Skip to main content
0 Followers

Free analytics & customer insights

Maple & Ash

8 W Maple St, Chicago, IL 60610
$$$$
Steakhouses, Steakhouse

Vibe Check this spot

Rate this spot and tag the vibes that fit

Log In to Add Vibe Check

Master Critic Reviews (10 Lists)

Maple & Ash 8.8
Gold Coast
A high-energy Gold Coast steakhouse where wood-fired cooking, tableside theatrics, and a deep wine program drive the experience as much as the beef. It’s built for celebratory nights and big-ticket ordering, with the kitchen strongest when you lean into its fire-roasted steaks and seafood-forward showpieces.
Must-Try Dishes: Fire Roasted Filet Mignon, Fire Roasted Seafood Tower, I Don't Give A F*@K
Scores:
Value: 6.9 Service: 8.4 Consistency: 9.1 Food Quality: 8.9 Atmosphere: 9.1 Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Wood-fired steakhouse theater paired with a serious wine program.
Who should go: Celebrations, dates, and expense-account steak nights
When to visit: Weeknights for easier reservations and smoother pacing
What to order: Fire Roasted Filet Mignon, Seafood Tower, chef’s choice menu
Insider tip: Commit to a steak plus one showpiece; keep sides tight.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available at the front; pricing varies by night. Limited street parking in the Gold Coast—rideshare or valet is the easiest option.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy. Jackets, heels, and elevated evening wear fit right in; jeans are fine if styled upscale.
Noise level: Loud and energetic. Conversation is possible at the table, but this is not a quiet steakhouse.
Weekend wait: 45–90 minutes without a reservation; bar seating can shorten the wait.
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait most days, especially earlier in the lunch window.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-driven sides and a few composed non-meat plates can make a full meal.
Vegan options: Limited. Possible with careful ordering and substitutions, but not a strength of the menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes—steaks, seafood, and many sides are naturally gluten-free; staff can guide safe choices.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want energy and impact. It’s flashy, loud, and expensive—great for confident, celebratory first dates, less ideal if you want quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but risky at night. Your best bet is arriving early, sitting at the bar, or dining late; weekends are especially competitive.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older teens than young kids. The atmosphere skews adult, loud, and late-night, with pricing and pacing that suit celebrations over family dinners.
Best For
Better for: High-energy celebrations, expense-account dinners, and diners who want steakhouse theatrics alongside top-tier beef and seafood.
Skip if: Choose a quieter, more traditional steakhouse if you want intimate conversation, classic service, or a lower-key dining room.
Maple & Ash 8.3
Near North Side
A high-energy steakhouse where fries show up as a rich, indulgent side meant to be shared alongside big-ticket mains. Go for the full experience—one steak, one standout side, fries included—because value is the trade-off for the scene and polish.
Must-Try Dishes: Truffle fries, I Don't Give a F*** tasting menu, Fire-roasted seafood tower
Scores:
Value: 6.6 Service: 8.6 Consistency: 8.7 Food Quality: 8.7 Atmosphere: 8.9 Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Upscale fries that pair with steakhouse theatrics.
Who should go: Celebration dinners with big budgets
When to visit: Weeknight reservations for smoother service
What to order: Truffle fries, steak, one shareable side
Insider tip: Order sides family-style; portions are built to share.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available; limited street parking nearby and fills quickly after 6pm.
Dress code: Dressy casual to upscale—heels, jackets, and statement outfits fit right in.
Noise level: Lively and loud—expect high energy rather than intimate conversation.
Weekend wait: 60–90 minutes without a reservation is common.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait; dinner still benefits from a reservation.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple sides and a few mains can anchor a full vegetarian meal.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with sides and modifications, but not the kitchen’s focus.
Gluten-free options: Yes—staff is knowledgeable and can guide gluten-free steak and side options.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for confident, high-energy dates than quiet get-to-know-you conversations—the scene does some of the talking for you.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible at the bar or late evening, but reservations are strongly recommended for prime dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really—this skews adult, celebratory, and nightlife-forward rather than family-oriented.
Best For
Better for: Scene-driven steakhouse dining with indulgent sides and a celebratory, see-and-be-seen vibe.
Skip if: You want a quiet steakhouse, strong value pricing, or fries as the main attraction rather than a luxe side.
Maple & Ash 8.3
Gold Coast
A high-polish Gold Coast steakhouse that runs brunch as a luxe extension of its core identity—big flavors, bold service energy, and indulgent pacing. Go in with a clear plan (one centerpiece item plus one share) so the experience feels intentional rather than excessive.
Must-Try Dishes: Seafood Tower, Filet Mignon, Ricotta Agnolotti
Scores:
