time, or walk in right at 5 p.m. and grab bar seats. Downstairs is cozier than upstairs, according to the die-hards.

• 218 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL, 60654, US
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2. Asador Bastian

The new contender that’s giving Bavette’s a serious run.

A lot of locals now rank this #1, saying it’s edged ahead with flawless execution, premium cuts, and a more refined feel.

It’s not the classic wood-paneled Chicago steakhouse—it leans a little more modern and high-end—but the steaks are described as “fantastic” and “next level.” Easier to get into than Bavette’s, which helps its case.

If you want something a cut above without the reservation warfare, this is the move.

• 214 W Erie St, Chicago, IL, 60654, US
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3. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse

The quintessential old-school Chicago experience.

Huge portions, classic vibe, great people-watching on Rush, and a location that makes pre- or post-dinner wandering easy (Violet Hour cocktails, lakefront strolls, late-night ice cream).

Locals say it’s perfect for out-of-towners who want the “real Chicago” feel. Steaks are massive and reliable. Some longtime regulars have moved on, calling it a touch dated, but plenty still swear by it—especially for a first impression of the city.

• 1028 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
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4. Boeufhaus

The neighborhood gem that punches way above its weight.

Not downtown, not flashy, but locals love it for incredible steaks at a better price than the big names. It’s a little more European-leaning (some say German-forward), which turns off a few people who want aggressive American seasoning, but the fans are devoted.

Great for when you want an excellent steak without the downtown circus or triple-digit check.

• 1012 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL, 60622, US
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5. Steak 48

The consistency king. Multiple locals say this is their go-to because the food and service are always excellent, no off nights.

The off-menu spinalis (rib cap) gets serious praise—called the single best cut in the city by people who’ve tried it dozens of times. Bar staff are reportedly fantastic.

Surprised it doesn’t come up more often, but the people who love it really love it.

• 615 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
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6. Swift & Sons

Consistently praised as a fantastic all-around experience that’s actually possible to book on shorter notice.

The beef Wellington for two is a standout—multiple groups raved about splitting it with filets and Amish chicken.

Cold seafood towers, solid sides, and a glamorous Fulton Market room.

It’s not always called the very best steak in town, but people leave happy and it’s a reliable winner when Bavette’s is impossible.

• 813 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL, 60607, US
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7. Chicago Cut

Riverfront location, killer patio when the weather cooperates, and steaks that never disappoint.

It’s the one locals mention when they want a “damn epic” summer night—dinner outside overlooking the water.

Reservations are usually doable, and it’s a solid classic option downtown.

• 300 N La Salle Dr, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
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8. Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab

The sleeper that doesn’t get enough love.

Old-school service, classy room, and food that delivers every time. The key lime pie is repeatedly called “next level.”

Locals who’ve been going to Gibsons forever say Joe’s has become their new favorite. Great for a classic vibe without feeling stuck in the past.

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Honorable Mentions

A few honorable mentions that bubbled up repeatedly but didn’t quite crack the top tier this time:

RPM Steak, Prime & Provisions (that bacon appetizer is divine), Mastro’s, and Chicago Chop House for old-school charm.

Bottom line? You’re not going to have a bad steak at any of these places.

Chicago’s steak scene is deep. But if you want the ones locals are willing to refresh Resy at 9 a.m. for, fight over, and defend to the death—these are them.