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Hawksmoor Chicago
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Hawksmoor Chicago
8.6
The acclaimed British steakhouse’s Chicago outpost works out of the landmark LaSalle Street Cable Car Powerhouse, grilling long-aged steaks over charcoal and backing them with a serious cocktail program. It reads as both a destination for steak purists and a bar-forward hangout.
Must-Try Dishes:
Charcoal-grilled ribeye, Bone marrow and onions, Sticky toffee pudding
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Charcoal-grilled British-style steaks served in a restored industrial landmark.
Who should go: Steak and cocktail fans chasing a newer import name.
When to visit: Later weeknights for Steak After 8 deals and bar energy.
What to order: Charcoal-grilled ribeye, bone marrow and onions, sticky toffee pudding.
Insider tip: Check the Beef & Liberty Bar offerings if you prefer a lighter, snacky visit.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated valet; most guests use nearby paid garages or rideshare. Street parking is limited in the area, especially evenings.
Dress code: Smart casual — guests tend to lean polished (boots, blazers, dresses), but upscale jeans are acceptable.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — conversation is possible at tables, but the bar and peak dinner hours can feel energetic.
Weekend wait: Often fully booked; expect to rely on bar seating or cancellations without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or short wait, depending on convention and downtown traffic.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but present — a few vegetable-forward plates and sides can form a meal.
Vegan options: Very limited — menu skews steak-centric; confirm options with the server.
Gluten-free options: Several items can be prepared gluten-free on request; staff is accustomed to accommodating but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the moody dining room and strong cocktail program create a polished, special-occasion feel, especially for couples who enjoy steakhouse dining.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — bar and lounge seats are your best bet. For dining room tables, walk-ins are hit-or-miss, especially on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially — it skews adult, cocktail-forward, and celebratory. Older teens may be fine, but families with young children may be more comfortable elsewhere.
Best For
Better for: Charcoal-grilled, long-aged steaks, a serious cocktail program, and a dramatic historic setting that feels more bar-forward than many classic steakhouses.
Skip if: You want a quiet, traditional Chicago steakhouse vibe, broader casual entrée options, or a menu with strong vegan/vegetarian breadth.
Hawksmoor Chicago
8.1
Hawksmoor brings a London-born steakhouse to a historic River North power building, focusing on charcoal-grilled dry-aged beef, a serious Sunday roast, and a strong cocktail program. Multiple private dining rooms upstairs let groups build steak-focused feasts in a setting that feels more clubby than corporate.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dry-Aged Ribeye Steak, Sunday Roast with All the Trimmings, Sticky Toffee Pudding
Scores:
Value: 6
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Charcoal-grilled, dry-aged steakhouse with purpose-built private dining floors.
Who should go: Steak-focused groups ready to splurge on beef.
When to visit: Sunday afternoons or dinner for roasts and big cuts.
What to order: Ribeye, Sunday Roast, sticky toffee pudding.
Insider tip: Ask about sharing cuts and set menus for smoother large-format service.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available most evenings; nearby garages within 1–2 blocks; street parking is limited during peak hours
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans are fine, but most guests lean polished or business-casual
Noise level: Moderate to lively during dinner; conversation is comfortable at tables but the bar area can run loud
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes at the bar without a reservation; private rooms and prime tables typically require advance booking
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or short wait outside peak business lunch windows
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but thoughtful — a few starters and sides plus occasional mains
Vegan options: Very limited — typically 1–2 modifiable items; best to call ahead for group menus
Gluten-free options: Good coverage — steaks and many sides are naturally GF; staff can guide on sauces and cross-contact
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the room feels polished and intimate without being stiff, and split steaks and cocktails make for a shared, conversation-friendly meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — the bar and limited tables may open up, but weekend dinners book quickly. Walk-ins are more realistic earlier in the evening or at lunch.
Is it kid-friendly? Occasionally — older kids and teens are fine for earlier seatings, but the vibe skews adult and business-dinner oriented; no dedicated kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Private dining and group steak feasts in a club-style setting with strong cocktails and a standout Sunday roast program
Skip if: You want a casual, budget steak night, highly customizable vegan dining, or a quiet room during peak weekend hours