Value: 6.8 Service: 8.3 Consistency: 8.5 Food Quality: 8.6 Atmosphere: 9 Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A luxury steakhouse brunch with showy, indulgent centerpiece plates.
Who should go: Celebrations with big budgets
When to visit: Brunch reservations for a smoother experience
What to order: Seafood tower, filet, a shareable side
Insider tip: Order family-style—one tower or steak plus one side goes far.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available at the entrance (price varies); several nearby paid garages; limited street parking in the immediate area.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy—jeans are acceptable, but the room leans upscale and polished.
Noise level: Loud and energetic—conversation is possible, but expect a high-volume, party-forward room.
Weekend wait: 45–90 minutes without a reservation; brunch books up quickly.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait with easier bar or table availability.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple sides and a few mains can be ordered vegetarian.
Vegan options: Very limited—best approached as a sides-based meal.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many items can be prepared gluten-free with server guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for confident, celebratory dates than low-key first meets—the volume, pricing, and energy favor bold impressions over quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible at off-peak times or by taking bar seating, but reservations are strongly recommended for brunch and weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal—the atmosphere, noise level, and menu pricing are geared toward adults and celebrations.
Best For
Better for: High-energy luxury brunches, celebratory meals, and indulgent centerpiece ordering.
Skip if: You want a quiet, intimate brunch or a value-driven steakhouse experience.
Maple & Ash 8.9
Gold Coast
A high-energy steakhouse that still lands for romance when you lean into the dim dining-room glow and shareable pacing. The kitchen’s strength is big, clean execution on prime cuts and seafood-forward starters that keep the meal feeling celebratory without getting messy.
Must-Try Dishes: Fire-Roasted Seafood Tower, Wagyu Beef Carpaccio, IDGAF Tasting Menu
Scores:
Value: 7 Service: 8.6 Consistency: 9 Food Quality: 9.1 Atmosphere: 8.8 Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: A celebration-first steakhouse with seafood-and-steak pacing that feels like an occasion.
Who should go: Anniversaries and big-date splurges
When to visit: Weeknights for steadier pacing
What to order: Seafood tower, a prime steak, one rich side
Insider tip: Start with seafood, then split one steak to keep timing tight.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available (typically $20–$25); limited street parking nearby and difficult after 6pm.
Dress code: Dressy upscale—jackets common, heels and cocktail attire fit right in; jeans allowed but should be polished.
Noise level: Lively to loud—romantic lighting but conversation requires leaning in, especially later in the evening.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation; bar seating may open sooner.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait most days; reservations still recommended for prime tables.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-forward starters and sides can form a full meal.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with modifications, but not a core strength.
Gluten-free options: Yes—steaks, seafood, and many sides are naturally gluten-free; staff is knowledgeable.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a confident or celebratory first date—the energy is high and the spend is real, which can feel like a statement.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights if you’re flexible or open to the bar, but reservations are strongly advised for dinner.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal—this is an adult, nightlife-driven dining room with limited kid-focused options.
Best For
Better for: High-energy romance, milestone dinners, and couples who want a steakhouse that feels like a scene.
Skip if: You want a quiet, intimate steakhouse or a more traditional, old-school dining room.
Maple & Ash 8.9
Gold Coast
A high-energy steakhouse built around big-ticket cuts, polished service, and a meal rhythm that feels like a celebration even on a regular night. The best experience comes from starting seafood-forward, splitting one prime steak, and keeping sides tight so the table stays on pace.
Must-Try Dishes: Seafood tower, Bone-in ribeye, Truffle mac & cheese
Scores:
Value: 7.6 Service: 8.7 Consistency: 9.1 Food Quality: 9 Atmosphere: 8.6 Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: A celebration-driven steak-and-seafood playbook with proven consistency at scale.
Who should go: Big nights and steak-first splurges
When to visit: Weeknights for smoother pacing
What to order: Seafood tower, one prime steak, one rich side
Insider tip: Split one steak instead of ordering two mains.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available at the entrance (price varies by night); limited street parking in the area and fills quickly after 6pm.
Dress code: Dressy smart casual—jeans are fine, but most guests lean polished or night-out attire.
Noise level: High-energy and loud—conversation is possible, but expect to lean in during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 60+ minutes without a reservation, often longer during peak celebration hours.
