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Chicago Chop House

4 star rating
based on 79 reviews

Category: Steakhouses  [Edit]

Neighborhood: Near North Side
60 W Ontario Street
(between Clark St & Dearborn St)
Chicago, IL 60610
(312) 787-7100
  • Hours:
    Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-11:00 p.m.
    Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m.
    Sun 4:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m.
  • Menu: MenuPages
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Accepts Credit Cards: Yes
  • Parking: Valet
  • Attire: Dressy
  • Good for Groups: Yes
  • Good for Kids: No
  • Takes Reservations: Yes
  • Delivers: No
  • Take-out: Yes
  • Waiter Service: Yes
  • Wheelchair Accessible: No
  • Outdoor Seating: No
  • Good for: Dinner
  • Alcohol: Full Bar

79 Reviews for Chicago Chop House

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Photo of Jeff N.

 

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15

Jeff N.

Chicago, IL

3 star rating
05/14/2008

I've been in Chicago 30 years and FINALLY made it to CCH.  It was pretty much as I expected; masculine, old-school, not contemporary, and sprinkled with corporate types trying to impress their clients.  But alas, the meat.  My wife ordered the regular Prime Rib and I ordered the Special Prime Rib which is supposed to taste like a Rib-eye (which they don't offer on the menu).  Her Prime Rib was good, not great.  My Special Prime rib was outstanding.  My wife and I differed on how good the Creamy Garlic dressing was; she was more complimentary than I was.  The Sauteed Mushrooms were quite good.

Bottom line, we are infrequent eaters of BIG MEAT, so it will be a very long time before we return here, rather opting for other highly rated steakhouses like Morton's, Ruth's Chris, or whatever Yelp or Chicago Magazine tells me I should be trying.

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202

Princess Nina L.

Chicago, IL

4 star rating
05/04/2008

A lovely dining establishment.

I came here along with some fellow yelpers for a big piece of meat and we all got one. The ambiance of the dining room downstairs was nice. It had an old feel to it and lots of photos everywhere, but it isn't something really my piece of meat [haha! i made a funny!] I did feel cramped in the space and it was weird because our reservation for 4 was seated at a table for 6.

The service was good, not the best, but definitely not the worst either. Though she did tell me my eyes were just like Demi Moore's eyes.

The food was so good. We got calamari for an appetizer and we got it right out of the oven, and it was probably the best calamari I have had. I got a filot mignon and it was just about perfect, just lacking a LITTLE bit in flavor, but I could have easily put some pepper on it. For dessert, hot fudge sundae. It was just like any regular hot fudge sundae, with a TON of hot fudge on it.

It's a great place to have dinner. I would be interested in seeing the room upstairs to see if it has a more intimate feel.

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Sonia C.

Chicago, IL

3 star rating
05/02/2008

I like, but don't love, this place.  My bone-in NY strip was quality juicy meat, but a little on the bland side.  There are also a lot of fat surrounding the steak which I ended up eating, but could have done without.  Despite all this, it was still a great steak and I was happy with my meal.

Some of my friends could not say the same about their steaks.  The 48oz porterhouse was overcooked way past medium rare - especially the filet part which was burned (an absolute travesty).  My friend's Chicago Chop House Prime Rib (ordered off their specials menu & different from regular prime rib because it was charred) had so much fat surrounding it that he ended up not eating half his meat.

In my opinion, the standout of the night was the regular bone-in prime rib.  Wisely ordered rare, it was soft and juicy and didn't require much chewing.  Dipped in au jus and horseradish, it was a ridiculous experience.

It was great of them to include salad and a potato with the meals which is not common for steakhouses, but much appreciated.  I also got a side of potato pancakes which were nice and crispy.

The most annoying thing about Chicago Chop House is that they don't give you real steak knives, but rather a knife that is more similar to the regular metal ones you eat with at a cafeteria.  I think the dull knife is supposed to emphasize how great the steaks are ("Look!  You can cut through this huge hunk of meat using the crappiest knife in the world because the meat is just SO tender!") but we had a lot of trouble, and my finger still hurts from all the effort I exerted.  Get some real steak knives, CCH!

