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Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue
Master Critic Review
Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue
8.6
A Streeterville institution since the late 1970s, Carson’s builds its reputation on char-broiled baby back ribs, smoky sauces, and generous combo platters served in a clubby, dimly lit dining room. It’s the move when you want ribs to be the centerpiece but still want steakhouse comforts and a full bar.
Must-Try Dishes:
Full Slab BBQ Baby Back Ribs, BBQ Marriage (half slab ribs and half chicken), Charcrusted Bone-In Pork Chop
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Long-running Chicago rib house where baby backs and combo platters dominate.
Who should go: Rib-focused diners wanting old-school portions and cocktails.
When to visit: Early weekend evenings before pre-show and boat-tour rush.
What to order: Full slab ribs, BBQ Marriage combo, loaded baked potato.
Insider tip: Share a combo platter and supplement with sides instead of two entrées.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Streeterville is garage-heavy — expect nearby self-park garages and limited metered street parking; the restaurant has historically offered validated garage options at select times (call ahead to confirm on your visit).
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans and sweaters are fine, but the room leans classic steakhouse (collared shirts and nicer layers feel most at home).
Noise level: Moderate to lively during peak dinner — you can hold a conversation at a normal tone, but large parties and bar traffic raise volume on weekends.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation during prime hours, especially before shows and river/boat-tour departures.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait, with tables available outside of peak business-lunch windows.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable — salads, sides, and a few non-rib entrées can be built into a meal.
Vegan options: Very limited — menu is built around ribs, steaks, and dairy-leaning sides; plan ahead if fully plant-based.
Gluten-free options: Several rib and steak preparations can be accommodated on request; confirm sauces and sides with your server.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the dim, clubby dining room and classic cocktails create a comfortable, slightly nostalgic atmosphere, especially if your date appreciates old-school Chicago dining.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, particularly at weekday lunch or early dinner, but expect waits on weekends and pre-event nights — arriving early or sitting in the bar can speed things up.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably — portions are shareable and booths work well for families, though the vibe skews adult and evenings can run loud for very young children.
Best For
Better for: Rib-centric meals with classic steakhouse comforts — generous portions, combo platters, and a traditional Chicago supper-club feel.
Skip if: You want contemporary BBQ styles, lighter menus, or wide vegan/vegetarian coverage — a more modern smokehouse or casual spot will fit better.