Steak 48 Chicago Menu: Prices & Signature Dishes
Knowing the menu details helps guests plan their visit to this upscale restaurant. This guide covers what to expect at this premier River North steakhouse.
The restaurant specializes in USDA Prime beef and Japanese A5 Wagyu. Each cut meets strict quality standards. The kitchen prepares orders to precise specifications.
The establishment also offers premium seafood and signature sides. Fresh ingredients arrive daily. The culinary team creates dishes that perfectly complement the main courses.
Steak 48 prices range from moderate to premium. The quality justifies the cost for special occasions and celebrations.
This article provides accurate pricing for appetizers, entrées, sides, and desserts. Use this info to make confident reservation decisions.
About Steak 48 Chicago: Upscale Steakhouse Excellence
Steak 48 brings modern sophistication to Chicago’s legendary steakhouse scene in River North. This upscale dining spot blends traditional values with contemporary culinary innovation. It’s a top choice for locals and visitors seeking exceptional meals.
The restaurant’s mission is clear: deliver outstanding food and service every time. Attention to detail defines the entire dining experience. Guests encounter refinement from the moment they arrive.
River North Location and Sophisticated Ambiance
Steak 48 Chicago is at 615 N Wabash Avenue in River North’s heart. It’s near major hotels, shopping districts, and cultural attractions. Public transport and rideshare services offer easy access.
Several parking options are available for guests arriving by car. Nearby parking garages serve the River North area.
- Self-park facilities within two blocks of the restaurant
- Valet parking services at select nearby locations
- Street parking with metered spots on surrounding streets
The interior design showcases elegant modern aesthetics. Rich wood finishes, leather seating, and soft lighting create an inviting atmosphere. The dining room offers booth seating and tables for different party sizes.
Private dining spaces are available for special occasions and business gatherings. These rooms maintain the sophisticated ambiance while offering intimacy. The restaurant can host celebrations, corporate events, and milestones with customized service.
The Steak 48 Difference: Quality and Service
Steak 48 stands out due to its unwavering commitment to quality. They source only USDA Prime beef and premium ingredients. Ribeye steaks undergo a 28-day dry-aging process to enhance flavor and tenderness.
Every cut of meat meets strict standards before reaching the kitchen. This selection process ensures consistent excellence across all offerings. Japanese A5 Wagyu represents the menu’s finest beef quality.
The service model emphasizes attentive hospitality without being intrusive. Servers receive thorough training on menu items, preparation methods, and wine pairings. Table-side presentations add an interactive element to dining.
Making steak 48 reservations is highly recommended, especially for weekend dining. Book online or by phone. Walk-ins are welcome when space allows, but booking ensures preferred seating times.
The dress code reflects the restaurant’s upscale nature. Business casual attire is the minimum standard. Guests should dress to match the refined atmosphere. These standards preserve the sophisticated dining environment.
Special requests receive careful attention during the reservation process. The staff coordinates details in advance for celebrations or business dinners. This approach ensures every visit meets expectations and creates lasting memories.
Steak 48 Chicago Menu: What to Expect
Steak 48 Chicago offers a menu focused on top-quality beef and thoughtful presentation. It blends traditional steakhouse favorites with modern cooking techniques. The menu showcases premium ingredients and expert preparation.
Guests can customize their meals by choosing cuts, cooking methods, and sides. This flexibility allows diners to create a personalized experience. Groups can also tailor their meals to suit everyone’s tastes.
Premium Beef Standards and Sourcing
The menu’s cornerstone is USDA Prime beef, representing the top 2% of U.S. beef. Prime beef has rich marbling for superior flavor and tenderness.
Steak 48 partners with trusted American ranchers who meet strict quality standards. They also offer authentic Japanese A5 Wagyu from certified Japanese farms. This is the highest grade of Wagyu, known for intense marbling.
Many steaks undergo a proprietary dry-aging process to enhance flavor and tenderness. This technique concentrates beef flavors and breaks down muscle fibers. It creates the unique taste profile of prime Chicago steaks.