Weekday lunch: Not typically offered; Maple & Ash is primarily a dinner destination.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-driven sides and starters can be combined into a full meal.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with sides and modifications, but not a dedicated focus.
Gluten-free options: Yes—steaks, seafood, and several sides are naturally gluten-free; staff is knowledgeable about modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for confident, celebratory first dates—the energy is loud and bold, which works if you want excitement more than quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights if you arrive early, but weekends almost always require a reservation or a long bar wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really—this is an adult, nightlife-leaning steakhouse best suited for teens and up, if at all.
Best For
Better for: High-energy celebrations, buzzy steakhouse nights, and big-occasion dinners where vibe matters as much as food.
Skip if: You want a quiet, intimate steak dinner or a more traditional, hushed fine-dining experience.
Maple & Ash 8.9
Gold Coast
A high-energy Gold Coast steakhouse built for milestone dinners, with a seafood-first opening act and prime cuts that feel designed for sharing. Keep the order tight—one big steak, one or two sides—and let the room’s celebratory tempo do the rest.
Must-Try Dishes: Seafood tower, Bone-in filet, Mac & cheese
Scores:
Value: 6.8 Service: 8.6 Consistency: 9.1 Food Quality: 8.9 Atmosphere: 8.8 Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: A celebration-forward steak-and-seafood rhythm built for big nights.
Who should go: Anniversaries, birthdays, and splurge dinners
When to visit: Weeknights for smoother pacing
What to order: Seafood tower, one prime steak, one rich side
Insider tip: Split one steak—two mains can slow the table’s flow.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available (typically ~$20–$25). Street parking is limited and competitive, especially after 6pm.
Dress code: Dressy nightlife smart casual—heels, dresses, jackets fit right in. Jeans are fine if styled upscale.
Noise level: Loud and high-energy—conversation is possible but not intimate-quiet.
Weekend wait: 45–90 minutes without a reservation; bar seating may open sooner
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—dinner service only
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—strong vegetable sides and salads can form a full meal
Vegan options: Very limited—possible with side dishes and modifications
Gluten-free options: Yes—steaks, seafood, and several sides are naturally gluten-free; staff is accommodating
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for confident, high-energy dates than low-key first meetings—the vibe is bold, loud, and scene-driven.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes, but expect a long wait on weekends. Weeknights are more forgiving, especially if you’re flexible with timing or bar seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really—this is an adult, nightlife-oriented steakhouse best suited for celebrations rather than family dining.
Best For
Better for: High-energy celebrations, birthday dinners, and nights where atmosphere and spectacle matter as much as the food
Skip if: You want a quiet, romantic steakhouse or a conversation-first dinner—choose a calmer room instead
Maple & Ash 8.9
Gold Coast
A high-energy Gold Coast steakhouse where the room runs like a celebration and the menu hits hardest when you keep it classic: seafood first, one prime cut, then a tight finish. It’s a scene, but the kitchen’s core execution holds up when you order in a focused lane.
Must-Try Dishes: Seafood tower, Dry-aged ribeye, IDGAF Sundae
Scores:
Value: 7.4 Service: 8.7 Consistency: 9.1 Food Quality: 9.1 Atmosphere: 9.2 Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: A steak-and-seafood playbook built for big-night energy.
Who should go: Celebration dinners and dress-up nights
When to visit: Weeknights for smoother pacing
What to order: Seafood tower, one prime steak, IDGAF Sundae
Insider tip: Split one big steak and add one side—stay tight.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available at the restaurant; street parking in the Gold Coast is limited and competitive after 6pm. Rideshare is often the least stressful option on weekends.
Dress code: Dressy trendy—heels, jackets, and statement pieces fit right in. Jeans are fine if styled well, but this is not a low-key casual room.
Noise level: Loud and energetic—expect raised voices across the table, especially later at night.
Weekend wait: 45–90 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a short one
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable sides and a few shareable starters can be combined into a full meal.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with modifications, but not a core strength of the menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many proteins and sides are naturally gluten-free; staff is accustomed to accommodating requests.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for confident, high-energy first dates than quiet get-to-know-you conversations—the room is loud and theatrical, which works best if you lean into the scene.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights if you arrive early, but weekends are tough—bar seating or a late-night walk-in is your best bet without a booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really—this is an adult, celebration-driven dining room with high noise, dim lighting, and a late-night crowd.
Best For
Better for: High-energy celebrations, birthday dinners, and nights where atmosphere matters as much as the steak.