Desserts are mediocre and can be skipped.  Wine list is ok.  Overall, a good experience for me, but I doubt I'll be coming back as there are other steakhouses in the city that I haven't tried yet.

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Peter L.

Chicago, IL

2 star rating
05/17/2008

We returned from CCH an hour ago and wish we had not gone.  I have some important advice:  STAY AWAY!

It started badly with the concierge mechanically directing everyone to the bar area to wait for their tables, even though the area was packed beyond capacity and every square inch of the bar itself was occupied by someone chowing down a steak.   When we finally got our table, it was upstairs jammed into a corner at the entrance to a very noisy kitchen - no decent restaurant would put a table there.   Still, we were hopeful.

Sadly, we hoped in vain.  Bad service (smiling and pleasant but mostly indifferent and inattentive) and food that was mediocre at best was a lousy investment of $250.   The steaks are big, yes, but tasteless and too fatty, and frankly the average person could do a better on their home BBQ.  I know I can, and my wife gave me permission to say that!  I had to top up the wine glasses myself since the waitress was taking one of many (long) breaks from our table.  Oh, forgot to mention the tasteless and limp Ceaser salad and the really awful tomato salad - cheap tomatoes, certainly not field-ripened, mushy texture and no taste does not make for a good base to start from.

Seriously, don't go.  There's a McDonald's across the road.

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Jessica G.

Chicago, IL

1 star rating
05/05/2008

The wait staff & bussers are really attentive.. ours last night.. wasn't but i'm here to mainly talk about the food! I'll give them a star for the bread..I did some research, we wanted a good steak place for our anniversary..and for the money and the reputation..it just did not live up to my expectations.. The filet had NO flavor or seasonings(and also not cooked to the temp i requested).. the Cesar salad was watery and the dressing was gross.. and the mashed potatoes were like what they would give out in grade school.. I'm trying Gibsons next time.. actually J Alexanders serves up better all around..

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146

MELEK L.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
04/09/2008

I LOVE THE CHICAGO CHOPHOUSE!  I am not afraid to admit to you or to anyone else that this is my favorite steakhouse in Chicago hands down.

You want an authentic Chicago experience? This is it. I would only suggest eating in the pit downstairs. This is where their personality lies. I love checking out all of the old pictures on the walls. They have a live pianist/singer on occasion. And the bartenders can be down right entertaining.

Don't even think about NOT getting a steak!! They are cooked to perfection and you literally can cut it with a butter knife. TOTAL HEAVEN! I can think of nothing better. Now these aren't just any steaks. They are steaks accompanied by warm toasty bread, a simple crispy salad, and a potato! No "a la rip off" here! They will try to upsale you to a bone-in steak, but it's just not necessary. They are THAT good.

Save room for dessert if you can. I dare you!!

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Brendan M.

Chicago, IL

4 star rating
04/03/2008

I would actually give this place 4.5 stars out of 5.

One of the best steak houses here in Chicago, and you can't beat the price.   The steaks come with a salad and a side.  Their creamy garlic dressing is the best I have ever had.  Excellent service, and an amazing atmosphere.  I have even gone here from time to time after work to sit at the bar and have a small steak.  I suggest the NY Strip, as they do not serve a ribeye.  Also, I was shocked to find their crab legs are top notch.  Very good desserts if you have room.

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164

Katherine H.

Santa Clara, CA

5 star rating
03/31/2008

Come here if you love steak. NY strip steak, filet mignon, prime rib, it's got all the classics!

This place is a total steakhouse, from top to bottom. Enter the foyer into the woodsy, very adult and dark building. Muted lighting, portraits of the mobster 'allies' and 'enemies' on the walls, portraits of the past mayors, a top and bottom floor totally packed, and a live piano player, fingers dancing on the keys. This place was serious business. A line of hosts/attendants lined the stairs and waited to usher you to your seat.

After being seated, my table ordered the following:

1) Prime rib, medium rare: This was my dish. It was very delicious. Juicy, tender, well prepared and came bone in. It was huge (24 oz!). The meat really did cut like butter. It was very tender, but I wish the au jus had been slightly more flavorful.

2) NY strip steak, medium rare: My friend's steak was crispy and had that smoky flavor on the outside, but the inside was red and tender.

