Located just beyond the West Loop’s famed “restaurant row,” El Che Steakhouse & Bar is Chicago's go-to destination for steak, seafood, and live-fire cooking. The restaurant is modeled after Executive Chef/Partner John Manion’s fascination with Argentinean asados: traditional backyard barbecues surrounding the flame. A 12-foot custom-built grill serves as the centerpiece for this downtown asado which embraces South American-tinged meats, seasonal vegetables, fresh seafood, and of course, steak. The hearth also serves as the heart of the restaurant’s experiences such as dining at the Hearth Table.
Join us for happy hour at our cocktail bar, featuring signature cocktails and fiery bar bites or indulge in a glass of wine from the country’s only South American wine list. No matter what you choose, El Che brings the heat seven nights a week.
For large groups, private events, birthdays, or celebrations, email us info@elchechicago.com.
Why they're an Icon
Executive chef: John Manion
From the OpenTable editors: A live fire grill glows at the heart of El Che, a South American–inspired steakhouse lined with glossy black marble and tile that Chicago Magazine named one of the best restaurants in the city. Chef John Manion grew up for a few years in Brazil and got into asado grilling while traveling in Argentina. Come prepared to feast on seafood platters with charred lobster tails and the party steak, a 42-ounce wagyu flap with red and green chimichurri. Those in the know also appreciate the wine list, which exclusively showcases South American makers and won a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.
There is a parking lot located directly across from the restaurant with limited availability. Street parking available, as well as valet services at Soho House around the corner on Green Street.
El Che Steakhouse & Bar reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.
Overall ratings and reviews
Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant
4.7
4.7 based on recent ratings
4.6Food
4.7Service
4.7Ambience
4.2Value
Noise • Moderate
Review summary
AI-generated from verified diner reviews
El Che Steakhouse & Bar delivers a vibrant dining experience with consistently "amazing food" and "phenomenal service." The Argentinian-inspired menu, featuring perfectly cooked steaks, empanadas, and seafood, garners high praise. The "cool atmosphere" and attentive staff enhance special occasions. While pricing can be high, the quality and "outstanding" flavors are well worth it.
2,189 Reviews
N
Nguyen Le VIP
Chicago7 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 4
Good food and great fries. Portion may be a lot but i still finish it.
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J
Joseph
Unspecified1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
The staff was great and the food was phenomenal and the ambiance was great the rib eye and surf and turf was tender and tasteful. I seen a lot of negative review about the food but I beg the differ don’t believe everything u read. I definitely will be back soon we was satisfied
El Che Steakhouse & BarResponded 2 days ago
Thanks for the stellar 5 Star review, Joseph! We're so glad that you thoroughly enjoyed your dining experience at Che. Our Surf & Turf and 22 oz Bone-In Ribeye are excellent choices! We take a lot of pride in our beef so it means a lot to hear how much you enjoyed our live-fire cooking. Please, come dine with us again soon and let us know what dishes you haven't tried yet!
Best,
The El Che Team
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M
Miles
Indiana1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Overall 5
Food 4
Service 5
Ambience 5
Very nice restaurant. The staff were extremely attentive and helpful. The food was very good and The environment was very intimate. Overall we had a great time here!
El Che Steakhouse & BarResponded 2 days ago
Thanks for the 5 Star review, Miles! We're so glad that you enjoyed our live-fire cooking and overall vibe at El Che. Our team works hard to provide personable and knowledgeable service, so it means a lot that you appreciated the extra attention. Come dine with us again soon!
Best,
The El Che Team
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D
Donald
Chicago3 reviews
5.0
Dined on March 9, 2025
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 4
Ambience 5
Incredible steaks - but you will pay for the privilege of eating some of the finest beef you have tasted. Wine list limited to South American wines for the most part. Appetizers and the polenta side are highly recommended.
El Che Steakhouse & BarResponded 2 days ago
Thanks for the 5 Star review, Donald! We're so glad that you enjoyed your dining experience at El Che. We take a lot of pride in our beef and South American wine list, so your acknowledgement and appreciation means so much to us. The Mushroom & Polenta is a house favorite for sure! Come dine with us again soon!
Best,
The El Che Team
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J
JULIE VIP
Atlanta17 reviews
5.0
Dined on March 9, 2025
Overall 5
Food 4
Service 5
Ambience 5
Great place to eat with friends. The vibe was great, and staff as well.
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TC
TrevorC VIP
San Diego3 reviews
5.0
Dined on March 8, 2025
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
One of the best dining experiences of my life. Fantastic meat selection
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T
Texie
Chicago8 reviews
3.0
Dined on March 7, 2025
Overall 3
Food 3
Service 3
Ambience 3
I just thought with all the hype about the Steakhouse it would have been better than expected
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M
Marisse
Chicago3 reviews
5.0
Dined on March 2, 2025
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
The food and the Service was outstanding! Highly recommend!!
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M
Miguel
Chicago2 reviews
4.0
Dined on March 2, 2025
Overall 4
Food 4
Service 5
Ambience 4
Great service with decent food. One time experience is all I need
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago1 review
5.0
Dined on March 1, 2025
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
Food was amazing. 10/10 highly recommend service was also great! Hard to find a place that has both great service and amazing food
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FAQs
El Che Steakhouse & Bar is rated 4.7 stars by 2189 OpenTable diners.
El Che Steakhouse & Bar does offer gift cards which you can purchase here.
Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.
There is a parking lot located directly across from the restaurant with limited availability. Street parking available, as well as valet services at Soho House around the corner on Green Street.