Skip if: You want a quiet steakhouse meal, detailed wine conversations, or a relaxed pace—choose a more traditional or subdued room instead.
Maple & Ash 8.9
Gold Coast
A high-energy Gold Coast steakhouse built for big tables and big moments, with a private-events program that actually matches the room’s ambition. The kitchen shines most when you stay classic—seafood first, then a prime cut and a tight set of sides—so the pacing stays celebratory instead of chaotic.
Must-Try Dishes: Fire-Roasted Seafood Tower, Dry-Aged Meatballs, Fork & Knife Caesar Salad
Scores:
Value: 7.1 Service: 8.6 Consistency: 9.1 Food Quality: 9.1 Atmosphere: 9.3 Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: A scene-forward steakhouse with event spaces built for polished private dining.
Who should go: Celebrations, client dinners, and big-group milestones
When to visit: Weeknights for smoother pacing and service
What to order: Seafood tower, prime steak, dry-aged meatballs
Insider tip: Keep the order tight—one steak, one tower, two sides.
Maple & Ash 9.1
Gold Coast
A Gold Coast power-room where the bar program and high-heat steakhouse cooking make happy hour feel like a pregame for a big night. The best move is to post up at the bar, lean into their small bites and martini lane, and keep the order tight before the room turns fully dinner-mode.
Must-Try Dishes: Tiny Tinis, Sushi hand rolls, Dry-aged steak bites
Scores:
Value: 7.3 Service: 8.8 Consistency: 9.2 Food Quality: 9.2 Atmosphere: 9 Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: A high-energy Gold Coast steakhouse with bar-led happy hour momentum.
Who should go: After-work crews who want upscale drinks
When to visit: Weekdays at happy hour start
What to order: Mini martinis, hand rolls, steak-forward bites
Insider tip: Grab bar seats early; order one round, then decide on dinner.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available; limited street parking nearby and fills quickly after 5pm.
Dress code: Dressy, upscale — smart casual won’t feel out of place, but most guests lean polished and elevated.
Noise level: High — energetic bar-room buzz; conversation is possible but not intimate.
Weekend wait: 60–90 minutes without a reservation; bar seating moves faster early.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable — several sides and vegetable-forward dishes.
Vegan options: Very limited — best to review options in advance or ask the server.
Gluten-free options: Yes — many naturally gluten-free items; staff is knowledgeable about accommodations.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want high energy and a glamorous vibe — less ideal if you’re looking for quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Bar seating is the best bet, especially early in happy hour; full tables are tough without planning ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really — this is an adult-focused steakhouse, especially in the evening.
Best For
Better for: High-energy happy hours, premium cocktails, and a see-and-be-seen steakhouse atmosphere.
Skip if: You want a quiet, budget-friendly, or conversation-first happy hour.
Maple & Ash 8.9
Gold Coast
A sultry, high-energy Gold Coast steakhouse built around wood-fired steaks and a scene-y dining room that leans celebratory without losing culinary seriousness. Come for a classic steakhouse rhythm—prime cuts, rich sides, and polished service—then let the room’s late-night buzz carry the rest of the date.
Must-Try Dishes: Dry-aged bone-in ribeye, Filet mignon, Meatball appetizer
Scores:
Value: 7.8 Service: 8.6 Consistency: 9.1 Food Quality: 9.1 Atmosphere: 9.2 Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: A modern, wood-fired steakhouse with a nightlife-grade dining room.
Who should go: Couples who want steak plus a lively scene
When to visit: Weeknights early or late-night weekends
What to order: Ribeye, filet, meatballs to start
Insider tip: Book earlier for calmer pacing; late reservations skew louder.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available on-site; pricing varies by night. Limited street parking nearby, especially tight after 6pm.
Dress code: Dressy smart casual to upscale—heels, jackets, and polished looks fit the room; jeans are fine if styled.
Noise level: Loud—high-energy dining room where conversation is possible but not intimate during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 45–90 minutes without a reservation during peak Friday/Saturday nights.
Weekday lunch: Lunch service is limited; when offered, waits are typically minimal with a reservation.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several substantial sides and a few composed vegetarian options can make a full meal.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with modifications; best to ask the server for guidance.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many naturally gluten-free proteins and sides; staff is knowledgeable about modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want energy and spectacle. It’s memorable and confidence-forward, but better for bold personalities than quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes, but expect a long wait on weekends. Bar seating or late-night arrivals improve your odds.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal. The scene skews adult and late-night; better for celebrations and date nights than families.
Best For
Better for: High-energy date nights, celebrations, and a modern steakhouse scene that feels like nightlife with great food.
Skip if: You want a quiet, romantic steakhouse or classic old-school service—choose a calmer, traditional room instead.