3) Bone in filet mignon: This was such a treat. It was a special on the menu, and it is pretty hard to find bone in filet mignon on steakhouse menus regularly. The only place I know that serves it all the time (except when they run out) is Boboquivari in SF. This place, the filet mignon was very tender, getting even more so the closer it got to the bone. It cut like butter! So good! Not as deeply flavorful as Bobo's, but pretty dang good!

4) Mashed potatoes with gravy: Pretty standard, I was also surprised it was offered with steak, since usually at steakhouses you don't have many sides offered with steak.

5) Potato pancakes: It's kind of like a giant hashbrown, but not as crispy and flavorful. It came with an apple sauce like sauce that was interesting

6) House salads: This comes drenched in dressing, so unless you like eating lettuce with your dressing, I suggest you get it on the side.

We all loved the food, and it was a real treat to have steak in Chicago at one of the most well known steakhouses =)

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Photo of James C.

 

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James C.

Chicago, IL

4 star rating
05/12/2008

Great steak restaurant with history. I believe that everyone has their definition of good steak and I believe that Chicago Chop House is good steak.

Steaks are not a la carte... you get potatoes on the side! HUGE plus.

Service has always been great as well. This place is in my rotation of steak houses in Chicago.

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123

Barbara D.

Chicago, IL

4 star rating
04/16/2008

When I was on my 'best chicago steak' searching adventure and would go from one steak joint to another around this city, trying to find my favorite....this place stood out. Hands down they know what do do with a cow. The atmosphere leaves a little to be desired....but I kind of have a crush on it. It's packed with beer guzzling businessman and a bit rowdy but it's sort of cool. It reminds me of OLD CHICAGO with all its glory.

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Eric S.

Overland Park, KS

4 star rating
04/19/2008

My friends from Chicago brought me to the Chop House for dinner when I came visit. A very charming place. I had the Chop House Prime Rib Special which was cooked perfectly. Probably one of the best steakhouse I have had.

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33

Scott R.

Northbrook, IL

2 star rating
04/09/2008

My last meal here was an extreme disappointment.  While steak houses are not usually a source of originality, they tend to be good at what they do.  Here however we had a typical steak house experience (noisy, crowded, loud, and by the end of the meal drunk customers, mediocre  service) without the benefit of the upside.  The salads were tired, appetizers nothing special.  The blackened rib eye which had been a standout previously was uninspired.  Other steak entrees were serviceable.
I've had mixed experiences at other steak houses, including Gibsons, so maybe it was an off night.  But it was way off.

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329

Mike P.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
03/10/2008

Hi, welcome to Chicago, would you like to eat half a cow and a giant crab?  You would, well, head over to Chicago Chop House and let them set you up.

In all my years here, I have never been to the chop house.  I avoid Tourist-Town like a meth-head avoids the dentist.  I'd definitely head back down for this joint though.  Everything was spot-on.  The fillet was tender and the crab legs huge.  The chocolate cake was so amazing that my diabetic father even had a few bites.  Pricey?  Sure, but you get your money's worth.  Plus, I think the guys at the next table were in the mob.  Authenticity - Huzzah!

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Photo of Zubair K.

 

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15

Zubair K.

Chicago, IL

4 star rating
04/04/2008

This was my second time going to the restaurant and it was only because I wanted my wife to experience the amazing historic restaurant/food...and she loves steak (as do I).

This place is a MUST if you are ever in Chicago and are yearning for a delicious Steak experience.  The filet mignon is amazing and the cooks do a great job grilling the items to perfection.  The sides are really good, we had mashed potatoes and salad with our entree (included) and the garlic dressing was really good.  The mushroom sides are excellent.

The Seafood items are plenty and you will love the freshness of this place.

Try to get a sitting area on the top floor, as this is were the nice scene out the window is.  You will feel like you are eating at an old mobsters house.

Great ambiance and excellent Chicago crowd make this place a MUST.