How the Menu is Organized
The steak 48 chicago menu has a clear structure to guide diners. Categories include:
- Chilled and Hot Appetizers – Raw bar selections, seafood towers, and signature starters
- Premium Steaks – USDA Prime cuts, dry-aged options, and Japanese Wagyu
- Fresh Seafood – Daily catches, lobster, and shellfish preparations
- Alternative Entrees – Poultry, lamb, and vegetarian selections
- Sides – Vegetables, potatoes, and signature accompaniments
- Desserts – House-made sweets and classic finishes
Steak 48 uses an à la carte pricing model. Steaks and entrees are priced individually, with sides ordered separately. This lets diners choose exactly what they want without extras.
The menu features seasonal variations to highlight fresh ingredients. Chef specials and limited-time offers appear throughout the year. Regular items stay consistent for guests to enjoy their favorites.
Understanding Portions and Sharing
Steak 48 Chicago serves generous portions to satisfy hearty appetites. Individual steaks range from 8 to 22 ounces. Larger cuts like the Porterhouse can serve two or more diners.
The table below provides serving recommendations based on cut size:
| Steak Size | Recommended Servings | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 8-10 oz | 1 person | Individual dining, lighter appetite |
| 12-16 oz | 1-2 people | Standard portion, some sharing |
| 20-22 oz | 2 people | Sharing between two diners |
| 40+ oz (Porterhouse) | 2-3 people | Group sharing, special occasions |
Appetizers are great for family-style sharing across the table. Most starters serve 2-4 people when split. Seafood towers and chilled platters are especially good for sharing.
Side dishes usually serve 2-3 diners. Groups should order one side for every two people. This ensures everyone gets a taste without ordering too much.
For larger groups, the restaurant suggests a mix of cuts and sizes. This lets guests try different flavors and textures. Staff can help choose the right amount based on group size and preferences.
Premium Appetizers and Starters with Prices
Diners can choose from an impressive range of appetizers at this chicago fine dining destination. The starter menu offers traditional steakhouse favorites and contemporary creations. Each dish reflects the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and expert preparation.
Steak 48 prices for appetizers range from $18 to $32. Portion sizes are designed for sharing or individual enjoyment. The menu includes chilled seafood options and signature hot preparations.
Chilled Seafood Selections
The cold appetizer section highlights premium seafood. These dishes arrive perfectly chilled and beautifully presented. Natural flavors shine through with classic preparation methods.
The Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail features six large shrimp with house-made cocktail sauce. Each shrimp measures about four inches, justifying the premium pricing. The sauce balances horseradish heat with tomato sweetness.
Presentation includes a classic martini glass setup with crushed ice. Fresh lemon wedges accompany the dish for a citrus accent. The shrimp are deveined and butterflied for easy eating.
East and West Coast Oysters – $24-32
Fresh oysters represent daily selections from both coasts. The East and West Coast Oysters typically include 6-8 oysters per order. Pricing varies between $24 and $32 based on the specific oyster types available.
Each order comes with mignonette sauce, cocktail sauce, and fresh lemon. The restaurant often features 3-4 different oyster types per service. Popular varieties include Blue Point, Kumamoto, and Wellfleet.
Staff members provide detailed descriptions of each oyster’s flavor profile. This helps diners select varieties that match their taste preferences. Options range from briny and crisp to sweet and buttery.
Signature Hot Starters
Hot appetizers showcase culinary creativity while maintaining quality. These dishes feature complex preparations. The chicago fine dining experience shines through in the attention to detail and flavor layering.
She-Crab Soup – $18
The She-Crab Soup offers a traditional Charleston-style preparation with a rich, creamy base. Generous portions of lump crab meat fill each bowl. A splash of dry sherry adds depth and complexity.
This starter arrives hot with oyster crackers on the side. The creamy consistency feels indulgent without being heavy. At $18, it’s one of the more accessible appetizers on the menu.
Wagyu Beef Dumplings – $22
The Wagyu Beef Dumplings combine premium beef with Asian-inspired techniques. Each order includes five pan-seared dumplings with a crispy bottom. The filling features ground wagyu beef mixed with aromatic vegetables.
A savory soy-based dipping sauce accompanies the dumplings. The portion size works well for sharing or as an individual starter. These dumplings blend steakhouse quality with creative execution.
Crispy Lobster Tail – $32
The Crispy Lobster Tail delivers a show-stopping presentation. It’s tempura-battered and flash-fried, creating a delicate crunch around tender meat. Each order features a full lobster tail, typically 5-6 ounces.
