Smith & Wollensky

The riverside location of this steak-and-chops joint is such a big part of Chicago’s vibe that it may surprise you to learn it’s not a Windy City original (the chain started in New York in 1977). Nevertheless, it still hangs with the big boys. Here’s how: a creamy and slightly smoky split-pea soup; an all-American wine list; and, of course, those big, fat steaks, all of which are consistently cooked to perfection. (But steer clear of the New York strip. You know, just on principle.)