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16

Heidi K.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
03/21/2008

Excellent steaks in a classic Chicago setting, warm baked potatoes with plenty of sour cream & chive, impeccable service - just a great steakhouse.  My fiance & I came here after he proposed, and again a year later on the anniversary.  Both nights were fantastic - the steaks are so juicy and tender and I just love the old-school atmosphere - not pretentious or stuffy at all. They have a nice selection of appetizers & sides as well - but we never make it to dessert ;)  The Chop House is our favorite place for classic cuts of steak - and the perfect place to take out of town guests for a memorable Chicago experience.

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65

Eddie C.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
02/25/2008

If you like steak, check out the Chop House next time you're in the Windy City.  It's located near city center, not too far from Michigan Ave.  Come hungry.  Succulent prime rib and fantastic porterhouse!  All served with a little bit of veggies for health.  lol.  

Situated inside an old brick building, the place has a classic Chicago feel to it.  Come hungry and bring your wallet.  It's not cheap..especially if you decide to try the 96 ouncer.  Good luck!

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kristen h.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
04/23/2008

I went to the Chop House on St. Patricks day and tried the corned beef plate. Very tasty. Also, the Shannon Rovers were performing at lunchtime. I really like the atmosphere of the restaurant.

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Tom C.

Chicago, IL

4 star rating
02/13/2008

I was at "The House" as I call it today for lunch. I got the bone in NY Strip medium rare. The steak was amazing and it was even better that my friend was buying me lunch. I got the mashed potatoes with gravy on the side and they were status quo. Not as good as Gibson's but not many are. The overall experience was good but Gibson's is still my favorite steak house in the city. This place is great if you are looking for variety but if you are looking for the best overall steakhouse in town head over to Gibson's.

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Diana S.

Chicago, IL

4 star rating
02/01/2008

MMmMmm...Juicy, bloody, meat..come here my precious prime rib. This is by far the best prime rib I have ever had. The meat was cooked to a perfect medium rare. It was nicely seasoned and it came when it was still pretty warm. I like to take steak fries and soak up the meat juice that oozes out of the meat.

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Photo of John G.

 

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59

John G.

Chicago, IL

4 star rating
02/22/2008

Its walls adorned with pictures of old mayors and meat packing titans, the Chicago Chop House has great local flavor. For steakhouses in Chicago, it is set apart by its wine list (better than most), it's bread (better than all), and its clientele (better than you).

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elrod m.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
04/07/2008

$360 between four friends, i got the chop house platter, my filet was well done, sent it back.  our waitress sherry was pleasant and nice, but what made the chop house expierence was the bartender upstairs named john, he's one damn good bartender!

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Patti B.

Chicago, IL

4 star rating
02/10/2008

We were in the area last weekend and had no reservation, but were seated immediately since we just barely beat the dinner crowd. The prime rib here is phenomenal - I'd give 5 stars for that alone! I've never had any meat so delicious and tender, and I don't know how anyone could have trouble finishing it on their own.

The reason for the 4 star rating is the dish my boyfriend ordered, which was the lobster and filet mignon combo. His was definitely not as good as mine, and even though my prime rib was medium, it was still more tender than his filet medium rare. It was nice to have side dishes although don't expect anything fancy - the baked potato is just that and the mashed potatoes don't have anything added to them. But we'll be back, and next time we'll both order the prime rib.

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351

Joshua M.

Chicago, IL

3 star rating
02/01/2008

Decor: typical Chicago scuzzy Italian mob stuff... we ate downstairs... upstairs perhaps is nicer.  High top tables and chairs were not comfortable.

Service:  Insane waitress rattled off food descriptions like a droid.  

Food:  Pretty good.  Insane portions.  In fact I really almost don't like portions this size, I feel like the Ugly American with this immense plate of food I won't finish while the rest of the world starves.

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68

Tim V.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
12/01/2007

Can't get much more old school / old boys than this.  Just sit back and enjoy the phenomenally good beef and classic steakhouse experience.  This is SO Chicago.  Just don't expect much menu innovation which, in this case, is a beautiful thing.  Also, I've heard the seared prime rib is good, but haven't had that yet.

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Mohammad R.

