12 Illinois Steakhouse Chains Locals Swear Are Worth Every Bite And The Bill
When it comes to taming a hearty appetite, Illinois knows its way around a great steak. From Chicago’s glittering downtown to suburban standouts across the Prairie State, these chains have perfected the sizzling cut and the experience that surrounds it.
Locals are vocal about where their hard-earned dollars go, and these 12 steakhouse chains keep earning them with standout quality, inviting atmospheres, and consistently memorable meals.
1. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
Chicago’s most famous steakhouse has earned its stellar reputation through decades of serving USDA Prime beef in generous portions. The classic ambiance strikes the perfect balance between upscale and comfortable, making it ideal for special occasions and business dinners alike.
Regulars recommend the signature 26-oz porterhouse or the bone-in ribeye, but save room for their famous macadamia turtle pie. The martinis flow freely, and the veteran servers know their cuts of meat better than most butchers.
The people-watching rivals the food for entertainment value, as Gibsons regularly hosts celebrities, athletes, and political figures at its Rush Street location.
2. Morton’s The Steakhouse
Founded in Chicago in 1978, Morton’s has grown into a national powerhouse while maintaining its commitment to quality. The attentive service begins with the iconic tableside menu presentation, where servers display raw steaks and fresh seafood before taking orders.
The Chicago-style bone-in ribeye deserves its reputation as a carnivore’s delight. Morton’s signature onion bread and hot chocolate cake bookend the meal perfectly, creating a dining experience that justifies the premium prices.
3. The Capital Grille
Walking into The Capital Grille feels like entering an exclusive club where everyone’s a VIP. The African mahogany paneling and art deco chandeliers create an atmosphere of refined luxury that matches the quality of their dry-aged steaks.
My first visit coincided with a promotion at work, and I still remember how the porcini-rubbed bone-in ribeye with 15-year aged balsamic made that celebration unforgettable. Their signature sides, especially the lobster mac and cheese, deserve their own spotlight.
4. Ruth’s Chris Steak House
The theatrical sizzle of butter-topped steaks arriving at tables announces each order at Ruth’s Chris. Their 1,800-degree broilers create a perfect crust while maintaining juicy centers in every cut, served on plates heated to 500 degrees.
The filet mignon stands out for its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, while the New Orleans-inspired sides pay homage to the chain’s Louisiana roots. Sweet potato casserole topped with pecan crust offers a delicious contrast to the savory steaks.
Despite its upscale reputation, Ruth’s Chris maintains a surprisingly welcoming atmosphere where families celebrate milestones alongside business travelers enjoying expense account dinners.
5. Wildfire
Wildfire transports diners to the glamorous supper club era with its 1940s décor and throwback cocktail menu. The wood-fired cooking methods impart distinctive smoky notes to their hand-cut steaks and chops.
I celebrated my parents’ 40th anniversary here last year, and the staff went above and beyond with personalized menus and attentive service. Their horseradish-crusted filet has developed a cult following among Chicago steak enthusiasts for good reason.
The Wildfire chopped salad and their famous wildfire potatoes have inspired countless home cooks to attempt recreations. Their reasonable prices relative to other premium steakhouses make this Lettuce Entertain You establishment a smart choice for regular steak cravings.
6. LongHorn Steakhouse
LongHorn Steakhouse delivers a reliable, value-forward steak night across Illinois, pairing hand-seasoned, flame-grilled cuts with hearty sides and easygoing service. The vibe skews casual (cozy booths, Western touches, country playlists) so it works as well for family dinners as it does for a quick date or post-game bite.
You’ll find steaks in all shapes and sizes, plus plenty of ways to dress them up—think shrimp toppers, sautéed mushrooms, and rich compound butters.
Not feeling steak? Ribs, pork chops, and big salads have you covered. Bottom line: steady quality, wallet-friendly prices, and tons of suburban locations make LongHorn an easy “yep” whenever the craving hits.
7. STK Steakhouse
STK breaks the steakhouse mold by infusing the typically staid atmosphere with DJ beats and dramatic lighting. The sleek, modern design attracts a younger crowd looking to see and be seen while enjoying high-quality steaks.
Their signature dish, the lil’ brgs made with Wagyu beef, makes for a perfect starter before moving on to dry-aged main courses. The tuna tartare with avocado and soy-honey emulsion showcases their commitment to non-steak options that still impress.
Located in Chicago’s bustling River North neighborhood, STK’s energetic vibe creates a unique steakhouse experience where the party atmosphere never overshadows the serious culinary credentials.
8. Fogo de Chão
Fogo de Chão revolutionized Illinois dining with its authentic Brazilian churrasco experience. Gaucho chefs roam the restaurant with skewers of fire-roasted meats, slicing portions directly onto diners’ plates until they flip their signal card to red.
The picanha (prime sirloin cap) remains the standout cut, seasoned simply with sea salt to highlight the quality of the meat. I once challenged myself to try all 16 protein offerings in one sitting, a delicious but humbling experience that left me unable to move for hours.
The Market Table buffet offers a fresh counterpoint to the meat parade with seasonal salads, imported cheeses, and cured meats.
9. Texas de Brazil
Texas de Brazil blends Brazilian cooking techniques with Texan portion expectations, creating a rodizio experience that leaves no appetite unsatisfied. The festive atmosphere makes it ideal for group celebrations where sharing and sampling define the experience.
The parmesan-crusted pork loin and garlic picanha consistently rank as fan favorites among the rotating selection of meats. Their salad bar elevates the concept with over 50 seasonal items including imported cheeses, roasted vegetables, and charcuterie.
10. Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille
Perry’s evolution from a Houston meat market to an upscale steakhouse chain brought its legendary seven-finger-high pork chop to grateful Illinois diners.
This mammoth chop, cured, roasted, smoked, and caramelized, has become so popular that Fridays feature a special lunch portion that draws lines out the door. The table side presentations add theatrical flair, with servers flambéing desserts and carving the signature pork chop with practiced precision.
Perry’s social hour offers remarkable value with bar bites and specials that make luxury accessible. The symphony kabob, filet mignon, lobster, and shrimp suspended on a hanging metal frame—epitomizes their creative approach to presentation.
11. Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse brings reliable steak dinners to suburban Illinois locations with its familiar Australian-inspired theme. The casual atmosphere makes it approachable for families and everyday dining without sacrificing quality.
The Bloomin’ Onion starter has achieved iconic status, but regulars know that the hand-cut steaks offer genuine value. Their Victoria’s Filet with roasted garlic butter consistently delivers tenderness and flavor that exceeds expectations at its price point.
My family has celebrated countless Little League victories here over the years, with the Thunder From Down Under brownie sundae serving as the ultimate reward for young athletes. The reasonable prices and consistent execution make Outback a dependable choice.
12. Texas Roadhouse
Texas Roadhouse earns its popularity through a winning combination of hand-cut steaks, infectious energy, and those addictive fresh-baked rolls with cinnamon butter. The open kitchen design lets diners watch butchers at work, reinforcing their commitment to freshness.
The Fall-Off-The-Bone Ribs deserve their descriptive name, while the 16-ounce prime rib satisfies serious appetites at reasonable prices. Line dancing servers and birthday announcements create a festive atmosphere that appeals to families and groups celebrating special occasions.
Despite its casual approach and value pricing, Texas Roadhouse maintains high standards for their USDA Choice steaks aged and hand-cut daily. The early bird specials draw retirees, while the generous portions ensure college students leave with tomorrow’s lunch.