The dish comes with drawn butter and spicy aioli. This dual-sauce approach lets diners customize their flavor experience. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the succulent lobster inside.
Many guests share this appetizer among three or four people. The preparation sets it apart from traditional lobster presentations. Understanding steak 48 prices helps diners budget for this premium starter.
Signature Steaks: The Main Attraction
Steak 48 Chicago offers some of the best steaks Chicago has to offer. Each cut is hand-selected for superior marbling, tenderness, and flavor. The restaurant prepares every steak to your preferred temperature.
Diners can choose from classic American cuts and rare Japanese selections. All steaks arrive perfectly seared with a rich crust and juicy interior. The presentation highlights the quality and craftsmanship of each dish.
Dry-Aged Prime Ribeyes
Steak 48’s dry-aging process transforms USDA Prime beef into something extraordinary. Each ribeye ages for 28 days in temperature-controlled rooms. This method enhances flavor and tenderness.
The aging breaks down muscle fibers and reduces moisture. The result is a deeper, nuttier flavor with exceptional texture. These prime steaks Chicago diners seek deliver an unforgettable experience.
18-Ounce Bone-In Ribeye – $89
This cut offers generous marbling throughout the meat. The bone adds extra flavor during cooking. Price: $89
The 18-ounce portion satisfies hearty appetites without overwhelming most diners. Rich, buttery fat ribbons melt during cooking, basting the meat naturally. The bone-in preparation keeps the steak moist.
Simple seasoning of salt and pepper is recommended. The natural beef flavor shines without heavy sauces. Most guests order this cut medium-rare to medium.
48-Ounce Tomahawk Ribeye – $185
The Tomahawk is the ultimate steakhouse showpiece. This dramatic cut features a full rib bone extending 6-8 inches. Price: $185
The 48-ounce serving feeds 2-3 people comfortably. Servers present this steak tableside for maximum impact. The extended bone provides a natural handle.
Massive marbling creates incredible richness with every bite. This cut takes longer to cook due to its size. Sharing this impressive selection is recommended.
Filet Mignon Selections
Filet mignon comes from the tenderloin, the most tender beef section. This cut has minimal fat and exceptional softness. Its buttery texture makes it a favorite among steak lovers.
Steak 48 uses center-cut filets for consistent quality. Each piece is trimmed perfectly with no excess fat. The mild beef flavor pairs well with various sauces and sides.
8-Ounce Center-Cut Filet – $62
This smaller portion suits diners preferring lighter meals. The 8-ounce filet at $62 delivers premium quality in a manageable size. Perfect tenderness characterizes every bite.
The center-cut ensures uniform thickness for even cooking. This consistency guarantees your preferred temperature throughout. Many guests pair this with seafood appetizers for surf-and-turf.
12-Ounce Filet Mignon – $78
The larger filet option provides more satisfaction while maintaining signature tenderness. Priced at $78, this cut balances portion size with delicate texture. Its thickness allows for beautiful crust development.
This size suits those wanting a complete steak dinner without extreme portions. The mild flavor welcomes bold accompaniments like béarnaise or peppercorn sauce. It’s the most popular filet choice.
Japanese A5 Wagyu Experience
A5 is the highest grade of Japanese beef available. The grading system evaluates marbling, color, firmness, and fat quality. Only the top tier earns the A5 designation.
A5 Wagyu’s marbling creates an almost lace-like appearance. Fat content reaches levels impossible in American beef breeds. This extreme marbling produces a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Wagyu’s unique fatty acid composition gives it a distinctive rich flavor. The beef melts at lower temperatures than conventional steaks. This creates an unparalleled dining experience.
A5 Wagyu Striploin – $48 per ounce
The A5 Wagyu Striploin costs $48 per ounce due to its rarity and quality. The restaurant suggests 3-4 ounces per person. Smaller portions prevent palate fatigue from the intense richness.
A 3-ounce serving totals $144, while a 4-ounce portion reaches $192. Staff prepares Wagyu simply to showcase its natural characteristics. Light seasoning allows the beef’s flavor to dominate.
The striploin balances tenderness with substantial beef flavor. Its extraordinary marbling requires less cooking time than traditional steaks. Most guests order Wagyu medium-rare or rare.