Chicago, IL

3 star rating
01/26/2008

For what appears to be somewhat of a tourist attraction, it's nowhere near as bad as most tourist traps.  Excellent wine list (if a touch overpriced), typical steakhouse menu that doesn't come short but doesn't shine either.  I ordered a massive steak that was cooked exactly how I asked, however the wet-aging (to be fair, that's what most everyone does in Chicago) process combined with the lack of a heated plate created a steak that started with a good flavor, however 5 minutes in was fairly bland.  Service was not particularly cordial, but friendly and attentive.  Atmosphere definitely leaves something to be desired - possibly an introduction to the twentieth century?

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Samantha S.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
10/01/2007

By far, the best meal I've had in Chicago so far.

I took my mom here when she was in town two weekends ago, and we both just kept saying, "Oh my god" the entire night. I ordered the 10 oz. filet mignon, and my mom had the 16 oz. New York Strip. Both were cooked exactly how we specified, and the creamed spinach and sauteed mushrooms were both to die for. The spinach had nutmeg or something seasoned in, and it just made the meal that much more special.

The service was impeccable. The waiter was great in suggesting wine pairings with the meal, and the ambiance was so old school .. I loved it. As much as the live piano guy downstairs was pretty awesome, we decided to sit upstairs in the skybox because the piano was a little loud, and seeing as how my mom just flew in, we had a lot to chat about. If I came back for a date with my boyfriend, though, I'd definitely want to take advantage of Mr. Pianoman.

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Kris A.

Chicago, IL

4 star rating
03/20/2008

You should definately try this place.  It's fun, bursting with local flavor, and you'll never leave hungry, as the portions are absolutely huge!

The steaks are solid.  Not the best I've had in the Windy City, but very good.  I'm a filet gal, and I avoid fatty steaks like the plague, so these weren't completely up my alley.   If a  little fat doesn't send you running, you'll probably like them.  

Weirdly, my favorite part of the meal were the Russ's American Fries - it's a side dish and I'll be damned if they weren't some of the most mouth-watering potatoes I've ever had.  

All the sides are great; the crabcakes are solid; and they actually - get this - GIVE YOU a potato and a salad with your meal.  Imagine that!  Kudos, Chop House!

It's a good time; make the trip!  I saw one of the comments describe the decor as "scuzzy Chicago Italian" or something along those lines -  - but I didn't get that vibe at all - maybe a little old-school/boys-club-esque, but not scuzzy.  I think the atmosphere was the best part!

And you should try to sit upstairs.

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Sara M.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
10/18/2007

This place is consistently voted one of the top steakhouses in America for a reason. The meat is to die for. Truly delicious. I had the 10 ounce filet mignon. Medium rare perfection!

This is a real meat-and-potatoes kind of steakhouse. Nothing frou frou or overly inventive. That's great for those who appreciate uncomplicated, high quality steak. The downside is that the sides feel like an afterthought. We ordered broccoli and asparagus, and out came a heaping plate of unseasoned, mushy vegetables. But who goes to a steakhouse for the broccoli?

The service was impeccable. Very attentive and professional. I must note, though, that a busboy cleared a plate before everyone at the table was finished. This is a pet peeve of mine, and I would expect a restaurant of this caliber to be all over that. But everything was redeemed when, after we left a large tip, our waiter literally ran out of the restaurant, found us half a block away, and shook hands to thank us. Totally unexpected and very classy.

Highly recommended for the steak aficionado.

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5

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Tom F.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
11/21/2007

This place is truly the king of Chicago steakhouses.  After having one of the best meals of my life at the Chop House (I still drool when I think of the bone-in filet, tender, perfectly cooked, and bursting with mineral goodness), I honestly don't know why people mob Gibson's or Morton's.  We all know that steakhouses are notoriously expensive, but Chop House somehow finds a way to deliver knockout food at somewhat reasonable prices.  It certainly helps that all steaks come with a potato and salad, unlike some of the other "top" steak joints in town.  Service was impeccable - our waiter knew his wine, served us efficiently, and then stayed the hell out of the way.  I can't wait for my next visit!

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Kasey G.

Berwyn, IL

4 star rating
11/10/2007

Business dinner. Perfect to take someone from London who says "I want to eat a real Chicago steak" but not spend a boatload of money. He got the steak he wanted and enjoyed it tremendously. The sides were good (he found them a little small, but I didn't). Everything was prepared as requested and not over salted.  Good chefs. I wish that they could do organic/free range but that is just me.

