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Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
Master Critic Reviews (6 Lists)
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
8.9
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Business Lunch Power Players
Group Dining Gatherings
Trendy Table Hotspots
Gibsons is the archetypal Gold Coast steakhouse, where hulking USDA Prime cuts, stiff cocktails, and a perpetual buzz draw locals, tourists, and celebrities into the wood-paneled dining room. Portions are oversized, the energy leans party-like, and decades of repeat business have turned it into a default choice for both celebrations and business dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
W.R.'s Chicago Cut bone-in ribeye, Chicago-style bone-in filet mignon, Carrot cake slice
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Classic Chicago steakhouse institution where oversized prime steaks meet big-night energy.
Who should go: Steak traditionalists, client dinners, and celebration groups.
When to visit: Prime weekend evenings for maximum buzz and people-watching.
What to order: W.R.'s Chicago Cut, bone-in filet, shared carrot cake.
Insider tip: Request an upstairs table overlooking Rush Street if you want peak scene.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available on Rush Street (typically $18–$25); neighborhood street parking is scarce, especially evenings
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — jackets and dresses common, dark jeans acceptable
Noise level: Loud and high-energy — conversation is possible but not intimate during peak hours
Weekend wait: 45–90 minutes without a reservation; bar seating sometimes faster
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, though prime business days can fill up
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — a few salads, sides, and occasional pasta or veggie plates
Vegan options: Very limited — mainly salads and custom sides upon request
Gluten-free options: Yes — many steaks and seafood dishes are naturally gluten-free; staff can guide modifications
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for bold, celebratory dates than quiet romance — the room is lively, crowded, and scene-driven rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes — expect a long wait during peak times; arriving early, joining the wait list, or sitting in the bar area improves your chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids and teens — large booths, shareable portions, and friendly service work well, but the volume and late dinners may overwhelm very young children.
Best For
Better for: Big-night celebratory steakhouse energy, oversized cuts, people-watching, and classic Chicago hospitality
Skip if: You want a quiet, romantic meal, cutting-edge cuisine, or extensive vegetarian/vegan options
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
8.7
Vibes:
Luxury Dining Elite
Birthday & Celebration Central
Date Night Magic
Business Lunch Power Players
An iconic 1989 Gold Coast steakhouse where Flintstone-scale steaks share the menu with hickory-smoked baby back ribs glazed in house barbecue sauce. It’s where power lunches, convention dinners, and birthday parties converge over classic sides, martinis, and big-portion Midwestern hospitality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Whole Slab Baby Back Pork Ribs with Gibsons BBQ sauce, W.R. Chicago Cut Ribeye, Double Baked Potato
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Classic Chicago steakhouse where hickory-smoked ribs rival the steaks.
Who should go: Steakhouse crowds wanting ribs, martinis, and celebratory energy.
When to visit: Prime weekend dinner slots for full bar and dining-room buzz.
What to order: Full slab baby back ribs, Chicago Cut ribeye, double baked potato.
Insider tip: Ask for bar seats or the upstairs room if the main floor is packed.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available at the front entrance (typically paid); nearby garage parking and limited metered street parking in the neighborhood
Dress code: Smart casual to business casual — jackets and dresses common, jeans acceptable if neat
Noise level: Lively and loud during peak hours — conversation is possible but expect raised voices at busy tables
Weekend wait: Often 45–90 minutes without a reservation; bar seating may open sooner
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait with a reservation; short waits possible during convention weeks
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some salads, sides, and a few entrées can be made vegetarian on request — limited but workable
Vegan options: Very limited — most dishes require modification; best to call ahead for accommodations
Gluten-free options: Yes — several steaks, chops, salads, and sides can be prepared gluten-free on request
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a classic, high-energy Chicago steakhouse experience — the room is lively and celebratory rather than intimate or quiet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, but expect a wait during peak hours. Arrive early, add your name with the host, and consider bar or lounge seating for faster placement.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids and teens — large booths, generous portions, and a professional service style; not ideal for toddlers during late peak dinner hours.
Best For
Better for: Big-portion steakhouse dining, celebratory dinners, business meals, and classic Chicago hospitality with ribs that hold their own against the steaks.