New York Strip and Porterhouse Options
The New York Strip offers excellent marbling with robust beef flavor. This cut comes from the short loin, providing ideal texture. Strip steaks deliver a more pronounced taste than filet mignon.
Its firm texture holds up well to high-heat searing. A fat cap along one edge bastes the meat during cooking. This cut appeals to diners seeking classic steakhouse flavors.
16-Ounce New York Strip – $72
This generous strip steak weighs one full pound of premium beef. Priced at $72, it offers excellent value for the portion size. The balanced marbling creates rich flavor without overwhelming richness.
The 16-ounce size satisfies substantial appetites with traditional steak character. Its firm texture provides satisfying chew alongside tender juiciness. Bold seasoning and simple preparation highlight the quality beef.
Many steak purists consider the New York Strip ideal. Its flavor surpasses filet while maintaining excellent tenderness. This cut pairs well with classic sides like creamed spinach.
| Steak Cut | Weight/Size | Price | Best For | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bone-In Ribeye | 18 oz | $89 | Rich flavor lovers | Intensely marbled, buttery |
| Tomahawk Ribeye | 48 oz | $185 | Sharing (2-3 people) | Maximum marbling, showpiece |
| Center-Cut Filet | 8 oz | $62 | Lighter appetites | Mild, exceptionally tender |
| Filet Mignon | 12 oz | $78 | Classic elegance | Buttery, refined texture |
| A5 Wagyu Striploin | Per ounce | $48/oz | Special occasions | Ultra-rich, melt-in-mouth |
| New York Strip | 16 oz | $72 | Traditional steak fans | Robust beef, balanced |
Steak 48 Chicago prepares all steaks to your exact specifications. The kitchen offers temperatures from rare through well-done. Each cut receives expert seasoning and precise cooking techniques.
Diners can request additional enhancements like compound butters or signature sauces. Servers provide recommendations based on your selection. These prime steaks Chicago establishments offer represent the pinnacle of steakhouse dining.
Fresh Seafood and Alternative Entrees
Steak 48 offers top-notch seafood and poultry options. This chicago fine dining spot uses premium proteins beyond beef. Each dish gets the same care as their famous steaks.
The alternative menu shows quality across all proteins. Guests can enjoy fresh seafood, poultry, and lamb. These choices make Steak 48 perfect for groups with different tastes.
Premium Seafood Entrees
The seafood dishes show Steak 48’s commitment to great ingredients. Each comes with sides that boost natural flavors. Cooking methods highlight the fish’s quality.
Chilean Sea Bass is a buttery, flaky white fish. The kitchen uses a miso glaze on this eight-ounce portion. It comes with seasonal veggies and citrus sauce.
This method creates a crispy outside while keeping the inside moist. The result pairs well with light white wines.
Cold Water Lobster Tails – $68-98
Cold Water Lobster Tails cost $68 to $98 based on size. Guests can pick eight-ounce or twelve-ounce portions. The kitchen offers butter-poached and grilled options.
Butter-poached lobster is very tender and sweet. Grilled lobster has a subtle char for added flavor. Both come with melted butter and lemon.
Faroe Island Salmon – $46
Faroe Island Salmon comes from clean, cold waters. This eight-ounce portion has a firm texture and rich taste. It’s seared for crispy skin and moist inside.
Seasonal prep might include herb butter or citrus glaze. The fish goes well with the restaurant’s lighter sides.
Poultry and Lamb Options
The menu also has expertly cooked chicken and lamb. These get the same attention as every dish at this chicago steakhouse. Each offers unique flavors for those wanting alternatives.
Roasted Chicken – $38
Roasted Chicken is a half-bird with crispy skin and juicy meat. It’s seasoned with herbs and roasted golden brown. A natural sauce adds moisture and flavor.
This dish shows simple techniques done perfectly. It pairs well with any side, especially mac and cheese or roasted veggies.
Australian Lamb Chops – $54
Australian Lamb Chops are four double-cut chops with pink centers. They have a herb crust that complements their richness. Each chop is trimmed for elegant plating.