Atmosphere is outdated and just a little shabby. I think I got too used to these ultra modern designed places where you feel like they are going to make artwork out of your meal. I would take good food over atmosphere any day, but I still think they could update things a bit.

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Gabe F.

New York, NY

5 star rating
11/10/2007

After trying to go to Gibson's on a Tuesday night where the wait was an hour and a half, we decided to try this place instead.  We were pleasantly surprised with a 5 minute wait and great service.  It didn't break the bank and they have a few great specialties including bone-in New York Strip.  

Without repeating what everyone has said, this place definitely will not break the bank. I paid $40 for my steak, $5 per side and $10 for a glass of excellent cab sauv (A to Z was the name, from Oregon). Overall, I was VERY happy with the steak and meal.  The bread is absolutely delicious and fluffy.  Loved this place!

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Dave G.

Yorba Linda, CA

5 star rating
08/30/2007

Queue the theme song from The Godfather.

Perhaps I was living too much into the moment, but I got this historic Chicago mobster vibe when eating there.  I went there for lunch with friends and we were the only ones sitting at a table.  The regulars were corralled around the bar enjoying their meals while watching the Cubs vs Black Sox game.  I didn't wanna infuriate the locals when asked, so I just told them I wanted Chicago to win.

A lot of the patrons in here were portly seasoned gentleman in suits and suspenders with their jackets hanging on the chairs.  Pin strips and double breasted coats seemed to be the defining uniform.  Along with the decor of the chop house and their guests, it was easy to visualize how it'd be like to live in the day of your favorite mobster movie.

The staff was attentive and we were seated promptly.  The steaks were suberb.  I had the blackened ribeye which was a very tender and fatty cut.  My friends and I were all sharing a slice of each other's steak since everyone seemed to like what they ordered.  While most of us had wine, I did manage to have my first taste of Goose Island Honker's Ale.  Pretty good stuff that I've yet to find anywhere else.

This place is a must see for any one making a stop in Chicago.

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20

Tara M.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
02/21/2008

This place has quite possibly one of the best lunch deals in town. For $25, you get a delicious 8 oz filet, soup AND salad, choice of potato, and any dessert. Everything was perfectly prepared and tasted delicious. Gracious service and a lovely, classic setting. No complaints from me.

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16

maggie c.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
09/28/2007

Bone in Prime Rib Cut...in my belly!! I love the Chicago Chop House for it's old school ambiance and great service. The service is in no way uppity, and the dress code is "dressy casual" which as you all know I love anything with the word casual in it. Anyway, The portions were huge!! Beware! See if you can share a side with..2 other people.  Also, the steaks are not seasoned to death, The Chop House is known for cooking a steak with minimal seasoning, in order to showcase an exceptional piece of meat. and what a fine piece of meat it was! hee hee . So for those of you who thought it was bland, might not have been used to it. To each's own though.

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5

188

A L.

Pittsburgh, PA

5 star rating
08/28/2007

My parents and I decided to try this chop house which was located right behind the place I am staying at.  Don't get me wrong, it's pricey and frankly, I was a bit surprised my dad actually said that we should all eat there.  But I wasn't about to argue!!!!!  :)

The food is EXCELLENT!!!  This was the best prime rib and strip that my dad has had.  And he is hard to please!  I got the Strip Steak on the bone, grilled, and medium rare.  Good for what it was, but as expected, still going to be a little chewier.  At least it actually was medium rare!!!  My dad got the Prime rib bone-in, with grilling at the end (one of the specials), medium --- this was SOOO good!  definitely the winner of the night.  My mom just got the prime rib, plain and simple.  Good, but dad's was just divine.  

My dad gives this place a 4.5 (amazing rating for him) and my mom gives it a 5.  I gave it a 5 too!  I think this place is a winner for the parents should they ever make it back to Chicago.  

P.S.  The 2004 Santa Ema Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon at $24 a bottle was surprisingly decent.  (I am pretty darn picky about my wine too)

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10

249

Countess A.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
06/20/2007

Great place.  I loved the piano bar and decor.  The prime rib was excellent and it comes with a free salad (it wasn't awesome.. but it's free) I remember.  I wasn't crazy about the creamed spinach.. I think I don't like nutmeg in mine.  Service was excellent.

