El Che Steakhouse & Bar

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

Fire as a Philosophy

At El Che Steakhouse & Bar on West Washington Boulevard, fire isn't a technique — it's the founding principle. The kitchen's entire identity is built around open-flame asado, the South American tradition of cooking over live fire with patience and precision. Every cut of beef is chosen intentionally, then honored, as the team puts it, "with the purity of open flame."

Beef, Sourced Without Compromise

What sets El Che apart from the city's steakhouse field is the breadth of its sourcing. The restaurant partners with more purveyors than almost any comparable steakhouse, a deliberate choice that reflects a belief that excellence begins before anything touches the grill. The result is a South American steakhouse experience grounded in selection and restraint rather than spectacle.

A Wine List Unlike Any Other

The beverage program earns its own reputation. El Che's wine list focuses exclusively on South America — a region the team describes as "dynamic, unapologetic, compelling, expressive." The selection spans old vines, high-altitude vineyards, and bottles grown in the shadow of volcanoes. That commitment has been recognized by Wine Spectator, which awarded El Che its Best of Award of Excellence in 2025, a distinction that speaks directly to the depth and curation of the cellar.

Recognized, Ranked, Respected

Beyond the wine accolades, El Che has earned consistent placement among Chicago's best restaurants and top steakhouses by Chicago Magazine — recognition that reflects the kitchen's consistency over time. The restaurant opens daily at 5pm, with happy hour running the first hour of service, and offers a Chef's Counter for those who want a closer look at the fire.