The lamb is cooked medium-rare unless asked otherwise. It comes with mint sauce or rosemary gravy. These chops go well with bold red wines.
| Entree | Price | Portion Size | Preparation Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chilean Sea Bass | $58 | 8 oz | Miso-glazed with citrus beurre blanc |
| Cold Water Lobster Tails | $68-98 | 8-12 oz | Butter-poached or grilled |
| Faroe Island Salmon | $46 | 8 oz | Seared with seasonal accompaniments |
| Roasted Chicken | $38 | Half bird | Herb-roasted with natural jus |
| Australian Lamb Chops | $54 | 4 double-cut chops | Herb-crusted, medium-rare |
These options ensure every guest finds great choices beyond beef. The variety shows Steak 48’s skill as a top dining spot. Seafood, poultry, or lamb all get the same quality as the restaurant’s famous steaks.
Sides, Desserts, and Complete Meal Pricing
Exceptional steaks deserve impressive sides and desserts. This Chicago restaurant offers crafted accompaniments that elevate your meal. Knowing the pricing helps you plan your perfect evening at this upscale dining chicago spot.
Must-Try Signature Sides
The side dish selection features elevated classics with premium ingredients. Each side complements the bold flavors of expertly prepared steaks. Shareable portions let your table sample multiple dishes throughout the meal.
Truffle Mac and Cheese – $18
This indulgent side mixes artisan cheeses with aromatic truffle oil. It delivers bold truffle flavor without overpowering the palate. One order serves 2-3 guests, making it great for sharing.
Jumbo Baked Potato – $14
The traditional baked potato comes impressively sized. Guests can add butter, sour cream, chives, and bacon bits. This classic side complements rich beef selections perfectly.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts – $16
These Brussels sprouts are caramelized to perfection. They’re prepared with bacon pieces or balsamic reduction for added flavor. This generous portion balances heavier menu items.
Lobster Mashed Potatoes – $24
This premium side has real lobster chunks in smooth mashed potatoes. The creamy base highlights the sweet lobster meat. This steakhouse sides option is perfect for special occasions.
Indulgent Dessert Menu
The desserts provide sweet endings worthy of your exceptional meal. Both options are beautifully plated and sized for sharing. These treats complete your dining journey with unforgettable flavors.
Chocolate Cake – $16
Layers of rich chocolate cake offer intense cocoa flavor. This decadent dessert satisfies serious chocolate lovers. One serving easily feeds two guests.
Butter Cake – $16
This signature dessert is warm with a tender, buttery texture. It’s served with premium vanilla ice cream. The butter cake is the restaurant’s most requested sweet finale.
What to Budget for Your Meal
Knowing steak 48 prices helps you plan for this premium dining experience. A full meal for two requires careful budgeting across courses. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect.
Dinner for two includes several cost components. Appetizers range from $30-60, depending on seafood choices. Two steak entrees with sides typically cost $150-250 combined.
Drinks add $40-100 per wine bottle or $15-20 per cocktail. Dessert for two is $16-32. The full dinner for two ranges from $200-400 before tax and gratuity.
| Meal Component | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Appetizers (for two) | $30-60 | Chilled seafood costs more |
| Two Steaks + Sides | $150-250 | Wagyu selections increase total |
| Beverages | $40-120 | Per bottle or 2-4 cocktails |
| Desserts (for two) | $16-32 | Shareable or individual |
| Total Estimate | $200-400+ | Before tax and gratuity |
This pricing info helps set proper expectations before your visit. It reflects the quality of ingredients and service. Planning your budget ensures you’ll fully enjoy your experience.
Conclusion
Steak 48 Chicago offers top-notch dining in River North. Their menu features USDA Prime steaks, Japanese A5 Wagyu, fresh seafood, and unique sides. Prices range from $52 to $185 for steaks and $14 to $24 for sides.
Diners can customize their meal with the à la carte menu. Expect to spend $100 to $200 per person for a full meal. The quality and service make it perfect for special events.
Book your table early at Steak 48. It gets busy, especially on weekends and during peak hours. Contact them directly or check their website for reservations and menu options.
The restaurant’s high standards and expert preparation justify the cost. Each dish showcases premium ingredients and careful cooking techniques. This sets Steak 48 apart from other dining spots.
Experience the refined atmosphere at 615 N Wabash Avenue in River North. Check their hours before you go to plan your visit effectively.