Skip if: You want a quiet, intimate meal, lighter contemporary menus, or a strictly vegan/plant-based experience.
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
8.6
A classic Rush Street steakhouse since 1989, Gibsons turns out oversized prime Angus cuts, seafood platters, and towering desserts in a loud, clubby room. Thousands of reviews and a decades-long run make it the neighborhood’s default special-occasion steak stop for both locals and visitors.
Must-Try Dishes:
WR Chicago Cut bone-in ribeye, Filet mignon with creamed spinach, Macadamia Turtle Pie
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 9.3
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: An old-school Chicago steakhouse where massive steaks and throwback hospitality anchor big nights out.
Who should go: Steak lovers planning celebratory, classic Chicago evenings.
When to visit: Prime weekend dinners for peak buzz and full menu.
What to order: WR Chicago Cut, filet mignon, Macadamia Turtle Pie.
Insider tip: Book ahead and request a window or patio-adjacent table for livelier people-watching without the noisiest center tables.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet service on Rush Street (typically $20–$25); street parking is very limited and difficult after 6pm.
Dress code: Classic steakhouse smart casual — jeans are acceptable, but most guests lean dressy with jackets or polished outfits.
Noise level: Loud and energetic — conversation is possible but can require raised voices during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation during prime hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait; walk-ins are often seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable — salads, sides, and a few pasta or vegetable preparations depending on season.
Vegan options: Very limited — sides and salads may be modified, but there is no dedicated vegan entrée.
Gluten-free options: Yes — many steaks and seafood dishes are naturally gluten-free; staff can guide substitutions for sauces and sides.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a big, classic Chicago steakhouse experience — the room is lively and celebratory, but it’s not ideal for quiet or intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially at the bar or patio when available, but waits can be long on weekends — arriving early or near opening improves your chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids and teens who can handle a busy, upscale dining room; high chairs are limited and the menu skews adult, but staff is accommodating for families.
Best For
Better for: Large celebratory meals, classic Chicago steakhouse atmosphere, oversized cuts, and energetic big-night-out vibes.
Skip if: You want a quiet, intimate dinner, strictly plant-based options, or a modern/minimalist steakhouse experience.
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
8.7
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Business Lunch Power Players
Group Dining Gatherings
Date Night Magic
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse is a Rush Street landmark where prime Angus steaks, oversized sides, and old-school martinis pack multiple levels of dining rooms and private spaces. Its upstairs and side-room private dining options are a default choice for client dinners, birthdays, and clubby group outings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicago Cut Ribeye, Filet Mignon, Carrot Cake
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Iconic Rush Street steakhouse with classic clubby private dining rooms.
Who should go: Steak fans wanting throwback energy and serious martini culture.
When to visit: Prime weekend slots for peak buzz; earlier for quieter groups.
What to order: Chicago Cut ribeye, filet mignon, gigantic carrot cake slice.
Insider tip: Request a side room off the main floor for more privacy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet service available along Rush Street; street parking is scarce and nearby garages are the most reliable option
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — jackets and dresses common, jeans acceptable if polished
Noise level: Lively and loud during peak hours — conversation is easier in private rooms or earlier seatings
Weekend wait: Often 45–90 minutes without a reservation; bar seating may open sooner
Weekday lunch: Generally minimal wait, though prime business lunch hours can fill up
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable — salads, sides, and a few seafood/pasta options
Vegan options: Very limited — best to call ahead to confirm accommodations
Gluten-free options: Many steaks and seafood plates can be prepared gluten-free on request, but there is no fully separate prep area
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a classic, high-energy Chicago steakhouse with old-school charm; less ideal if you prefer a quiet, intimate setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — arrive early or be flexible with bar seating or side rooms; during peak weekends, expect a wait or join the list.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families during earlier dinner hours; portions are large and service is accommodating, but the vibe becomes adult-oriented and louder later in the evening.
Best For
Better for: Large-format steaks, classic service, and well-run private dining rooms for celebrations, client dinners, and group outings
Skip if: You want a quiet, modern, or chef-driven tasting menu experience, or prefer lighter, trend-leaning cuisine
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
8.9
Rush Street’s classic power steakhouse stays open until midnight, drawing industry folks, tourists, and locals for oversized cuts and late-night martinis. It’s one of the city’s most validated steakhouses, with decades of high-volume praise and a bar that hums well past typical dinner hours.