If you can only go to one steak place in Chicago.. I'd put this on your list (along with Morton's).

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Elite '08

79

66

John C.

Chicago, IL

3 star rating
06/24/2007

The steaks here are OK but nothing that sets them apart from any other steakhouse in Chicago.
While the wine list was nice, the martini I had before dinner was more like a shotglass on a stem.  I had the underwhelming 'signature' prime rib.  The sides were not very good from my disappointing spinach to the cafeteria mashed potatoes.  Our personality-deficient server was a fleshy robot who repeated his stale monologue verbatim as the tables are close enough together that if you missed him say something, you overheard him say it again.  And again.

Overall, it's the place to go for the typical group of loud, cigar smoking expense account fat guys from out of town who hit on the exasperated waitresses.

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5

34

Matt C.

IL

5 star rating
08/05/2007

The steak is top three in the city, but I still will rank this place number one due to it's character.  On the way to your table check out the pictures abound of 1800's and early 1900's Chicago.   It's an unbelievable value too.  Every time I go I am amazed at the flavorful food coupled with an attentive and professional waitstaff. $6,7,8 dollar glasses of house whites and reds.  Better yet, your steak includes a salad and a choice of potato.  Nightly specials too.  If you are looking for a great steak and a great dining experience, go here.  You won't be disappointed.

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Elite '08

5

51

Angie P.

Chicago, IL

3 star rating
01/01/2008

Disappointed to give this place only 3 stars - I finally tried it a couple of weeks ago, wanting to treat my Dad who was visiting from out of town.  We had late reservations (9:15) but decided to go early around 730 and we got seated right away which was great!!  The service was really great, the atmosphere cozy.  We ordered filet mignon - my and my sister's filets were ok, cooked to order but a little too charred on the edges for my taste.  My Dad ordered the filet and lobster combo, ordered medium, and it came out practically WELL DONE!!  He had to send it back, luckily they brought out another one within 5 minutes but it really ruined the experience - he had to eat the lobster alone before it got cold and we really didn't expect "the best steakhouse in the country" to overcook a small filet.  OK steaks but not the best I've had.  I'll stick to Gibson's - always perfectly cooked and better side dishes!!

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78

44

Dave L.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
04/12/2007

"OooohhhhhhhhhhhOOOOOOHHHHHH."

The birds chirped. The clouds parted. The sun burst forth.

With his first bite of Chicago Chop House's signature prime rib, my friend had an orgasm in his mouth for the very first time. I looked at him jealously. What did he do to deserve such a gift? Good looking people always get the best in life. Motherfuckers.

But then, my own signature prime rib was placed in front of me. I was already drooling, ruining the perfect searing on a succulent and massive piece of meat.

"OooohhhhOOOHHHH."

That's right, I got one too. I was about to raise my fork hand and my knife hand in victory, but the remaining 21.9 ounces beckoned me. "Eat me. Eat me now. Please, I need to you to eat me."

Who am I to argue?

So the remaining bites of the steak weren't as incredible as that first one, and I'm not exactly sure if it was 22 or 32 ounces cuz size is not important to me, but man was that first bite worth every penny of that $33. Someone else in our group got the filet mignon, which she thought wasn't as good as Morton's, and another person got the signature New York Strip, which was the first time he ever enjoyed a NY strip. My seared bone-in prime rib steak was perfection. Juicy, tender, flavorful.

From now on, every time I visit Chicago I'm having a dinner at Chicago Chop House. The service was top notch - I made reservations for a party of 12 twenty minutes beforehand, our server gave us excellent suggestions for appetizers (get the potatoes!), and everyone was extremely friendly. The decor - awesome cozy old school vibe, like I was hanging out in a upscale gangster den. There were some old dudes hanging out at the bar in the middle of the restaurant with some young women, I imagined they must have very very interesting lives. But the only thing that really matters about Chicago Chop House is the meat. I want it so bad. I can't wait to go back.

Just like Kevin A said, the signature seared prime rib will haunt my dreams forever. There's nothing like your first time.

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