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.
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.
2,186 Reviews
D
Donald
Chicago3 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
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.
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JULIE VIP
Atlanta17 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
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 3 days ago
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 4 days ago
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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J
Joe VIP
Chicago13 reviews
5.0
Dined on March 1, 2025
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
Everything was amazing. Food, drinks, service were above and beyond. Our server Nico was so polite and knowledgeable of the menu that he made our whole experience so much fun and enjoyable.
This place is the real deal! Everyone needs to dine here at least once and I guarantee you will go back again.
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OT
OpenTable Diner VIP
Chicago3 reviews
5.0
Dined on February 27, 2025
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
We are regulars and can’t say it enough. Best restaurant in Chicago.
El Che Steakhouse & BarResponded on March 1, 2025
We love our regulars! Thank you for returning to El Che and sharing the experience with your clients, friends, and loved ones. We will pass along your kind words to the team. Until next time!
Best,
The El Che Team
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DC
DanielleC
Chicago1 review
5.0
Dined on February 24, 2025
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
Marco was our server and he is the BEST. This was our first time and he took the time to explain the menu as well as give recommendations. Everything we ordered was flavorful and my steak was cooked to perfection. We will definitely be back.
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FAQs
El Che Steakhouse & Bar is rated 4.7 stars by 2186 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.