Must-Try Dishes:
W.R. Chicago Cut, Filet Mignon, Macadamia Turtle Pie
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 9
Consistency: 9.3
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: A long-running Rush Street steakhouse where huge cuts and midnight hours define the experience.
Who should go: Steak lovers wanting a lively, old-school Chicago scene.
When to visit: 9–11 p.m. for peak bar buzz and late tables.
What to order: W.R. Chicago Cut, filet mignon, Macadamia Turtle Pie.
Insider tip: If you can’t snag a table, eat at the bar—full menu, same energy, and usually quicker seating.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available on Rush Street (rates vary by time of day); metered street parking is limited and difficult after dinner hours.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — blazers, dresses, and polished denim are common; athletic wear and flip-flops will feel out of place.
Noise level: Loud — the bar and dining room run energetic and conversational but not intimate during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–90 minutes without a reservation after 8 p.m., especially if requesting the main dining room.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait; walk-ins are often seated quickly at the bar or patio in season.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable — salads, sides, and a few composed non-steak entrees can be built into a meal.
Vegan options: Very limited — you’ll be relying on modified salads and select sides; best to ask the server for accommodations.
Gluten-free options: Yes — many steaks and seafood dishes are naturally gluten-free, and staff can guide substitutions for sauces and sides.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a high-energy, classic Chicago steakhouse scene — it’s impressive and lively, but conversation can be tough during peak hours.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes — walk-ins are frequently seated at the bar or on later tables, but expect a wait on weekends and after 8 p.m.; add your name and stay nearby.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids and teens comfortable in a formal steakhouse setting; younger children are welcome but there are no kid-specific amenities.
Best For
Better for: Late-night dining, big-cut steaks, classic Chicago atmosphere, and a lively bar scene that runs later than most steakhouses.
Skip if: You want a quiet, intimate dinner, a modern/minimalist steak program, or extensive vegan/vegetarian options.
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
8.9
Gibsons is the classic Rush Street steakhouse where late-night martinis and a substantial prime Angus burger share the stage with oversized steaks. The bar and dining room stay lively past typical dinner hours, making it a go-to spot when you want a serious burger in a celebratory, old-school Chicago setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Burger (8 oz Gibsons Prime Angus), Charbroiled Cheeseburger, Macadamia Turtle Pie
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 9.1
Consistency: 9.4
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 9.3
What makes it special: A 1989-born Chicago steakhouse icon where a prime burger rides alongside giant steaks until midnight.
Who should go: Steak and burger lovers wanting classic late-night Chicago energy.
When to visit: 9–11 p.m. for peak bar buzz and late tables.
What to order: Classic Burger, W.R. Chicago Cut, Macadamia Turtle Pie.
Insider tip: Skip the bar rush by reserving a later table, then order the burger medium with a side of fries to share.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available on Rush Street (typically paid); street parking is limited and competitive at night.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — jackets and polished attire fit the room; jeans are acceptable if neat.
Noise level: Lively and loud during late hours — conversation is possible but expect bar-scene energy.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation; bar seats may turn faster late.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait with a reservation; walk-ins may wait 10–20 minutes during peak business hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable — salads, sides, and a few non-meat plates with modifications.
Vegan options: Very limited — expect to rely on salads and vegetable sides; confirm with server for modifications.
Gluten-free options: Good accommodation — steaks and many mains can be prepared gluten-free on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want classic Chicago energy and a lively, celebratory room — less ideal if you prefer quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, but expect a wait during prime hours; add your name with the host and consider starting at the bar while you wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids and teens who can handle a bustling steakhouse; portions are large and there is no dedicated kids menu.
Best For
Better for: Late-night dining with a serious burger and classic steakhouse atmosphere where service, history, and crowd energy matter.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, budget pricing, or a casual burger-focused spot without the white-tablecloth steakhouse experience.
Hours
Monday11am - 12am
Tuesday11am - 12am
Wednesday11am - 12am
Thursday11am - 12am
Friday11am - 12am
Saturday11am - 12am
Sunday11am - 12am